Fire alarms are an essential component of any workplace security system. This is because there are many potential fire hazards in the average workplace, and some of them can be removed or managed to decrease the risk, while others need to be monitored. The first step to managing these possible fire starters is identifying potential hazards and getting a commercial security system in place.

Reasons Your Company Needs a Fire Alarm System

1. Flammable Material Storage

The more flammable materials you have gathered in one place, the more quickly a fire can grow. This includes combustible chemicals like flammable paint and gasoline, which need to be stored in appropriate containers following safety precautions. However, these also include materials you might overlook, like filing cabinets filled with paper, or a full trash can. The more of these materials you can store offsite, the safer you’ll be.

2. Sources of Ignition

The two main fire starters in the workplace are heat-generating equipment and loose electrical connections. Hot equipment includes engines, some large electronics—including printers—, HVAC systems, boilers, water heaters, and manufacturing equipment. These need to be cleaned, maintained, and monitored to prevent them from getting too hot, and flammable materials should be stored far away from them.

You should also get regular electrical testing at least once every five years. This will let your electrician identify any fire hazards in your wiring, which could include exposed copper wiring and outlets that are not grounded.

3. Dust Buildup

Dust isn’t a fire-resistant material like dirt since it’s made mostly of organic materials like skin cells. A layer of dust can burn explosively, and when it sits on electronics and appliances, it insulates them, making them grow much hotter than they normally would. This combination of extra heat and flammable material is especially likely to catch and set off your fire alarms since the electrical components can heat up and cause the dust to produce smoke and, eventually, catch fire.

Having fire alarms safely installed improves the chances of escaping from or putting out a fire. Pinnacle Electronic Systems in Belleville, IL, offers reliable fire alarms as well as a range of other safety, surveillance, and communications systems for your business. They’ve served St. Clair County for over 25 years and stay up to date on the latest tech and cabling solutions. They’ll create a personalized plan to serve your company now and in the future. Call (618) 235-8882 or visit the website to get started.