Which Type Of Fire Alarm System Does Your Business Need?

When it comes to a fire alarm system for businesses, there are two basic types:

• Addressable fire alarm systems
• Commercial fire alarm systems

Shortly, we’ll look at the differences between them. In addition to system types, there are a number of components involved in commercial life safety and fire alarm systems. These can include the following:

• Kitchen hood suppression systems
• Fire extinguishers
• Emergency signage and lighting
• CO2 detectors and smoke detectors
• Fire suppression and sprinkler systems
• Water systems
• Backflow preventers
• Ventilation systems and fire doors
• Alarm systems
• Special hazards systems

By examining the differences between the systems and the components that go along with them, you can better determine what type of fire alarm system is needed for your business.

Addressable Fire Alarm Systems

These are digital systems. An “address” belongs to each device so that the triggered device’s exact location can be easily identified by the fire department. In an isolation module, each device is connected and looped to a control panel. Even if it becomes damaged or disconnected, the alarm will still work.

These work well in larger complexes and buildings, because of the additional features available on this customizable system. Examples would be multi-sited campuses, distribution warehouses, wholesale clubs, and big-box stores. Compared to conventional systems, these do have a higher price point, but they’re less prone to false alarms.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

For ages and ages, these kinds of systems have been around. To link initiating devices with a control panel, they use analog signals. Signals are set up in zones and each has its own wire. Upon the triggering of a pull station, a conventional fire alarm system identifies the trigger zone’s general area. Once inside the building, the general area of the fire can be identified to the fire department. In older buildings, this type of system is commonly seen. Examples would be single-story businesses, department stores, and various other buildings with several floors but fewer needed zones.

This type of system is affordable, cost-effective, and reliable. Unfortunately, users may end up with fire department fines and inconvenience due to the system’s tendency toward false alarms.

Determining the System for Your Business

By working with an experienced fire alarm system company, you can best determine your needs where an appropriate commercial fire alarm system is concerned. The system you choose must be able to adequately do the following:

• Activate extinguishing systems/fire sprinklers
• Send information to dispatch emergency responders and the monitoring company
• Alert all occupants simultaneously to evacuate and more

It should take mere seconds for all of this to occur.

Do You Need a Fire Alarm System at Your Business?

For all your fire protection needs – including industrial and commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design – work with ASCO Fire. To comply with all applicable fire code requirements, we offer complete engineering services. A number of our clients book our assistance for fire extinguishers, engineering services, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire alarm systems, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

Here’s a question for business owners: In your place of business, what is one of the most important safety features? Answer: It is your building’s fire protection system. Before a fire has a chance to spread throughout your building, it should be efficiently detected and extinguished by the system. If your system is not reliable and up to date, however, that’s going to be a problem.

How do you know if it’s time for fire protection system replacement?

We’re going to introduce you to the three most commonly experienced signs that could help you recognize when it’s time to replace fire protection equipment.Check with a fire inspection company if you are still unsure of whether or not replacement/repair is necessary.

Your Fire Protection System Requires a Lot of Maintenance

A professional should be consulted to inspect and repair damages to fire protection systems.if this happens too frequently, it may be time to simply replace the whole system.

The Size of Your Company Changes

The amount of people occupying your place of business has everything to do with the building’s installed fire protection equipment. So if you’re downsizing or growing your company, you’ll want to make sure that enough fire alarms, fire sprinklers, fire extinguishers, etc. are in place for the building and the number of people in it. As a business, you’ll need to abide by certain fire codes as well, which will be affected by the number of people in your building.

You have an Old Fire Protection System

Each year, the system your building uses for fire protection becomes a little more outdated and a little older. Compare it to the most modern systems on the market, and you’ll probably find that yours is lacking in some advanced technology and new features.

What’s more, the reason for a system upgrade can involve pinpoint leaks and corrosion which appear over time. These can cause clogged pipes, leaking pipes, and more. A fire may spread faster and cause more damage if the old sprinkler systems do not detect and extinguish it in time.

Is It Time to Replace the Fire Protection System In Your Place of Business?

Do you need reliable fire detection and fire sprinkler systems for commercial and industrial facilities? Join forces with ASCO Fire. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that our fire protection solutions comply with all applicable fire code requirements. Any number of our clients book our assistance for fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, engineering services, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

How important is it that you know how to prevent workplace fires? Well, if you’re the owner of a commercial building, it is very important! As the owner of a building, you have the responsibility for upkeep and the safety of those within. That can mean preventing fires if at all possible. One of the best ways to do that is with proper equipment for fire detection and extinguishing. But stopping the fire before it starts is the best line of defense.

With the following fire prevention strategies, you will be able to create a safer work environment for everyone. What’s more, you’ll protect your building as a whole from going up in flames.

To keep your building running smoothly, abide by safety regulations and educate the occupants of the building where fire prevention and fire safety are concerned. Here are some tips for prevention.

Follow Guidelines from NFPA and OSHA

To ensure fire protection and safety, a set of guidelines and rules is provided by both of these organizations whose purpose is to help prevent workplace injuries and dangerous conditions. Remain secure and up to code at all times.

Have a Plan

If there’s a fire, to prevent further issues and damages, it is crucial that you have a plan for emergencies and evacuation. In case of an emergency, does everyone know what to do? If they had to call 911, do they know your address?

Smoking and No Smoking Designation

At a safe distance from your commercial building, if you wish, you can set up an area designated for smokers. So they can properly dispose of and extinguish their cigarettes, etc., provide safe options like ashtrays. Building interiors should be kept smoking-free.

Security

The leading cause of structure and building fires is arson. See to it that building security is aware of this and also of all fire-related issues, systems, plans, procedures, etc.

Take Precautions

When it comes to building safety, you can accomplish a lot with fire safety demonstrations. Fire protection devices should be introduced to any and all staff members as well as how to react when there is a fire.

Cleanliness

Clutter can encourage fires. They’ll spread faster the more boxes, paper, and other flammable materials are present. Your building’s interior should be clutter-free and clean, and all exits unblocked.

4 Other Quick Tips

• Make sure you store hazardous substances like flammable materials, chemicals, etc. safely in your building (if allowed at all).
• As well as being up to code, make sure fire protection equipment is regularly maintained/serviced according to schedule.
• A lidded metal container should be used for discarded hazardous waste which can include combustible/flammable materials, chemicals, oils, and more.
• All employees should have easy access to control panels, fire extinguishers, and other fire protection equipment. Fire alarms and sprinklers should never be blocked.

Could Your Business Use Some New Fire Prevention Strategies?

For all your fire prevention strategies, fire systems, protection, and more – including industrial facility and commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design – refer to the experts at ASCO Fire. So your company can comply with fire regulations and codes, we provide complete engineering services. Many of our clients book our assistance for fire alarm systems, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire extinguishers, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more. Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

When people think about fire alarm inspections or fire inspections in general, their minds turn to the local fire marshal coming around annually as is required by law. However, for your business, a very important function is served by those annual fire inspections. More than just something on your ‘to do’ list, it goes well beyond that.

For the safety and health of your customers and team, fire inspections are critical. So, though they may seem inconvenient, it’s vitally important that you do all you can to comply with codes, regulations, etc.

Do We Really Need Annual Fire Inspections?

No matter how much of a pain it may seem like, without them, businesses would put the lives of customers and staff members at risk. Would you do that intentionally? Of course not. But without someone to recognize any and all fire hazards, the risks increase exponentially.

Some of the things a fire inspector can recognize include factors that may prevent the people in your building from getting out in a timely manner, whether or not they can be reached by first responders in a fire, where the likelihood of a fire starting is, and more.

Let’s look at the reasons why fire inspections are so crucial.

Fire Code Compliance

Usually enforced at a local level, the requirements of mandatory fire inspections apply to almost any business location imaginable. Some of their many benefits include the insurance of local fire code compliance within a building. To make sure that national and local fire codes are complied with, stay on top of your building’s inspections.

Building Trend Predictions

How is your fire system running? A fire inspection can fill you in. Devices can be scanned to see if they fail or pass during an inspection. Additionally, information can be compared to previous inspections regarding the system’s performance data. It can quickly be provided through reporting software used by inspectors.

While planning for your business’s possible emergencies, maintenance recommendations will be aided by checking the performance of your system through the reporting data provided.

Properly Running Fire Detection Systems

For optimum capacity operation, your fire detection system must work properly. Problems can be spotted by a fire inspector.

Think about the operation of your fire system on the same lines as the operation of your car. To keep it running at its best, you make sure your car gets oil changes. So you know that your fire prevention/detection system is running the way it was designed to run, annual inspections are instrumental.

Also much on the same lines as your car getting preventative maintenance on a regular basis, your fire system needs regular maintenance, as well. Before, in a critical situation, parts fail, it’s easier to repair or replace them during regular maintenance.

You’ll enjoy a much longer system life expectancy, and dependable service from your system, the better condition you keep it in.

Do You Need A Fire Alarm Inspections, Testing, and Maintenance?

For all your fire protection needs – including industrial facility, commercial, and industrial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design – work with ASCO Fire. To comply with all applicable fire code requirements, we execute engineering services covering any and all of your requirements. A number of our clients book our assistance for fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

Here’s a question for anyone who owns a commercial building: What is one of the most important components in your building? Answer: Your commercial building’s fire sprinkler system. Hopefully, in your lifetime, you’ll never have to deal with a fire emergency. However, to keep your building’s inventory and occupants safe, its fire protection system must be monitored and updated. In fact, it’s the law.

Even if your building is relatively old, chances are, it came with some type of fire prevention/fire extinguishing system already installed. But nothing lasts forever. Corrosion, leaks, outdated technology, and more occur the longer the system is in place.

So, the question for a commercial building owner is: How do you know when it’s time to replace fire sprinkler systems in businesses? Here are some signs that replacement is imminent.

Corrosion

Though some systems are more at risk than are other types of systems, eventually, water corrodes. Some systems are full of oxygen while some continually hold water. Regardless, the corrosive effects take their toll over time. The system can eventually fail due to problems caused by pressurized water. Your sprinkler system obviously has a problem if you notice any of the following:

• A rotten egg smell
• Discolored water from the pipes
• Rust

Visible Damage to Pipes or Heads

If the system is visibly damaged, you will need replacement/repair services. Absolutely call for a professional inspection/repair if, in any way, the pipes or sprinkler heads are defunct, skewed, or dented. This kind of thing can happen for a number of reasons including plain old wear-and-tear, vandalism, construction process-related damage, and more.

Leaks

You’ve got a problem if there is a sign of indoor leakage (from your system). Mold growth can potentially be caused by a building’s corroding structure if water damage occurs. This can present health issues of a serious nature. It’s even more problematic if your fire sprinkler system is leaking. If you can, determine the leak’s location and call in the professionals for advice/repair/replacement.

Replacement or Repair?

The decision may not always be clear-cut, but if you can’t figure out whether to replace or repair your system, consult a professional. Consider the following:

• The Type of System: Rather than the whole system, you may only need to replace a part of it depending on the extent of the damage, and whether the system is dry or wet.
• Your Service History: In the last few years, how often have the fire sprinklers required repair? It may cost more than it’s worth if you have to service your system more frequently. Consider your budget.
• Fire Sprinkler System Age: It is not uncommon to get 20 years out of a typical fire sprinkler system. That said, you may need to replace the sprinkler heads, more times than not. It could be time for an entire replacement if the system is outdated, constantly needs repair, if you doubt its dependability, etc.

Is It Time to Replace the Fire Sprinkler System at Your Business?

For all your fire sprinkler system replacement/maintenance needs, work with ASCO Fire. Our numerous engineering services can help your business be in compliance with all applicable fire code requirements. Any number of our clients book our assistance for fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, engineering services, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire alarm systems, fire pumps, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

To protect customers and employees in a fire emergency, nearly every commercial building has fire sprinkler systems today. To assist in the protection of facilities, several types of sprinkler systems are in existence. The dry fire sprinkler system and a wet fire sprinkler system are the two most common types. For your building’s unique needs, and for the best environment, you want the appropriate fire sprinkler system installed. But between the two, how do you know which is right for your requirements: wet or dry fire sprinkler systems?

Let’s take a look at these two systems and how they differ. If you’re still unsure as to which system fits your purposes best, speak with a qualified fire protection professional. They can advise you as to which system will be most appropriate.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems

In a dry pipe sprinkler system, water is held back by nitrogen or pressurized air in the pipes to which sprinkler heads are connected. If a fire occurs, it is extinguished when the valve opens and allows water out. For this to happen, the pipe pressure must drop. In an environment with temperatures at 40°F or below, this type of system works far better than a wet system. This is because no water is held within the pipes.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems

The sprinkler heads connect to pipes within which pressurized water can be found in a wet pipe sprinkler system. To extinguish a fire, the sprinkler system activates automatically when a fire is detected. Little maintenance is required on this reliable fire sprinkler system. Due to its optimal protection and ease of installation, it’s a popular choice. Be advised, however, that all environments are not suitable for the use of a wet system. In areas where the temperature falls below 40°F, for example, because the pipes are always filled with water, the wet system would not be a good match.

Wrap Up

Here’s your takeaway…

Dry Systems:

• Water delivery is initially delayed from the sprinkler heads 
• Due to the sprinkler system’s complexity, increased maintenance costs
• Installation cost is also higher

Wet Systems:

• For areas that hold sensitive equipment, possibly not a good fit
• Maintenance costs are lower
• Should a pipe spring a leak, there would be the potential of increased risk to property, inventory, etc.

Sprinkler Systems for Your Business

Does your place of business utilize industrial facility, industrial, and/or commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design? If so, consider working with ASCO Fire. We can help make sure that you and your entire fire protection setup are in compliance with all applicable fire code requirements. We’re able to do so because we offer all-inclusive engineering services. Our clients book our assistance for fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County 
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

When “that time of year” rolls around – the one where the fire inspector shows up – many businesses run around trying to do everything they’ve let go until the last minute in order to comply with codes, regulations, etc. If you have exit signs, emergency lights, and more that aren’t working in proper order, you will be shelling out some cash. Have you failed previous inspections? Are you worried you’re going to fail a fire inspection this year? Truth be told, it simply isn’t that difficult to pass a fire inspection – particularly if you’ve been in business for a while. You should already be familiar with many of the things fire inspectors look for.

To help you better prepare for the fire inspector’s next visit, we are going to introduce some of the most common reasons for “fails” when it comes to fire inspections and businesses.

Hazardous Material Storage

If hazardous materials (including solids, gases, chemicals, etc.) are being stored without a permit – or are not safely stored – you could be in trouble. For example, near an exit or a doorway, you should never store combustible materials.

Timely Commercial Cooking Operations Servicing

If you have not had fire suppression servicing on your commercial cooking operation area every six months, it might be bad for business. It’s important that areas be kept up to code where commercial food preparation is concerned.

Fire Sprinkler Servicing

Your fire sprinkler system must be serviced by a licensed fire protection official every five years. Insurance-wise, and for your fire inspection, this will present a liability otherwise.

Fire Extinguishers

If fire extinguishers are not present, operable, or visible – and serviced in the last 12 months – it could spell trouble. Don’t be surprised if a fire inspector tests every extinguisher if they find one not working.

Extension Cords

Extension cords are fine… as long as they’re used temporarily, and not for permanent purposes.

Electrical

If you have uncovered junction boxes, circuit breaker panels, or electrical outlets, the fire inspector will take note. There needs to be clear access to panels (30 inches or more), and appropriate cover plates are required.

Lighting

Exit signs, emergency lights, and other emergency lighting units must be properly working for emergency, normal, and a combination of both modes.

Obstructions

Walkways, pathways, aisles, and/or stairways must be clear of storage and/or obstructions.

Exit Doors

If the exit doors are hard to open from the inside of your place of business, this will present a problem during fire inspection. Doors should not be locked nor should a secret password be needed.

Address

On the front of your building, there must be a visible, marked street address so that, in case of emergency, first responders can find your location.

Will Your Business Pass Its Next Fire Inspection?

Consult with ASCO Fire to pass your next fire inspection. Including industrial facility, industrial, and commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design – for all your fire protection needs – work with ASCO Fire. To comply with all applicable fire code requirements, we offer a vast array of engineering services. Any number of our clients book our assistance for maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire extinguishers, engineering services, fire alarm systems, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

Even a tiny fire can progress into a raging inferno if a properly working fire sprinkler system isn’t in place. So, as the owner of a commercial building, it’s important you keep that system working properly and clean. It could, after all, be the difference between issues that are relatively manageable and those which end up causing substantial collateral damage.

Proper sprinkler maintenance is crucial. This can range from making sure an entire system is appropriately set up to something as simple as properly caring for sprinkler heads and the unit. It’s also important to make sure your staff is properly trained where the fire system is concerned.

Four Tips (Yearly/Monthly/Weekly)

• Once a year – general system check
• Every year – inspect backflow preventers, alarm switches, and control valves
• Change out “fast response” sprinkler heads every 20 years (for other types of sprinkler heads, every 50 years)
• Every five years – inspect pipes and replace gauges

Three More Tips for Every Day

• Replace sprinklers frequently if they are usually exposed to high temperatures (for example, in a bakery). At least once a year, have the system inspected and replace sprinklers often. Consider high heat heads when replacing them.
• From all sprinkler heads, make sure that painter’s tape is removed if the paintwork has been done in an area.
• If boxes are stored close to sprinklers, replace the sprinklers often. Particularly if the boxes touch the sprinkler heads (which they should not), the heat detection sensors of a unit can be affected by crowding. Make shorter stacks or relocate the boxes if possible. (Note: The fire inspector will not be happy if you have boxes stored in such a manner that they are close to or touching your sprinkler system.)

Precautions You Can Take as a Commercial Building Owner

• The basics of sprinkler system safety should be taught to every employee.
• You will be better assured that control valves are ready to combat a fire if you keep them open. Also, make sure employees are reminded not to shut anything of this nature off. To keep valves from being tampered with or closed, consider using electrical lockout devices.
• Near any sprinkler equipment, communicate visually through signs. This reminds employees the valves must remain open. In addition to words, consider using pictures.

The difference between costly repairs – as well as between life and death – could well be the fact that you kept the sprinkler system safe in your condo complex, warehouse, factory, etc. Be the hero, rather than the person everyone blames, should a devastating fire threaten.

 Leave Your Sprinkler Maintenance to Us!

For situations involving industrial facility, industrial, and commercial fire detection, and fire sprinkler system installation and design, you can depend on ASCO Fire. We can help you comply with all applicable fire code requirements by providing complete engineering services. Any number of our clients book our assistance for fire alarm systems, fire pumps, fire extinguishers, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County
• Mercer County
• Essex County
• Somerset County
• Warren County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.

There are numerous events – many considered catastrophes – that can take a business down for a few days to a few weeks… or even months. A fire involving your data center could be considered one of these. Particularly if your data isn’t backed up somewhere safe (possibly the cloud), to fully recover from an occurrence such as this may be next to impossible. You may lose irretrievable information whose value is beyond measure.

With today’s fire protection equipment, and some data center fire prevention, you can avoid this disaster. To help ensure your data center is protected and safe, we’ve put together some fire prevention tips.

Equipment for Fire Protection and Regularly Scheduled Maintenance

If you have an old, outdated fire protection system, the difference between life and death may well come down to whether or not you upgrade or replace it. At the very least, fire detection/extinguishing equipment should be inspected as soon as possible. A competent company will be able to advise you best as to how to adequately protect your building and its contents.

If you are responsible for contracting the initial installation of a building’s fire protection equipment, speak to a knowledgeable professional as to the technology and advancements available today. Once installed, make sure it is maintained as scheduled, and that visual checks are done by your maintenance crew as well.

Organization of Cleanliness

There may not be time to escape if a fire spreads rapidly due to clutter and exits are blocked by the same. Make sure your data center is clear of debris and dust buildup. Make sure computers are free of dust and stay clean. Believe it or not, fire may spread faster in a dusty environment because it is flammable! Keep clutter and disorganization to an absolute minimum.

Flammable Materials

Inside your data center, you may want to prohibit the introduction of flammable materials. That means no Styrofoam, plastic, packaging material, cardboard boxes, or other substances considered flammable. Should the unthinkable happen – and a fire gets started – you’ll have an easier time putting it out, and faster, the less flammable materials there are in an area.

Education – Who Needs It?

If you are unsure as to how to educate your security personnel, maintenance crew, and staff where fire prevention and safety are concerned, contact a fire protection professional. They will have invaluable advice from which you can benefit.

For All Your Fire Prevention Needs… ASCO Fire

For settings involving industrial facility, industrial, and commercial fire detection, and fire sprinkler system installation and design – you can count on us, here at ASCO Fire. We can assist your business in being in complete compliance with all applicable fire code requirements because we offer all-inclusive engineering services. Numerous clients book our assistance for fire alarm systems, fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire pumps, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

• Mercer County
• Essex County 
• Somerset County
• Warren County
• Union County
• Sussex County
• Bergen County
• Passaic County
• Morris County
• Monmouth County
• Middlesex County
• Hudson County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.