The fire protection industry is constantly changing with new products, updated codes, and advances in technology.  In the dynamic world of business, ensuring the safety of employees’ customers and assets is of paramount importance. Fire protection system plays a crucial role in safeguarding properties and lives. Fire safety is an essential part of any business or home; as such investing in reliable firefighting equipment can mean the difference between a minor incident and a devastating disaster. It is important to ensure your life safety equipment continues to meet the needs of the facility. 

Recently, the fire safety of existing buildings has been decreasing over time.  Based on factors such as space limitations and high construction costs have made fire safety upgrades difficult. As such it is important we revisit the path of continuous upgrade and renovation. 

FEATURES OF FIRE SAFETY UPGRADE

Fire safety upgrade strategies are a set of rules and guidelines for construction, alteration, demolition and maintenance of new and existing buildings.  Recently the National Fire Protection Agency presented the Fire Safety Evaluation System (FSES) of the Life Safety Code.  The system is based on prioritizing human safety by liaising with fire insurance and financial loan outfits, making it easier for property owners to undertake recommended improvements. 

The key purpose of fire safety upgrade however includes;

• People who use buildings can do so safely without endangering their health
• Buildings have attributes that contribute appropriately to the health, physical independence and wellbeing of the people who use them. 
• People who use a building can escape if it is on fire
• Buildings are designed constructed and able to be used in ways that promote sustainable development. 

WHAT IS FIRE SAFETY UPGRADE STRATEGY?

A fire safety upgrade is a set of guidelines and strategies put in place for fire prevention and protection equipment in the existing building.  The purpose of a fire safety upgrade strategy for existing buildings is to make reasonable improvements to the fire safety of the building. Each year, technical requirements for the design and construction of buildings have evolved and improved.  As such, a fire safety upgrade strategy will involve review of an exciting building based on audit and onsite inspection of a building. 

IMPORTANCE OF FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM UPGRADE:

The importance of a fire protection system can be summarized in a solitary word; “safety”. A Fire protection system is designed to ensure that a fire can be easily be contained, does not spread fast that occupants can exit and fire crew enter easily, and that the structure stands against fire for as long as possible. 

Conversely, the importance of fire safety includes;

PEACE OF MIND:  When occupants know the evacuation procedures, the safety policies in place, and the plans of action; people feel safer.  Business owners can rest their minds and put more effort into safeguarding their businesses and facilities. 

CODE COMPLIANCE: Complying with local and federal fire safety regulations so you avoid conceivably expensive fines and degrading censures.

EVACUATION PLAN: audible and visual plans and systems promote life safety.  A well-executed and communicated plan will ensure that people ensure that people escape efficiently and safely.  

WHY UPGRADING FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT MATTERS:

Upgrading fire protection equipment can provide a wide range of benefits including improved effectiveness and efficiency; saving cost in the long run and enhanced compliance with safety standards as it ensures improved safety for occupants.  By investing in modern equipment, you can ensure that you have the best tools available to combat fires, as well as protect your property and everyone inside. 

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BUILDING REQUIRES AN UPGRADE?

Often, due to changes to an existing building, the portions that are being changed or the entire building is required to be upgraded to comply with provisions of safety requirements.  The requirement for a building to be upgraded varies between states and territories as well as with different types of buildings. A fire safety upgrade order may be issued by the local council or fire authority to notify the building owner that a building is required to be upgraded.  Also, building owners can be proactive and decide to make voluntary fire upgrades on their buildings. Such upgrades will also require approval from local authorities or from safety professionals.