When a fire ignites within your business or commercial building, you’ll want to know that you’ve done everything possible to prevent it from spreading quickly. And part of that prevention is installing a fire suppression system.
Fire suppression systems can save lives in a fire and provide you with peace of mind, even if you never have to deal with a fire. These systems are a crucial part of any commercial building.
It is essential for any business or commercial building owner to understand more about fire suppression systems.
What Is a Fire Suppression System?
A fire suppression system combines various systems designed to put out a fire. They are commonly constructed with built-in components to detect fires in the presence of heat, smoke, or other warning signs.
The fire suppression system is often attached to an alarm that notifies you when a fire is present and initiates the sequence of action to continue suppressing the fire.
Many fire suppression systems automatically release the extinguishing agent. However, some must be manually discharged.
Types of Fire Suppression Systems
There are several types of fire suppression systems available today.
Water-Based Systems
One of the most well-known fire suppression systems utilizes water to put out fires. These are known as fire sprinkler systems and can be seen in many businesses. The water is stored in a reservoir connected to the water supply. When a fire is detected, the system sprays water to extinguish the fire.
Some common types of water-based fire suppression systems include the following:
- Pre-action fire sprinkler systems
- Traditional wet pipe sprinkler systems
- Deluge sprinklers
- Dry pipe sprinklers
Business owners can choose from an automatic system that turns on when it detects fire or a manual system that must be turned on.
One advantage to this system is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to other fire suppression systems. Fire sprinkler systems are also easy to replace; however, the release of water can cause extensive damage and should not be used near electronics.
Chemical Foam-Based Systems
Many people choose to install a water-based method. But several chemical-based systems can achieve the same results. One chemical agent is potassium carbonate. This wet chemical may be found inside a fire extinguisher. However, some dry chemicals are used to suppress fires, too.
One of the most common places a fire starts is a commercial kitchen because of the hot grease. Having a fire extinguisher in Kenilworth restaurants is a cost-effective way to minimize damage during a fire.
Inert Gas-Based Systems
A fire needs oxygen to help it spread. Inert gasses, like purified nitrogen, can cut the oxygen supply and extinguish the fire. Some fire companies install a fire suppression system that utilizes inert gasses because water damages electronic equipment and other inventory.
Foam Deluge Systems
A foam deluge system is used where water suppression systems aren’t possible. This system suits oil tanks, transformers, and oil storage silos. It uses a simple sprinkler-type system that disperses a foam concentrate combined with water, similar to the expanding agent used in fire extinguishers.
Reaction Tube Systems
Reaction tube suppression systems are valve-based extinguishers consisting of a reaction tube and a detector. If a fire is detected, a small hole will blow in the tube, expelling the reactive agent directly onto the fire. Ideal for small spaces, this fire suppression system is manually operated and only extinguishes small fires.
Inspecting and Maintaining Your Fire Suppression System
Once you have a fire suppression system, you must follow all federal, state, and local guidelines for maintenance. This includes regular testing to verify it works properly. Because no system is fail-proof, you need to have a backup plan if the system fails.
You can prevent issues with your system by scheduling routine maintenance and inspections. This ensures everything is in good working condition and allows your inspector to identify any problems before they become more significant.
Even something as small as a fire extinguisher inspection in NJ can prevent injury and loss in your business in the unfortunate event of a fire.
