Fire is one of the more destructive aspects that a home or business can experience. This is especially the case when your commercial property also has highly flammable chemicals on the premises. Have you recently purchased a commercial property? How adequate is the current fire prevention system?
There are a few top ways that you can ensure that your commercial property is as fire safe as possible. Installing a robust in-ground fire system and keeping up to date with regular fire hydrant repairs are essential to keeping your property as protected as possible. If you’re not sure if your commercial property needs such a complex system, then this post is a must-read.
Understanding What In-Ground Fire Systems Are
The in-ground fire system has been defined by many as being highly effective and it’s not difficult to see why. Typically, this process involves adding an extensive underground piping system to your property. The primary goal here is to suppress fire as much as possible and is usually made up of well-placed fire hydrants and a selection of different sized hose reels.
Installing an in-ground fire system is regulated by law, and as per Australian legislation, the following commercial and industrial environments must have them installed:
- Commercial complexes: Modern commercial complexes prefer hidden fire protection systems, especially in outdoor spaces or large buildings.
- Industrial sites: This system will be installed in industrial sites where above-ground fire hydrants aren’t always practical due to the size of the premises or the location of buildings.
- Mining operations: Some mining activities take place in remote areas which makes it impossible to install regular fire service equipment.
Quality Fire Services Ensure Overall Safety
The most important aspect to know about fire systems in Australia is that whether or not you have one isn’t a matter of personal choice. As per Australian Law, every commercial and industrial business should have a fully working in-ground system or at least one fire hydrant.
Ignoring this regulation could see the property or company owner being fined or having the business on the property temporarily closed. Here’s a list of the other reasons why installing a fire system is essential, no matter how safe you think your business is.
1. Fire Systems Create Fire Suppression
The most significant reason to invest in a quality in-ground fire system is that this infrastructure provides firefighters with instant access to water. Not having to search for a hydrant ensures that the fire on your property can be tended to as soon as the emergency team arrives on site.
This will minimise the risk of a secondary fire or explosion on properties where flammable or hazardous chemicals are housed. Combined with an effective emergency plan, your staff, customers, and neighbours can safely evacuate to a designated space.
2. It’s a Requirement for Insurance
Whether you’re a business owner or you just own the property the company operates out of, you will be eager to find the best possible insurance to protect your assets. It’s essential to point out that you won’t qualify for this if you don’t have the necessary fire protocols in place.
Aside from this, new property owners may not know that many local insurance companies have special packages that offer lower premiums where superior fire services are already in place. This means that installing the right-sized fire system and fire hydrants will help you reduce your premiums. Once you have these systems in place, it’s essential to obtain the necessary proof from your plumber so that you can qualify for your lower installment.
3. Maintenance is a Breeze
Many property owners may shy away from adding a fire system because it may be regarded as another aspect to maintain, test, or even add to the maintenance list. Fortunately, you can sign up for a preventative maintenance plan with your commercial plumber. They will then ensure that all your fire systems are routinely inspected, tested, and repaired or replaced when necessary. This not only ensures that your property is safe but also that your equipment will run smoothly when it’s needed.
In-ground fire systems and fire hydrant maintenance aren’t the only two aspects that your commercial plumber will maintain. They will also check the following factors that affect how well your fire system works:
- All fire service installations, maintenance, and repairs
- Water meter setups and tapping to incorporate fire service Booster assemblies
- Fabrication and installation of fire hydrants and hose reel systems
Final Thoughts
To ensure that your business is both safe and compliant with local laws, it’s essential to have a fire system installed. You can start this process by speaking to your local commercial plumber for an assessment of your property. They will then make the best recommendation for the system that will keep your property safe.
Choosing to invest in both in-ground fire services and fire hydrants will keep your property, equipment, and inventory safe in the event of fire. The right type of fire equipment will also ensure that your employees, customers, and surrounding businesses are also safe.
Also read: How Often Should You Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment, and What Factors Should You Consider?
