6 good reasons to make some upgrades to your fire safety equipment and procedures

Even though your fire safety plan and the equipment you have in place seems to be adequate, things change over time. What worked well for your business operation a few years ago may not be as effective now. It may be time to make some upgrades or possibly replace some equipment. A change in your fire safety procedures may also be in order. From arranging full fire sprinkler systems testing to going over exit plans, here are a few reasons why now is the time to think about upgrades and changes.

Up to Date Technology Can Be Yours

It’s hard to think of any area of a business operation that’s not impacted by advances in technology. You can bet that while your system and equipment was the latest thing back in the day, at least some of that equipment is outdated. Upgrading may mean more than replacing an aging CO2 fire extinguisher or two. It may also mean making some changes to an overhead system or the alarms. In some cases, you just need to replace components of the system rather than attempting to upgrade anything.

The Business Layout Has Changed

The equipment, supplies, and procedures you have in place now were first implemented for an operation with a different layout. Over the years, you’ve had to change the layout in order to keep up with the growth enjoyed by the company. While some of the planning and the equipment are still fine, it’s time to make some changes and bring everything in line with the current layout. While you are arranging for professional fire sprinkler systems testing, it’s time to rethink the placement of smoke alarms, the exit routes used by different departments, and other aspects of your fire safety planning.

You Have More Employees

One of the big changes in the last few years is the expansion of your employee force. While that’s great, how well does your current setup take care of their safety? It could be time to come up with a new plan for where to place another CO2 fire extinguisher or two, invest in a couple more equipment lockers, and maybe even think about more emergency lights and signage.

Remember that the goal of your fire safety system and the procedures have two goals. One is to ensure there is minimal damage to the workplace. The other is to make sure all of your employees exit the building safely if a fire should break out. Unless your present planning is adequate, now is the time to start making changes.

Changes in Local Fire Safety Codes

When was the last time you reviewed the current fire safety code? Perhaps there’s been a small change or two that escaped your notice. The time to find out about those changes is not when the fire marshal visits for a full inspection.

Make it a point to go over the current code and make sure your equipment and procedures are in full compliance. At the least, making sure everything is up to standards prevents you from being fined and possibly having to shut down the operation while some upgrades are done later.

Lock in More Competitive Insurance Rates

Have you thought about what some upgrades or investment in new equipment would mean for your business insurance premiums? Any actions on your part that lower the insurance company’s risk of doing business with you is likely to result in some type of discount. Check with your provider and find out all you can about possible discounts from upgrading safety features. Even making a few changes could save a significant amount over the course of a year.

Peace of Mind

As a business owner, you already have plenty of causes for worry. Choosing to ensure that the fire safety system is in perfect working order means one less thing to keep you up at night. Anything that gives you a little more peace of mind is a good thing.

Start the review today. Call in a professional who can evaluate everything from the exit routes defined in your fire safety planning to the condition and efficiency of your fire and smoke alarms. If there are any suggestions from the professional, implement them as quickly as possible. Once you have a new CO2 fire extinguisher or two, redesign the exit routes, and ensure your employees are safe, you can turn your attention to other matters.

Herbert Williams Fire Sprinkler System, Fire Extinguishers, Fire Protection

70 Ironside Crescent , Unit 1, 2, 3 & 4, Toronto, Canada, ON, M1X 1G4

+1 416-292-8630