With ever-evolving technologies, maintaining the safest possible workplace can seem like aiming at a constantly moving target. If you want your business to remain as safe as possible, regular inspections are your best bet. Please read on to learn about six fire alarm and life safety inspection benefits.
Regular inspections not only save lives and property, but they can even add to your bottom line. After all, you can’t fix a problem until you have identified it.
Save Lives
In 2022, Ontario had the highest number of fire-related deaths in more than two decades. 133 Canadians lost their lives in Ontario fires, and properly functioning fire alarms and other life safety systems could have saved many of them.
While fire alarms are often the most effective means of saving lives from fire, All Protect Systems offers a wide selection of life safety equipment and solutions, such as:
Fires are extremely destructive to property. Even if your insurance covers fire damage, your policy may not cover the consequent disruptions to business operations. For example, if you have to shut down temporarily due to fire damage, most insurance policies won’t cover income losses.
Avoid Fines
The Ontario Fire Code requires regular inspections for fire alarms and life safety systems. Depending on your building’s occupancy type, you may need annual, semi-annual, monthly, or even weekly inspections.
Non-compliance with these inspection requirements can lead to heavy fines from the Ontario Fire Marshall. If your lack of inspections leads to code violations, the Fire Marshall even has the right to shut down your business until the situation is corrected.
Maintain Insurance Policy
Commercial business operations often expose owners to heavy liability, so your insurance coverage is usually a large portion of operating expense overhead. Your policy may require proof of regular fire alarm and other life safety inspections to keep your policy active.
In the event of a fire, your insurance company will request copies of the recent inspection reports. If you can’t supply them when submitting your claim for injury or property damage, your insurance will most likely reject the claim. You become responsible for the damages, and such a financial burden could result in bankruptcy.
Avoid Legal Trouble
If a severe injury or death occurs during a fire or other workplace accident, you can be sure that the authorities will request the most recent inspection reports for the fire alarms or life safety systems. If you can’t produce the necessary inspection, they may find you criminally negligent. You can easily avoid this terrifying scenario by staying current on your inspection requirements.
Spot Problems Ahead of Time
Last but not least, you can save money in the long run by spotting minor problems before they become larger ones. Regular inspections and testing of your fire alarm and life safety equipment can help you isolate defects before faulty equipment compromises the rest of the system.
Regular inspections can also increase your awareness of your equipment. Your fire alarm and life safety equipment may have been the newest and best technology when installed, but it can wear out and becomes obsolete over time. In some situations, you can update your equipment with the latest firmware, while in others, you must replace the hardware.
Concurrently, you may have made changes to your building that require modifications or upgrades to your fire and life safety infrastructure. Regular inspections force you to identify these changes and make necessary adjustments.
Many of Ontario’s top companies have delegated their fire alarm and safety inspections to All Protect Systems. They’ve been serving their community since 1996. Call them today to learn what they can do for you!
Fire hazards are undoubtedly one of the greatest threats to any rental property. The damage and loss of life that can accompany fire incidents can be catastrophic.
Figures from the National Fire Incident Database (NFID) show that in 2014 there were on average 19,062 structure fires annually, of which 74% were residential, resulting in 170 fire-related deaths and 1,297 casualties.
Faced with such statistics, property managers have an important role and responsibility when it comes to protecting tenants and securing their investments from fire hazards.
The Case for a Multi-Faceted Fire Protection Approach
Property managers typically oversee several buildings. Generally, no two buildings are the same, meaning each rental property necessitates its own unique fire protection plan. This makes things slightly complex. Therefore, in order to effectively reduce fire hazards in rental properties, property managers must consider a range of factors including:
The type of building
The age of the property
The number of occupants
All possible ignition sources
To streamline the process, we’ve put together critical strategies for safeguarding rental properties.
Strategy #1 Installation of Fire Detection Devices
Fire alarms, smoke alarms, and heat detectors are just some of the fire detection devices prudent property managers are installing. The fact of the matter is that in Ontario, the Fire Code and Building Code also mandate the presence of these fire protection systems in rental properties.
Of note, smoke alarms should be mounted in common areas, kitchens, bedrooms, and hallways of rental units. Regular maintenance of these devices and an annual inspection by a professional fire specialist like Nutech Fire Protection is highly recommended. Faulty and non-functional elements should be replaced as soon as possible. With routine maintenance, however, smoke alarms can last for years and in theory can be replaced after every 10 years.
One of the fastest ways to prevent potential fires is by taking precautions to identify fire hazards. In doing so, you’re then able to take the necessary steps to reduce fire risk by removing said hazards such as incorrectly stored flammable materials, frayed electrical cables, and trash.
During your inspection, keep an eye out for dangerous tenant behaviour like smoking in restricted areas. If no proper smoking areas have been designated, this is an appropriate time to establish them.
Strategy #3 Taking Time to Educate Building Occupants
Tenants also have a part to play in mitigating risk and staying safe while living in the rental property. Fire protection in rental properties is a collaborative effort that requires everyone’s involvement. With that said property managers should therefore take steps to furnish tenants with information regarding fire safety.
Teach occupants how to evacuate the premises in case of a fire and also how to use fire suppression devices like fire extinguishers. Clear instructions must be given to tenants about how to address fire hazards and what to do if gas/smoke/fire is detected.
Strategy #4 Putting Together a Thorough Emergency Response Plan
The emergency plan is designed as an effective response tool that,
details protocols for responding to fires, (including clear instructions for tenants on what to do in the event of an incident or other emergency)
highlights meeting places outside the building and,
provides emergency contact information.
Such plans need to be well-thought-out to complement the unique aspects of the rental unit. As such, it’s within your best interests as a property manager to engage the services of a fire specialist like Nutech Fire Protection to assist with developing suitable emergency plans. We factor in the building layout, occupancy level, and any identified fire hazards for a custom plan.
Strategy #5 Investing in Fire Suppression Mechanisms
One surefire way to protect your investment is by investing in fire suppression mechanisms such as fire sprinklers, fire doors, fire hoses, and fire extinguishers.
Fire protection experts will be able to look over your rental property and help you determine what’s needed to adequately secure your assets.
Strategy #6 Building Using Fire-Resistant Materials
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Opting for fire-resistant materials from the start can work in your favour should a fire incident break out because these substances are designed to slow down the spread of fire thereby limiting potential damage.
Examples of fire-resistant materials that property managers should consider are gypsum board, brick, stucco, and concrete. Fire-resistant glass windows, fire-resistant insulation, and fire-resistant doors are also worth a mention.
Strategy #7 Adhering to Building Codes and Regulations
Building codes and regulations exist for a reason. It’s not to complicate your life but to safeguard your investment and tenants. Are your rental properties up to standard and adhering to applicable Hamilton building codes and regulations?
If you’re planning on any upgrades, additions and renovations, make sure that all work respects provincial building codes and is compliant with fire regulations.
Noteworthy Considerations
It’s worthwhile to also consider implementing a strict no-smoking policy (except within approved spaces). Let the policy carry with it hefty fines and eviction warnings. These can serve to deter bad behaviour.
Fire drills to ensure that tenants are aware of fire safety protocols can prove to be a game-changer in the event of an incident. With fire safety training people will know how to react, instead of panic, which lowers the risk of injuries and fatalities. This also increases the odds that small fires can be contained before turning into blazes that could destroy an entire rental property.
The Bottom Line
Protecting your investment doesn’t have to be difficult. Armed with the key strategies highlighted above and assisted by Nutech Fire Protection, an experienced fire expert, property managers in Hamilton can take steps to preserve rental properties from fire hazards today.
Whether you’re in need of smoke alarm installations, monthly and annual fire suppression system maintenance or inspection, require guidance with developing an emergency plan, or assistance understanding building codes and regulations, our team is here to help.
We also offer a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, exit lighting, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
CCOHS regulation 632/05 for confined spaces spells out Ontario businesses’ testing and monitoring requirements. A trained and qualified person must test the air as often as necessary, or if workers are always present, you must monitor the space continuously.
What are Gas Monitors?
Gas monitors are devices that continuously sample the air for the presence of potentially harmful quantities of certain gases. They can either be stationary or portable, and they set off an alarm when it detects the target concentration of a gas. The five most common types of gas detection are:
Electrochemical (EC) Industrial Gas Detectors. ECs convert gas into an electrical current. Residential smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are both ECs.
Micro-Electromechanical (MEMS) Based Industrial Gas Detectors. MEMS detectors measure thermal changes in the nearby gases and air with an embedded heater and thermometer.
Pellistor/Catalytic Bead (CB) Industrial Gas Detectors. CBs have been around for over a century and use catalytic combustion to measure dangerous gases at Lower Explosive Level (LEL) concentrations.
Infrared (OPIR/PIR/NDIR) Industrial Gas Sensors. Commonly used in the mining, transportation, and oil/gas industries, infrared sensors measure harmful gases by comparing the reaction of different infrared wavelengths to the ambient air.
Photoionization (PID) Gas Sensors. PIDs are efficient and inexpensive detectors that can operate continuously to detect a wide variety of harmful or inert gases.
Which Types of Gases Should be Monitored?
CCOHS requires certain businesses to monitor the air quality in confined spaces to ensure worker safety. Dangerous air quality can result from any of the following conditions:
Toxic gases – different chemical or biological substances such as:
hydrogen Sulfide
Carbon Monoxide
Nitrogen Oxides
Ozone
Solvents
Combustible and flammable gases such as:
Hydrogen
Methane
Propane
Iso-butane
Oxygen – both too much and too little oxygen can be dangerous
Which Gas Monitor Do You Need?
Workplace safety is a primary concern for every Ontario business, so choosing the proper gas detector is vital. Every situation is different, so consider the following factors when selecting a gas monitor for your facility.
Risk assessment. Identify the types of gases that require monitoring and the size of the confined space. Any unsafe level of contaminants can be fatal, so you need to perform a comprehensive study of the types of gases that will appear in your workplace. Furthermore, regularly reevaluate your equipment and space to determine if it requires changes to the gas detection system.
Learn about all of the features of the available gas monitors for your application. Once you’ve identified the potentially harmful gases for your location, you need to understand how the different gas monitors operate.
Does the detector use a diffusion or sample draw method?
Does it monitor one or more types of gases?
Is it classified for intrinsic safety?
Also, consider the operational specifications for the monitor you want to use. Pay close attention to the following factors:
Monitor Accuracy. Accurate readings make your workplace safer.
Cross-Sensitivities. Monitors that react to more than one gas can skew readings.
Response Time. Short response times are safer.
User-Friendly Interface. Easy-to-understand monitors require less training.
Choosing the correct gas detectors and monitors for your facility can be challenging, and you need to stay on top of changes to code and technologies. If you prefer to delegate this responsibility to highly trained professionals, look no further than Ontario’s All Protect Systems.
They’ve been a preferred life-safety partner for Ontario area businesses since 1996. Call them today to learn about their gas detection services.
SGI Canada reports a growing number of structural fires in the country citing on average, more than 24,000 structural fires per year. From these fires, there are at least 377 fatalities and more than 3,048 injuries.
In Hamilton, the local newspaper Hamilton Spectator pits 2022 residential structure fires at 323, the highest since 2013. Damages to property amount to billions of CAD every single year. Fire safety is key in protecting both people and assets and as such property managers should be concerned with the mitigation of fire risk.
So, how can you know whether your existing fire safety system meets the necessary Canadian standards? In this post, we discuss five tell-tale signs you need a better fire safety system, also taking into account relevant statistics and research.
Sign #1 Lack of Adequate Fire Detection Devices
Fire detection devices form the foundation of a fire safety system. Without elements such as fire alarms and heat detectors, you’re missing out on one of the most essential components that’ll help keep your building and tenants safe.
It’s not enough, however, to have a handful of these devices installed across the premises. You must have an adequate amount to fully cover the building. The best way to determine what’s proper is by consulting with a fire specialist like Nutech Fire Protection.
The next thing to be aware of regarding fire detection devices is the necessity to check that they’re working. We’re referring here to the need for routine maintenance checks at least once a month by an in-house warden and then annually by a professional. Don’t skimp out on these checks because Hamilton’s fire department reports that just over half of the homes (54.4%) in the city have functional working alarms. This is shocking and should be corrected to prevent fatalities, injuries, and property damage.
The same goes for commercial properties. Malfunctioning fire detection devices can result in fire detection delays, which can lead to major damage and more casualties among occupants. And speaking of absent or outdated equipment, here’s the next sign.
Sign #2 Obsolete Fire Safety Equipment
Did you know that modern high-pressure water mist systems are capable of putting out 90% of fires and using less water compared to traditional sprinkler systems? Yes, this is according to research carried out by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC). Not only is this great for the environment but it also reduces water damage. Why else is this favourable?
It gives you an opportune moment to pause and look into the state of your fire safety equipment. Is it outdated or obsolete? If yes, then it is time to upgrade the entire system. In a constantly evolving world, you can’t afford to maintain dated fire safety technology. Ensure your building and tenants have the best level of protection available on the market today.
Sign #3 Insufficient Fire Suppression Measures
Fire safety equipment (e.g. fire alarms, smoke detectors) needs to be complemented by an adequate set of fire suppression measures for good outcomes. Examples of fire suppression measures include fire hoses, fire extinguishers and automatic fire suppression systems. A property lacking an adequate amount of fire suppression mechanisms is one that certainly needs improvement.
The NFID states that in 44% of residential fires reported across Canada, there were no fire suppression measures in place when the incident occurred. This means just over half of all homes in Canada have access to fully functioning fire suppression systems.
The reason fire suppression systems are so important is the role they play in containing fires before they get out of hand. These systems can be the gateway giving residents time to evacuate and or limit the amount of damage done to their properties.
Sign #4 Inadequate Emergency Exit Routes
Canada’s Building Code alongside the various provincial Fire Codes is clear about the necessity of having enough unobstructed emergency exits in buildings. These codes mandate that all residential, commercial and industrial buildings have clearly marked, well-maintained, and clutter-free emergency exits routes.
It’s not hard to see why this is so pivotal. Emergency exits allow for safe evacuation in the event of a fire. If there aren’t enough of them or the exits are obstructed in any way, this can slow down rescue and evacuation efforts, increasing the risk for those inside.
The best way to determine whether your building has enough fire exits is to have a professional carefully assess the building plan and conduct a walk-through to ensure emergency doors aren’t locked and hallways are unobstructed.
Sign #5 No Fire Safety Training and Safety Plans
Fire suppression systems and fire safety measures make sense to the degree to which the building occupants are trained and informed on fire safety protocol. That’s where fire safety training comes into play.
It’s through such training initiatives that people get to know how to actually use for example fire extinguishers correctly and how to evacuate a building swiftly and safely. Having the proper equipment is among the first steps of fire safety but this needs to be complemented with comprehensive training and education on fire safety best practices.
Where can you find people to train your employees or building tenants? Fire specialists like the team at Nutech Fire Prevention are able to provide tailored fire prevention, evacuation procedure, and correct use of fire safety equipment training to individuals and groups.
That’s not all as we’re also capable of devising a fire safety plan to meet your property’s unique needs.
Get the Technical Assistance You Need in Hamilton
Business owners and property managers in Hamilton, Ontario can reach out to our team here at Nutech Fire Prevention. We’ve got the expertise and experience to assess your building and address signs you need a better fire safety system. Our relevant suggestions can help improve existing fire safety systems.
We also offer a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, exit lighting, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
One of the primary responsibilities for building maintenance facilitators is ensuring a safe working space for building occupants. This is a top priority and one that deserves a good deal of attention. This role requires facilitators to check that there are sufficient safety procedures in place and that they are adhered to, especially as it pertains to fire safety.
In this post, we’ve listed 10 of the most common questions building maintenance facilitators should be asking in relation to safety procedures.
Question 1: In the event of a fire, what are the protocols for evacuating the building safely?
Are building occupants aware of the emergency evacuation procedures in case of a fire? It’s not wise to assume that they do. Hence, it’s paramount to make sure that tenants know all the means of escape, especially emergency exits on their floor levels and out to the assembly point.
To cement this knowledge, it might be necessary to carry out regular fire drills so building occupants become familiar with the safety procedures surrounding fires.
Question 2: Are the smoke detectors and fire alarms in the building operational?
There’s little use in having smoke detectors and fire alarms installed but they’re non-functional. Therefore, it’s important that all smoke detectors and fire alarms are checked routinely to ensure that they’re functioning as they should.
Regular inspections alongside maintenance are an absolute must for all buildings. Fire inspection specialists like Nutech Fire Prevention can be called upon for annual inspections as and when needed around Hamilton.
Question 3: Is the building equipped with fire suppression systems?
Fire suppression systems like sprinklers and fire extinguishers are mandated by provincial Fire Codes. Building inspectors must verify their presence and where they have been mounted. Are these systems installed in strategic locations that are readily accessible?
And secondly, are tenants familiar with how these systems work? Can they use fire extinguishers to extinguish small fires? Do they know when to attempt to put out a fire and when the fire is beyond their capacity?
Question 4: Does the building store flammable materials? If yes, are these substances correctly stored?
The triage of elements needed to start a blaze includes a fuel source. Flammable materials can be fuels. That’s why they have to be identified and properly stored.
Potential ignition sources also need to be identified so that these flammable materials are kept as far away as possible. Furthermore, it is imperative to have proper labelling to avoid any mishaps.
Question 5: What are the potential fire hazards in the building?
There is no end to potential fire hazards in buildings. These can be anything, for example:
Faulty electrical equipment
Incorrect use of electrical equipment
Overloaded electrical outlets and extension cords
Damaged and or frayed power cords
Unattended stoves and candles
Incorrectly stored combustible materials
Smoking in non-designated areas
Blocked emergency exits
Cluttered or dirty offices
Human error and negligence
Building managers have an obligation to carry out routine inspections so as to identify these hazards and find ways to remedy them.
Question 6: Does a protocol for the reporting of safety concerns or emergencies exist?
What are the rules that govern how information about the safety of building occupants is transmitted? What are the channels that people with concerns can follow in order to be heard? Is there even a protocol for reporting safety concerns or possible emergencies?
Not only is it key that such protocols exist, but it’s important that occupants in such workplaces know how to report fire-related emergencies or safety concerns.
Speaking of employees, someone must be selected from among them as the designated point of contact during emergencies.
Question 7: Are building occupants cognizant of safety policies?
Firstly, does the building have safety procedures? Secondly, are building occupants aware of these policies?
It is the mandate of building maintenance facilitators to disseminate information about safety policies to those working in the building.
This may very well mean providing necessary training so that all who work on the premises understand the safety policies and subsequently comply with these safeguarding protocols.
Question 8: What are the regulations guiding building inspection and maintenance?
Routine building maintenance is a necessary part of good fire safety best practices. Competent building facilitators have a routine maintenance schedule that allows them to identify and remedy safety issues before they become bigger problems.
Under this section is the obligation to carry out rote inspections to verify that the safety procedures are being implemented.
Question 9: What are the building code regulations that must be followed?
There is a building code that guides construction across the country ensuring uniformity and compliance with internationally established building norms. This building code is binding to all contractors and acts as a benchmark for building safety.
Building maintenance facilitators have to confirm that all applicable building codes and regulations are being kept. They also have to implement the most recent building safety compliance standards.
Lastly, they must also educate building occupants on building code regulations.
Question 10: Is there a protocol to guide and revise safety procedures?
It does sometimes happen that safety procedures need to be reviewed and revised. This is done to make sure that the current protocol is effective at preventing danger.
If there are changes to the safety procedures, there should be an appropriate protocol to inform building occupants. There needs to be a careful plan about how revisions and or updates will be communicated to all the necessary parties.
The Bottom Line
A good building maintenance facilitator will ask the right questions about safety procedures so they can address any concerns head-on before they escalate. Asking good questions is the first step to improving safety procedures in a building. These questions, coupled with the latest safety best practices can go a long way in helping to prevent accidents and emergencies. Such questions can help to identify gaps in the safety protocol and plug such leaks creating a safer working environment for all.
Get in Touch With a Fire Hazard Detection Specialist
Building managers in Hamilton, Ontario can reach out to Nutech Fire Prevention for assistance with developing customized fire safety protocols.
In addition, we also offer fire safety training, fire safety recommendations, the development of fire safety plans, and routine checks and maintenance of your fire equipment.
That’s not all we do as we also provide and install a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, and sprinkler systems.
If you’re an owner or a manager of a commercial property, you may wonder how to choose the right fire safety provider. Look for a partner with the proper credentials and that belongs to the best organizations. They should have extensive experience and offer all of the necessary services for fire and life safety.
Credentials
When choosing a fire and life safety provider, search for one with the proper credentials. You want a partner that stays up to date with the changes in technology and who requires continuing education for their technicians. They should also maintain contact with other businesses in their community. A serious and dedicated fire and life safety partner should belong to the following organizations:
The Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA)
Established in 1973, the CFAA has more than 400 members and 3000 registered fire alarm technicians. It has become the primary Canadian source of fire alarm information, expertise, qualification, and industry support. With active chapters throughout the country, the CFAA can promote the effectiveness of fire alarms for the protection of life and property for all Canadians.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
The NFPA was established in 1896 and has become an international and self-funding non-profit organization dedicated to preventing death, injury, and property loss from fire and electrical hazards. Best known for its more than 300 codes and standards, the NFPA also conducts research, training, and certification programs.
The Waterloo Regional Apartment Management Association (WRAMA)
The WRAMA supports managers of residential rental properties throughout the Waterloo, Guelph, Cambridge, and Kitchener areas.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)
Since 1971, the CFIB has been championing the cause of Canadian small businesses. It has over 95,000 members and provides numerous resources to help them succeed.
Experience
While it’s true that every company has to have a beginning, you’re usually better off with one with decades of experience under its belt. Fire safety partners shoulder an immense responsibility for their customers, and you want an experienced team. Hopefully, you can find one with decades of experience in your area with an intimate knowledge of local codes, suppliers, and the preferences of the local fire marshall.
While the field technicians are any fire and life safety partner’s greatest asset, you still must rely on the entire company for record keeping, ordering parts, efficient billing, design services, and overall customer service. Companies develop their expertise over time, and you should select one that has a strong track record of satisfying businesses like yours in your town.
All Protect Systems has been a fire and life safety partner for Ontario area businesses since 1996. While they’re large enough to handle the biggest companies, they’re small enough to remember their customers by name and deliver personalized quality service for all your fire protection needs.
Full Service
Most business owners and managers eventually conclude that dealing with a single vendor is more efficient whenever possible. When choosing a fire and life safety partner, look for one that can supply all of the services your business needs now and possibly in the future. Some of the most important items to consider include the following:
Once again, All Protect Systems checks all of the boxes. As a full-service fire and life safety partner, they can handle all your needs, so you won’t have to worry about multiple vendors for each fire safety issue. If you’re looking for a partner, contact them today, they’re waiting for your call!
Make 2023 the year you take fire hazard detection up to the next level in your office building.
When it comes to preventing fires in the workplace and keeping employees and tenants safe, one of the primary means involves checking for potential fire hazards. The majority of accidental fires across Canadian provinces are avoidable. It’s pivotal that building managers and employers take steps to identify prospective risks and address them before any harm is done.
In this post, we’re going to look at some of the top tips on spotting fire hazards in your workplace and how to address them.
Tip #1 Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment
The primordial step in determining fire hazards in your place of work is to carry out a fire risk assessment. But just what exactly is a fire risk assessment anyway?
A fire risk assessment is a standardized evaluation of a building or accompanying premises. The goal is to identify all potential fire hazards, gauge the risk of a fire happening, and establish key steps to reduce these dangers.
Building managers and property owners are required to conduct routine fire risk evaluations in order to foster a safe workplace for all building occupants.
Tip #2 Seek Out the Most Frequent Fire Causes
While regular fire risk assessments are good, it is necessary to take things a step further by making a deliberate and conscious effort to investigate and survey the office for hazards that are known to cause fires.
Such elements include (but are not limited to):
Overloaded electrical sockets
Damaged electrical cords
Blocked fire exits
Blocked ventilation systems
It is key to be on the lookout for such typical fire hazards and take the necessary steps to redress them. This can mean hiring the relevant HVAC technicians to unblock ventilation infrastructure, clearing blocked fire exits, and adding additional power extension cables around the office to avoid socket overload.
Tip #3 Ensure Proper Maintenance of Electrical Equipment
Another great tip in regards to fire hazard detection is: don’t neglect your electrical equipment.
Keep it maintained. It’s common knowledge that equipment suffers wear and tears over time. Appliances can become damaged or faulty which greatly increases fire risk. Thus the necessity for routine maintenance.
The consequences of poor maintenance could be disastrous. Not only does regular service of electrical equipment keep appliances performing at optimum but it can save lives and prevent damage to property.
So scan cords for damage (frays, tears, exposure etc.), making sure that plugs are secured properly into sockets, and that appliances are kept well-oiled and dust-and-debris free.
Tip #4 Ensure Fire Suppression Systems are in Good Working Order
Fire extinguishers and fire alarms are fundamental elements constituting your building’sfire suppression system. These critical elements should never be allowed to sit un-serviced and unmaintained. In fact, if you do, it is a criminal offence that breaks the provincial Fire Code guidelines. There is a mandate that fire extinguishers and fire alarms be checked and serviced each year.
Fire alarms, smoke detectors, and various other fire prevention mechanisms installed within the premises should be tested regularly as a way to verify that they are in good working order.
Tip #5 Verify Flammable Materials are Stored Appropriately
Flammable materials such as cleaning chemicals, cardboard boxes and paper need to be stored in a safe and appropriate manner.
Under this point must be highlighted disposal of waste. Improperly disposed of waste can also pose a very great fire risk.
Another point to note is gas safety. With the majority of Canadian buildings relying on gas for energy, building managers are also encouraged to make gas detection a priority. It only takes a small leak for an explosion to occur. So get in touch with local gas technicians like the team at Nutech Fire Prevention.
Tip #6 Mount Fire Suppression Systems Near Kitchens/Break Rooms
Did you know that fires tend to occur in kitchens and break rooms a lot? Kitchens because of all the cooking equipment found therein and break rooms because of improperly discarded cigarettes.
For these reasons, we always recommend having a fire extinguisher mounted near cooking equipment and within easy reach. This can go a long way in extinguishing a small flame before it gets out of control.
Tip #7 Check on Your Emergency Lighting
Is your emergency lighting operational? Are there any bulbs that need replacement? Do you need backup emergency lighting?
It’s important that the emergency lighting is working as it should and that building tenants know how to use it in case power ever goes out.
Tip #8 Encourage Employee Wellbeing Through Fire Safety Education
Lastly, it’s important for employees to receive training on correct fire safety best practices including fire extinguisher use. This can be done by selecting several employees to act as fire wardens and enrolling them in fire safety courses. These can be delivered by your local fire department or fire specialists like the team at Nutech Fire Prevention.
For the remaining employees, information can be disseminated through various mediums and channels. To verify that employees have indeed assimilated the information, fire drills can be conducted to check employee awareness and readiness.
Final Thoughts
It is a concerted effort to prevent workplace fires. Property managers, building owners and fire technicians must work together to identify potential hazards, ensure electrical appliances are regularly serviced, and safety devices receive proper maintenance. There is also an obligation to educate employees on fire safety best practices and ensure staff know all necessary fire safety procedures.
Putting these tips into practice will help to create and promote a safer workplace for all building occupants. And in conclusion, fire safety and fire hazard detection aren’t just for property managers, they are everyone’s responsibility.
Get in Touch With a Fire Hazard Detection Specialist
Building managers in Hamilton, Ontario can reach out to Nutech Fire Prevention for all fire hazard detection services.
In addition, we offer fire safety training, fire safety recommendations, the development of fire safety plans, and routine checks and maintenance of your fire equipment.
That’s not all we do as we also provide and install a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, and sprinkler systems.
Gas detection safety should be a top priority for building managers and homeowners.
With millions of homes and office spaces across Canada relying on natural gas for energy, the potential for gas leaks is ever-present. This is a major reason why it’s imperative that property managers do all they can to put in place full-proof gas detection measures.
In this post, we dive deep into the necessity of gas detection safety in residential and commercial buildings and discuss key ways to improve building safety so as to prevent gas leaks.
But first, a look at the necessity of gas detection safety in buildings.
Why is Gas Detection Safety in Buildings Important?
Modern buildings rely on gas to meet energy demands. This creates vulnerability, opening up these properties to potential gas leaks from a variety of sources including heating systems, gas pipelines, and gas appliances.
The seriousness of this issue can be seen in statistics published by researchers. For example, each year at least 300 people die in Canada because of carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition, there are also more than 200 hospitalizations on account of CO gas leaks.
Apart from death, gas leaks can lead to memory problems, nausea, and loss of consciousness. Explosions or fires may also result if the leaks aren’t addressed on time. Hence the need for gas detection safety measures that alert building authorities as soon as a leak occurs to prevent disastrous outcomes.
And speaking of safety measures, how exactly do gas detection safety systems work?
The Mechanisms Behind Gas Detection Safety
The majority of gas detection safety systems rely on sensors to detect gas leaks. They’re designed to recognize noxious gas in the atmosphere. They come equipped with a range of sophisticated sensors that can ascertain the presence of harmful gases and immediately notify building tenants of imminent danger.
In most Canadian homes and workplaces, one of the following gas detection systems is employed:
· portable gas detectors
· fixed gas detectors
· area gas monitors
Let’s look at each one in turn.
1. Portable Gas Detectors
When it comes to dealing with a gas leak, you want to quickly locate the source. That’s where portable gas detectors come in. These handheld, practical and often-times battery-operated devices can be used to conduct a swift gas leak check.
Building managers, maintenance workers, and first responders rely on these gas detectors because they are easy to use and also allow for rapid confirmation of a gas leak.
2. Fixed Gas Detectors
If you wish to place a gas detector in a specific area such as a kitchen or a gas storage facility, then you’ll need to install fixed gas detectors.
They are commonplace in industrial settings like factories and manufacturing plants where gas leaks are most likely to occur.
Fire safety professionals like Nutech Fire Prevention are able to wire the fixed gas detectors to the building’s alarm system, making it possible for building occupants to be alerted of any gas leaks.
3. Area Gas Monitors
Area gas monitors and fixed gas detectors work in a similar fashion. The major difference is that area gas monitors are able to check for gas leaks over a wider expanse, unlike fixed gas detectors which detect in a specific location.
Area gas monitors are convenient if maintenance workers have a large area to cover. This is also the reason they’re typically deployed for use in large workplaces and buildings such as shopping centers, hospitals and schools.
If you’ve got a range of locations to check and limited manpower, this is the gas detection safety solution to opt for.
3 Steps to Ensure Your Building is Correctly Equipped for Gas Detection Safety
Now, here are steps you can take to ensure that your building is properly equipped for gas detection safety.
Step #1 Schedule routine maintenance for gas appliances
All gas appliances and heating systems in the building should be serviced whenever a problem occurs. However, there should also be monthly inspections by a qualified gas detection technician. This measure can help prevent gas leaks.
Step #2 Hire Licensed Gas Installation Experts to Install Your Safety Systems
Installation of your gas detection safety systems is a serious affair and as such should only be handled by professionals.
Do not cut corners by having amateur installation technicians carry out such a critical component of building fire safety.
Step #3 Install the Correct Gas Detection Safety Systems
How do you know which gas detection safety systems to install?
When you work with an experienced gas detection safety system professional like Nutech Fire Prevention, qualified engineers will assess your building requirements and recommend suitable systems to match the size of the building.
You want to make sure that every corner of the building is covered and that there are no blind spots.
The Bottom Line
Gas detection systems, much like smoke alarms, are a very important aspect of overall building safety. The potentially disastrous results of a gas leak warrant professionally installed gas detection safety measures.
To strengthen building gas safety measures, property managers and maintenance workers can make use of portable gas detectors, fixed gas detectors, and area gas monitors. They’re all very effective in helping detect gas leaks.
Finally, to ensure that your property is comprehensively equipped to tackle gas-related issues, it’s imperative that preventative steps such as routine checks and maintenance of gas appliances be carried out.
By implementing and following all this advice, you’re helping to protect tenants of the building from the harmful effects of gas leaks.
Work With Hamilton’s Premier Gas Detection Specialist
Homeowners and property managers in Hamilton, Ontario can reach out to Nutech Fire Prevention for all gas detection services.
In addition we offer fire safety training, fire safety recommendations, development of fire safety plans, and routine checks and maintenance of your fire equipment.
That’s not all we do as we also offer and install a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, and sprinkler systems.
Have you ever wondered what the ABCs and 123s that you see on fire extinguishers mean? The proper term for these letters and numbering is fire extinguisher ratings.
But just what are they and what’s their significance when choosing a fire extinguisher for your business? Keep reading to find out and also to discover our top fire extinguisher tips.
Fire Extinguisher Ratings Explained
If you pick up a fire extinguisher and check its label, you’re going to see letters and numbers in a classification series. The format will look something like this 4A: 80BC
Here’s what you need to know about this rating.
The Underwriters Laboratory of Canada (ULC), a company renowned for its product safety testing, certification and inspection services, is responsible for issuing the ratings you see on fire extinguishers.
After subjecting respective fire extinguishers to a series of tests they accord each canister a rating that earmarks its designated use. And each rating will consist of a combination of letters and numbers.
What do the letters mean?
The letters are used as part of the fire classification system. The letter on the canister identifies which type of fire the fire extinguisher can effectively put out. For example:
Class A Fire Extinguishers smother fires where combustible products like paper, wood, or plastics are involved.
Class B Fire Extinguishers suffocate fires associated with flammable liquids such as oil and gas
Class C Fire Extinguishers extinguish electrical fires
Class D Fire Extinguishers quench fires comprising metals
Class K Fire Extinguishers douse commercial/residential kitchen fires involving grease and fats
What do the numbers mean?
Now that we know that the letters refer to the class of fire the fire extinguisher works best on, what about the numbers? What’s the number rating about?
This rating is best explained by using an example – 4A: 80BC
Let’s break down what this series of letters and numbers are telling us.
The letters are highlighting three classes of fire that can be suppressed – A, B, and C.
The numbernext to the A-rating tells us just how much water is in the canister. The 4 informs us that it contains about 16.5kg (4.5 gallons) of water.
The number (80) in front of the B and C represents the area in square feet that can be covered by the contents of the canister. In this case, this particular fire extinguisher can comfortably extinguish a fire over 80 sq ft.
So to put this all together, if we were to pick up a fire extinguisher labelled 4A: 80BC, we would immediately know from our understating of commercial fire extinguisher ratings the following:
This canister can handle fires involving paper, plastic, textiles, wood, gas, oil, and electrical fires. And that the fire extinguisher contains about 4.5 gallons of water and can effectively clear fire in a space of up to 80 square feet.
Are Ratings Really That Important?
Perhaps you’re asking if ratings are really that important. The short answer is yes, and here’s why.
If you get the rating wrong and select a fire extinguisher that’s not suitable for a specific fire you can worsen the situation.
How?
For example, if you mistakenly opt to douse an electrical fire with a water-based fire extinguisher, the odds of you being electrocuted are very high. This is simply because water is a good conductor of electrical currents.
Similarly, when using powder-based fire extinguishers, these should only be used in outdoor settings because their chemical reactions can make it difficult to breathe if discharged indoors.
As you can see, being aware of ratings is pivotal for effectively extinguishing fires. Knowing the commercial fire extinguisher ratings means you can identify which fire extinguisher will be most suitable for which type of fire.
Now, let’s turn our attention to some fire extinguisher tips.
Best Fire Extinguisher For Your Business
At this point you may wish to know which is the best fire extinguisher for your business or home?
As fire specialists in Ontario, we typically recommend that homeowners should settle for an ABC extinguisher because of its broadspectrum nature. It covers wood, textile, paper, plastic, gas, oil, and electrical fires.
Such extinguishers work by discharging a fine non-toxic powder that suppresses the fire and thus prevents re-ignition.
For restaurants, office buildings, malls, warehouses, manufacturing enterprises and garages we suggest going for Class D and K fire extinguishers.
However, once it grows bigger you should never attempt to extinguish it. Instead, your main priority and that of everyone in the building should be immediate evacuation.
Once everyone is out and has assembled at your chosen meeting place you may proceed to call your local fire department.
Fire Extinguisher Life Expectancy
Do fire extinguishers expire? You may have already checked on the UL label for an expiration date and not seen one.
Generally, fire extinguishers will last you a good 10 to 12 years before you need to replace them. However, they should be regularly serviced to ensure that they are in good working order.
How often should these inspections be? At least once a month the gauge on top of the canister should be assessed to ensure the needle is pointing to the green area.
In the event that you do use the extinguisher or it is damaged for whatever reason, it must be immediately replaced. Checking the state of your fire extinguishers should be part and parcel of your business fire safety routine.
Need Help Choosing Fire Extinguishers for your Business?
Here atAll Protect we pride ourselves on being Hamilton’s leading fire specialists. We help home and business owners chose the most appropriate fire extinguishers for their premises. Get advice about fire extinguisher types and sizes and even a few fire extinguisher tips as well!
That’s not all as we also design custom fire safety plans, conduct on-site routine testing, offer employee fire training, carry out gas detection inspections, and maintenance of fire protection systems such as sprinklers, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, emergency lighting, emergency backup generators, and exit lighting.
Emergency exit lighting devices are self-contained battery-powered lighted boxes that indicate exits. They help guide building occupants to the exit during an emergency. Emergency exit lighting must be illuminated at all times while the building is open and have backup power when the main AC power has been disrupted.
Emergency lighting is another life safety system that automatically turns on during an AC power failure, but they illuminate spaces instead of just the sign itself. They must provide sufficient lumination for a long enough period of time to allow the building occupants to finish any potentially dangerous task and exit the building safely.
Emergency exit lighting is one of the cornerstones of life safety. It provides illumination not just during a possible electrical failure from a fire but also when the building loses its primary electrical supply due to bad weather or other maintenance issues. Even longtime employees or residents can become disoriented during an emergency, and emergency exit lights and emergency lighting can make the difference between life and death.
Ontario Fire Code
Several sections of the Ontario Fire Code refer to the requirements of commercial buildings that need to have emergency and exit lighting. Four of the most important ones are included below.
1) Visibility
Exit signs must be clean, legible, and clearly visible. They can be illuminated either externally or internally according to the sign’s design while the building is occupied. Exit signs with self-luminous material must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions and any conditions specified under the Building Code.
2) Testing
This section spells out the requirements necessary for the testing of emergency lighting. You must test the pilot lights monthly for operation and inspect the following:
Ensure the terminal connections are clean, corrosion-free, lubricated (if necessary), and tight according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Batteries are clean and dry
Battery electrolyte levels and specific gravity meet the manufacturer’s specifications
You must also test emergency lighting according to the schedule:
Monthly. The lights turn on when you cut the main AC power.
Annually. The lights remain illuminated for the time specified by the system design.
Once the lights have stayed on for the required time limit, you must also test them to make sure the battery’s recovery period is within the manufacturer’s recommendations.
3) Meet Building Codes
Section 9.2.3 states that emergency lighting must adhere to article 3.2.7.3. of the 1986 Building Code and the marking signs for exits and exit access must comply with 3.4.5. of the 1986 Building Code.
4) Section 9.5.3.9
You must install emergency exit lighting in exit stairways, public corridors, or any exit access in buildings with an occupancy load above 24 or have more than 10 dwelling units. This lighting must meet the standards below:
The lights should stay on for at least 30 minutes.
They must have a backup power source separate from the main building’s electrical supply.
The lights should turn on as soon as the main power source has been interrupted.
The lights should provide an average illumination of at least 10 lx at the floor or tread level.
These are just some of the many requirements dictated by the Ontario Fire Code. You can check to see if your emergency and exit lighting is up to code yourself, or you can consult the experts at All Protect Systems.
