Safeguarding Your Business: The Importance of Updating Legacy Fire Alarm Systems

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, between 2012 and 2021, nonresidential properties showed a 20% increase in building fires, a dollar loss of over $3.7 billion, and a 70% increase in deaths. Those are sobering stats.

Ensuring the safety and security of persons and property is a priority for business owners. Yet many businesses operate in older buildings that are marginally equipped for emergencies, with outdated fire alarm systems and limited ability for effective mass notifications. Often, budgets are to blame.

Investing in a complete upgrade to your fire alarm and emergency notification system is more than just proactive defense, it’s regulation compliance and peace of mind.

The Problem with Legacy Fire Alarm Systems

The technology for fire alarm and mass communications systems is rapidly changing, with modern systems providing faster detection and better notification than legacy systems.

As technology changes, it is increasingly difficult for older systems to integrate with newer technology. Replacement parts and expansion components for legacy systems become difficult to find or are even obsolete.

Some business owners try to budget system upgrades with incremental enhancements. For example, they may upgrade an alarm system in one building and use an older system in another. The problem with this plan is three-fold:

1. Newer systems may not integrate with existing systems.
2. Disparate systems require more manual coordination of alarm and notification efforts, requiring more diligence.
3. Operation, monitoring and maintenance are time-consuming and unreliable.
4. Legacy systems may fall short of regulations.??

So, what’s a company to do? Let’s examine the technology, installation and maintenance surrounding fire alarm systems to create a better understanding of where you are today, so you can effectively plan for tomorrow.

Unlocking the Benefits of Modern Technology

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other authorities set regulatory action plan requirements for all commercial businesses. Though compliance with safety standards is non-negotiable, many organizations with legacy systems struggle to meet the requirements.

The benefits of upgrading to a modern fire alarm system extend far beyond regulatory compliance. These systems leverage advanced technology to deliver faster and more accurate detection of fire incidents with features that minimize response times and mitigate potential damages.

Fire alarm systems might include notification devices such as horns, strobes, and speakers that help alert occupants. Adding an integrated mass notification system enables even more effective emergency communications that help clear wider areas of occupancy and notify emergency responders during critical situations.

Modern systems allow remote monitoring and controls as well as integration with other building systems such as HVAC, building access and security. This brings a new level of safety in emergencies that cannot be met with disparate systems.

What’s more, operations or facilities managers will find modern systems' diagnostic features and user interface easier to manage. Routine maintenance tasks and testing can be done easily and effectively rather than through the manual management of legacy systems.

Understanding Fire Alarm System Design and Installation

An effective fire alarm system design is unique to each space. A professional designer considers the size and layout of the space, the number of floors, the average occupancy, and specific fire risks of your building. Is it a general office space, for example, or an industrial space where combustibles are used? They’ll gain an understanding of the function of each space to make their recommendations.

The location and number of smoke detectors, heat sensors, alarm panels, and notification devices are strategically planned to ensure comprehensive coverage, swift detection and evacuation.

Certified professional fire alarm installers execute the design, adhering to manufacturer specifications and all safety standards. After installation, each device and system function will be tested to verify performance. Your installation team may offer a brief training or help set up manufacturer training.

Ongoing Vigilance: Fire Alarm System Maintenance, Inspection and Drills

Over time, dirt and dust can hinder the performance of sensors. Your installation team may provide detailed instructions for the regular maintenance and inspection required to keep your fire alarm system in peak working condition.

Maintenance services may include testing, cleaning, and verifying the functionality of every component to address potential issues before they escalate. Trained technicians can perform the inspections to identify any deficiencies and may provide recommendations for performing drills. Together, regular maintenance and inspection ensure that your fire alarm system remains reliable and responsive.

Having a reputable electrical contractor perform general electrical preventive and predictive maintenance adds another prevention layer. This type of maintenance may involve:

• Infrared scanning, which uncovers and removes potential hazards.
• Inspection of areas surrounding manufacturing machinery for combustible debris.
• Regular replacement of equipment components before they deteriorate and create heat.
• Inspection of fire safety components like sprinklers, emergency lights, etc., so they are ready to engage when needed.
• Testing of emergency notification features that help occupants follow evacuation protocols in an emergency.

Additionally, staying abreast of evolving technologies and regulatory updates allows for timely upgrades and enhancements to your fire safety infrastructure. Some manufacturers of safety systems offer a library of materials and updates for owners that help with ongoing education and training.

Calculating the Cost of Inaction

Reserving a portion of your budget for upgraded fire safety and notification systems might seem difficult, especially in times of inflation. But consider the long-term implications of inaction.

Non-residential property loss due to direct damage caused by fires was $3.6 million in 2021. Moreover, insurance statistics show that many businesses involved in disasters like fires fail within two years.

By investing in a new fire safety technology, business owners not only protect their assets, but they also demonstrate their commitment to the safety and well-being of their employees and customers and they ensure their own future.

In Summary

The value of properly installed fire alarm and notification systems extends far beyond regulatory compliance. They serve as a proactive defense mechanism, offering peace of mind and protection against the devastating consequences of fire incidents and emergencies.

1. Early Detection Saves Lives: Swift detection of fire hazards enables timely evacuation, minimizing the risk of injury or loss of life. This is especially true when there are multiple buildings on a property.
2. Asset Protection: Beyond safeguarding lives, a robust fire alarm system may help shield your property, equipment, and assets from irreparable damage.
3. Business Continuity: Mitigating fire-related disruptions preserves business continuity, safeguarding your operations and reputation.
4. Legal Compliance: Adhering to stringent fire safety regulations protects your business from legal liabilities and penalties.
5. Enhanced Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to safety fosters trust among employees, customers, and stakeholders, enhancing your brand reputation.

As your trusted partner in fire safety, Lemberg can guide you through the process of upgrading your fire alarm system. From selecting the right solution to seamless installation and ongoing support, we're committed to ensuring that yours is a safer and more secure environment for your property and your people.?

We are NICET certified and have established partnerships with all top brands such as Siemens, Simplex, Notifier, Fire Light and Honeywell. Plus, our team offers 24/7 emergency electrical services, so you’re always protected.

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