Common Fire Protection Systems for Businesses
Protecting the building and assets inside from damage is at the top of every business owner’s list. Knowing which system to utilize is critical when laying out a floor plan and understanding what these future assets contain. From residential apartments to office spaces, any establishment needs to take advantage of these common fire protection systems for businesses to adhere to safety standards for all involved.
General Fire Protection
There are many fire protection systems one can choose from. A basic understanding of the different types and how they function will best outline how to make the safest selection for your business. For the vast majority of commercial buildings, there is a requirement that the following systems be up to date and accessible:
- Fire suppression systems
- Sprinklers
- Smoke detectors
- Exit signs
- Fire alarm systems
Wet Fire Sprinkler Systems
The most common sprinkler system is a wet pipe or wet fire sprinkler system. This setup contains the water within the piping. When a sprinkler activates the system, the housed water releases directly onto the detected fire.
Compared to a dry fire system, a wet system is impartial to climates. The environment of your building will determine which method is most suitable. Consider the seasonal temperature in your specific or desired location when selecting this setup.
Special Hazard Fire Protection
To know if a special hazard system is appropriate for your building, you need to look at the assets and consider the outcomes. In regard to common fire protection systems for businesses, thinking about the general use of the building ranks a high priority when linked to overall safety. A few special hazards to consider:
- An area or environment housing one-of-a-kind or potentially irreplaceable assets (art gallery, museum, storage).
- A process or area where the produced revenue is greater than the equipment itself.
The goal of special hazard systems is to act quickly, protect people, and limit loss. After reviewing your assets, you’ll understand why it’s important to select a fire protection system best fit for your business.
Gaseous Fire Suppression
Though this sounds intimidating, gaseous fire suppression is a broader term to signify the use of chemical agents or inert gases to extinguish a fire. The most practical and typical places for this specific type of system would include:
- Rooms with documents/safes
- Computer/IT rooms
- Medical spaces such as imaging or operating rooms
- Industrial facilities such as offshore drilling platforms
With some basic understanding and awareness of your needs surrounding your assets, you can protect your commercial space from damage and harm. It’s impossible to say whether you will prevent any destruction. Still, you are doing your due diligence as an owner with a fire protection system typical to your establishment.
