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!
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.
Fire alarms are a vital aspect of life safety for Ontario businesses. If you require a new fire alarm install in your commercial building, you probably want to know what to expect. There can be several reasons for installing a new fire alarm on your property, and these motivations determine the course of the installation.
New Construction
If you’re building a new facility, a new fire alarm system will merely be one of the many systems that make up the technology and life safety infrastructure of your commercial building. Fire alarm systems may be included in the overall construction project, but some companies prefer to contract the installation company themselves.
If you want to send the project out to bid, you need to contact some local companies and have them survey the premises and prepare a design and price quotation for your fire alarm. Then you evaluate the different proposals and choose the one that best suits your goals and budget. You don’t need to know everything about fire alarms to do this, because the design and plans must be approved by the Ontario Fire Marshal.
Once you select your approved vendor, they’ll work in tandem with the other trades to install the necessary conduit, wiring, and sensors, to meet code and provide the best possible protection for life and property safety. While there’s a temptation to go with the lowest bidder, it may not always be the most cost-effective choice in the long run. Sometimes, the cheapest option can wind up being more expensive in the long run as maintenance and false alarms become costly over time.
System Upgrade or Replacement
Building usage changes over time and so does technology. The fire alarm system you had installed years before may be malfunctioning, have become obsolete, or your building has changed enough to require a new fire alarm install. If this is your situation, you may be wondering what to expect.
If your building or building use has changed, you’re going to need to hire a professional to assess your property and perform a site survey. He’ll analyze the building spaces in terms of the fire classification rating and decide the quantity and types of sensors your system needs for the best possible safety protection. Section 2.1.2. of the Ontario Fire Code spells out the classifications of buildings or parts of a building according to major occupancy.
If your existing system has become obsolete or is prone to false alarms, you still need a professional site survey. Your existing fire alarm may not meet the newest code requirements, so the person performing the site survey has to measure building dimensions and make a record of all of the existing sensors on site. He delivers that information to a fire alarm engineer who designs a new system tailored to your needs based on the most efficient new technologies and code requirements.
If the installation company you choose has to perform the work during your normal working hours, you can expect some disruptions to your normal working routine. Conduit and new wiring require an installation crew and maybe even the use of a lift if your ceilings are tall enough. Once the conduit and wiring are finished, the crew needs to install, label, and test the new sensors and notification appliances.
The testing of fire alarm systems is necessarily loud and time-consuming, so you can expect a lot of frowns from the building’s inhabitants. Fortunately, the installation crew will eventually finish their task, and you’ll have a brand new state-of-the-art fire alarm that will protect lives and property for years to come.
Ontario area businesses have been relying on All Protect Systems, Inc for their fire alarm needs since 1996. Call them today to find out what they can do for you!
Fire safety is a big part of staying safe in the event of a fire. Ontario recorded one of its worst years of fire-related deaths in 2021 with 124 cases. 2022 proved to be just as deadly with 102 deaths reported by October.
The constant threat of both residential and commercial fires means you have to be informed and take steps to learn about the latest fire safety guidelines and regulations.
That’s why in this article, we discuss fire safety in 2023 including trends and best practices.
Best Practice #1 Install Smoke Detectors and Routinely Service Them
The first step to preventing major fire disasters is to have working smoke detectors in your home and workplace. Once you’ve installed the smoke alarms and detectors, ensure you routinely check and replace batteries as needed.
This is absolutely pivotal as smoke detectors and alarms save lives. Statistics show that between 2011 and 2022, at least 14% of unintentional residential fire-related deaths transpired in homes without a smoke alarm (8%) or where the alarm was non-functional (6%).
Best Practice #2 Develop and Practice Your Evacuation Plan
Do all the members of your household know what to do in the event of a fire? On top of having functional smoke alarms, you’ve also got to have a strategic escape plan.
It’s also crucial that you regularly practice the evacuation plan. It must be a comprehensive scheme that also highlights things like where the designated meeting point outside your house is.
During your practice runs, train everyone to familiarise themself with the different ways to get out of the house and or office and how to open exit doors or windows.
Best Practice #3 Keep Flammable Materials Away From Ignition Sources
Do you know what’s the most dangerous thing you could do in your house or office? Keeping flammable materials close to heat sources. This is a recipe for disaster. Think of when you leave dish towels next to a gas burner or an aerosol can of perfume next to a lit candle. That’s a fuel and an ignition source, and under the right conditions, they have the potential to burn your house or workplace down within minutes.
So, take a quick look around the house and workplace. Do you have billowing curtains that need to be secured? Furniture that could be an easy fuel if a candle or cigarette were to accidentally fall on them?
Whatever has the potential to catch fire should be kept at least three feet (91cm) away from ignition sources like heaters, stoves, and candles. The area near these heat sources should also be left clutter-free and clean.
Best Practice #4 Store a Fire Extinguisher in Your Kitchen
Do you know in which room most fires tend to start? If you said, the kitchen, you’re correct. When you’re preparing food, avoid leaving it unattended. We recommend also keeping a fire extinguisher in your home.
Grease fires are extremely dangerous and can spread quite fast. Ensure you purchase a Class B fire extinguisher for the kitchen as it’s particularly suited to put out fires that involve gases, flammable liquids, cooking oils, and grease.
Best Practice #5 Avoid Leaving Cigarettes and Candles Unattended
For a fire to start, three things are involved: a fuel source (e.g. clothing, furniture, flammable liquid), oxygen (which is readily available in the air), and an ignition source (e.g. candles and cigarettes).
If you’re a smoker, be careful where you smoke and how you dispose of your finished cigarette. It’s not enough to just casually throw it on the ground and stomp it out. Make sure it’s properly snuffed out because it only takes one gust of wind to carry that smouldering cigarette to fuel and start a blaze.
If you like lighting candles around your house, never leave them in rooms unattended. Light the candle and keep it in a place where you can keep your eye on it.
Best Practice #6 Understand the Different Types of Workplace Fire Hazards
With remote work slowly becoming a thing of the past and most employees returning full-time to the office, it’s key we take time to address workplace fire hazards. Places of business also have fire safety procedures that you’re supposed to know and follow.
While it is the duty of the company you work for to create a safe working environment, as an employee the onus is on you to learn workplace fire safety best practices.
You want to know what to do and where to go in case of a fire. So, take time to know where the fire exits nearest your desk or office area are and the location of fire extinguishers. This should become easier to remember when you all practice the evacuation plan as a team.
Best Practice #7 Remove Obstructions to Exits
The last tip we have is to keep all exits unobstructed. No objects should block the doors preventing easy access to them. Hallways and stairways must be cleared of all clutter.
It is the employer’s duty to make sure that all egress means are clearly marked and luminescent safety signs are mounted to guide evacuees out of the building should there be a power cut.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, fire safety in 2023 should be a top priority for everyone – parents, homeowners, directors of care homes/nursing facilities, and property managers. By following the guidelines, trends and best practices outlined above, you can help to reduce the risk of fire in your home and workplace.
If you’re a business owner thinking about fire safety training for your team, we want to highlight the necessity of also being aware of provincial-specific fire safety regulations. If you’re unsure about what these are, our team here at Nutech Fire Prevention is ready to assist with more information.
That’s not all we do however, as we also offer a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, fire safety plans, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
Smoke detectors are a critical safety feature in your business and home. Functional fire alarm systems save lives. Therefore, it’s pivotal that your smoke detectors and alarms are in good working order.
In this post, we’re going to explore the necessity and importance of smoke detectors as well as how to know when it’s time to replace them.
How Often Should You Replace Smoke Detectors?
Fire specialists recommend replacing your smoke detectors every 10 years. If your fire alarm systems and smoke detectors are 10 years or older, it’s probably high time you replaced them.
It is also advisable to carry out monthly tests to make sure detectors are working correctly.
Non-functional smoke detectors pose a serious threat because they won’t be able to alert you if a fire breaks out. This compromises the safety of your family, employees and clients.
The leading causes of smoke detector failure are missing or dead batteries. Today, most professional fire system specialists will recommend installing a hard-wired smoke detector with a battery backup.
Smoke Detector Routine Maintenance
Smoke detectors should be tested every month by a qualified person.
Ensure the building is regularly dusted and swept of cobwebs as these can obstruct the detection of smoke in the atmosphere incapacitating your detectors.
If your smoke detectors are outfitted with regular batteries, swap these out for a new set at least every 12 months.
Smoke detectors can wear out, consequently, it’s best to have them all replaced once every 10 years.
If you’re not sure of the last time the smoke detectors in your building were replaced, it’s possible to verify by looking at their labels. These labels will indicate when the detectors were made. A missing label is a good sign that the smoke detector might be old and past its replace-by-due date.
When to Replace Your Smoke Detectors
You might be wondering, but how do you know when it’s time to replace your trusty detectors? Here are five tell-tale signs.
1. Your smoke detector looks yellow
One of the fastest ways to know if it’s time to overhaul your smoke detectors is by quickly scanning them for a yellow tinge. The change in colour of smoke detectors is attributed to bromine, a flame retardant substance coating the outer part of the detector.
Through wear and tear, exposure to the elements and oxidation, bromine begins to change the original colour of the smoke detector. This reaction happens over a long period of time, which is an insider tell-tale sign that it’s replacement time.
2. Repetitive chirping that won’t stop
Smoke detectors are not supposed to chirp constantly without cause. If they’re chirping it’s either the batteries are low, the detector itself is about to die, or there’s a real fire! Whichever way you look at it, chirping noises from your detectors isn’t a sound that should be ignored.
Before you rush to replace the smoke detector, you might want to have a technician hardwire the device. If the chirping still persists in spite of this, then it might be an indicator that the detector is on its way out and you should schedule a replacement.
3. Fails the monthly test
Provincial Building and Fire Codes recommend homeowners and building managers test their smoke detectors at least once each month. This test affirms working detectors and draws your attention to the smoke detectors in need of replacement.
Fortunately, the test is quite straightforward. All that’s required is pressing the “test” button that’s on each smoke detector. If the device is working correctly, it should let out a loud siren (you may want to step back because it can get very loud!).
If, however, after pressing the test button there’s no beeping sound or the sound is muffled then this must be addressed by replacing the faulty smoke detector.
4. Incessant alarm without cause
Smoke detectors are designed to be robust, home safety devices, however as they age, they can begin to sound for no apparent reason.
This does get on the nerves of many people to the point that they remove the batteries in their detectors altogether. This is of course counterproductive and leaves your home vulnerable in the event that a fire actually does break out.
So, instead of popping out the batteries, consider uninstalling all your old smoke detectors and installing a new batch.
4. It’s faulty and the product was recalled
It does sometimes happen that batches of smoke detectors are recalled by the manufacturer because of a faulty part. If this happens it can be quite a big inconvenience, but it does give you the chance to re-install a new lot of smoke detectors.
How can you know whether your smoke detectors have been recalled? Typically, a quick internet search using a keyword like ‘faulty [insert brand name] smoke detectors in [insert name of town/city]’ will provide you with the answers you need. Alternatively, the store that sold you the products might also ring you up to alert you of a product recall.
Where Should Your Smoke Detectors Be?
Firstly, you’ll want to hire a professional fire expert to install your smoke detectors. They will scope the area in need of protection and identify the best places to set up smoke detectors.
Ideally, there should be smoke detectors on each level of a multi-story building. If it’s a residential space, detectors can be installed within every bedroom and hallway.
Smoke detectors should not be installed close to windows, drafty locations, and vents.
They must be mounted on the ceiling at least 10 cm (4 inches) from the wall. If you’ve opted to have them situated on the wall, they should be placed at a distance of 10-30 cm (4-12 inches) from the ceiling.
Smoke Detector Installation Near You
Nutech Fire Prevention is a leading smoke detector installation service provider. We also offer a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, fire safety plans, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
Section 2.8.2 of the Ontario Fire Code requires most buildings to have a fire safety plan. Acceptable fire safety plans must include detailed information for all aspects of fire safety for your building or property. The plan shall furnish the following information:
Safe and orderly evacuation procedure
Maintenance and cleanliness routines for fire prevention
Control mechanisms to minimize fire damage
The Ontario Fire Marshal determines the exact requirements for your building’s fire safety plan depending on the building type and occupancy rate. Though there are templates and standard formats available for outlining a fire safety plan, you still must construct one specifically for your building’s unique characteristics.
While they’re required to get your initial certificate of occupancy, your fire plan must be reviewed and updated at least every 12 months or whenever changes to the building use or structure affect fire safety. Even temporary changes to the building can affect fire safety and require temporary adjustments to your fire safety plan.
Areas for Regular Review
Any updates to your fire safety plan undergo the same considerations that involved its original creation. Your periodic audits should identify any variables that influence fire safety. Pay close attention to the following factors:
Building layout
Entries and exits
Adjacent roads
Building use
Item storage and use
Connections for municipal water and the fire department
Periodic consideration of these issues is important, but if any construction or demolition occurs, your fire safety plan must be reviewed and updated to reflect the new building conditions. Carefully consider the ramifications of any building changes during fire safety plan audits.
Fire Safety Plan Objectives
When reviewing your fire safety plan, you should refer back to the plan’s original purpose since it always helps to keep the primary objectives in mind when considering possible alterations. Your building’s plan should consider the following issues:
Procedures to follow in the event of a fire
Activating the alarm
Contacting the fire department, key executives, or designated supervisory staff (emergency phone numbers should be adjacent to all telephones on site)
Occupant evacuation procedure following the sounding of a fire alarm
Evacuation of those in need of assistance
Controlling or extinguishing the fire if possible
Description and frequency of fire drills
Instruction, education, training, and organization for supervisory staff entrusted with fire safety
Instructions for staff for preventing and controlling any potential fire hazards that appear in the building
Any necessary additional educational or training programs
Maintenance of all fire safety systems
Diagrams and manuals for the models and location of all fire emergency systems
Description of any fire safety alternatives
Access for the fire department to any part of the building the fire may occur
Reasons for Periodic Fire Safety Plan Review
Fire safety plan review can seem like another burdensome bureaucratic nuisance, but it’s vitally important to protect both lives and property. Dangerous fires can occur in even the best-protected buildings. While you can’t eliminate the possibility of a fire, a proper fire safety plan gives your building and its occupants the best possible chance to minimize its destructive effects.
Many business owners and managers have a lot of responsibilities that prevent them from taking the time to design and review their fire safety plans. If you’re one of them, you might find it worthwhile to delegate that important responsibility to a trained professional.
Choosing a fire alarm system for your business doesn’t have to be a complex affair. There are several factors that you can consider to streamline the selection process.
In this post, we lay out six of these pivotal steps that will allow you to choose the right fire alarm system quickly.
1. Establish your fire safety needs
The first step in selecting an appropriate fire alarm system for your business is determining what your fire safety needs are.
This involves taking a look at the type of building you have, considering the number of people working within the premise, as well as taking into account provincial fire codes and regulations.
For example, a manufacturing warehouse dealing with flammable substances will require a completely different set of fire alarm systems for a hospital.
2. Consider the type of hazards present
Next, you will want to identify the types of hazards present within your building. Knowing this will assist you in determining just how many fire alarm systems you need as well as the placement of smoke detectors and other sensors.
You will want to find:
Sources of ignition
Sources of fuel
Source of oxygen
Sources of ignition include all heating components that could heat up to such a degree that they start a fire. Think of
Cooking elements like stove tops, microwaves, ovens
Hot surfaces – especially if you run a manufacturing business
Electrical, gas and oil-reliant heaters
Gas or liquid-propelled open-flame equipment
Matches, lighters, and cigarettes
For sources of fuel, you’re seeking items in the building that could burn easily if ignited. This material would provide the fuel to encourage a blaze. Consider
Common flammable materials such as cardboard and paper
Waste material from the office or industrial processes
Fabrics and soft furnishings
Sources of oxygen aren’t difficult to identify. The major oxygen source is of course air. However, if you store oxygen onsite in cylinders or piped systems this can present a very grave fire hazard. Welding businesses and hospitals are the biggest storers of compressed oxygen and therefore appropriate fire alarm systems must be installed in such places.
3. Research and compare alarm systems
What’s in the market in terms of alarm systems and smoke detectors? It’s hard to settle on a brand if you’re not sure what else is available to you.
That’s why doing a great deal of research is important. Careful planning and strategizing ensure that you get the best possible alarm systems at cost-effective prices.
There are two main types of fire alarm systems in the market today: addressable fire alarm systems and conventional fire alarm systems.
Between the two, addressable systems are more advanced, and able to quickly detect any changes in the atmosphere as well as pinpoint the exact location of trouble should it arise.
Conventional fire alarm systems are analogous, much simpler and make use of predetermined zones to activate alarms.
Once you have narrowed down your list to at least three choices, compare each of the different aspects of the fire alarm systems and their features. You want a set-up that will meet your needs based on the type of building you have and its occupancy level.
What should you be looking for?
The fire system’s reliability
The fire system’s ease of use
The fire system’s price
4. Select a system suitable for your building
Now that you’ve got a top three to choose from, how do you pick the one you should install?
Ideally, you go with the fire alarm system that’s appropriate for the size and layout of your building.
The fire alarm system you choose must also be compliant with Ontario’s provincial building and fire codes and your insurance requirements.
You want to keep in mind that you should probably opt for a system that can be easily expanded when necessary.
Consulting with a fire protection expert like Nutech Fire Prevention can go a long way in ensuring that your preferred system satisfies all these requirements.
5. Choose a skilled installation company
With your fire alarm system and smoke detectors picked out, it’s time to consider the installation process.
You’re going to want a fire company that can demonstrate experience installing fire alarm systems, especially in buildings such as yours.
A great way to find such companies is to call up local businesses and ask for referrals for the companies that installed their fire alarm systems.
Alternatively, you can do research online, call up each company and speak to their agent to see if they are the right match for your needs.
6. Fire system installation and maintenance
Lastly, you will want to think about the cost and future maintenance requirements of your chosen system. Will you have the necessary technical support if the system develops a fault?
Choosing a trusted and reputable supplier will ensure that your fire alarm system and smoke detectors are properly installed and maintained.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right fire alarm system is a skill because you must consider so many factors. For example, a restaurant may require a comprehensive fire suppression system, while an office complex may need a less robust detection and alarm system.
By following these six steps, you can make sure that you’ve chosen a fire alarm system that will provide reliable protection for your business and help keep your customers and employees safe.
For businesses in Hamilton, Ontario needing assistance in selecting an appropriate fire alarm system, our specialists are here to help. Look no further than Nutech Fire Prevention.
In addition, we also provide, install and maintain emergency backup generators, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, exit lighting, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services, and design fire safety plans for businesses and residents of Hamilton.
Depending on the type of business you’re operating, the Ontario Fire Code requires you to hold fire safety drills at various intervals. According to the type of occupancy, the frequency of fire drills for supervisory staff can vary from each month to annually. The frequency and scope of your building’s fire drill procedure must be fully documented in your fire safety plan and be reviewed periodically as your building structure and usage change.
While the code requires regular fire safety drills for the supervisory staff, it does not always require the building occupants to participate. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t or shouldn’t encourage the participation of all your building’s occupants. Let’s discuss five of the benefits of fire safety drills which include your building’s occupants.
Learn by doing
While verbal commands, diagrams, memos, and signs are all helpful in getting your building’s occupants prepared to deal with an emergency, nothing compares to learning through experience. Most people learn a process best by performing it, and while evacuating a building may seem like a simple task, during an emergency, it can be a harrowing experience.
The fire horns are designed to be annoying to force the building’s occupants to leave the premises, but the noise and lights also cause anxiety levels to rise. When under stress, people don’t usually make good decisions. When your occupants have practiced exiting the building while the horns and strobes are going off during a fire safety drill, they’ll be much calmer and confident about it during a genuine emergency.
Identify problems
Fire safety plans and evacuation routes are developed before the building has been put to use. It’s all too common that hallways get cluttered with excess furniture, and emergency exit doors can get obstructed by deliveries or outgoing trash.
Of course, the periodic visits from the Ontario Fire Marshall can be a sobering reminder to keep your escape routes open and clean, but he may not get there before a real emergency. If you hold fire safety drills with your building occupants, problems with your evacuation schemes become apparent during the exercise.
Fire alarm testing
While the fire code already requires periodic testing of fire alarms, testing them during a building evacuation provides even better feedback. When the building is fully inhabited during a normal operating situation, the ability of the fire alarm notification appliance devices (horns, strobes, and voice) is put to the test. They must get the attention of all of the building’s inhabitants wherever they may be.
If there are gaps in the coverage of the alarm systems notification network, the building inhabitants can notice this during your periodic fire safety drills. Encourage everyone involved to let you know if they experienced any delay in realizing that the alarm had gone off.
Things change
Most businesses are frequently making changes to the way it uses building spaces and staff turnover is often high. One of the many benefits of fire safety drills that include all of the building occupants is that you realize what parts of your fire safety plan have become obsolete and need adjustment. Encourage the occupants to look for problems with all aspects of your fire evacuation scheme.
Legal compliance
Depending on the occupancy of your building, the fire code may require all of your building’s staff to participate in a fire safety drill at least once per year. You can research the code yourself, contact the Ontario Fire Marshall, or check with the fire safety experts at All Protect Systems to find out the requirements for your business.
All Protect Systems can improve your fire safety drills by taking care of your fire safety plan, fire alarm, and emergency and exit lighting. Call them today to find out what they can do for you!
Among fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers are a first-line defence mechanism to contain small fires in the home or workplace. However, they are of little use if you don’t know how to operate them correctly.
That’s why we’ve written this post, to help teach you how to expertly operate a fire extinguisher.
However, before we get to the mechanics of operation, you must know which fire extinguisher to use to suppress the different types of fire.
Make Use Of The Proper Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are filled with various dousing agents to put out particular types of fires. Some extinguisher types won’t work on certain kinds of fires, while others can even worsen the fire. Ensure you are aware of the fire’s fuel before attempting to extinguish it, and only do so if you have the appropriate fire extinguisher.
Class A: Suitable for typical combustible flames and fires involving wood, rubber, paper, various polymers, and textiles. A water or foam extinguishing agent is used.
Class B: Appropriate for oil, grease, and fuel fires. Carbon dioxide, or a dry chemical, serves as the extinguishing agent.
Class C: Suitable for charged electrical fires. Carbon dioxide or a dry chemical are the suppressing agents.
Class D: For use with flammable metals. The extinguishing substance is a dry and powdered chemical.
Class K: Suitable for cooking fires, including those involving fat, grease, and oil. The chemical used to put out a fire can be wet or dry.
Class ABC: This all-purpose fire extinguisher, designated, is effective against Class A, B, and C fires. Dry chemicals are used as extinguishing agents.
How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher Optimally
Each type of portable fire extinguisher can be distinguished from the others by labelling and colour coding. Make sure the fire extinguisher you want to use is appropriate for the type of fire you are dealing with. For example, you should never use a water extinguisher on a fire involving electrical equipment.
Modern portable fire extinguishers are used in four (4) fundamental steps.
The acronym PASS refers to these four fundamental processes.
Pull (Pin)
Break the seal by pulling the pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin prevents the handle from unintentionally being pressed and activates the extinguisher when it is in place. Test the extinguisher right away. This is done to ensure the extinguisher works and prove to the user how far the stream can reach.
Aim
Standing a safe distance away, approach the flames. Direct the nozzle or outlet at the fire’s source.
Squeeze
To release the extinguishing agent inside, squeeze the handles simultaneously. Release the handles to halt discharge.
Sweep
Move the nozzle side to side to aim the extinguishing agent at the flames’ base as you get closer to the fire. After putting out the fire, look for any lingering smouldering embers that could rekindle the fuel.
Now to some fire extinguisher tips.
Operating Fire Extinguisher Tips
Tip #1 Call for assistance
Before attempting to put out a fire, call for assistance. A fire may spread out of control faster than you think. It is smart to have assistance on the way.
Tip #2 Know an escape route
Before going near the fire, choose a secure escape route. Do not allow the flames, heat, or smoke to obstruct your escape route.
Tip #3 Train people how to operate extinguishers
Ensure everyone in the house or business knows where, when and how to use fire extinguishers.
Tip #4 Know when to discharge a fire extinguisher
Always use an extinguisher only when it’s safe to do so. Get out if in doubt.
Tip #5 Routine maintenance is key
Schedule your extinguishers for routine checks by professionals. Doing it yourself can result in you pulling out the safety pin (which also breaks the plastic seal) rendering the extinguishers ineffective.
Tip #6 Partner up with another trained person
For safety reasons, always try to work in pairs.
Awareness Of The Importance Of Maintaining Fire Extinguishers
As a property manager or homeowner, you should be scheduling routine maintenance checks for your fire extinguishers to ensure compliance with provincial Fire Code regulations and fire safety protocol. Fire professionals will check that:
The pressure range is optimal
There are gauges on many extinguishers that indicate when the pressure is too high or too low. Pressure testing may also be done and the extinguisher recharged.
The working parts are in good order
The cylinder, hoses, and nozzles are carefully inspected to make sure they are dent-free, scratch-free, or corrosion-free.
The canisters are clean and unobstructed
Any dirt, grease, or oil on the extinguisher’s exterior that could potentially block discharge is cleared.
Where to Get In-Person Fire Extinguisher Training?
Individuals in Hamilton can contact their local fire department if they want to learn more or have queries about fire extinguisher use. Alternatively, fire specialists like Nutech Fire Prevention can assist businesses with on-site training of employees and designated fire
Nutech Fire Prevention also offers a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, fire safety plans, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
Are you shopping around for fire suppression systems and want to know which are the most effective?
There’s no getting around the fact that the dangers of fire within the home or office are real. With numerous fire hazards such as volatile liquids, gas burners, and electrical systems, it’s imperative that every property owner ensure their building is fitted with the latest and best in fire suppression mechanisms.
Before we explore these systems, however, let’s first explain what they are and what they do.
What is a Fire Suppression System?
Safeopedia.com provides us with a comprehensive definition of what a fire suppression system is:
“…it is an engineered set of components that are designed to extinguish an accidental fire, typically in a workplace but also potentially in a transport vehicle or other site of interest.”
Contain the fire by releasing the suppressing agent or,
Completely extinguish the blaze through the application of a suppressing agent.
These systems are trying to prevent the fire from growing and spreading; thus it can be said fire suppression systems are created to save lives and reduce potential property damage.
Now, with this background, let’s look at three of the most common fire suppression systems in use.
3 Common Fire Suppression Systems
1. Chemical Foam Systems
Dry chemical fire suppression systems are a type of fire protection equipment that uses a chemical powder to snuff out fires.
The two major chemicals relied upon by this system to function are namely mono-ammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate. These powders are stored in a pressurized tank and discharged when the system is either electrically or manually activated.
How They Work
There is a valve on the pressurized tank that’s automatically opened when the fire is detected. The dry powder flows along the piping system and is released from the nozzles. The powder smothers the fire by removing the oxygen component needed to keep fires blazing.
Advantages
Easy to use
No damage to electrical appliances
Great for use in large industrial spaces such as off-loading warehouses and labs
They are non-conductive therefore perfect for use on flammable liquid fires involving electrical appliances
Disadvantages
Chemical systems are expensive
Installation requires stainless steel fittings and piping
2. Pressurized Gas Systems
Pressurized gas systems are another popular fire suppression system in Canada. The majority work by absorbing heat.
Gas systems are preferred for protecting rooms with high-end electronics like data and server rooms.
The most common gaseous agents used in these systems include inergen, Novec 1230 and FM 200.
Inergen
Inergen is an inert gas safe to discharge even when people are in a building. It’s comprised of 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, and 8% carbon dioxide.
Inergen’s advantages are that it’s safe, non-toxic and non-corrosive. The fact that it’s highly affordable and easy to replace makes it a favourable option. It also doesn’t reduce visibility in a room and there is no residue left over.
The disadvantages of inergen include the need for elaborate hardware that’s able to withstand high pressures. Plus the necessity for a considerable number of storage cylinders on site to store the gas.
Novec 1230
Novec 1230 is still quite a new gaseous fire suppression agent in Canada. Brought over from mainland Europe as a liquid, it becomes a vapour when it is discharged and suppresses fire through heat absorption.
Novec 1230’s advantages include its short atmospheric lifetime of just 5 days compared to the 33 years of most halocarbon agents. This makes it an excellent option for use in residential and commercial spaces. Furthermore, its potential capacity to deplete the ozone is zero.
Novec 1230 must be stored in tanks that are within a 30 m radius of the property being protected.
The halocarbon must be discharged at an elevated pressure in order to be effective. But fortunately, it poses no harm to electrical appliances, books or artwork.
FM 200
A halocarbon gas, FM 200 is designed to suppress fire through heat absorption. It’s generally stored in a liquid state and released in gaseous form.
FM 200’s major disadvantages include it being a noxious gas that presents significant health challenges if discharged when people are still inside the building. Its use has also been linked to global warming because of some of its decomposition by-products. To top it all, the gas itself is one of the most expensive inert gases to replace.
3. Water-Based Systems
The majority of fire suppression systems are water-based and exist in the form of automatic sprinkler systems. They are the most effective at containing fires and preventing excessive property damage and severe injuries to people. Water-based fire extinguishing mechanisms are suitable for residential and commercial use.
Water-based suppression apparatus is available as water mist systems, wet pipe systems, dry pipe systems and pre-action systems. A consult with a fire specialist will inform you of the most appropriate system for your property.
All sprinkler systems must be designed and installed by experienced professionals. They must also be manufactured by a qualified firm in order to conform to NFPA 13.
How They Work
The water sprinklers are connected to the main water supply or to an independent reservoir. In the event of a fire, the water-based fire suppression system will be triggered by temperature rises in the environment and discharge a water mist to extinguish the flames. This mist is released at a rate of 100 litres per sprinkler per minute.
Advantages
Most affordable fire suppression system
Are not affected by adverse weather conditions
Remain effective even amidst toxic fumes and dense smoke
Easy to install and replace
Leaves no toxic residue
Disadvantage
Water-based fire suppression systems can damage electronic appliances
Invest in Fire Suppression Systems Today
Are you ready to invest in fire suppression systems?
Nutech Fire Prevention offers businesses and homeowners in Hamilton an array of high-end fire suppression systems. We’ve got systems to meet all types of budgets and needs.
That’s not all however as we also offer a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, fire safety plans, sprinkler systems, and gas detection services.
