Life safety systems are there so that you and your loved ones are protected in case of a fire or other emergency situation. An important part of life safety systems is inspecting them regularly to ensure they are working properly and ready in case they are needed. The National Fire Protection Association has put these systems in place to keep people safe. Burley Electrical Services is here to talk about each of the life safety systems you would find in your building.
Working Principles of Fire Detection & Alarm System
At a residential home, the fire alarm system is fairly straight forward. It is a loud alarm sounding when smoke is detected. When speaking of a building, it is a much more complex system. There are alarm sounds coupled with sprinklers and strobe lights as well as batteries for backup and a control unit that ties it all together. This must be thoroughly checked to ensure that each working part isn’t in need of any repairs. The should go through a series of inspection, testing and maintenance, also known as ITM at least once a year. Several components should be checked as often as daily to make sure they are working right.
Advantages of Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke/carbon monoxide alarms seem like they should fit into the above section. Like mentioned above, the fire alarm system is a series of components working together. Smoke/carbon monoxide alarms are one unit that can be tested alone. They should be tested annually by pushing a test button that will sound the alarm and let you know that no batteries need to be replaced or the entire alarm itself.
Emergency Lights
Emergency lights are an important component to life safety systems. For those that cannot hear, they may be able to see the strobing lights to indicate a problem. These lights need to be tested every 30 days for at least 30 seconds. The bulbs should be tested to make sure they don’t need replacing as well as ensuring they are aimed in the right direction. The batteries that power these lights should also be tested for any problems or need for replacement.
Self Luminous & LED Lighted Exit Signs
Lighted exit signs are important to indicate the quickest emergency exit for those inside the building trying to find their way out. Over time, these signs can become damaged or the lights may burn out. They should be visually checked for any problems. All lighted exit signs have their own set of ITM requirements and those requirements should be followed through.
Door Self Closing Hinges
In many buildings, the fire walls and smoke barriers come equipped with self closing hardware. These doors are, at times, propped open by the people living or working inside the building and may need to be checked as often as daily.
Electrical Services in Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Fort Lauderdale & South Florida
Life safety systems are put in place for a reason. Keeping the occupants or employees in a building safe is the goal. If these systems go unmaintained, there is a chance they could fail in the case of a fire or emergency. Burley Electrical Services offers inspection of life safety systems to make sure you building is ready for any emergency that may come your way. Call us today!
