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.

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.

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.

What Makes a Fire Safety Company Excellent?

Excellent fire safety companies wear many hats. They are fire detection system designers, precision installers, dedicated testers, on-the-spot maintainers, and vigilant monitors. Two particular elements are required to be a top-notch fire alarm and safety company. They are:

1. Highly trained, dedicated and certified personnel devoted to preserving the lives and welfare of the occupants of the buildings they service.
2. The most sophisticated, state-of-the-art detection and notification systems available.

While these prerequisites seem like an oversimplification, not every company can qualify.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

High Rise Security (HRSS) is a Chicago-based company with a 30-year combined record of success and optimal performance. Experts in what they do and proficient in how they do it, HRSS is a supplier of fire detection systems for many hospitality, commercial, and educational facilities throughout the region. These high-occupancy facilities range from sprawling campuses to multi-story structures.

HRSS is UL and NICET-certified, and technicians are trained in the installation, programming, and maintenance of highly technical equipment.

Design, Install, Maintain, and Monitor

No all fire safety companies offer full-service fire detection systems combined with physical security systems that include access control. During the design phase, HRSS technicians can integrate the fire and smoke detection systems with a centrally monitored access control and CCTV surveillance system.

Design phase involves studying the building plan to locate the right equipment in the appropriate places. Proper fire system designs provide instant notification and efficient evacuation instructions in case of an emergency.

Installation is more than placing and wiring. Each device in the system must be securely programmed and connected to the control panel and the building’s monitoring location. All elements must be integrated and tested to ensure operational proficiency before commissioning. The fire safety company will guarantee the building permits will be issued.

Ongoing maintenance is a critical service. HRSS offers an affordable maintenance and testing program to ensure that all systems work and the control panels are operable. Parts wear out or are sometimes affected by dirt, grime, or impact. Regular testing is essential.

Fire alarm monitoring service is important to protect occupants and buildings. Programmed to alert the monitoring service in case of danger, this feature is a necessary safety component to assure quick response by local fire and police agencies. HRSS monitoring is handled by well-trained and dedicated professionals 24/7 365 days a year.

Fire and Safety the HRSS Way

High Rise Security Systems has been protecting businesses in the Chicago area for many years. The company’s portfolio of clients includes hospitals, hotels, universities and schools, commercial buildings, and large residential buildings. As a result, millions of citizens depend on the professionalism and vast experience of HRSS experts to protect them from fire and other security issues.

HRSS is NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) and UL-certified. This fire safety company represents all of the leading edge manufacturers of smoke, gas, fire and safety systems.

Whether buildings are high-rise residential, office structures, sprawling university campuses or hospitals, HRSS technicians design, install, service, and monitor the most efficient detection and notification networks available.

Design Process

Using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Technology, HRSS technicians design an entire building in AutoCAD format. Their simulation allows the experts to determine the best number and location of sensors and notification devices plus networking capabilities to ensure quick response and evacuation.

Notifier by Honeywell

Networking Notifier by Honeywell control panels with all sensors and alarms within the complex allows for central monitoring and instant remote notification. Sensing danger, the control panel can be wirelessly connected to activate directional evacuation signs, alarms, recorded messages, strobe light warnings, and a range of peripheral devices.

Installation and Ongoing Maintenance

High Rise Security experts will install, program, and test the systems to ensure proper operation. The system will be duly commissioned for the final inspection by local fire authorities. Proper installation and testing are required to receive the permit for occupancy. Delays due to improper installation can be expensive.

To continue to ensure the safety of occupants and assets, HRSS technicians will perform ongoing maintenance for the systems. The purpose of the regular maintenance program is to protect against malfunction due to the accumulation of dust and grime, wearing out of parts, or any physical abuse resulting from equipment or human contact. Systems should be tested regularly and repaired by experts as needed.

Meeting Local Agency Requirements

OSHA and authorities throughout the country require documentation of inspection and testing to be conducted at least annually by a certified fire safety company.

Access Control and Surveillance

Access control and closed circuit surveillance are also elements of fire and safety protection that may be installed and maintained by High Rise Security Systems. These can be integral parts of the overall monitoring systems.

Honeywell Fire Lite Systems

High Rise Security Systems, a Chicago-based fire and security systems company, represents Fire-Lite by Honeywell detection and notification devices designed for protection in multiple building configurations. Using SWIFT® wireless technology, addressable devices are designed to integrate to provide the utmost in protection for occupants in case of smoke and fire outbreaks.

Honeywell builds upon a century of experience in atmospheric and temperature sensing devices. With Honeywell Fire-Lite detection systems, the company manufactures an entirely integrated system to detect trouble, notify and direct occupants, and alert monitoring agencies and emergency services. With the many high-rise buildings and expansive campuses in Chicagoland, early detection and rapid response are necessary to protect individuals and properties.

What is an Addressable Fire Detection System?

Honeywell Fire Lite is an addressable fire alarm system which means every smoke or fire detection device has an address or location. Moreover, each detection device connects to and communicates with each other and a central control site. In large buildings, this interconnectivity allows the control personnel to identify the place or “address” where the discovery first occurred. The information allows emergency response to direct their efforts to the precise location of the developing problem and eliminate the problem quickly.

How Does Fire-Lite Systems Work?

The system starts with Fire-Lite’s Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panel. Fire-Lite offers four models of differing size and capability. Each is easily programmable and come equipped with:

• addressable point identification
• digital communication
• NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) synchronization

SWIFT Smart Wireless Integrated Fire Technology provides reliable connectivity among the devices using mesh technology that allow interaction among the devices.

Fire-Lite’s Emergency Command Center (ECC) brings all of the devices together for state-of-the-art monitoring and coordination. The ECC provides multi-zone observation, mass notification, and evacuation management from a single location.

Communicators automatically connect the central control point to external emergency agencies and monitoring services to initiate firefighting and other emergency efforts.

Annunciators are essential elements of the entire system. The annunciators advise arriving firefighters of the location of all detection and alarm systems. The system will graphically show firefighting personnel where the fire may have started and its current status. Annunciators monitor and report the status of AC power, alarms, and the extent of damage to other devices.

High-Rise Security Systems Design and Installation

Honeywell Fire Lite Systems is a major partner of High-Rise Security. For more information, contact the experts at High-Rise Security.