Fire alarm systems are key building security equipment vital in saving life and property in a fire. But their effectiveness depends a lot on their installation. The fire alarm system must be properly designed and follow the set codes for fire alarms. There is no one size fits all fire alarm system installation. Each installation is unique to the building it is protecting. An effective fire alarm system installation should have several considerations:
New Installation or Upgrade?
Fire protection is a requirement for every public building, so upgrades are usually trickier than new installations. In addition, the new devices have to be compatible with the system in place, especially for a wired fire alarm system installation.
You have more flexibility when doing a new installation in a new building. It is easier to make the fire alarm system provisions, including conduits and openings for various devices. You can also pick newer, more effective alarm devices.
Fire Alarm System Design
Who is going to do the design for the fire alarm system? It is important to have a qualified technician certified by the National Fire Protection Association. This is the leading authority on fire safety. According to them, fire alarm systems design should be done by a qualified person to inspect and test fire alarm devices.
The authorities will reject a poor design. However, if it passes accidentally, it puts the building and people using it in danger because it will not be effective in raising fire alerts.
Compliance With Codes and Regulations
Fire alarm systems installation must follow fire safety codes and regulations set by federal, state, and local authorities. Many of these codes are internationally recognized and keep evolving as building codes also change.
If you are upgrading fire alarms in an old building, you must look at the present fire safety codes to be compliant. Otherwise, your installation risks being rejected when safety inspectors come calling. Luckily, you don't have to muster this myriad of codes and regulations. Instead, the fire alarm company stays updated on the evolving codes.
Monitored or Self-monitored?
Fire alarm systems are only as good as their monitoring. Who will pick up the alarm when it goes off? Self-monitoring means you are responsible for watching out for the alarm signal. It is affordable, but there are risks of the alarm going unnoticed when no one is on the premises.
Monitored fire alarm systems alert go to off-site third-party services. The biggest advantage is 24/7 monitoring, but it is more expensive than self-monitoring.
Are you looking to install a robust fire alarm system? Talk to a fire security systems installer about your building's fire safety needs.
