Having fire safety equipment in a building, whether it is residential, commercial, or industrial, is vital and must be properly planned for in any renovation or construction project. It's necessary in order to put out a fire before it becomes uncontrollable, causing damages to property and the structure itself, and potentially even endangering lives.
Here are the top 3 pieces of fire safety equipment you should be looking to install in your building:
Fire and smoke detectors
A fire/flame detector is a sensor that detects and responds to the presence of a flame or fire. Response to a detected flame or fire depends on the installation. It may include sounding an alarm, de-activating a fuel line and activating a suppression system.
Extinguishers
An extinguisher is a fire protection device used to extinguish and control small fires.
• Acquiring fire extinguishers are important, but that is just the first step. You need to ensure it's the right extinguisher based on the materials you handle and the type of business you run. They should be easily identifiable, accessible and appropriate in volume based on the space.
• Service and maintain your fire extinguishing equipment. Regularly ensure all components of your suppression system are inspected and serviced.
• Train nominated persons in the building on how to manage and operate the fire extinguishers. Without adequate training, the equipment is rendered useless.
Fire safety signage and emergency lights
States that all exit routes must well lit for people with normal vision. The exit should also be visible and marked by a sign reading 'Exit.'
The exit light should be illuminated at all times.
Emergency lighting is designed to light identified hallways, stairwells and exits to facilitate safe, orderly evacuation from the building. It may also be referred to as egress lighting. This lighting system is required in all commercial, educational, religious, institutional, medical and industrial buildings. The lighting systems must be set up to provide automatic illumination in the event of any interruption to the normal lighting.
The importance of fire safety can't be overstated. Staying safe and ready can save your building from destruction, so it is always best to be prepared.