Importance of Testing Your Fire Protection Systems

When was the last time you had the fire protection system in your commercial building tested? With all your responsibilities as a business owner or building manager, it’s easy to neglect fire safety tests. However, regular system testing is vital for adequate fire protection. Here are all the ways you benefit from having a professional test each component of your fire protection system.

Reduce the Chance of Property Damage

If a fire ignites, your building and the assets inside are at risk. Without a functional fire protection system, one stray spark could cause your entire business to go up in smoke. Testing your fire protection system based on the recommended schedule ensures everything is operating correctly to reduce the chance of property damage.

For example, a fire suppression system inspection verifies that every part of this automatic system will work in harmony if a fire ignites. Likewise, a fire extinguisher inspection ensures proper placement and a full canister charge for maximum effectiveness if one of your employees must use it to put out a fire in their vicinity.

Save Lives

It may sound dramatic, but it’s true that fire protection system testing can identify and fix problems so if a fire actually occurs, the components work properly. Fire alarm testing is a prime example of this. All the parts must work together seamlessly to detect a fire, sound the alarm, and alert the fire department.

The same goes for fire sprinkler inspections. It’s virtually unheard of for someone to lose their life in a fire if the building is fully sprinklered – but only if the sprinklers are functioning properly.

Pass Fire Inspections

Local fire departments conduct inspections to assess and mitigate potential fire hazards in a building. These inspections vary in type and frequency and may be unscheduled. This means you should strive to be prepared by following recommended cleaning and testing schedules.

For instance, you’re more likely to pass a kitchen suppression system inspection if you clean the kitchen hood as often as needed. This may be monthly, quarterly, or yearly, depending on the cooking volume and fuel type.

Remain Code Compliant

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has standards for inspecting, testing, and maintaining fire protection systems. Additional regional and local codes may also affect you. These standards and codes include how frequently testing must be performed and what steps an inspector must take to ensure everything works as expected.

When it comes to code compliance, ignorance is not bliss. All buildings must meet fire codes, including inspection and testing regulations. The penalties for noncompliance include fines, building occupancy denial, and legal ramifications. It’s much simpler to work with a fire protection company that can help you with your compliance requirements with no additional effort on your part.

Schedule Fire Protection System Testing

If your fire safety system is due for a test, contact Confires today for the services you require. We’ve served customers in New Jersey and Delaware for over 30 years.