When it comes to protecting your business or facility, fire safety is of the utmost importance. While overlooked by the average eye, fire detection systems are crucial to the safety and integrity of the building and its occupants. Devices such as smoke detectors, heat detectors or manual pull stations will warn a building’s occupants when there is smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide detected. An improperly maintained fire alarm system can put your staff, customers, and property at risk. To ensure that your fire alarm is up to code and ready to detect a fire if one were to occur, regular testing is key. Read on to learn why annual fire alarm testing is a must.
Fire Alarm Testing Regulations
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 72, Chapter 14) requires that a fire alarm system be tested and inspected at least once a year. This is to ensure that the system is in good working condition and is able to detect smoke or fire. Failing to adhere to this regulation could leave you open to costly fines and other penalties.
How to Get Your Fire Alarm Tested
Here at Giroux Electrical Contractors, Inc., we have our commercial clients on an annual fire alarm testing schedule so they don’t have to worry about remembering to do it year-after-year. Our annual fire alarm testing includes:
- Receipt of alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals both audible and visual
- Secondary power supply (backup battery) testing
- Heat & smoke detector functionality
After testing is completed, all of our customers receive a Fire Alarm and Emergency Communication System Inspection and Testing Form which ensures all systems are operational at the time of inspection and that you are in compliance with the NFPA regulations. Property managers and facility managers should take the necessary steps to ensure that their fire alarm systems are tested and inspected by a qualified technician each year. This will ensure that the system is up to code and ready to detect and alert the building occupants in the event of a fire.
Did You Know?
Fire departments are required to respond to all commercial fire alarms. Even if Fred from the IT department simply burnt his toast. Regular testing can help to identify any potential issues with the system before they become a problem. This can help to reduce the risk of a false alarm, which can be costly and disruptive.
Stay Informed with a Cellular Fire Alarm Communicator
When it comes to keeping your building safe, having a cellular fire alarm communicator (or cell monitor) is essential. Alerts are sent as soon as the alarm sounds, giving you the information you need to take action.
Benefits of Having a Cellular Fire Alarm Communicator
- Receive more accurate notifications of alarm events
- Receive alerts faster than with other communication methods
- Peace of mind knowing that your building is better protected
- No monthly fees for monitoring, just a one-time purchase
With a cellular fire alarm communicator, you can rest assured that you'll know about alarm events as soon as they happen. This will allow you to take the necessary steps to protect your building and its occupants.
Don’t risk not knowing when an alarm event occurs in your building. Invest in a cellular fire alarm communicator today and stay informed.
Conclusion
To ensure the safety of your business or facility, you should get your commercial fire alarm system tested and inspected by a qualified technician at least once a year and consider installing a cellular fire alarm communicator.
Source: The NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) is a standard published by
the National Fire Protection Association every 3 years for installation of fire alarm
systems and emergency communication systems in the US.