Commercial Fire Systems
Commercial fire alarm systems are sometimes required as a condition of obtaining a "certificate of occupancy" before a business can open. The National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA72) is enforced by the Fire Marshal, otherwise known as the AHJ "Authority Having Jurisdiction.” Design plans for the fire alarms must be submitted by a NICET-certified individual for approval by the AHJ before the work begins. Citadel Security Systems has more than 50 years of experience assisting business owners fulfill fire code requirements, as well as performing annual fire certifications and monitoring your business against potential disasters.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors, which detect particles of smoke in the early stages of fire, will always be required. The layout of the building will determine how many smoke detectors will be required and where they will be installed.
Heat Detectors
Open area heat detectors activate at 135°F. Heat detectors are installed where smoke detectors would not perform well, such as cold unheated warehouses or dusty areas. High temperature heat detectors (194°F) are designed for attic applications, where temperatures can regularly reach 150°F.
Manual Pull Stations
Manual pull stations provide a means of signaling the remaining occupants of a building during a fire situation. They are installed near the exit doors and on all levels of the building. For schools and gymnasiums, plastic covers with their own built-in sounders may be prescribed by the AHJ as a deterrent to mischievous students.
Horn Strobes
Horn strobes alert the occupants of a building during a fire by producing a distinct audible sound along with a flashing light (for the benefit of the hearing impaired). An outdoor horn strobe may also be required so that responding firefighters can locate the building quickly before flames become visible.
Strobes
The federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that hearing-impaired persons must have adequate notification of fire situations. A strobe (without a horn) is required in all commercial bathrooms.
Sprinklers
If a sprinkler head activates, the central monitoring station will respond with a dispatch of the fire department. "Wet" sprinkler systems consist of pressurized water in pipes, while a “dry” sprinkler system contains pressurized air in the pipes. Both types of systems can be monitored.