When discussing fire alarm systems, the process includes determining which commercial fire alarm system works best for a specific environment. However, there is no “best” fire alarm product, but there are products that match each environment better. Fire security is important because a good and organised system can save lives.
Choosing a commercial fire alarm should start with a thorough fire risk assessment by a reputable agent. The assessing agent should be able to identify fire hazards, such as combustible materials and heat sources that are a threat to an individual’s safety. It is also important to take into account the floor-plans and escape routes, which could be barred in the event of a fire.
This process is important because the best fire protection is prevention. Prevention is possible by taking proper steps to ensure the safety of the location to avoid future mishaps.
The blueprint of school campuses and other locations
For school campuses, the task becomes more tedious, as many factors of fire protection come into play. Schools, in general, accommodate a large number of individuals and have multiple locations that could be fire hazards if left unattended. Primary-level schools have children who are not as able-bodied as adults in higher education institutes.
Considering these factors, there must be a school fire protection system that caters to the needs of each individual in the primary institutions. Additionally, higher education institutes may contain laboratories with flammable chemicals and toxic substances, which may need more advanced alarm response technologies.
In commercial buildings such as offices or restaurants, there are many electrical appliances being used all at once. Faulty wiring and power surges can cause fires, as well as gas leaks from kitchen equipment, which may be deadly due to the layouts of these spaces.
Commercial fire alarms installation
Based on the fire risk assessment, there will be a report delivered that will discuss the recommended fire protection system for a suitable alarm response. Should there already be an installed prevention system, there will be added fire-fighting equipment, such as extinguishers.
There are two categories for these protection systems, which are standardised for buildings outlined by BS 5839-1:2017. They are as follows:
- Property Protection
This allows users to summon the fire brigade in the early stages of a fire.
- Type P1: Property protection, automatic detection installed throughout the protected building
- Type P2: Property protection, automatic detection in designated areas
- Life Protection
The objective of this is to protect people from loss of life or injury.
- Type M: Manual system (call points)
- Type L5: Life safety generally when specific fire engineering solutions are used to resolve a problem
- Type L4: Life safety system, same as a manual system, plus smoke detection on escape routes
- Type L3: Life safety system, same as a manual system, plus smoke detection on escape route and smoke detection in adjacent rooms
- Type L2: Life safety system, same as L3 but detection in fire hazard/risk of ignition, i.e., kitchens, sleeping areas, and other specified areas
- Type L1: Life safety system, same as Type M manual call points, plus detection installed throughout the premises
Once a classification is given based on these criteria, the next move is to consult with a fire safety specialist. The aim is to install BAFE approved equipment. Fire protection services in London have been keeping the London Fire Brigade busy, with almost 100,000 fire reports in the last five years. We aim to reduce that number significantly through our technologies and expertise.
We offer fire protection services in London. We are committed to serving the public with innovative security measures for the past 20 years. Contact us to learn how we can work together to keep you safe.