Blog

Is It Time for a Commercial Fire Alarm Inspection?

When you own a business, you are committed to ensuring it runs smoothly, and a major component of that is the safety of both your employees and visitors. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), structure fires – including homes, commercial properties, and other structures – cause an average of $1 billion in property damage each year, not to mention civilian injuries and deaths. Having a reliable fire safety system is absolutely essential to running your company safely and economically; it’s even proven to drastically reduce the rate of death and injuries. The NFPA reports that “when sprinklers were present, the civilian fire death and injury rates per fire were 89 percent and 27 percent lower” than when a fire system was not present.

In order to know that your fire system is running properly, you need to keep up with your inspections. If you have a commercial fire alarm, it is required to be inspected annually. If you have a commercial fire alarm with a sprinkler system, it is required to be inspected semi-annually. Not sure when it’s the right time to get an inspection? Prestige Alarm has outlined some signs that your business is due for a commercial fire inspection. Interested in upgrading your fire safety system? Contact Prestige Alarm in Birmingham, AL, today!

Why Do I Need an Inspection?

As a business owner, you hold the burden of responsibility should a fire occur. Not only will you be held liable for any human injuries or lives lost and property damage, but you could also face hefty fees and even legal repercussions. If your fire safety protocol had not been up-to-date at the time of the incident, you will face even harsher consequences.

For more in-depth information about fire safety standards in the workplace, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.

3 Signs it’s Time for a Commercial Fire Alarm Inspection

1. You Haven’t Tested Your Fire Alarm Lately

When you run a commercial property, your fire alarm should be tested regularly. The USFMA recommends you complete a test once a month. This ensures that your system is functioning properly should a disaster occur. If you haven’t tested your fire alarm in a while, it might be time for an inspection. Having trouble remembering when to run the tests? Schedule it into your calendar so you never forget.

2. Your Sprinklers Are Not Functioning

If you notice any issues with the way your sprinkler system is running (or not running), this could be a sign of greater damage. In this case, a fire inspection will clearly determine and resolve the issue. If you notice any leaks or rust in the pipes, there is a good chance they need to be repaired. Alternatively, your whole sprinkler system may need to be replaced.

3. Your Fire Alarms Are Not Working

Regular fire alarm tests will tell you if your system is functioning properly or not. You can test the smoke detector by spraying an aerosol product in front of it–if it does not respond to the spray, the system is likely malfunctioning. Rely on the professionals to diagnose the problem and make sure your system stays up-to-code.

There is a chance you may need a new fire alarm system altogether. Luckily, Prestige Alarm provides exceptional quality fire systems that are customized to your business needs.

Choose Prestige Alarm

When you are responsible for a business, there is nothing more valuable than peace of mind. When you need a fire system you can rely on, choose Prestige Alarm. You can trust that we are dedicated to the safety and security of your business, employees, and property. A fire alarm inspection will tell commercial property owners and business owners: