Preparing for fire suppression system installation
We understand that choosing the right fire suppression system is a pivotal step in protecting an organisation and its people. One perfectly tailored to the application it's needed for, and the operating conditions it will exist in. And once you’ve found the ideal system, making sure it’s installed correctly and functioning as it should be is the next important process.
Here, we outline the essential steps and considerations to make fire suppression system installation as smooth and effective as possible, with minimal schedule disturbances.
What to do ahead of a fire suppression system installation
A fire suppression system is a crucial safety measure that quickly and effectively detects and extinguishes fires, or controls their spread until emergency responders arrive. Before the fire suppression system installation stage, it’s critical that a fire risk assessment is undertaken to identify equipment or areas that require immediate protection. Ensure it meets fire safety regulations, as well as the required standards and functions for the specific industry. An expert fire suppression system supplier and installer such as Ardent can advise on this, and involving local authorities or fire departments can also ensure compliance before installation.
Three steps to successful fire suppression system installation
Whether planning ahead for static fire suppression system installation (to protect fixed equipment, such as electrical panels or transformer cabinets) or mobile plant fire suppression system installation, planning in advance will ensure a safe and successful timeline. Here, we outline the questions to ask ahead of setting up systems.
- Where will it go? Work closely with experts to identify the optimal locations for installing fire suppression systems. This may include looking at the layout of a premises, high-risk zones (for example, areas of a power plant where combustible materials are stored), and spotting potential obstacles that could affect accessibility to the system. At Ardent, we design bespoke fire suppression systems specifically to the environment it functions in, before it’s installed.
- When will it be installed? Having a meticulous fire suppression system installation schedule is vital to ensure minimal disruption to operations. Work with engineers to plan the best installation times around this schedule - this might be when operations are typically less busy, during scheduled maintenance periods, or during weekends and off-peak hours to reduce the impact on productivity. For larger facilities, installation times may need to be staggered, focusing on specific areas at a time.
- Who needs to know about it? Communicate logistics and timings with all personnel - from fire alarm testing they need to be aware of to any necessary shutdowns or alterations to operation activities. Assign dedicated personnel to oversee the installation process and ensure operations run smoothly and compliantly. It’s also the legal duty of a responsible person to ensure that all relevant personnel are trained on how to use fire safety equipment. Consider who this will be, and prepare them for training on how the fire suppression system works. All fire suppression system installations with Ardent include a comprehensive handover, including useful documentation and installation certificates. We can also provide operator training, tailored to an organisation.
Where to find help prepping for a fire suppression system installation
Installing a fire suppression system requires careful planning, adherence to safety standards, and professional expertise. At Ardent, we don’t only provide bespoke systems and services for specific sectors and machinery, tested to withstand the most challenging conditions and comply with industry standards. Our technical team can also carry out fire hazard identification and then, our field engineers will undertake fire suppression system installation according to a company’s requirements, operations, and schedule.
To get help with fire suppression system installation and make the process easier, contact our expert team for advice on our full-circle servicing and support.