The first step in ensuring the safety of a building is to install fire safety systems. These are designed to respond to an emergency and are installed during the initial construction phase. Over time, fire units in buildings may need to be upgraded to comply with new codes or address a faulty system. These systems are designed to maximize safety by taking into account the layout and risk factors of the building.
Passive fire protection
Passive fire protection systems in buildings are vital to ensuring life safety in a fire. The system prevents fire from spreading through a building. However, installing passive fire protection systems in buildings requires careful planning and maintenance. Contractors should follow industry standards and properly seal penetrations.
Passive fire protection systems are available throughout Australia. Consult your local government for advice. For example, Fire NSW has a Structural Fire Safety Unit which provides services to large and small businesses. They aim to minimize the effects of fires on the community and firefighters. Other states also have equivalent units. The best passive fire protection system for a building will depend on the nature of the business and the environment.
Smoke control systems
Smoke control systems are designed to control smoke in the event of a fire. They work in tandem with fire safety systems to help prevent a building from catching fire. The smoke control system should start immediately after receiving an activation command, with a maximum transmission time of 10 seconds. Smoke control systems can be manual or automated and should be configured to work with other systems, such as a fire alarm system.
Smoke control systems can be of two types: dedicated and non-dedicated. Dedicated systems use separate air-moving and distribution equipment. They don’t operate under normal building operating conditions and are, therefore, best used in special building areas. Non-dedicated smoke control systems, on the other hand, use components from other systems but change their mode of operation to achieve smoke control objectives.
Code requirements
Buildings contain a wide variety of hazards and can be significant sources of fire. The fire protection systems in buildings must be designed to manage these hazards and prevent the spread of fire. This means having a clear and efficient way for people to escape and find safety. In addition to fire prevention, the fire units must also protect buildings against smoke.
These systems need to be approved by the fire code, and these systems must meet certain requirements to be installed in buildings.
These requirements vary by the size of the building, the number of units, and the date the legislation was passed. Building owners can contact the San Francisco Fire Department for assistance in meeting these requirements.
Maintenance
Buildings have numerous fire safety units that must be maintained to keep them functioning properly. Fortunately, a comprehensive inspection program can provide the peace of mind that building owners and managers need. While achieving full and sustainable fire protection is not easy, partnering with a qualified fire protection company is the most reliable way to stay compliant and protected. In addition to performing regular inspections, these companies also implement a preventative maintenance program.
Buildings with high public occupancy may have specialized requirements. However, fire safety systems that are properly maintained can save lives and save property. To learn more about fire safety systems, download this free eBook.