Fire suppression systems are a must for many medium and large-scale buildings in the UK. Especially in spaces too large and complex to monitor and where fire threats can do critical damage. However, many people have misconceptions about them. These myths can sometimes make you hesitant about implementing these systems. If you don’t choose a reliable fire security provider, these myths can expose you to being scammed.Â
This can finally lead to additional trouble and costs than it is supposed to be. Through this blog, we aim to educate you about some common myths about fire suppression systems.
All Sprinkler Heads Activate At Once
Many have the idea that sprinklers in a certain room all activate at once. This idea has mainly been derived from Hollywood movies. Many movies feature scenes where all fire sprinkler heads in a building activate amidst a single fire detection. This myth causes many businesses to become hesitant about getting fire suppression systems in the first place. This is especially true if they deal with lots of water-sensitive equipment and resources.
However, the fact is that only the sprinkler heads that detect heat get activated. Several sprinklers activate only when high heat is directly exposed to each head. This avoids unnecessary water wastage and water damage. It is also stated that in almost 85% of fires, one or two sprinklers operate, and 99% of the time, they are effective.
Fire Suppression Systems Can Obstruct the Aesthetic
There is a huge myth that installing fire suppression systems or smoke detectors can disturb the design. Having sprinklers or water pipes on your ceiling can be an ugly view to think about. Having this myth is partly fair, as many buildings often use years-old designed fire suppression systems. But these shouldn’t be used to judge the modern solutions.
You never see sprinkler heads or detectors in modern residential homes and offices. Concealed sprinklers stay recessed into the ceiling. They are often covered by a circular plate coloured in the exact color of the ceiling. Flush-mount fire sprinklers are great for low ceilings. These sit flushed into the ceiling with minimal exposure.
All Fire Suppression Systems Use Water
It is a total myth if you think fire suppression systems only use water to suppress fires. However, many still believe in this myth. Fires are of a variety of types, and not all of them can be suppressed by water. Modern fire suppression systems come with a variety of clean agents such as gas, chemicals, or foam.Â
CO2-based systems can be used to suppress fires by oxygen displacement. They are ideal if your workplace has water-sensitive assets and is hesitant about water-based systems. Foam-based systems are used for flammable liquid fires. Using water-based systems here would help spread the fire, while foam creates a barrier separating it from oxygen, taking the fire out.
Smoke Triggers the System
It is a very common myth that smoke triggers a fire suppression system. Only smoke detectors trigger by smoke. But the sole purpose of the system is to detect fires early, even before ignition. That’s why they are built to be activated by high heat. If specifically mentioned, sprinklers activate at typically 135°F–165°F or 57°C–74°C.Â
The mechanism inside is the secret to this. Sprinklers have a gas bulb or metal link that only melts under intense heat. So, there is no need to worry about burning toast or cigarettes triggering the system.
Equip for Any Fire with Controlled UK
After educating about myths, it is time to equip yourself with confidence. Controlled Ltd Fire and Security company is ready to serve all your needs. Explore our robust fire suppression systems in the UK. Our solutions are trusted by businesses around the country. We adhere to all necessary safety standards relevant to our solutions strictly.
Even if you are seeking other fire and security solutions beyond suppression, we have it all. Step into a safe and confident working environment with Controlled UK.
