Commercial Fire Detection Systems

Ensuring the safety of your commercial property is paramount, and a reliable commercial fire detection system is at the heart of any comprehensive fire safety strategy. 

Robinsons Facilities Services specialises in the maintenance of commercial fire detection systems, helping to protect businesses across Yorkshire and the entire UK from the devastating impact of fires. Our expert team ensures that your fire detection systems are always in optimal working condition, providing early warning and safeguarding lives and property. 

We offer a complete range of commercial fire protection and fire suppression services to suit your needs.

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Alternatively, you can learn about commercial fire detection systems maintenance and our approach from our experts below.

What is a Commercial Fire Detection System?

Commercial fire detection systems are designed to find and give an early warning of fire. They use multiple methods to detect fires, which can be caused by everything from lightning to electrical issues, and sound a fire alarm if needed.

Types of Commercial Fire Detection Systems

Let’s look at some of the different types of fire detection systems currently being used in businesses across Yorkshire and the UK.

Optical Smoke Detectors

Optical smoke detectors, also known as photoelectric smoke detectors, use a chamber and a light source. When smoke enters the chamber, it scatters the light. This triggers an alarm. One advantage of optical smoke detectors is that they are less prone to false alarms than other types of fire detection systems.

Combined Optical and Heat Detector

A combined optical and heat detector is made up of two parts – an optical smoke detector and a heat detector. The heat detector element is usually a rate-of-rise heat detector or a fixed-temperature heat detector. When the temperature rises above a certain level, or if there is a rapid rise in temperature, the alarm will sound.

CO and Heat Detector

CO and heat detectors are often used together in a commercial setting. A CO detector will sound an alarm when it detects high levels of carbon monoxide.

A heat detector, on the other hand, will sound an alarm when it detects rapid changes in temperature or sustained high temperatures. The combined CO and heat system can give an accurate early indication of a fire.

Ionisation detectors

These are less common these days as they are more prone to false alarms. An ionisation detector has a small amount of radioactive material that passes through an ionisation chamber. When smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts the flow of ions and triggers an alarm.

Wired or Wireless Fire Detection Systems?

Choosing between wired and wireless fire detection systems can be a crucial decision for your business. Each type has its own advantages and considerations, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances. 

Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

Wired Fire Detection Systems

Pros

1. Reliability: Wired systems are generally more reliable because they are less prone to interference and connectivity issues.
2. Consistent Power Supply: They draw power directly from your building’s electrical system, reducing the risk of battery failure.
3. Lower Maintenance Costs: With no batteries to replace, wired systems often have lower long-term maintenance costs.

Cons

1. Installation Complexity: Installing a wired system can be more complex and time-consuming, often requiring professional installation and potentially significant modifications to your building.
2. Higher Initial Costs: The upfront costs for a wired system can be higher due to the need for cables, conduits, and professional labour.

Wireless Fire Detection Systems

Pros

1. Ease of Installation: Wireless systems are easier and faster to install, with minimal disruption to your business operations. They are ideal for buildings where running cables would be difficult or impractical.
2. Flexibility: These systems offer greater flexibility and scalability, making it easier to expand or reconfigure as your needs change.
3. Modern Technology: Wireless systems often come with advanced features such as remote monitoring and integration with other smart building systems.

Cons

1. Potential Interference: Wireless systems can be subject to interference from other electronic devices, which might affect their reliability.
2. Battery Dependency: They rely on batteries, which require regular checking and replacement to ensure continuous operation.
3. Higher Maintenance Costs: Over time, the cost of replacing batteries can add up, leading to higher maintenance expenses.

Making the Right Choice

The best fire detection system for your business depends on several factors, including the size and layout of your premises, your budget, and your long-term maintenance capabilities.

• Small to Medium Premises: Wired systems might be more suitable for smaller buildings or those where consistent power supply and reliability are top priorities.
• Large or Complex Premises: Wireless systems are often better for larger or more complex buildings where flexibility and ease of installation are crucial.

Need advice on the best commercial fire detection system for your business?
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Why You Need a Fire Detection System

A commercial fire detection system in your building is not optional. You need to ensure that visitors and employees are kept safe. Reasons for a fire detection system include:

1. Meeting your legal requirements

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets out legal requirements for fire safety in non-domestic buildings in the UK. This includes the requirement for fire detection and warning systems to be installed in buildings where necessary.

2. Early detection of fire

Fire detection systems are designed to detect the presence of smoke or fire in a building quickly. Early detection can help alert building occupants and emergency services, which can reduce the risk of injury or fatalities and minimise property damage.

3. Automatic activation of suppression systems

Many fire detection systems are linked to fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers or foam systems. If a fire is detected, these systems can be automatically activated, helping to extinguish the fire quickly.

4. Monitoring and control

Modern fire detection systems can be monitored and controlled remotely, allowing for quick response times in the event of a fire. They can also be integrated with other building management systems.

5. Compliance with insurance requirements

Some insurance policies require businesses to have a fire detection system installed to ensure that they are adequately protected against fire risks. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in insurance claims being denied or reduced.

Maintenance of Commercial Fire Detection Systems Yorkshire & UK 

Whichever type of commercial fire detection system you have installed, it’s important to get it regularly checked and serviced by a professional.

Robinsons Facilities Services provides a comprehensive maintenance service for your commercial fire detection system, ensuring that the system complies with BS 5839 regulations.

In line with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO), your fire alarm systems should be tested weekly, and checked by a professional every six months to ensure that there are no errors and that the system is reliable if the worst should happen.

We will test all the components of your system, including the alarms, and make sure that they are working correctly. Robinsons Facilities Services can help with all aspects of your fire safety, from risk assessments to sprinkler systems. We offer fast and efficient response times across Yorkshire and the entire UK.

Get In Touch

Trust Robinsons Facilities Services to keep your fire detection systems compliant and effective, so you can focus on what you do best—running your business.

Contact us today on 01423 226578 or send us an enquiry—we’re looking forward to hearing from you.