How old are your building’s fire safety systems? It’s important to know how often fire systems need inspection. However, it is also vital to ensure fire safety infrastructure is current and optimized to meet NFPA 72 monitoring requirements.
Aging Systems Increase Risk
As your fire safety infrastructure ages, performance or reliability may deteriorate. Equipment will become obsolete, outdated or worse, unsupported by the manufacturer. This can make it harder to comply with ever evolving fire regulations, and that could cause legal or insurance problems for building owners and managers.
The age of the building itself can also affect fire safety. That’s why fire marshal inspection requirements typically include checking the physical aspects of the structure.
“The preservation of fire safety in aging infrastructure poses a distinctive set of challenges,” notes the Ohio Arson School. “As buildings and facilities age, vulnerabilities may emerge, and traditional fire safety measures can become insufficient.”
- Outdated or deteriorating fire suppression systems can accelerate or not identify the spread or cause of fire.
- Outdated construction materials or techniques that don't meet current standards increase fire spread risk.
- Aging electrical components can elevate the risk of fire ignition or intensification.
- Older building designs may hamper effective evacuation protocols.
“Wait And See” Is A Costly Approach
Putting off inspections or maintenance may save time and money in the short term, but the consequences can be catastrophic. Failure to comply with local regulations results in fire marshal citations and fines, which can put you “on notice” with the fire department and municipality. Deferred maintenance costs more in the long run. Both put your facility and occupants at risk.
Regular inspections detect impending problems early, which helps minimize repairs and prevent more catastrophic failures. Timely replacement or upgrading to install the most advanced systems improves safety and peace of mind. In some cases, it may even positively affect insurance premiums.
With more jurisdictions adopting The Compliance Engine (TCE), staying current becomes even more important. This cloud-based platform links third-party professionals who inspect, test, and maintain fire safety systems, building owners, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHD)–the fire department, for example–enabling more detailed, real-time compliance tracking.
Where TCE is already required, our inspectors use this platform to report inspection results to the appropriate authority.
Proactive Solutions You Can Count On
Brothers Fire & Security offers a full range of fire safety services. You can get everything you need from a single, trusted strategic partner rather than having to coordinate the work of multiple vendors. This holistic approach allows you to take advantage of the latest technology, processes, and systems.
Annual Inspections
Regular inspection and preventive maintenance are your first lines of defense when it comes to fire safety. But the requirements can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to juggle schedules among multiple providers. At Brothers, our personalized approach streamlines inspection and maintenance compliance. Nothing is overlooked.
Modern Technologies
The Ohio Arson School notes that “embracing advanced technologies, such as smart fire detection systems and real-time monitoring, enhances the capabilities of aging infrastructure in responding to fire threats.”
Because we get to know our customers and your buildings, we can help you choose and install the most effective and cost-effective fire and security solutions.
For example, aging fire systems are prone to corrosion with sprinkler system piping due to oxygen exposure. Instead, we install a nitrogen venting system. This prolongs sprinkler system life and improves performance, saving you money and headaches in the long run.
Code Interpretation
Fire marshal inspection requirements, NFPA 72 monitoring requirements, and related compliance codes are complicated and confusing, and the details differ from one structure to another. Partnering with experts prevents misunderstandings or mistakes.
Our expertise enables you to identify the relevant requirements for your situation and meet them reliably and cost-effectively.
24/7 Emergency Response
You hope you never need your fire safety systems, but they must be ready to perform instantly and as expected if that time ever comes. Regular, thorough inspection and maintenance ensure all systems are “go.” And round-the-clock monitoring of all fire and security systems assures building occupants and first responders are alerted to act quickly.
Tools You Can Use
Choosing a reliable partner is a smart business decision, but there are still steps you can take yourself to avoid the hidden risks of aging fire systems. Our BFS Planning Matrix is a helpful tool that streamlines maintenance planning and budgeting and allows you to smoothly schedule inspections, servicing, and testing.
Don’t Wait Till Aging Infrastructure Fails You
Proactive management of your fire safety systems isn't just about compliance—it's about protecting lives and property. By partnering with experts like Brothers Fire & Security, you can address the hidden risks of aging infrastructure with confidence, ensuring your building remains safe, compliant, and prepared for emergencies.
