When are Strobe Lights Required in Fire Alarm Systems?

Strobe lights provide valuable visual alert that something is wrong, alerting people and individuals with hearing impairment that an emergency situation exists.  Building owners and contractors must provide adequate protection to occupants through mandated fire alarm system requirements which are detailed in several regulatory manuals.  The National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, outlines these requirements in NFPA72 and NFPA101 standards, the International Building Code, IBC, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, also provide direction as to when and where strobe lights are required in buildings as part of the emergency and fire alarm system.

All documents require that strobes be installed in public areas such as hallways, lobbies and restroom so that any hearing-impaired person would be alerts to a fire emergency when visiting public buildings.  Common areas such as classrooms, cafeterias, conference rooms, and employee break rooms which are not designated as employee work areas must also be equipped with strobes.  Individual employee work areas such as offices and workstations are not required to have visual strobes, unless accommodating hearing impaired employees and they must contain audible alarms and notifications.

The primary method of notification is typically audible with proper audio notification throughout an entire facility.  When employers and building owners are aware of a hearing-impaired employee or resident, they must make accommodations to provide visual alerts.

HRSS Offers Fire Alarm System Design to Meet all Code Requirements

High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire and safety system specialists with decades of experience in providing safe and compliant fire alarm systems to all types of commercial buildings.  We offer skilled design with CAD to ensure proper placement of all sensors and notification devices including the proper type and location of portable fire extinguishers.  We are often called upon by electrical contractors and building owners for our expertise in fire alarm system design and knowledge of all local and federal safety regulations.

HRSS offers skilled fire alarm system design, UL listed equipment from the most well-known names in fire safety, inspections, maintenance, repair and system monitoring 24/7/365.  We are experienced in all regulations and code requirements assisting building owners with required data sheets for code approval.  Contact us today to learn more about your fire alarm system design requirements and placement of all audible and visual alerts including requirements for strobe lights with fire alarm systems.

Where Should I Place My Smoke Alarms?

Smoke alarms are proven to save lives, providing early warning to residents and occupants of a fire and the need to evacuate.  Smoke alarms must be operating properly, however, in order to perform their life saving function.  It is more than just placing a smoke detector on the ceiling, and hoping that it works properly, they must be strategically placed in the proper location, and serviced regularly to perform when needed.  

The National Fire Protection Association offers guidelines to follow when installing smoke alarms, these include:

• Choosing smoke alarms that bear the label of a reputable testing agency
• Install smoke alarms outside on every level of your home or building including basements.
• Smoke alarms must be installed a minimum of 10 feet from cooking appliances to reduce false alarms
• Smoke alarms should be mounted high on ceilings, or when wall mounted should be no more than 12 inches from the ceiling.
• Do not install smoke alarms near windows or doors where a draft could interfere with the proper operation.  
• Interconnected smoke alarms provide the best protection, that way when one goes off they all will sound an alarm.  

For the proper placement and installation of smoke alarms in commercial buildings, contact an experienced fire and safety system specialist like High Rise Security Systems.  HRSS has experience in designing the proper smoke and fire alarm system for a wide variety of commercial buildings.  We are recognized as leaders in the fire and safety industry, servicing low rise, high-rise, campuses and large complexes with reliable fire and smoke alarm systems designed to all required codes and regulations.  

HRSS employs skilled designers that utilize AutoCAD software to generate a 2D model of your building for accurate placement of all sensors, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms.  Our design is compliant to all regulations including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the International Building Code (IBC).  We understand the requires of NFPA101, which is a widely used and accepted Life Safety Code aimed to minimize hazards of fires including property damage and loss of life.  

For answers to all your questions regarding fire and smoke alarms, contact the experts at High Rise Security Systems.  We are your full-service fire and safety consulting firm, providing system design, implementation, service, repair, testing and monitoring 24/7/365 to ensure your total safety.  

Integrated Fire Alarms Provide Sophisticated Protection

The importance of fire alarms cannot be overstated as building owners have a responsibility to all occupants to provide fire detection and evacuation procedures.  Fire detection systems save equipment, property and lives with early warnings deployed in the presence of smoke, gas or fire.

Requirements are set forth and enforced by your local Authority Having Jurisdiction which in most cases is the local Fire Marshall.  Most jurisdictions follow the recommendations set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), specifically NFPA72 which details the recommendations regarding the installation, location, application, inspection, testing, maintenance and performance of fire alarms, public emergency alarm systems, emergency communication systems and fire detection equipment.  

NFPA72 is updated every three years, with the current edition published in 2016.  Changes are made due to new available technologies, designs and equipment.  Your fire and safety company should have an in-depth working knowledge of all aspects of NFPA72, in addition to experience with new technologies in alarm systems.  

Modern Fire Alarms Offer Comprehensive Coverage

Fire alarms today are more modern and sophisticated than ever, offering smart sensors for smoke and gas detection, video surveillance and integrated systems that can self-monitor and self-diagnose to pinpoint potential problems.  

Video surveillance can monitor entryways and exits activating with motion sensors while also detecting smoke or fire.  Surveillance monitoring is effective in providing protection to fires and outside threats when motion detectors are placed strategically in proper locations.  

Integrated alarm systems such as the Onyx fire alarm panels by Notifier offer smart sensors that can detect the location of the origin of fire or smoke right down to the room on a particular floor.

High Rise Security Systems is a licensed and certified fire safety consulting firm offering full service protection including compliance to all building codes including the International Building Code (IBC), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and all required guidelines issued by the NFPA.   We go above and beyond what is required with fire alarms that are designed for your unique building structure.  

High Rise Security Systems are leading fire and safety system experts, serving the Chicago area with professional and reliable fire protection in virtually any commercial setting including low-rise, high-rise, hospitals and campuses.  Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable technicians.  

Best Fire Extinguisher Companies Near Chicago, IL

If you are looking for the best fire extinguisher companies near Chicago, IL, look no further than High Rise Security Systems.  HRSS is a licensed fire and safety system expert, providing design, maintenance, testing, monitoring, and full-service fire extinguisher inspections and services.

With our in-depth knowledge of all National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines, we provide fire safety systems that are in full compliance with all regulations including certifications with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).  

Professional Fire Safety Service

Professional fire extinguisher services include starting with a complete understanding of NFPA10, which details the guidelines for all portable fire extinguishers to work as they are intended, providing a first response to limited intensity fires and preventing escalation of a fire.  

NFPA10 – Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

NFPA10 is the nationally recognized standard detailing the provisions for selection, installation, maintenance, inspection and testing of all portable fire extinguishers and equipment.   The location of all fire extinguishers must be in accordance with Chapter 6 of NFPA10, and good working order maintained.  The type of extinguisher at each location must match the correct class of fire that occur in that specific environment.  

Anytime a fire is discovered the fire department should be notified immediately.  Do not delay notification when extinguishing a fire.  Even though many fires can be extinguished at the source with a quick enough response time, notification to authorities is critical to prevent further damage and escalation of the fire to uncontrollable levels.

A properly installed fire detection system may alert authorities if smoke is detected.  Regular maintenance of your fire alarm system is important for proper functioning during an emergency.  

Fire Extinguisher Service for Complete Compliance

High Rise Security Systems has been serving the Chicago area for over thirty years, providing expert fire and safety consulting and full-service system designs.  We provide annual inspections for fire extinguishers, ensuring proper placement and compliance to NFPA and all local regulations in the Chicago area.

We are experienced in providing fire safety consulting and inspection services to all building structure types including low-rise and high-rise buildings and multiple location facilities such as college campuses, hospitals and medical complexes.  

HRSS is a leader among all fire extinguisher companies, providing reliable and professional fire safety inspections, ensuring complete compliance to all regulations.  Contact us today for more information on our experienced fire and life safety services.  

Qualifications for Fire and Safety Specialists

Building and Electrical Engineers are always seeking qualified fire and safety specialists for development of a fire system that is compliant to all fire regulations and safety codes.  There are several required characteristics of a qualified fire system specialist, including experience, UL approved fire safety equipment, knowledge of all fire regulations, and quick response time.

Building owners have a responsibility to provide a safe environment, one equipped with fire and safety alerts and evacuation procedures.  Contracting with a qualified fire and safety specialist such as High Rise Security Systems will give you peace of mind in providing a proven fire safety solution for your new or existing building, whether low-rise or high-rise, or mass complexes.  

Experience

Experience is a vital component of a qualified fire and safety specialist.  A fire safety system developer must have experience with fire regulations including proper placement of all sensors and portable fire extinguishers, fire safety equipment, and networking of fire alarm control panels.  

High Rise Security Systems has over a decade of experience providing proven solutions to new and existing building structures, compliant to all regulations.  We are often called upon by building and electrical contractors for our professional experience in all aspects of fire and safety systems.

UL Approved Fire Safety Equipment

HRSS is a premier distributor of Notifier® Fire Equipment, a trusted name in quality, high-performance fire and life safety systems.  We have vast experience providing maintenance and support for all Notifier fire alarm control panels, from simple solutions for a small business to a sophisticated network of fire and safety systems designed to save lives in commercial, hospitality, industrial and healthcare settings.  

Knowledge of Fire Regulations

Familiarity with all National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, International Building Codes (IBC), and the Americans with Disability Act is necessary in developing a compliant fire and safety system.  HRSS Chicago develops a system compliant to all fire regulations in your jurisdiction, preparing all required data sheets for necessary permits.  We work with building and electrical contractors all the way through permit approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

HRSS employs a full staff of AutoCAD design engineers, and NICET factory and field technicians, giving value added services with knowledge, experience, and a commitment to total customer satisfaction.

Customer Focused with Quick Response Time

High Rise Security Systems believes in responding quickly to the needs of our customers.  

Contact HRSS today for a safe and compliant fire detection and life-saving system, designed to your unique building structure.  We provide a detailed design, high-performing equipment, continual maintenance and support, and reliable monitoring 24/7/365.  Contact us today, a leader among fire and safety specialists in the Chicago area.  

Fire Safety Companies

Experienced and qualified fire safety companies provide critical services to the community. These companies, like High Rise Security Systems of Chicago, design, install, program, maintain, inspect and monitor sophisticated fire and smoke detection and notification systems in all types of buildings. The advanced equipment saves lives by initiating evacuation and calling for a rapid response by fire departments.

Fire Detection, Notification, and Evacuation Design

During the design phase of a new building, the fire safety company expert collaborates on the location, number, and types of devices that are required. Using computer-aided design software (CAD), the consultant develops a fire safety plan for every floor that consists of detection and notification devices, evacuation routes, and suppression systems connected to the system control panel. All devices are networked to a central monitoring location or off-site monitoring service.

Since every building is unique, systems vary in many ways, although the physical safety of the occupants always remains the highest priority.

Fire Systems Installation

A professional fire safety company will implement the plan during the later phases of the building construction. In large buildings and complexes, addressable detection devices are programmed to provide immediate warning of the precise location of any outbreak. The installer is responsible for connecting and programming each element to the central location for quick response.

The fire safety company must test the systems before the local fire authorities can issue an occupancy permit.

Maintenance

The fire safety company will regularly inspect and check the system to ensure every component is in proper operational condition. Over time, dirt and dust may collect on detection devices that could cause a malfunction. Regular maintenance will minimize the potential for problems and ensure safest operations.

The local fire authorities also require annual testing and certification by the fire safety company.

Monitoring

Many fire safety companies provide a monitoring service employing trained individuals to monitor the operations of a building's fire detection system. When an emergency is detected, the personnel will contact the appropriate emergency response agencies to proceed to the scene immediately.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

HRSS is a certified and experienced fire and security systems provider for the Chicago area. Supplying and installing such state-of-the-art fire detection and notification devices as Notifier by Honeywell and others, HRSS collaborates with Chicagoland commercial high-rise building owners, universities, and hospitals to provide the highest level of safety for the occupants.

Ongoing Fire Alarm Service

Building owners are responsible for creating an environment that protects all occupants from the threats of fire, smoke, and harmful emissions. Local authorities require that buildings be equipped with regularly tested and maintained fire safety devices.

Maintaining fire alarm systems is not a job for the building’s regular maintenance staff. Only fully trained and certified experts of a reputable fire safety company are qualified to inspect, test, and repair these very delicate instruments.

Ongoing Maintenance Program

Over time, parts wear out, dirt and grime will accumulate, and integrated systems can be interrupted. In these cases, a malfunction is likely to occur when the system is most needed. A system failure can have dire repercussions when precious time might be lost.

As with any other equipment, preventative maintenance is far more economical than waiting for a breakdown that would require emergency repair. Fire detection systems are no different.

For example, many smoke detection devices are delicate instruments that work with a precisely directed beam of light so when smoke enters the chamber, the light beam is refracted which will then trigger an alarm. If dirt accumulates in the chamber, the sensor may not react appropriately. Other sensor and notification devices will malfunction as well without proper ongoing maintenance and testing.

Cleaning sensors, replacing worn parts, testing, and reprogramming systems are all part of a proactive preventative fire alarm service. Only experienced and licensed technicians have the training and the right tools to bring the entire system into proper working order.

Annual Inspection

Local fire authorities and OSHA require at least annual testing of fire detection systems. A certified fire safety company will perform a detailed inspection and provide the building owner with the necessary certification to verify the systems are in perfect working condition.

In high-rise buildings, the requirement to maintain the building’s fire detection systems is essential.

High Rise Security Systems (HRSS) Maintenance Programs

In the Chicago area, HRSS has been providing expert fire alarm services to high-rise buildings for over a decade. As a designer and installer of state-of-the-art fire safety systems by companies like Notifier by Honeywell, HRSS cooperates closely with building owners throughout the region to keep their systems well-maintained.

HRSS will work out an economical, ongoing maintenance and inspection program to provide peace of mind for building owners and managers. Reducing risk by maintaining a clean and operational system is a critical responsibility.

Choosing the Best Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

Cutting corners on fire alarm systems in a high-rise or other heavily occupied building is not an option. Building owners and managers are responsible for ensuring the complete safety of the occupants and should employ the highest level of safeguards possible.

In the case of any threat of fire, the quickest possible response is critical. When smoke, fire, or other threat to safety are detected within the building, occupants are alerted to evacuate. Simultaneously, an emergency signal is sent to the monitoring service that a problem is developing. The service alerts the fire department and other appropriate emergency agencies immediately.

Minutes can make a difference between safety and disaster. Constant, uninterrupted surveillance and timely notification are the reasons building managers should work only with highly professional and proven companies to monitor internal fire detection and warning systems.

Why a Fire Alarm Monitoring Service?

Some building managers and owners have believed that if they have an alarm that makes enough noise, then having an outside service to monitor is a waste. However, situations can occur in which qualified, off-site monitoring professionals can make a difference between no resulting casualties and minimal damage versus possible disaster and extensive damage.

Sometimes when a fire suddenly breaks out, the very first action is to identify the location of the fire and ensure that everyone safely evacuates the building before notifying the fire department. Clearly, evacuation and occupant safety are the primary steps. Waiting minutes before alerting the authorities may be disastrous.

Alternatively, a sudden fire late at night in a residential or dormitory building can render occupants unconscious, unable to call for help. A monitoring service will ensure help arrives quickly.

What To Look For in a Fire Alarm Monitoring Service

An effective fire alarm monitoring service must be a company that:

• is experienced
• has a reputation for reliability
• is fully licensed and certified
• installs, and maintains entire detection and notification systems
• understands your system completely
• is responsible for maintaining all fire equipment in the building

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

A company that maintains and services your fire, smoke, and gas detection systems is the one most qualified to monitor emergencies. High Rise Security Systems has been designing, installing, and maintaining fire detection systems for over 30 years. Fully trained and experienced professionals will monitor your fire safety systems to keep your building safe.

Why You Want a Fire Alarm Inspector to Be Certified By NICET

NICET is the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. Achieving NICET certification requires more than attendance at a series of classes. Certification is achieved by passing an extensive test of job knowledge, verification of performance, and evaluation of your work experience. NICET certification represents a career level in an engineering field, not just the completion of a few courses.

Fire Safety Device Inspection

Local fire protection authorities require clear documentation of at least annual fire alarm system inspections. Building owners and facilities managers may prefer more frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure the system will work precisely as planned in case of an emergency. Since certain parts of any system may wear out or accumulate dust and grime, a careful testing and regular inspection are warranted, even in addition to the usual checks.

Importance of NICET Certification

Teams of experts in the field of electrical engineering developed the NICET certification testing to ensure they are sufficiently challenging to separate serious certification candidates from those who are not willing to perform the necessary work and study. Achievement of NICET is an accomplishment that stands out as a hiring qualification for some companies.

NICET certification can be upgraded at different points in your career. The program involves Levels 1-4, with Level 4 reaching the top of the profession. These individuals are qualified for the most complex assignments and can troubleshoot even the most complicated electrical systems.

Play It Safe

A NICET certified fire alarm inspector assures you that your systems are operating as planned. Checking every device and simulating potential problems can help the inspector to identify any underlying or developing problems. Malfunction of your fire alarm devices can be disastrous.

Working with a NICET certified fire safety company will provide peace of mind that your system will be properly designed, installed, tested, and maintained. NICET certified experts at High Rise Security Systems work with Chicago area hospitals, universities, high-rise residences, and commercial buildings to ensure the safety of the occupants and assets while providing ongoing fire alarm maintenance and testing.

Failure of a fire security system is not permissible. Knowing that the inspectors of your fire safety system’s detection and notification devices are NICET certified means that every element of the system will work when needed. Local fire protection authorities recognize the professional qualifications of NICET experts as the top performers in their field.

Managing Fire Alarm Installation

With any new construction or major building renovation, the fire detection systems must be in place and tested before an occupancy permit can be issued. With most electrical contractors, wiring the fire alarm systems is only a small part of the overall electrical job, yet it is the most important element for protecting the lives of future occupants. Working with a certified fire safety company to install the system saves time and reduces the potential for lost revenue resulting from a delay in approval.

Local codes require that the installation of fire detection systems be performed only by experienced and certified individuals. Before permits may be granted, the installer will present proof of installation certification issued by the local fire authorities, a nationally recognized fire safety organization, or by an intense training program performed by the manufacturer of the equipment.

Preparing the Fire Alarm System Plan

Today’s integrated fire detection and alarm systems can be complex and involve substantial interconnectivity. They need more than electrical expertise since designs call for one warning device to transmit information to a central control point and the local fire department for quick response. Also, the alerting device will trigger notification equipment that will initiate an orderly evacuation.

Needless to say, an interconnected system, whether wired or wireless, demands proper programming and sequential connectivity to function properly. Improper programming can result in costly delays.

Connect with a Licensed Fire Safety Company

A certified fire safety company should be part of the early design process to identify the location, number, and types of fire detection equipment to install. By collaborating at the beginning of the planning process, the electrical plan and the fire alarm installation should be coordinated so that they may be integrated seamlessly into the construction process.

Incorporating a fire safety company into the fire alarm installation process will bring the newest technologies to the plan. Doing so will extend the time before the system becomes obsolete. Moreover, more sophisticated detection capability and quicker response to emergencies improve the protection of future occupants.

Fire Alarm Monitoring Service

Professional fire safety companies play an essential role in new construction and building retrofits. Incorporating the most modern detection and notification capability at the outset can provide peace of mind for decades. Companies like High Rise Security Systems in Chicago will offer ongoing support and maintenance services for the fire detection system.

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.