Things to Know Before Initiating a Commercial Fire Sprinkler System Installation!

Ever since their invention, fire sprinklers have been one of the most popular and reliable elements of fire protection for residential and commercial buildings. However, the intricate webbing of a fire sprinkler system makes it an enigma to many business owners when the topic of installing one comes. Understandably, there’s much more to this massive project than just a few pips joined to the sprinkler heads. So, what are some of the key considerations one needs to bear in mind before commencing a fire sprinkler system installation? The following three steps:

1. The Planning Stage. Every project begins in mind and then needs to be drafted on paper to fully synchronize it to the real structure and see it in 2D. The same is with the installation of fire protection systems. The engineers first sketch it on the drawing board and discuss all the crucial elements of the project with the architect and the designers. As the building owner or manager, your presence and input about anything related to the building are vital as well. For example, the designers would need to know occupancy classification, the hazard class for the structure, and other related details before the NFPA can approve the installation.

2. The installation Procedure. Once the designer has the plans ready, next comes the seal of approval from the National Fire Protection Association. Depending on your region, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may also take a look at the drawings and approve them before the installation can begin. These inspection authorities play a key role from planning to the annual inspection and maintenance runs. Regardless an approved design plan is all the contractor needs to get the ball rolling for installation while working with the engineer.

3. Post-Installation Care. Every installation and the operating system is only as good as the maintenance care given to it. This includes abiding by the local codes and regulations regarding regulation testing and fire sprinkler inspection by authorized experts from a fire protection equipment company. For businesses in New York, the NFPA 25 has a set schedule for fire sprinkler inspection and testing that must be followed without fail in order to avoid penalties and provide complete fire safety to the building occupants.

Hence, fire safety equipment installation is a much bigger task than simply calling the professionals and getting it affixed. There is a lot of planning involved that can be made easier with the guidance of an experienced team. So, hire your fire installation company carefully!

Warning signs for the fire extinguisher service or replacement!

A fire extinguisher has a long life and can last up to 20 or more years with regular fire extinguisher service, maintenance, and inspection. But if you are wondering if they have a specific expiry date, the answer will be that fire extinguishers do not come with a specified expiry date. However, they can wear down, sustain damages or develop other issues which can decrease their lifespan, requiring replacement. Thus, when your fire extinguisher is no longer compliant with the fire safety codes, it can be considered expired and must be replaced. 

Following are the top causes that may require a fire extinguisher replacement:

1. Physical damages 

Fire extinguishers are made from a solid material that is usually hard to damage. However, its other parts, such as nozzles and pins, are more delicate and can be easily damaged. These parts can generally be repaired or replaced to keep the fire extinguisher operational. However, if the fire extinguisher has dents, leakage, or cracks, you may need to install a new fire extinguisher in compliance with the fire safety codes. 

2.                  Depressurized fire extinguishers  

A fire extinguisher needs to have a certain pressure level to dispense the extinguishing agent. However, over time they may become depressurized. It may result in fire extinguisher failure during a fire emergency. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect the fire extinguisher pressure and get a replacement when it has become depressurized and can no longer be used.

3.                  Lack of testing and inspections 

It is a no-brainer that the fire extinguisher needs regular testing and inspections to ensure functionality. However, if the fire extinguishers are left collecting dust on the shelves without proper maintenance or without being used for a long time, in that case, the extinguisher may fail to work when needed for an emergency fire. It may then be needed to replace with a new one.

4.                  Rust and corrosion 

Rust and corrosion can weaken the fire extinguisher. If the fire extinguisher has started to rusty, it may fail to work or be challenging to use during an emergency. In addition, it could be a sign that the fire extinguisher has become too old and nearing its end. In that case, it is recommended to consult with an expert and install a new fire extinguisher to replace the old one. 

5.                  Obsolete model 

New technology fire extinguishers are developed every few years, rendering some older models obsolete. To stay compliant with the latest fire safety codes, replacing them with new models may become necessary.  

Fire extinguishers also need to undergo hydraulic testing every 5 or 10 years. It is crucial to determine if they are operable or need to be replaced. So, if you need fire extinguisher service, inspection, and maintenance to know if your fire extinguishers are in the best condition or need replacement, get in touch with our team for expert assistance!

 

Importance of fire alarm system inspection and service from experts, and its signs of replacement!

Fire alarms are crucial fire safety devices that alert occupants of potential fire threats. Therefore, all residential and commercial buildings need to install functional fire alarm systems as per the NFPA guidelines. In addition, commercial fire alarm systems need to be inspected and well-maintained. People may get trapped in the fire if the fire alarm systems are not functional due to a lack of proper maintenance. Thus, regular fire alarm inspections by a certified professional are crucial.

 As per the NFPA, fire alarm inspections should be carried out on a monthly, semi-annual, or annual basis. The monthly visual inspections can be carried out by a knowledgeable supervisor or manager at the premises. However, the semi-annual and annual inspections must be conducted by a licensed expert. Therefore, you will need to schedule regular fire alarm services from a reliable company to ensure proper compliance with the fire safety regulations. 

Moreover, it is crucial to change the fire alarm batteries and replace them with upgraded models as required as per the updated fire safety regulations. Usually, the inspector will let you know when the old fire alarms are no longer adequate and need to be changed. However, you may not need to replace the fire alarms any sooner than 10-15 years as they can stay functional for a long time with regular repairs and maintenance. 

Following are the potential signs when your fire alarm system may need to be replaced:

1. If the smoke detectors look discolored 

Smoke detectors may accumulate a lot of dust and debris and start to look dull and discolored over time. It may interfere with their functionality, and the yellowish and dirty fire alarms usually indicate that the device is at the end of its lifespan. In that case, you may need to consult with a professional fire alarm inspector to determine if the alarm needs to be replaced.

2.                  If the fire alarm malfunctions frequently  

As the fire alarms become old, they may require more maintenance and may experience frequent malfunctions. In that case, the alarm may trigger false alarms or start ringing continuously, which can be irritating. Thus, you may need to install a new fire alarm system.

3.                  If the fire alarm becomes unresponsiveness 

Usually, during the regular inspections, the professional expert will check the responsiveness of the fire alarm to see if there’s any lag in response during the testing. For example, if the fire alarm becomes too old, it may become unresponsive and won’t work even after repairs. In that case, it must be replaced immediately. 

If your fire alarm system has not been inspected in over 6 months, schedule a fire alarm inspection today!