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.

Notifier by Honeywell Addressable Fire Alarm System

Notifier® by Honeywell is known for providing state-of-the-art fire alarm systems with installations on every continent.  Notifier offers high performance, reliable fire alarm system equipment with addressable control panels which provide total coverage and protection in large buildings.  Notifier’s fully integrated addressable fire alarm systems detect gas, smoke or fire with sensitive detection equipment right down to the exact location of the source, pinpointing the room and floor the fire started in. Visual and audible evacuation alerts simultaneously alert and dispatch first responders through networked monitoring services.

Notifier by Honeywell offers various models and types of addressable alarms for different building structures, offering a system to accommodate any type of structure including low-rise, high-rise, complexes and campuses.  The full line of Notifier fire alarm systems include:

• Onyx NFC 3030 – ideal in mid to large sized facilities
• Onyx NFS 640 – installed as a single network or as a stand-alone alarm in small to large installations
• AFP 100 Analog / Addressable compact fire alarm control panels which support up to 99 devices
• AFC 600 Intelligent Addressable fire control panel which supports up to 636 devices
• FireWarden series 100 and 102 include audible voice evacuation alerts with clear instruction to occupants.
• FireWarden 100-2 fire alarm control panel with digital alarm communicator
• FireWarden 100-2C for a compact addressable control panel with digital alarm communicator
• FireWarden 50 for an addressable control panel which supports up to 50 devices
• NFV 25/50 addressable voice evacuation fire alarm control panel

All of these Notifier alarm systems offer ancillary devices for additional detection and notification including annunciators, audible warning bells, visual strobe lights, speakers and LED back up lights to direct the calm and orderly evacuation of occupants.  Voice evacuation procedures are proven to reduce assist with orderly evacuation by preventing panic.

Notifier fire alarm systems may include closed circuit TV cameras for visual security in real-time and may assist with locating individuals who may be unconscious or trapped in a building.  All devices are connected through one central monitoring system to work together to provide total protection against smoke, gas or fire with early detection and alerts which save lives and property.

HRSS is a Premiere Distributor for Notifier® by Honeywell

High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire alarm and safety provider offering comprehensive services including fire alarm system design, UL Listed equipment from the best names in fire protection including Notifier by Honeywell.  We are a Premiere distributor for Notifier products, offering experience to service and maintain all Notifier systems with skilled expertise.  

HRSS offers proven solutions for total fire protection and safety with UL listed equipment, skilled system design, fire alarm inspection, maintenance, repairs and monitoring 24/7/365.  Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive services to provide protection against smoke, gas and fire with systems designed to protect life and property.

Notifier by Honeywell Addressable Fire Alarm System

Notifier® by Honeywell is synonymous with fire safety, having installations on every continent in the world.  Notifier protects buildings of all shapes and sizes with a complete menu of fire safety equipment that can be programmed for each unique building structure.  Notifier’s addressable alarm system protects large buildings and complexes with the highest level of protection against gas, smoke and fire available today.

The control panel is the heart of any fire alarm system, and in an addressable system this is where information is gathered and where the location of the emergency is identified.  The control panel is integrated with the monitoring system to alert responding personnel of the problem, the location and the status of the emergency.  Monitoring stations may be an onsite location or an offsite monitoring service.

Notifier ONYX Series Fire Alarm Control Panels

The ONYX Series of control panels by Notifier have the capability to network up to 318 addressable devices with peripheral equipment such as voice evacuation annunciators.  Wireless networking is available, which is a great benefit in the instance of power loss.  The “First Vision” feature of the ONYX control panels is a valuable tool which helps firefighters by providing the current status of a fire with a graphic display.  This shows first responders just how quickly a fire is spreading and helps them determine where their best plan of attack should be to extinguish the fire. 

Linking additional devices such as closed-circuit TV, security and access control, and central locking or unlocking of doors can be networked together with the addressable ONYX series. This allows for the locking of specific doorways in cases of a security breach, identifying stranded occupants with motion sensors, and many other valuable features which quickly identify emergency situations for responding personnel.

High Rise Security Systems is a certified dealer of Notifier® by Honeywell fire alarm systems and control panels, providing UL listed equipment that meets and exceeds our client’s requirements. We are the recognized leading fire and safety firm in the Chicago area, protecting commercial properties of all shapes and sizes.  Contact us today to learn more about the Notifier addressable fire alarm system.

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.  

Fire Inspection Companies Provide Reliable Alarm Systems

Inspections to the fire, life and safety systems of any commercial property is necessary as building owners have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their occupants with a fire detection system in good working order.   Regular inspections by a qualified fire inspection company can detect a problem before it causes a malfunction or worse, a loss of life.   

Only certified fire inspection companies should perform these inspections, with further requirements outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  The NFPA details the minimum requirements for fire alarm system inspections, which can vary by structure.  High-rise buildings, hospitals and universities will have specific requirements when it comes to fire safety system inspections.

Certified Fire Inspection Companies Ensure Compliance

Regular inspections provide peace of mind and protect the property and people on the premises, while ensuring that buildings are in compliance with all local and national code requirements.   Fire inspection technicians must have a working knowledge of all components of the fire detection system including sensors, fire alarm panels, audible alerts, and visual strobe lights.  

Qualified fire system inspectors must also know the required placement of equipment such as strobe lights in public areas where the hearing impaired may frequent such as rest rooms, hallways and stairways.   Accessibility to portable fire extinguishers is also a critical component of any fire, life and safety program as fire extinguishers can be the difference between life and death by preventing a fire from becoming uncontrollable, or deadly.  

Even smart systems that can self-monitor and alert technicians to the specific area of potential malfunction must still be inspected by a certified fire inspection company.  Finding any problem areas before the system alerts you is the key to maintaining a properly working fire detection system that will perform in time of need.

High Rise Security Systems is a leader among fire inspection companies, providing full comprehensive fire and safety system services.  We will design, inspect, test and repair any fire alarm system to ensure compliance with local authorities.  Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable fire systems expert and let us help you ensure your building is a safe environment for your occupants.  

Components of Effective Fire Alarm Safety Systems

Components of Effective Fire Alarm Safety Systems

A fire alarm safety system has many important components with the main goal always the same, to protect occupants and save lives.  Let’s review some of the most important considerations of an effective fire alarm system.  

Design

An accurate blueprint of the building layout should be created, with a scale reference and all exits and firewalls clearly identified.  Placement of sensors, alarms and portable fire extinguishers should be according to all applicable fire regulations including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines.  

High Rise Security Systems designs fire alarm safety systems in compliance with NFPA101, the most widely used all-encompassing Life Safety code, and NFPA72 which focuses on fire alarm safety systems and changes periodically to include advancements in technology and society.  

Fire Alarm Safety Equipment

High Rise Security Systems is a premier distributor for Notifier® by Honeywell Fire System equipment.  Notifier is a world leading fire and safety system expert, with fire detection and safety systems installed on every continent.  With more than 50 years of experience, Notifier meets the demands of any environment, from a simple system to a complex network of intelligent fire alarm control panels.  

High Rise Security Systems has vast experience with all fire alarm safety equipment, including all fire alarm control panels which are UL approved to the latest standards of UL864 9th Edition.

Monitoring

A fire safety system is only as good as the monitoring and response time of the alarm equipment.  High Rise Security Systems provides reliable monitoring 24/7/365.  We believe in fast response time to our customers’ needs.  

Alarm Notification

Quick response time and notification to occupants is critical for safe evacuation.  LED display, and audible evacuation procedures are available with intelligent fire alarm control panels.  

High Rise Security Systems has experience with all methods of fire alarm detection and notification systems, including proper placement of sensors and alarms according to NFPA guidelines.

Evacuation Procedures

A clearly defined and displayed evacuation plan should be in place in all public structures, with adequate provisions available such as fire ladders in 2nd story or above structures where one stairwell may be the only exit route.  

Most importantly, never assume a fire alarm is not real!  Do not think it’s just a joke or a test, take seriously any smoke or fire alarm and never joke about a fire.  

Onyx model of Notifier fire alarm control panels offer Digital Voice Command (DVC), giving audible instruction of safe evacuation procedures to all occupants.

Testing and Maintenance

None of the above components will matter if the fire alarm system is not maintained and in good working order.

High Rise Security Systems provides continual maintenance and support for all fire and safety alarm systems, in any size structure or complex.  

High Rise Security Systems is the fire alarm safety specialist in the Chicago area, providing proven solutions with life-saving fire and safety systems, from design through permit approval, and following with continual maintenance and support.  Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff about our fire alarm safety systems.  

HRSS is a Leader Among Notifier Fire Alarm Distributors

HRSS is a Leader Among Notifier Fire Alarm Distributors

Notifier® by Honeywell is a world leading fire safety systems company, providing advanced fire detection systems and saving lives on every continent.  Notifier is known for reliability with high performing fire alarm control panels, from simple systems to sophisticated networked systems, Notifier has a solution for any structure.  

Notifier Conventional fire alarm panels can be set up to monitor single or multiple zones, or the Onyx fire alarm panels offer solutions to complex structures with addressable systems providing the ability to pinpoint the area of detection to a particular floor, or even a room.  The Onyx Digital Voice Command (DVC) provides audio evacuation instructions on a multi-channel paging system.

UL Approved Fire Alarm Equipment

All Notifier equipment is UL approved, with advanced sensors and devices for smoke detection and aspiration detection, and seamless connectivity with SWIFT wireless technology.   

As a leader among Notifier fire alarm distributors, HRSS has vast knowledge of all models of fire alarm control panels.  We provide continual maintenance, support, testing and inspections to ensure that your fire alarm system by Notifier is operating as intended.  HRSS provides peace of mind with professional fire alarm detection and monitoring.  

Fire Systems Designed to Code

A professional fire alarm system designer must have in-depth knowledge of all required codes and guidelines, as enforced in the appropriate locality by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).  

HRSS has in-depth knowledge of all applicated fire regulations.  With licensed technicians and skilled designers, we develop a safe and effective fire alarm system for each structure with only UL approved equipment, and in adherence to all National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes.

NFPA101 is the most widely used Life Safety Code® providing strategies to minimize the effects of fire and related hazards through protecting people based on building construction, protection and occupancy features.  NFPA101 is unique in that it addresses new and existing structures.  

NFPA72 contains the latest safety provisions to meet the changing demands of society and emerging technology, with the core focus on fire alarm systems.  

HRSS is certified to the National Institute of Certification in Engineering (NICET), employing licensed technicians with vast knowledge of all fire regulations.  Our fire alarm systems are compliant to all fire regulations, and equipped with UL approved equipment as one of the top Notifier fire alarm distributors.  

For over a decade, High Rise Security Systems has been serving the Chicago and surrounding areas with professional fire alarm systems designed to each unique structure and compliant to all fire regulations.  Contact us today to learn about our professional fire safety consulting services, including design, Notifier® fire alarm equipment, and reliable monitoring 24/7/365.

 

Understanding Fire Extinguisher Service Requirements

Understanding Fire Extinguisher Service Requirements

A fire extinguisher service company must be knowledgeable about the different classes of fires, and the portable fire extinguishers that are rated to suppress them.  Locating an adequate fire extinguisher in the right location, with the right type of extinguishing agent is crucial.  Extinguishing a fire while it may still be controllable is critical to preventing the spread of a dangerous fire, saving equipment, structures, and lives.  

Type of Fire Extinguishers

An experienced and reputable fire extinguisher company has the knowledge and capability to service all extinguishers, rated for Class A,B,C,D, or K fires.  

The majority of portable fire extinguishers located in public places and businesses are rated for Class A, B & C Fires.  These multi-purpose dry chemical extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical reaction happening in the fire.  

Carbon Dioxide extinguisher are rated for Class B & C fires only, and will be ineffective on Class A fire.  NFPA12 details the suggested guidelines for the use and maintenance of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. These should be used on Class B and C fires only, and will not work on Class A fires.  

Class D Fire Extinguishers are similar to the dry chemical extinguisher except that it is a Dry Powder, and works by separating the oxygen from the fuel source, removing the heat.  A Class D fire extinguisher only works on Class D fires, and would be ineffective at suppressing any other type of fire.

Class K fires are fires that ignite from hot grease or oil such as in a restaurant kitchen.  A wet chemical fire extinguisher is used to treat Class K fires, which are often used in an automatic fire extinguisher system such as an overhead kitchen hood.  NFPA17A details fire code guidelines for wet chemical extinguishers.  

All fire extinguisher services must adhere to NFPA10, which details the guidelines for portable fire extinguishers to obtain optimum performance in time of need.  

Expert Fire Extinguisher Service from High Rise Security Systems

HRSS has vast experience with fire safety systems, including following a detailed checklist for fire extinguisher service inspections by licensed technicians.  Our Fire Extinguisher Service includes a visual inspection, checking the weight of the extinguisher for proper chemical level. Checking the pressure gauges, valves and locking pins, check the manufacture date and provide hydrostatic testing when necessary.  All fire extinguishers are required to have a 6-year thorough maintenance service and again at 12-years from manufacture date, including a hydrostatic test.  

HRSS is certified to NICET, the National Institute for Engineering Technologies, and provides complete fire and safety system design for new and existing construction, working with contractors to obtain proper permits related to fire and safety systems.

High Rise Security Systems, LLC is a leader among fire extinguisher companies, providing added services of design and preparation of all data sheets for code compliance and permit approval of your fire detection system.  Contact us today for superior fire extinguisher service in the Chicago area and surrounding localities.

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.  

Notifier Fire Alarm

Notifier by Honeywell is the premier producer of fire detection and alarm devices. Building upon Honeywell’s long history of atmospheric sensing experience, Notifier products have evolved into a holistic, state-of-the-art network of detection, notification, and emergency communications equipment that can be linked to provide the utmost protection.

Notifier Equipment: Control Panels

The Notifier by Honeywell systems begins with the control panel, the nexus of the entire network. Notifier offers a choice of high-quality control panels that may be customized for the size and demands of each building. For large high-rise buildings, such as those managed by High Rise Security Systems in Chicago, the Onyx Series Control NFS-320SYS accommodates campus buildings or high-rise office blocks.

The Notifier control panels can be configured to integrate up to 318 intelligent detection devices as well as a network of accessories including notification equipment of several types, voice and visual evacuation systems, and annunciators.

All devices may be networked wirelessly through the Noti-Fire-Net or High-speed Noti-Fire-Net systems.

Notifier Detection Devices and Alarms

Notifier fire alarm and detection devices connect to the control panel to alert occupants to a developing problem. When smoke is first detected, the addressable device transmits the precise location of the developing problem to the control panel so that responders can proceed directly to the appropriate location.

Notifier Network Control Annunciator

The Notifier Annunciator NCA-2 is a sophisticated 640-character back-lit display complete with a keyboard for directing functions. Connected to the control panel, the annunciator allows management of the system while also providing updated status/history of ongoing emergency situations. The annunciator gives instant updates to first responders to identify the source and status of a current fire event.

Notifier OnyxWorks

OnyxWorks is a central point-of-control workstation that allows security personnel to be immediately responsive to an emergency while monitoring progress. The workstation coordinates information transmitted from the control panel to keep security personnel informed of the status of the emergency.

Notifier Notification Accessories

Notifier offers a full range of audible and visual notification devices. Audible alerts may be in the form of bells, horns, prerecorded or live announcements. Visual signals include strobes and LED message boards that further facilitate evacuation.

High Rise Security Systems of Chicago

HRSS is a prominent provider of fire safety equipment in the Chicago area. Partnering with Notifier by Honeywell, HRSS provides protection to many high-rise and campus complexes in the Chicago area.

Fire and Safety Tips for High-Rise Building and Facilities Managers

The most important system in any building is the fire safety system. Other systems including HVAC and electrical are elements that, if they malfunction, are repairable and rarely life threatening. A malfunctioning fire and safety system can be disastrous.

With the presence of high-rises and massive building complexes, building owners and managers are aware that state-of-the-art, high performance fire safety systems are essential to ensure the safety of the occupants within.

For any new construction or remodel, design architects collaborate with expert safety companies like High Rise Security Systems to integrate the best fire and safety systems into their planning.

Designing Safety

During the design of a new building or retrofit, qualified fire safety experts will utilize design software to:

• Identify the right number and placement of the fire detection devices.
• Locate notification devices such as alarms, strobes, and visual indicators.
• Define evacuation routes and alternatives.
• Design precautionary systems for special flammable or potentially dangerous products.
• Include fire suppressant systems.
• Locate central monitoring, control panel, and annunciator locations.

Installation Options

Prior to the installation stage, the building owner and fire safety company will have concluded the specific devices and connectivity that would best fit the design and provide the highest level of safety. Some elements that are important to ensure the security of the building are:

• Control panel with sufficient capacity and connectivity to manage all devices.
• Addressable sensors and alarms that allow for the immediate identification of the location of the outbreak.
• Central monitoring center for trained security personnel.
• Audible alarm systems with bells and loudspeakers for verbal evacuation directions.
• Visual notification systems with strobes and LED instruction displays.
• Smoke, fire, gas, and motion detection devices.
• Closed circuit TV systems.
• Clearly marked evacuation routes.
• Integrating all devices into a single system with backup power capability.
• Connecting the system to external monitoring.

Final Inspection

Before occupancy permits are issued, the entire fire and safety system must be tested. The qualified fire safety company will test and certify the system before local authorities issue the permits.

Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring

The fire safety company should perform regular maintenance and ongoing monitoring of the system.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

HRSS is a supplier of highly sophisticated Notifier by Honeywell fire protection systems. With decades of experience, HRSS is certified by UL® and NICET, National Institute of Certification in Engineering Technologies.