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Fire alarms are an integral part of business security. They play a crucial role in detecting fires and are a basic defence system against the horrible effects of a fire. If used properly, they have the power to save lives and property and safeguard business owners from the devastating financial as well as legal consequences of a fire breaking out on the premises.
Fire alarms have evolved over the years from simple manual call points to automatic fire detection systems with advanced sensors and technology. With better functionality and features in every iteration, fire alarm systems continue to be a crucial part of modern business security.
However, to maximise their effectiveness and for more comprehensive security for your business, fire alarm systems can be integrated with other security systems such as access control, CCTV cameras, and intrusion detection. This creates a more centralised and streamlined approach to managing safety and security protocols, making it an integral feature for all modern business premises.
Read on to find out more about fire alarm systems, the benefits of integrating fire alarm systems with other security systems, how to do so, and more:
FIRE ALARMS FOR BUSINESSES
Fire safety in commercial buildings and businesses is a serious matter that requires business owners to understand and uphold their responsibility of protecting their business property and the people in it from the devastating effects of a fire. There are certain regulations in place for fire safety in the workplace, adherence to which is mandatory for all those responsible as per the workplace safety laws.
One of the best ways to minimise the risk of fire and prevent it from harming human lives and business property is to install a fire alarm system designed to detect and alert the occupants of a building of the presence of a potential fire. These systems make up the basis of fire safety and are a must-have safety feature in all kinds of businesses, regardless of their size.
Fire alarms are made up of several components which include a control panel, initiating devices, and notification devices, all of which work together to offer protection against fires. The level of protection depends on the type of fire alarm system and the additional features it has. Most fire alarms for businesses are often connected to a central monitoring station for faster response time and enhanced safety.
British Standard 5839 is the standard for fire alarms in business premises. They dictate the code of practice for designing, installing, commissioning, and maintaining fire alarm systems in non-domestic buildings, as well as important recommendations for where the systems should be located for maximum safety and protection.
Having a compliant fire alarm system in your business is a regulatory requirement to operate safely and legally. It allows for early detection of fire and reduces the risk of damage to business property and assets. It provides business owners with much-needed peace of mind knowing that they are complying with workplace safety regulations and have the required safety measures in place.
BENEFITS OF FIRE ALARM INTEGRATION WITH OTHER SECURITY SYSTEMS
While standalone fire alarm systems are a great way to detect the early signs of a fire and protect against potential fires, the need for fire alarm integration with other security systems has never been more critical. This is true, especially for modern businesses that can benefit greatly from interconnected safety and security systems.
Integrated fire alarms not only offer enhanced protection but also help create a more comprehensive and centralised system that can offer much more than just fire detection. From responding to emergencies to coordinating evacuation procedures, integration of fire alarms with other security systems helps address several safety and security concerns in a more streamlined manner.
An integrated fire and security system combines different safety and security technologies into a unified, cohesive solution. Some of the most common security systems that can be integrated with fire alarms include access control, CCTV cameras, and intrusion detection, all of which are connected via a centralised control panel. Other building systems that fire alarms can be integrated with include fire suppression systems, HVAC systems, and lighting systems.
By using smart technology and intelligent software, integrated systems allow for seamless communication between the various components and offer numerous benefits for your business such as:
Enhanced Safety and Security
Two is better than one. The same applies to safety and security systems such as fire alarms. While fire alarms themselves are very effective in offering fire protection, integrated systems provide a more holistic solution to safety and security. By connecting them with other security systems, businesses can benefit from all the systems’ different features and functionalities to significantly enhance safety.
Centralised Control and Management
Since all the safety and security systems are connected via a centralised control panel, it allows for better and swifter management and monitoring. Features such as remote access, real-time alerts, and automated reporting make it easier to stay informed regarding all aspects of safety and security, a feature that can be particularly beneficial for larger businesses and complex setups.
Faster Emergency Response
When it comes to emergencies such as fires, every second counts. A single delayed second could be the cause of damage and destruction which could otherwise be prevented with a quicker response. While state-of-the-art fire alarms with features such as early fire detection are highly effective at facilitating swift emergency response, when they are integrated with other security systems, the response times can be further reduced potentially saving lives and protecting business property.
TOP BUSINESS SECURITY SYSTEMS FOR FIRE ALARM INTEGRATION
Security systems are an important part of business security. Their primary purpose is to protect the business, its assets, and its employees from all types of safety and security threats. Regardless of the type and size of your business, installing security systems that match your security needs is a vital part of fostering growth and staying compliant with the law.
There are several types of security systems used in businesses, the most common ones being access control, CCTV cameras, and intrusion detection. Each one plays a crucial role in keeping the business safe and enhancing the safety and security of the property.
Integrating these security systems with fire alarm systems can further enhance their functionality and create a more responsive and reliable solution for fire detection and overall security. Here’s how they can be integrated with fire alarm systems and how they can add to the business’s safety and security in terms of fire detection and response.
Access Control
Access control systems, also called keyless entry systems, are automated systems that manage and control the inflow and outflow of people within a building. Instead of using traditional keys, these systems use advanced authentication methods such as access codes, access cards, key fobs, biometrics, and smartphone apps.
These systems offer much more in terms of safety, reliability, and control and are a great way to keep track of who entered the business premises and when. Access control systems come with advanced software that collects data such as the credentials of the person entering the building, along with the timestamp, which can be incredibly useful in case of any emergency or security breach.
Another great feature of modern access control systems is their ability to be remotely monitored and controlled. Business owners and security personnel can remotely check who entered the premises and when, and if the need arises, the doors can be remotely locked or unlocked, a process that can also be automated.
Access control plays an integral part in fire safety and its integration with fire alarm systems is an important one for business security. In case of a fire in the building, easy exit for people to flee to safety is incredibly important, and so is easy access for emergency responders to get into the building.
When a fire is detected by the fire alarm system, the doors can be automatically unlocked, including all the emergency exits, via access control for quick and safe evacuation. This automation also provides quick access to fire and rescue services resulting in no wastage of time trying to get into the building and rescuing people.
Also, since access control systems keep a log of who is present in the building, it can be used to check the number of people in a designated space and ensure all have been safely evacuated. This is an incredibly useful feature during emergencies and can help save time and precious lives.
CCTV Cameras
CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) cameras are a popular type of security system used in businesses of all types. Their use is becoming more widespread due to their ability to efficiently and effectively keep an eye on all parts of the property, including high-risk and isolated areas.
Instead of having to hire security guards and personnel and posting them all over the property, which may or not be effective, both in terms of reliability and costs, CCTV cameras can be installed in all key areas of the business to keep a watchful eye all over, all at once.
These systems usually consist of several cameras connected to a central digital video recorder which captures, stores, and manages footage in real time. The footage can also be recorded to be viewed later for security, safety, and legal purposes. The systems can be remotely controlled, and the footage can be viewed on screens both on-site as well as remotely.
Modern CCTV systems also come with a smartphone app that allows the footage to be viewed on your phone. They also send notifications and alerts every time the system detects unusual activity, such as an intrusion. There are several types of CCTV cameras for business security with advanced features such as facial recognition, motion sensors, remote monitoring, and integration with other security systems.
Integrating CCTV cameras with fire alarms can be incredibly useful as they can facilitate both fire detection as well as suppression. The visual assistance provided by these cameras is a useful tool for emergencies and the real-time footage can allow fire and rescue services to quickly determine the origin of the fire and extinguish it before it causes further damage.
The footage captured by the CCTV cameras helps get a clearer idea of the high-risk areas affected by the fire and can be used to guide the occupants of the building to safety. Also, the recorded footage can later be examined to determine the cause of the fire and the factors that contributed to the blaze. This information can be very useful for improving safety and avoiding such incidents in the future. It is also extremely valuable for legal and insurance purposes.
Intrusion Detection
Intrusion detection systems, also called burglar alarms, are a type of security alarm system designed to detect unauthorised access into the property and trigger an alarm to send out an alert of the intrusion. These systems work using a series of sensors including motion sensors, glass break detectors, passive infrared, and contact sensors to detect any unusual activity within a building.
They are an important part of business security with their primary purpose being to monitor security breaches and deter potential intruders from targeting your business. There are a few different types of intruder alarms available for commercial use. From simple bells-only alarms to smart alarm systems with remote monitoring capabilities, they can work as standalone systems as well as when integrated with other security systems such as fire alarms.
Both intruder alarms and fire alarms are designed to alert you to threats. While one focuses on intrusions, the other detects fire-related dangers. Combining the two systems results in a more comprehensive safety and security solution that results in better emergency response.
In case of a fire and the fire alarm triggering, the integrated intrusion system would also get activated. Any unusual activity or forced entry during this time would be picked up by the system and an alert would be sent out. This ensures protection against intrusions and any fire-related emergency attended to at the earliest.
HOW TO INTEGRATE FIRE ALARMS WITH OTHER BUSINESS SECURITY SYSTEMS?
Integration of fire alarms with other security systems can be extremely beneficial for businesses in providing a more cohesive and comprehensive safety and security solution. The main thing to ensure while doing so is for the systems to be able to seamlessly and effectively communicate with each other for them to respond appropriately. The integration process requires careful planning and consideration and includes the following steps:
Assessment
The process starts with a thorough assessment of the existing security systems including access control, CCTV cameras, and security alarms, and identifying any areas of improvement.
Planning
A detailed plan is constructed that outlines every detail of the integration process including the requirements, specifications, and the desired outcome. The plan is created keeping in mind the business’s safety and security requirements and is tailored according to its unique needs.
Selection
The selection process involves choosing the appropriate systems and technologies that are compatible and can integrate easily to form a unified safety and security infrastructure. Factors that need to be kept in mind include scalability, ease of use, and communication.
Integration and Installation
This step involves the integration of the various components of the systems to ensure seamless communication. It is best to consult security specialists, such as the ones at Calder Security, to ensure everything works as it should and complies with industry standards.
Testing and Maintenance
Once the integration process is complete, thorough testing is carried out to ensure the proper functionality of the integrated systems. A maintenance schedule is also set up to ensure the system’s reliability and longevity.
CONTACT CALDER SECURITY
At Calder Security, we provide a comprehensive range of security solutions that include not just professional installation but also monitoring, maintenance, and repair services.
We are members of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA), approved members of the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) and also conform to all the relevant British and EU Standards. We follow all the best practices in the industry and install only high-quality, state-of-the-art security systems.
We offer various levels of monitoring via a 24-hour monitoring centre using Dualcom and BT Redcare signalling, which is the most secure alarm monitoring system and the largest supplier of intelligent alarm signalling services in the UK.
We understand the importance of having to regularly maintain security systems since the inability to do so might result in serious faults and consequent vulnerabilities in your property’s security.
We provide professional maintenance checks and reminders for when the checks are due to help you stay compliant with the law and work fast to restore your security systems to excellent condition.
We offer a 24-hour call-out service for customers and can also repair systems not installed by us. Our engineers are highly skilled and can restore faulty systems to full working order in one visit. Contact us here or call us at 0800 612 9799 to talk to our experts right away!
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