What You Need to Know About Commercial Fire Sprinklers
At RAD, our team understand the benefits of installing fire sprinklers throughout every building, including residential and commercial properties. Not only can these save lives, but also save property damage and benefit the environment. But, what should businesses know about commercial fire sprinklers?
What is the Law?
There are no legal requirements that businesses have to have commercial fire sprinklers installed. However, there are certain building regulations for residential buildings, that if the business meets, will then have to have sprinkler systems in place.
For example, for businesses that are over 20,000 square metres, commercial fire sprinklers are required. Also, due to the Fire Safety Act, a business is legally obligated to conduct regular fire risk assessments if they open to the public or has more than 5 employees. Through this procedure, the responsible person may determine that fire sprinklers should be installed within the premises, especially in busy companies or rooms that have flammable materials.
This is also true for businesses that are located in high-rise buildings over 30m, in accordance with fire sprinkler requirements.
Fires Disrupt Productivity
Much like other industries, such as education, fires can also disrupt work productivity and the lives of their employees.
In Nottinghamshire, a fire started in the County Council’s headquarters at County Hall, across four floors. On July the 28th, 12 pumps were sent by Nottingham Fire and Rescue Services to deal with the flames. Although the flames were put out, staff were evacuated during the working day and are unable to return to the office for the time being. There was also a loss of services such as Capita One and Skype which improves efficiency through the office.
Instead, if commercial fire sprinklers were implemented, the flames would not have spread as quickly through the old structure and employees may have been able to return to work afterwards.
Fire is More Damaging Than Water
Occasionally, business owners believe fire damage outweighs the after-effects of commercial fire sprinklers. However, this is incorrect.
A firefighter may dispense up to 150 gallons of water per minute to deal with flames that have spread. Yet, a sprinkler head, has a reduced amount of up to 24 gallons, depending on how severe the situation is. Compared to a commercial sprinkler system, firefighters spray flames with eight times as much water.
Instead, by using fire sprinklers, your business is implementing the first stage of fire suppression and is limiting the flames for when the emergency services arrive. This will also save the amount of water that the firefighters will use and the amount of water damage to the property.
Does My Business Need Commercial Fire Sprinklers?
The Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service have stated that around 85% of small and medium businesses that suffer from severe fires either never recover or cease trading within 18 months. So, why take the risk?
Commercial fire sprinklers are a cost-effective system that helps protect both property damage and the lives of occupants inside. Though it is not a legal requirement, these sprinkler systems are an efficient solution to protecting a business and its productivity.
RAD Fire Sprinklers
Here at RAD, we design and install fire sprinklers throughout residential and commercial buildings, including hospitals, warehouses and schools. Based in London and the South East area, we are not just limited to the capital. Our commercial fire sprinklers are ideal to meet building regulations. And improve workplace safety for you, your employees and your customers.
For more information, or to receive a quote, fill in our online form here. Or, give us a call on 01892 680 090.
