Best Practices for Installation and Maintenance of Fire Alarm Systems

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Safety will always be a priority for everyone. This is more so in busy neighborhoods with lots of people living close together like in developing countries. These areas can be especially risky in a fire because flames can easily spread from one building to another. That’s why having good fire detection and alarm systems in the Philippines are so important. 

These systems can detect a fire early on – when it’s just starting – which gives people more time to get out safely and firefighters a better chance of putting it out before it gets too big and causes a lot of damage. Here’s a guide to ensure your alarm system is installed and maintained properly:

Installation

Comply with Regulations

Fire alarm system installation in the Philippines must adhere to the Philippine Building Code (PBC) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Fire Safety Code. These regulations specify placement requirements, detector types, and electrical specifications. Consulting a registered Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE) is crucial to ensure compliance.

Location is Key

Placing the alarms in the right spots makes them work best at catching fires early. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the building, including any rooms below ground (basements) and any rooms at the top (attics). 

They should also be placed outside areas where people sleep and close to places where fires are more likely to start, like kitchens where you cook. For garages and attics, which can get dusty sometimes, heat detectors are a better choice because dust can sometimes set off smoke alarms by mistake.

Choose the Right Detector

There are different types of alarms available, each suited to different situations. The most common ones are good for most areas of a house or building. These alarms use light to look for smoke particles in the air. For fires that start and spread quickly, there are also special alarms that are more likely to pick them up early. 

And in places where there’s a lot of dust or cooking smoke that might set off a regular alarm by mistake, there’s another type of alarm that works better. If you’re not sure which type of alarm is best for your situation, it’s always a good idea to talk to a fire safety expert. They can help you choose the right alarms to keep you safe.

Clear Communication

The fire alarm system needs a way to send a signal if it detects a fire. This signal needs to get to a place where someone can call the fire department right away. There are a few ways to do this, depending on what’s available in your area and what you prefer. One way is to use a regular phone line. Another option is to use a cell phone signal. There’s also a newer way that uses the internet. The most important thing is to make sure there’s a clear path for the signal so help can arrive quickly in case of a fire.

Maintenance

Regular Testing 

Conduct monthly tests of your fire alarm system to verify its functionality. This includes testing smoke and heat detectors, ensuring audible and visual alarms activate properly, and confirming the communication link with the monitoring station is functional.

Cleaning and Dusting

Dust collection on detectors can reduce their ability to detect smoke particles. To keep smoke detectors performing optimally, clean them on a regular basis using a soft, dry cloth. Refrain from using water or solvents for cleaning, since they can harm the internal components.

Battery Replacement

Most residential fire alarms use replaceable batteries. Change the batteries at least once a year, or sooner if the low battery chirp activates. Consider using long-life lithium batteries for extended life between replacements.

Professional Inspection

Schedule annual inspections by a qualified fire alarm technician. These inspections involve a thorough examination of the entire system, including testing detectors, verifying wiring integrity, and ensuring the control panel functions correctly.

Additional Tips

Invest in Training

Familiarize everyone in your household or workplace with the location of fire alarms, evacuation procedures, and how to use a fire extinguisher.

Maintain Clear Access

Do not obstruct fire alarm detectors with furniture or decorations. Ensure all exits and evacuation routes remain clear of clutter to facilitate safe escape in case of fire.

Record Keeping

Maintain records of fire alarm system inspections, maintenance performed, and battery replacements. This demonstrates due diligence and can be helpful in case of insurance claims.

Key Takeaway

By implementing these best practices for fire detection and alarm systems in the Philippines you can ensure the optimal functionality of your fire alarm system. It will provide the critical early warning necessary to safeguard yourself, your family, and your property from fire hazards. A properly maintained fire alarm system serves as a vital first line of defense, affording precious time for safe evacuation in the event of a fire emergency.

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