Commercial Fire Alarm System Technology Includes Features To Prevent False Alarms
Fires are a serious threat to any business and a reliable commercial fire alarm system is an investment that provides protection against the ravages a fire can cause. However, if the wrong system is used, then false alarms are almost guaranteed. Thus, it is important to use the right system and sensors for the type of business, environmental conditions, and potential threats that are present. If the wrong system is used, then it may repeatedly warn of threats that simply aren’t there. This can lead to fines and worse still, the wrong system may fail to detect a real fire when it erupts and lead to a delayed response from emergency personnel. Preventing False Alarms Smoke detectors are notorious for causing a commercial fire alarm system to produce false alarms and alone are not sufficient methods of fire detection. While modern smoke detectors are less sensitive, they are a common cause of many false alarms. While smoke detectors are an integral part of many systems, there are better methods of detecting fires. For example, the effectiveness of a smoke detector can be enhanced if it is paired with a monitoring system that can analyze the type of particles and determine […]
Read MoreTesting Your Commercial Fire Alarm System Is Not Just A Good Idea – It Is A Must
Commercial fire alarm systems are not flawless and over time parts can wear out, sensors can become blocked, and wires come loose. Regular testing helps identify flaws and faults in commercial fire alarm system to ensure that if a fire occurs, the alarm system functions as designed. Not only is it essential to test the alarm for safety, it is required by law in order to reduce the number of false alarms transmitted to emergency responders. National Fire Protection Association Standards NFPA standards require business owners to conduct numerous inspections of both monitored and unmonitored systems. For monitored systems, a weekly inspection of interfaces, LED’s, etc. Each quarter, the standards require testing of switches/tamper switches. Twice a year, batteries must be tested for swelling, loose connections, and voltage. Among other things, this testing helps ensure that batteries will function properly should power loss occur. Once every year, testing must be conducted on the panel to ensure that LED’s, fuses, etc. are operating properly. Annual testing is also required on battery chargers and batteries. Annual inspections must also be conducted of horns, sirens, strobe lights, bells, and other audio elements of the system. Smoke detectors and smoke detectors must also be […]
Read MoreConducting Critical Testing And Maintenance Of Your Commercial Fire Alarm Systems
Commercial fire alarm systems must be regularly tested and professionally maintained. When systems fail, it is often because testing and maintenance schedules have not been rigorously adhered to. When it comes to ensuring the safety of personnel and the protection of property, the following are regular tests and routine maintenance functions that should not be ignored. Batteries 101 Batteries have a limited shelf life and operational lifespan which is often between 3-5 years. These tiny components are crucial for providing power to your commercial fire alarm systems in both regular operating mode and when power is cut-off to the commercial fire alarm system. Batteries should be tested while under load and should have sufficient charge to power the system under normal operation. While batteries can function at 20% of capacity, it is recommended that they be replaced at no less than 50% as the failure rate below this level is significant. Smoke Detectors Smoke detectors collect dust and other debris that circulates through the air. Over time, this can build up on the sensors which can lead to your commercial fire alarm systems failure to detect particulates from fires. This can delay the triggering of an alarm and lead to […]
Read MoreWhy You Need To Have A Professional Fire Alarm System Company Inspect Your Commercial Fire Alarm System
The city you conduct business in most likely follows standards established by the National Fire Protection Association regarding commercial fire alarm system testing. These requirements are set up for structures that maintain occupancy and are designed to ensure your fire protection products meet minimum specifications. You will need a fire alarm company to come in who has the training to work with commercial fire alarm systems as there strict guidelines to follow for an inspection. NFPA Guidelines The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets strict guidelines pertaining to the performance and inspection of commercial fire alarm systems. While many business managers look at the process of inspections with a negative attitude, they should realize there are significant benefits to ensuring these systems are operating correctly. It takes training and experience to understand how the alarm system should be performing and be able to detect any possible malfunctions. Fire alarm companies such as, 1st Alarm have the experience, training and understand the NFPA guidelines necessary to perform your alarm inspection. How a commercial fire alarm system is tested A fire alarm testing company will work with you to schedule the inspection around a time that will disrupt your business the least. […]
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