Basic Facts About Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems
5/6/2022 (Permalink)
Commercial Fire Sprinkler System Fundamentals
A fire sprinkler system is one of the best ways to protect your commercial property from fire and smoke damage, as well as property loss. Why invest in a sprinkler system?
- The system is always ready to respond even when no one is in the building.
- Commercial sprinklers quickly and effectively smother flames, often before the fire department arrives.
- The amount of smoke, ash, and soot is decreased.
- Sprinklers activate in affected areas of your building, limiting the spread of property damage.
- Sprinklers use less water than the fire department.
Fire Sprinkler System Basics: Activation
The key to properly maintaining the fire suppression system in your Olympia, WA, building is understanding how the sprinklers work. Generally, the system is activated by temperatures above 155 degrees Fahrenheit. As the air heats up, it shatters the plug inside each sprinkler head, releasing water quickly. This leads to reliable activation and a response isolated to only the at-risk rooms in the building. If the fire spreads, sprinklers will activate as heat advances.
Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
The fire sprinkler system is just one component of your overall fire safety plan. Check with your local fire department or professionals who offer fire sprinkler cleanup and restoration to learn more about how many smoke detectors to install and where. Ask about which types of fire extinguishers are appropriate for your situation. Provide evacuation and first aid training to your employees and schedule opportunities to practice those skills.
Inspections and Maintenance
Regular upkeep is another vital factor in keeping your property safe from fire damage. Schedule professional inspections and testing as directed by the manufacturer or as outlined in applicable regulations. The system doesn't require much maintenance, but it is important that sprinkler heads are free from dirt, dust, and greasy residue.
An automatic fire sprinkler system can protect you from the loss of your property while dramatically reducing the amount of damage that occurs during a fire. Don't be misled by misconceptions about sprinkler systems; make sure your property is safe.