Our Services

Fire Alarm Systems

What is a fire alarm system?

Fire alarm systems are essential to the safety and protection of a building and it’s occupants by means of early detection and notification. Fire alarm systems use numerous types of manual and automatic detection devices such as manual pull stations, smoke detectors, and heat detectors.  Upon activation of these devices the fire alarm system will notify building occupants by means of audible and visual devices, such as bells, horns, strobes, and speakers. Many fire alarms are also connected to a fire alarm monitoring system that will alert the fire department in the event of an alarm.  

Why do fire alarm systems require testing?

Fire alarm systems have many internal components as well as devices wired throughout the building which are susceptible to wear, fatigue, failure due to age or damage, as well as tampering or obstruction of devices. During an annual inspection our technicians will test all accessible devices throughout the building, ensure the panel is operating correctly on normal as well as back up power supplies, confirm that auxiliary and ancillary relays are activating as designed. The BC Fire Code requires that fire alarm systems are inspected and tested annually by a trained fire alarm technician, many municipalities also require that the trained technician holds a valid ASTTBC certification in the fire alarm discipline.

How often does a fire alarm system require testing?

Fire alarms systems require annual testing as per the BC Fire Code. The testing shall be completed by a trained fire alarm technician. In many municipalities it is also required that the trained technician holds a valid ASTTBC certification in the fire alarm discipline. In addition to the annual testing requirements, it is also necessary to complete daily and monthly inspections. A Visual inspection of the fire alarm control panel shall be completed daily. Monthly inspections include functional testing of the fire alarm system. Although it is not required that monthly testing be conducted by a certified fire alarm technician, many clients prefer to have our technicians perform this testing on their behalf. Documentation for all inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review.

Fire Sprinkler Inspections

What is a fire sprinkler system?

A fire sprinkler system is an automatic fire protection system that consists of a water supply that provides adequate pressure and flow rate to a water distribution piping system, which is connected to fire sprinklers heads. Fire sprinkler systems are typically activated when a predetermined temperature is reached, causing a heat sensitive glass bulb or fusible link to activate. Upon activation water is discharged from the sprinkler head in order to suppress the fire or control the fire by pre-wetting the surrounding combustibles.

What are the most common types of fire sprinkler systems?

Wet Pipe 

Wet pipe sprinkler systems are installed more often than all other types of fire sprinkler systems and are generally found inside most heated building structures. They also are the most reliable, because they are simple, with the few operating components such as the automatic sprinkler heads, alarm flow or pressure switches, and water shut off valves. A constant water supply provides water under pressure to the system piping.

Dry Pipe

Dry pipe systems are the second most common sprinkler system type. Dry pipe systems are installed in spaces in which the ambient temperature may be cold enough to freeze the water in a wet pipe system, rendering the system inoperable. Dry pipe systems are most often used in unheated buildings, in parking garages, in outside canopies, or in refrigerated coolers.

By utilizing a specialized type of check valve called a dry pipe valve, water is not present in the piping network. System piping is pressurized with air which holds a clapper in the dry pipe valve closed, preventing water from entering the piping. When a sprinkler head is activated, the air pressure in the piping network is released and water fills the system and discharges through the activated sprinkler head.

How often does a fire sprinkler system require testing?

Fire sprinkler systems require annual testing as per the BC Fire Code. The testing shall be completed by a trained fire sprinkler technician. In many municipalities it is also required that the trained technician holds a valid ASTTBC certification in the sprinkler system discipline. In addition to the annual testing requirements, it is also necessary to complete daily, monthly, quarterly and semi-annual inspections as well some longer period tests required every three and five years. 

Visual inspections of various sire sprinkler components are required daily and weekly. Monthly inspections include functional testing of the fire sprinkler systems. Although it is not required that monthly testing be conducted by a certified fire sprinkler system technician, many clients prefer to have our technicians perform this testing on their behalf. Quarterly and semi-annual inspections are more in-depth testing control valves, alarm valves, and pressure switches. Documentation for all fire inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review.

Why do I need to winterize my dry pipe sprinkler system?

Although dry pipe sprinkler systems are not full of water, they can collect condensation over time which if not drained properly may freeze during the colder months. Any freezing inside sprinkler piping can result in major damage to the system, as the slightest crack will cause the air pressure to leak out. This weak point may then expand and cause the pipe or fittings to blow out when water fills the system.

Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs

What is Emergency Lighting?

An emergency light is a battery-backed lighting device that switches on automatically in the event of a power outage. During a power outage a normally well-lit area may shift to total darkness in a fraction of a second. If installed properly, emergency lighting will then turn on and provide enough light to allow occupants to exit the building safely.

How long should emergency lights run for?

Emergency lights are designed to provide enough lighting to allow for a safe immediate evacuation of a building in the event of a lower outage. The battery-backed packs are not meant to provide continuous light for an indefinite period. The requirements for emergency lighting are determined by the occupancy grouping of the building. These requirements can vary from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the building. 

How often do emergency lights require testing?

Emergency lights are required to be inspected annually by a certified emergency lighting service technician. In many municipalities it is also required that the trained technician holds a valid ASTTBC certification in the emergency lighting discipline. In addition to the annual testing requirements, it is also necessary to complete monthly inspections. Monthly inspections include a visual inspection of the unit as well as a function test ensuring the unit is operational. Although it is not required that monthly testing be conducted by a certified technician, many clients prefer to have our technicians perform this testing on their behalf. Documentation for all inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review.

What is the difference between red and green exit signs?

While there are still many red “EXIT” signs installed throughout north America, many municipalities are gradually starting to phase these out in favour of the “Green Running Man” exit signs which show a pictograph of a silhouetted person. While newer to North America, the “Green Running Man” exit signs have been used internationally for years. In many places around the world the colour red represents “Stop” or “Hazard”, whereas the colour green represents “Go” or “Safety”. The use of the pictograph is more universally understood, as they can be easier understood regardless of the language one speaks or their reading level.

Fire Extinguishers

What are the different types of fire extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers are specific to the hazard they are protecting. Although multi-purpose ABC dry chemical fire extinguishers are most common, they are not always the best extinguisher for each type of hazard. Before choosing which fire extinguisher will best meet your needs, you will first need to determine the type of hazard you are protecting.

Class A – Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, plastics, rubber and trash.

Class B – Flammable liquids such as solvents, oil, gasoline, paints, lacquers and other oil based products.

Class C – Energized electrical equipment such as wiring, controls, motors, machinery, or appliances.

Class D – Combustible metals such as Magnesium, lithium, and titanium.

Class K – Combustible cooking media such as oils and grease commonly found in commercial kitchens. 

How often do fire extinguishers require testing?

Fire extinguishers are required to be inspected annually by a certified fire extinguisher service technician. In many municipalities it is also required that the trained technician holds a valid ASTTBC certification in the fire extinguisher discipline. In addition to the annual testing requirements, it is also necessary to complete monthly inspections. Monthly inspections include visually inspections of the fire extinguisher and its surroundings, ensuring pressure gauge is in acceptable range, and checking the weight of the fire extinguisher to check fullness. Although it is not required that monthly testing be conducted by a certified technician, many clients prefer to have our technicians perform this testing on their behalf. Documentation for all inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review. Fire extinguishers also require more in-depth maintenance at the five, six, and twelve year intervals depending on the type of fire extinguisher.

How to use a fire extinguisher?

All fire extinguishers currently in service are required to have instructions for use accompanied by a pictogram that further clarifies how to use the fire extinguisher. An easy way to remember how to operate a fire extinguisher correctly is by remembering the acronym P.A.S.S.

Pull the pin

Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire

Squeeze the lever

Sweep from side to side

*Remember to only attempt to put out a fire if you feel safe and confident doing so.

Backflow Prevention

What is backflow?

Backflow is the reverse flow of non-potable water or other substances into the piping network of a public water system or a building’s potable water system through a cross-connection. Backpressure backflow and back-siphonage are two types of backflow.

What is a backflow preventer (cross connection device)?

A backflow preventer is a device that prevents water from flowing backwards into the water pipe network. An air gap, which either eliminates the need for a cross-connection backflow device and acts as a barrier to backflow, is the most basic method of preventing backflow from happening. A mechanical backflow preventer creates a physical barrier to backflow and is the most common mechanism for preventing backflow conditions. Reduced-pressure principal assemblies, pressure vacuum breaker assemblies, and double check valve assemblies are the three t is a most common types of mechanical backflow preventers used today. In addition to these types, there are also dual check valve’s assemblies, which are often found in residential dwellings.

Why do backflow prevention assemblies require testing?

Mechanical backflow assemblies have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are susceptible to fouling, wear, and fatigue. Air gaps and mechanical backflow preventers can also be bypassed. As a result, all backflow prevention assemblies must be inspected regularly and tested annually to ensure that they are functioning as intended. Mechanical backflow prevention assemblies must be tested with properly calibrated equipment by a BCWWA certified backflow assembly tester.

How often does a backflow assembly require testing?

Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested upon initial installation and at least annually thereafter by a BCWWA certified backflow tester to ensure they are functioning as intended. In addition to the required annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies, they should also be inspected visually on a regular basis to ensure the control valves are in the correct positions, there are no leaks or signs of damage.

Source:

Backflow Education – Safe Water Commission 

https://safewatercommission.com/index.php/property-owners/backflow-education

Special Hazard Fire Suppression Systems

What is a Special Hazard Fire Suppression System?

A special hazards fire suppression system is used to extinguish fires in areas where water damage from fire sprinklers can cause costly or irreparable damage to the assets being protected. There are various types of special hazard fire suppression system available that are unique to the hazard area being protected. The four main categories are: clean agent, dry chemical, CO2, and foam. In the event of a fire a Special hazard fire suppression system employs the use of detection devices located in the hazard area. Once the threat of a fire has been identified, a gaseous or chemical suppression agent is released, and the fire is neutralized. Suppression agents extinguish fires by absorbing heat or displacing required oxygen.

What is a clean agent and where is it used?

Clean agents are electrically non-conductive, volatile, or gaseous fire extinguishing agents that do not leave a residue upon evaporation. Clean agent fire suppression systems use chemical agents or inert gases to help extinguish fires in their early stages and can effectively extinguish Class A, B, and C fires without damaging assets. These agents are generally safe to use in regularly occupied spaces.

The most common applications or areas protected by clean agent fire suppressions systems are:

• Museums 
• Electrical cabinets 
• Data storage and telecommunication systems 
• Record and file repositories 
• Libraries.

What is a dry chemical agent and where is it used?

Dry chemical suppression systems release dry chemical powder into a designated space to extinguish a fire. The two most common dry powders used in these systems are BC sodium bicarbonate and ABC mono-ammonium phosphate. Sodium bicarbonate is used for Class B and some Class C fires, while mono-ammonium phosphate is used for Class A, B, or C fires. 

The most common applications or areas protected by dry chemical fire suppressions systems are:

• Auto paint booths 
• Dip tanks
• Mixing Rooms
• Open-faced paint booths
• Flammable liquids or hazardous material storage

What is a CO2 extinguishing agent and where is it used?

CO2 suppression systems effectively suppress a wide range of Class A, B, and C fires by using carbon dioxide (CO2), a colourless, odourless, electrically non-conductive gas. CO2 fire suppression systems extinguish the fire by releasing a thick blanket of gas that reduces oxygen levels to the point where combustion can no longer occur. Because CO2 is an inert gas, it requires little to no cleanup and leaves no residue that could damage sensitive equipment.

With systems ranging in size from 50 pounds to 60 tonnes, CO2 systems can be customised to protect anything from large rooms to a specific piece of equipment. Because CO2 is harmful to people, these systems should only be used in areas that are typically unoccupied. 

The most common applications or areas protected by CO2 fire suppressions systems are

• Vaults
• Engine Rooms
• Power plants
• Large industrial machines
• Industrial generators and turbines

What is a Foam fire suppression system and where is it used?

Foam fire suppression systems extinguish fires by separating the ignition source from oxygen using an aerated foaming agent. When the system is turned on, large amounts of high-expansion foam are quickly discharged throughout the protected areas.  The foaming agent’s water content cools and coats the fuel the fire is consuming, preventing it from reigniting. Foam suppression systems are commonly used in large areas with a high volume of flammable or combustible liquids.

The most common applications or areas protected by foam fire suppressions systems are

• Aircraft hangers
• Refueling stations
• Marine applications
• Flammable liquid storage
• Refineries

How often does a special hazard fire suppression system need to be inspected?

Special hazard fire suppressions systems require inspection and maintenance by a certified special fire suppression system technician every six months. During the semi-annual inspection the fire suppression system is put through a range of test to ensure all components are operating properly. Documentation for all inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review.

Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems

What is a Kitchen Fire Suppression System?

A kitchen fire suppression system is an automatic fire extinguishing system that can also be activated manually. The main components consist of a cylinder filled with a wet chemical extinguishing agent connected to nozzles installed above the cooking appliances and in the exhaust hood and ducting, a control head with either a mechanical or electrical fire detection device, a manual remote pull station, and a gas valve. When a fire detection device or the manual remote pull station is activated, the wet chemical extinguishing agent sprays from the nozzles onto the cooking equipment and into the exhaust hood and ducting, suppressing the fire. At the same time the fire is being suppressed, the gas valve is being closed by either an electrical or mechanical means, which prevents additional gas from fuelling the fire.

How often does a kitchen suppression system need to be inspected?

Kitchen fire suppressions systems require inspection and maintenance by a certified kitchen fire suppression system technician every six months. During the semi-annual inspection the fire suppression system is put through a range of test to ensure all components are operating properly. The system is also maintained during this inspection by replacing the necessary fire detection devices, confirming that nozzles are free of grease, replacing nozzle seals and caps as required, and testing and replacing necessary compressed gas cartridges. Documentation for all inspections shall be kept onsite for AHJ review.

Why do I need a K-Class fire extinguisher if I have a kitchen fire suppression system?

K-class fire extinguishers are required in all commercial cooking areas where there is a potential for fires involving combustible cooking medias such as vegetable or animal oils and fats. K-class fire extinguishers are meant to be used as a back-up the kitchen fire suppression system. In the event of a fire in the cooking area it is advised that the kitchen fire suppression system be activated not only to put the fire out below the exhaust hood, yet to put out any fires that may have ignited in the exhaust duct that may not be visible. The K-class fire extinguisher should then be used if a fire happens to reignite. 

What if I want to change my cooking lineup?

It is very important to notify your fire protection company whenever you move, add, or change anything beneath your kitchen hood to ensure that you continue to have adequate coverage. Different equipment requires different nozzles and nozzle configurations. Depending on the changes being made, a larger wet chemical suppressant cylinder may be required. A certified Allen Fire and Safety kitchen suppression technician can examine your system to determine if any changes are required. You can also call ahead of time to have a technician assist you in determining whether any changes can be made without requiring your suppression system to be reconfigured.

Fire Hydrants

What is a fire hydrant?

A fire hydrant is a visible connection point that is placed in specific locations for fire fighters to connect to a steady water supply. In the event of a fire, the firefighter attached a hose to one of the three outlets on the fire hydrant and opens the valve which provides a powerful flow of water. The fire department may also connect a hose from the fire hydrant to the fire engine, which can use a powerful pump to boost the water pressure and possibly split it into multiple streams.

How often does a fire hydrant be inspected?

Fire hydrants are required to be inspected and flowed every six months or after each use. In addition to this inspection, fire hydrants require an annual tear down inspection in which the technician will inspect the internal components for damage and wear. Upon reassembling the fire hydrant your Allen Fire and Safety Technician will flow the hydrant to test for adequate water supply and pressure, as well as enduring the hydrant is draining properly.

Why must a fire hydrant be kept clear of obstructions?

During a fire, every second matters. In the time it takes the fire department to locate an obstructed fire hydrant, or to cut away the bushes surrounding it, they could be saving a life or protecting your home. It is required that a minimum of a one-meter radius around a fire hydrant be kept clear of any obstructions such as vehicles, bushes, and shrubs. The hydrant must also be easily visible and accessible from the approaching roadway.

Why are fire hydrants painted and what do the colours mean?

Fire hydrants are painted for multiple reasons. The most important reason is to make the fire hydrant stand out to the fire department, allowing them to locate it quickly. Maintaining a fresh coat of paint can help prevent the fire hydrant body from rusting or corroding. You may have noticed that not all fire hydrants are painted the same colours. In some municipalities these colours indicate the rated water flow capacity to the fire department. In other municipalities it is strictly to improve the visibility of the fire hydrant.

Source

https://blog.qrfs.com/286-fire-hydrant-colors-their-nfpa-spectrum-and-meaning/