Fire Safety Tips
PFA Legislation – Foam fire extinguishers
Only foam extinguishers containing PFOA are banned. Many foam extinguishers manufactured post2016 are already PFOA-free, or contain alternative PFAS like C6, which are still legal.
Make sure you have the best form of automatic fire detection on your fire alarm
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Andrew Picton
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Do you have the best form of automatic fire detection on your fire alarm? There are many different types, and if you inherited the system when you moved into the premises it would be worth a review to ensure that you have the best equipment
The effectiveness of your fire alarm system depends on having the most suitable form of automatic fire detection for your specific environment. If you inherited the system when moving into the premises, it’s crucial to review its capabilities to ensure it provides optimal protection and complies with current fire safety regulations.
Types of Automatic Fire Detection Systems:
1. Smoke Detectors:
- Optical Smoke Detectors – More effective at detecting slow, smouldering fires, but susceptible to dust contamination.
- Fixed-Temperature Detectors – Trigger alarms when a predetermined temperature is reached.
- Rate-of-Rise Detectors – Activate when there is a rapid temperature increase, making them useful in areas prone to sudden heat changes.
3. Flame Detectors:
- Ideal for high-risk environments such as chemical plants and fuel storage areas, as they detect the presence of flames using infrared or ultraviolet sensors.
4. Aspirating Smoke Detection (ASD) Systems:
- Extremely sensitive and capable of detecting smoke at an early stage, often used in data centres, clean rooms, and high-value asset areas.
5. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Fire Detectors:
- Detect CO levels produced by combustion, providing an early warning before visible smoke appears.
- Combine smoke, heat, and gas detection technologies for enhanced accuracy and reduced false alarms.
Why a Review is Essential:
- System Age & Condition – Older systems may not meet current safety standards.
- Changes in Building Layout – If the premises have been renovated, the existing system may no longer provide full coverage.
- Regulatory Compliance – Fire safety regulations evolve, and your system should align with the latest standards. This does need to be taken in context, as generally speaking, if the system conforms to the standard at the time it was installed, the standard is not retrospective. But if specific risks are present, then it should comply with the current edition of the standard.
- Risk Assessment Update – The fire risks in your premises may have changed over time, requiring adjustments to detection methods.
If you are unsure whether your fire detection system is adequate, it’s advisable to schedule a professional fire risk assessment. This will help ensure that you have the most effective protection in place for your property and occupants. Would you like assistance in identifying a fire safety expert or upgrading your system?
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