Commercial and residential properties alike need fire protection systems. A fire suppression system detects and/or suppresses fires in these buildings. It is important to understand the different types of fire protection systems and how to maintain them before installing fire protection systems in buildings.

Protecting against fires: Systems, Installation, and Maintenance

• Fire protection systems are made up of what?

Alarms and sprinklers are typically thought of as fire prevention systems. Fire safety is dependent on many components, however, not only these ones.

In addition to fire protection systems, there are also existing systems and other systems that alert fire services when residents need help.

• Is there any type of fire protection system?

There are two types of fire protection systems: passive and active.

Passive protection systems

The passive fire protection method is intended to confine a fire within a structure and prevent it from collapsing. The systems provide passive fire safety and help to ensure that a building is not seriously damaged in the event of a fire.

Active protection systems

Active fire protection is aimed at reducing the fire’s spread and putting the fire out. As part of the system, you have fire alarms and sprinklers, as well as fire hoses and extinguishers.

• What is the process of fire protection?

Fire alarm control panels receive a message whenever a fire breaks out from the fire detectors. A fire alarm is then activated from this control hub. A fire alert is sent out as well.

Fire suppression systems and sprinklers will be activated automatically if the building has such systems. A fire suppression system slows down or extinguishes the fire’s spread until fire units arrive. Handheld fire extinguishers can also be used to suppress minor fires by occupants.

• Fire sprinkler system installation: how to do it?

You may not be able to install passive fire protection systems after the construction of the building due to the fact that these are installed during construction.

After your building has been constructed, you can install an active fire protection system. Review your city’s fire safety guidelines first before proceeding.

Fire stopping materials such as an alarm panel, portable fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems can then be purchased. It is necessary to set up each of these firestop products in accordance with fire safety guidelines after you purchase them.

Following this, you must obtain a fire system certification from a fire systems certifier. Your fire protection system is certified as being compliant with codes and standards with this certificate.

• Preventing fires with fire protection systems

Testing alarms

It is necessary to inspect automatic fire alarm systems once a month. During the inspection, the alarm will be tested to make sure it is still working.

Fire extinguisher inspection

It is mandatory to test and inspect all fire extinguishers every six months in the building. The tanks are checked for leaks or discharges by checking the pressure gauge or weight of the tank.

Automated fire sprinklers in need of inspection

A sprinkler system’s automatic operation needs to be inspected once a month. The sprinkler control valve is checked, gauges will be read, and the sprinkler will be activated for the inspection.

Protection against fire is essential for the preservation of life and property. Fire stops can reduce the loss of life, as well as damage to building structures, and minimize property damage. Structures and buildings are built with fire-resistant compartments for the containment of fires.  Firestop products aid in this process. Buildings need to be sealed against horizontal and vertical fire spread with fire sealants.

Your building and its occupants’ safety should never be compromised. Ensure that the fire protection system is regularly inspected and maintained.