Improving Fire Protection System Performance

Please note: The attached file below contains a presentation in pdf format from the BEST5 conference. Open with Adobe Acrobat for best results.

Although fire protection systems are static for much of their lifespan in a building, it is extremely important to perform regular checks and balances on the systems to ensure that they will operate properly when needed. The breadth of the knowledge, and thereby expert needed for this task will vary from one building to another; eg., a small office building will have different needs than a high-rise multiple-occupancy building. Although, there is a standard for inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of water-based fire protection systems, it is written to examine the wear and tear on equipment and confirm its functionality. Other guidelines for fire alarm systems and gaseous systems also take the approach of making sure the equipment will work. The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has endeavored to approach this more holistically, and the roles, responsibilities, and collaborations needed to improve ITM are discussed within.