Fire Detection Systems are More than just detection systems

Fire Detection Systems are More than Just Detection Systems

Fire detection systems have evolved considerably in recent decades. Sophisticated smoke and gas detection sensors, wireless connectivity, and a range of notification accessories create a unified network that detects trouble at the earliest instance while notifying building occupants instantly.

These systems also direct evacuations while contacting the local fire emergency agencies for immediate response.

Fire detection systems are not simply the old “break glass and run” mechanisms of the past.

Notifier Fire Detection Devices

One company, Notifier by Honeywell, draws upon Honeywell's long history of technological innovations in atmospheric monitoring. With integrated technology, systems include the most sophisticated smoke and gas detection devices, notification equipment that includes alarms, strobe lights and horns, and more designed to protect building occupants.

Central Fire Monitoring Systems

As soon as one sensor identifies a problem, the fire detection system transmits the information to a monitoring station. Security personnel can quickly determine the location of the emergency and direct people away from the danger. The system simultaneously notifies the local fire department. Loudspeakers and LED messages direct occupants to the appropriate areas for evacuation.

Connected annunciators placed near the entrances to large buildings provide information to arriving firefighters about the location and status of the emergency.

Versatility

Fire alert systems may combine with the building’s access control network to alert building occupants to the possibility of entry by an unauthorized individual. If entry security is breached, the notification systems can alert central control personnel who may then initiate evacuation or direct occupants to a secure area. Closed circuit TVs that are used to monitor fire emergencies can also work to monitor intruders.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicagoland

HRSS has teamed up with Notifier by Honeywell and others to provide the most comprehensive and technologically advanced fire detection systems available. For new design or retrofits, collaborate with the HRSS experts for support in building occupants and monitoring.

HRSS can provide ongoing preventative maintenance and testing to make sure your systems are in top working condition at all times.

Contact HRSS for your building's fire and personal security requirements.

Who to Call for Fire Alarm Inspections

Regular fire alarm inspections must be conducted annually to meet the requirements of agencies, including state and local building authorities and the National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA). The NFPA Fire Alarm Code (NFPA-72), requires building owners to commission certified fire alarm companies to test all devices regularly to maintain the safety of all occupants.

Regular Fire Alarm System Maintenance and Testing

While various components of the systems should require more frequent testing, especially older units, local fire commissions require certification that each element of the fire alarm system has been tested for proper operation. The testing should be a natural part of an ongoing preventative maintenance program performed by your fire alarm monitoring service.

Regular maintenance of the system must be performed by an experienced, certified fire safety company that is recognized by your local authorities.

As systems age, environmental conditions can have a detrimental effect on the sensors and critical parts of a fire detection system. Regular maintenance and testing can identify loss of calibration and replace parts rendered defective because of accumulated dirt and grime.

Testing requires the technician to simulate conditions that activate the system. Once the systems are determined to be working properly, adjustments and recalibrations will ensure the system will react to emergency situations correctly. Also, the technician will make sure the system is communicating properly with local fire departments.

Why is Certified Testing Important?

The principal reason for testing and certifying the operation of the fire detection systems is that proper service saves lives.

Secondly, annual testing is a requirement of local authorities and the NFPA.

Third, insurance companies will reject claims without clear certification, thereby leaving you with substantial liability.

HRSS, a Chicagoland Certified Alarm Monitoring Service

Technicians from High Rise Security Systems in the Chicagoland region are trained and certified to inspect and maintain fire alarm systems throughout the area. HRSS services and verifies fire alarm networks in hospitals, universities, apartment buildings, and high-rise office buildings throughout the area. HRSS can provide a regular preventative maintenance program to provide peace of mind for you and all your occupants.

Fire Alarm Inspection is Not Optional

Regular fire alarm inspection is essential to the safety of building inhabitants. Systems are designed and installed to alert all occupants to potential danger from smoke and fire while facilitating prompt and safe evacuations. Systems also notify local fire and emergency departments to respond quickly.

A faulty, poorly maintained fire notification system could result in death and injury.

Legal Reasons for Regular Inspection

Maintaining all fire detection systems in proper working order is mandated by local fire authorities, National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The NFPA Fire Alarm Code (NFPA-72) addresses fire alarm inspection requirements in detail citing six reasons for doing so. These are:

1. Lives are at stake! Operational effectiveness can only be assured through regular inspection and testing.
2. Necessary to meet the requirements of local regulations and insurance carrier.
3. Insurance claims are non-supportable if annual inspections have been neglected.
4. Limit liability due to fire injuries.
5. Ensure against nuisance alarms.
6. Properly working alarms and inspections are required by law.

Review of Fire Alarm Systems

Regardless of the age of the system, regular inspection is necessary. Factors such as vandalism or environmental, can affect even the newest systems. As the equipment ages, dust and grime can impact the responsiveness of the equipment. Parts may begin to wear out.

Much older alarms require close attention and more frequent maintenance to ensure that they can sustain the level of responsiveness required.

Maintenance and Testing Procedures

A certified fire alarm monitoring service performs the mandated testing steps to attest that the testing has been performed. The company will test and calibrate sensors, simulate emergency conditions for testing, set or reset the sensitivity, coordinate with the local fire department to ensure automatic notification when a fire is detected, and check batteries for life and corrosion.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

High Rise Security Systems is an experienced and certified fire safety company that performs regular maintenance and inspection throughout the Chicagoland area. HRSS experts can perform periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance.

Preventative maintenance saves lives and ensures peace of mind.