The right choice matters highly when it comes to dealing with fire threats. Especially in your workplace, a single inconsideration can cost the downfall of your company overnight. One thing business owners should keep in mind is that all workplaces don’t have the same fire risks. That’s why choosing your fire suppression system for your workplace should be done mindfully.
In this blog, we break down the key aspects of choosing the right fire suppression system. Â
Understand the Type of Risk in Your Workplace
Before choosing the solution, analysing the problem is crucial. The first step is to properly understand the type of fire risks you are dealing with at your workplace.Â
Electrical fires
These fires are caused by faults and damaged wiring, overloaded circuits, and a lack of maintenance. Clean agent fire suppression systems are ideal as they leave no residue. Common substances include CO2, dry chemicals, powders, and inert gases like argon and nitrogen.
Chemical fires
This refers to fires that occur due to flammable and reactive chemicals. These include flammable liquids like gasoline and butane, corrosive chemicals, and oxidizers. Workplaces with chemical fire risks need dry chemical and foam suppression systems. These systems cut off the air supply of the fire while preventing the spread of fire.
Material storage fires
Warehouses storing bulk amounts of paper, cardboard, wood, and textiles are prone to these fires. These fires may be caused by careless mistakes or irresponsibility. A proper suppression system detects fires early and minimise damage to these stocks.
Fires due to Overheating
These fires are commonly caused by equipment overheating and cooling system failures. These can also be caused by battery failures. Data centers and server rooms are more likely to experience this risk. Gas-based fire suppression systems are ideal for these fires.
The Impact of the Suppression Medium
The impact of the fire suppression system is analysed in regard to the risks. Ask yourself questions like what extinguisher materials they use, or do they leave residue.
Compare systems that use water mist, gas suppression, clean agents, foam, and dry chemicals. Are these compatible with your equipment or work environment? For example, a place with electrical fires shouldn’t have water-suppression systems. These may damage your equipment and inventory further. Â
Also, consider operational continuity. If your business requires immediate continuity after discharge, go for systems with minimal residue. If you need to go for an option that leaves residue, consider the clean-up time required.
Check Compliance and Standards
Most buyers overlook compliance with industry standards. These standards are defined to make sure fire and security companies maintain optimal performance. Choosing a non-compliant system can sometimes invalidate insurance claims in a fire incident.
Here are some UK-specific certifications, businesses should especially check before buying:
ISO 9001:2015
This certification is a basic credential that demonstrates the company’s dedication to quality. This can signal to you that your supplier has delivered consistent quality in the fire and security industry.Â
BS EN standardsÂ
BS EN standards are UK-specific implementations of European standards. Certifications like the BS5839 P1 2017 are prominent. This certification verifies the company’s compliance with specified requirements for fire detection and alarm systems. Crucial for fire suppression systems in the UK.
BAFE SP203-1
A certification relating to non-domestic fire detection. This confirms whether it adheres to the best practices for designing, installing, commissioning, and maintaining fire alarms.
Mindful Choices with Controlled UK
A warehouse full of paper and a server room storing critical data both need fire suppression, but not the same system. At Controlled UK, we power your workplace with the right systems always. Explore the best fire suppression systems in the UK, made to deliver and adapt.Â
Businesses across the UK stay at peace of mind with our reliable solutions. We even provide you with other comprehensive fire and security solutions as well.Â
Partner with a fire and security company that keeps your trust in every step.
