Fire Prevention
Changing Fire Sprinkler Position For Better Coverage
Relocating sprinkler heads installed in ceiling panels is the kind of task best left to seasoned hands. When building access time is at play or you just want to update the fire suppression system as quickly and efficiently as possible, Majestic Fire Protection’s methodical workflow makes an important task a straightforward process.
Recently, Majestic Fire Protection installation expert Alberto walked us through the process of installing sprinkler heads in tile panels.
Identify the new Sprinkler Head Location
Majestic Fire Protection’s seasoned installation experts have years of experience maintaining fire sprinkler systems and replacing fire sprinkler heads. So much so, that our first observation of any room is to look toward where the fire sprinkler heads need to be located.
Once we’ve taken measurements to make sure we’re on track, we mark and set a hole for the new sprinkler head.
With the new location set, we then set out to find the sprinkler head that needs to be replaced. Once we’ve located the old sprinkler, we can determine how long of a pipe we need to extend the water line to a location that meets code.
Set the Path
From there we look toward the new location to find out what obstacles need to be cleared. We clear any material like insulation out of the way and then measure the length of pipe we need to in order to extend the waterline. With the extended line’s measurements, we and set off to cut and ready a new pipe.
Remove the Old Sprinkler Head
With the new pipe on its way, we are ready to remove and cap off the old sprinkler head. First, we first turn off the water at the intake connection. Then we use a plastic bag to contain the catch water. At every stage, we double-check that the water is controlled as much as possible.
Extend the Water Line
The newly cut pipe is then installed. With the waterline now extended to right above the new sprinkler head hole. We’re now set to drop down the new fire sprinkler head. We take a measurement from the new waterline extension pipe down to the hole in the ceiling tile. A new pipe is then cut at our mobile machine shop. We then thread, tape, and attach the newly cut pipe to the new sprinkler head.
Cut & Thread Sprinkler Head To the Pipe
Our mobile tool and machine shop lets us measure and cut, rethread and tape the existing pipe to fit the demands of the site. Once it’s cut, threaded and prepped, the pipe is ready for immediate installation. Precise and fast, Majestic Fire Protection installation experts are in constant movement to update your fire sprinkler system with as little interruption to the normal flow of the building as possible.
Connect New Sprinkler Head To The Extenetd Waterline
The new sprinkler head and pipe are then connected to the extended water line. Once we hang the new head in the ceiling tile, we tighten the connections. After we replace each fire sprinkler head in the designated area, we then prepare to turn on the water and check for leaks.
The Process of Checking our Work
When all of the sprinkler heads have been replaced, we check our new fire sprinkler head installations to make sure that there are no water leaks in the plumbing. We take it slow and test the waterlines in a manner that makes us able to shut the water off immediately.
First, we make sure the lines are clear and set the intake pressure on the interior valve to 90 PSI.
Then our team technician goes to monitor the exterior PIV Valve – where we turn the water supply to the sprinkler system back on. Once the water is turned on, the fire alarm will activate and continue to ring until the system reaches 90 PSI.
The team leader then checks in with the installation crew who is spread throughout the site inspecting each new sprinkler head in their quadrant.
Each installation team member checks in with the team leader who is ready to shut off the PIV Valve at any moment. With each new sprinkler head installed and double inspected, the ceiling tile is then replaced.
For Code Considerations Made Easy
Drop us a note or get in touch to schedule a site visit. From yearly maintenance to occasional updates, Majestic Fire Protection is here for you.
NFPA 2001 Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
Clean Agent Fire Suppression
You’ve likely been inside a building with some type of fire safety system installed. These systems have multiple components, including fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems to minimize damage and save lives. Most large commercial and residential properties have some form of fire protection system installed, as these are the most commonly used in today’s construction. However, certain locations require special fire protection equipment to protect specific items and structures.
How Do These Systems Work?
For example, if a room houses large amounts of electronics, the typical fire protection system may prevent fire damage. However, all of the electronics would still be ruined by water. Buildings with large data servers, museums, storage vaults, gas stations, grills, and fryers require specialized systems to contain fires without damaging items or complicating the situation.
Clean agent fire suppression systems are a safe and efficient alternative that provides a way to protect valuables and extinguish fires caused by certain elements. These systems use gases that are safe for humans at lower levels of exposure to extinguish fires. Clean agent systems are specifically made for populated areas that hold delicate items. Additionally, these systems automatically detect fires and begin extinguishing them automatically.
The NFPA 2001 defines clean agents as electrically non-conductive, volatile, or gaseous fire extinguishing agents that leave no traces of residue when they evaporate. These systems extinguish fires in their initial stages to prevent extensive damage.
Types of Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems
All clean agents exist either as gas or liquid. When the system activates, it releases these agents as gas to extinguish a fire. Upon initiation, the clean agent removes one of three elements needed to maintain a fire – heat, oxygen, or the fuel source.
The Novec 1230 and FM-200 are the most cost-effective than other gas-based systems because fewer agents are required to extinguish a fire. This means that smaller storage cylinders are required to house the agents. When comparing the two, the Novec 1230 is only slightly more expensive.
Of the three types of clean agents, inert gas is the most friendly to the environment. There is zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and zero GWP. Novec 1230 is more environmentally friendly because it has a lower GWP of 1, although both of these systems are rated with a zero ODP.
Advantages of Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems
Clean agent systems offer quick-acting remedies when a fire breaks out. These systems initialize and reach appropriate concentration levels in under ten seconds. Additionally, they are designed to actually extinguish fires, while sprinkler systems focus solely on fire containment.
There’s minimal cleanup and hardly any residue after the dispersal of a clean agent fire suppression system. These systems provide chemical and gaseous fire suppression solutions that won’t damage delicate objects because of the chemical makeup of the extinguishing agents.
Clean agents are safe for people, as well. The U.S. EPA approves the materials these systems use for use in occupied spaces. Different options are available to meet specific needs. For example, green systems are ideal for building owners who want to meet eco-friendly standards or take friendlier measures for the environment.
What Buildings Should Install Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems?
These are the best examples of buildings that use clean agent fire suppression systems:
- Areas with flammable liquid storage
- Spaces that house important infrastructure
- Museums
- Data centers
- Labs
- Medical facilities
- Libraries
- Call centers
Can you spot what all of these buildings have in common? They all have valuable and delicate items housed within their confines. Your building doesn’t have to have valuables to use a clean agent fire suppression system. You can use these systems to protect buildings from fire no matter what they have stored.
Inspections and Maintenance
Clean agent fire suppression systems must undergo regular inspections and maintenance. This is a critical part of ensuring these systems will, in fact, keep the building safe. The following list outlines the inspection process.
- Check all initiating components to verify time delays for system deployment
- Ensure releasing devices all activate properly
- Verify abort device and manual release function properly
- Check the weights and pressures of agent containers
- Verify the position of discharge components, pipe fittings, and nozzles
- Perform enclosure integrity test
- Check all batteries and signals
- Verify all as-built drawings and flow calculations
The building owner must promote someone as the formal inspector. If the inspector isn’t present during relevant or emergency situations, the building owner must assume this role.
A clean agent fire suppression system is only beneficial if it’s working properly. Ensuring that these systems stay well-maintained and inspected is critical for functionality.
Every Six Months
According to the NFPA 2001, the maintenance schedule for these systems should take place as follows:
Very clean agent cylinder weight
Every Year
Test all clean agent system control panel equipment. This includes initiating devices and equipment. Room integrity testing should be performed as well.
Every Five Years
Inspect containers, reducing the need to perform a hydrostatic test
Maintenance for a CO2 system should be:
Every Six Months
Verify the CO2 cylinder weight and pressure
Every Year
Test all components of the CO2 control panel, including initiating devices and equipment as required by the NFPA Chapter 12 standard on CO2 Fire Suppression Systems.
Every Five Years
Conduct a hydrostatic test if cylinders holding the agent have been emptied.
Every 12 Years
Conduct a 12-year hydrostatic test if cylinders have never been emptied, or the system has never discharged.
Get Protected, Stay Protected
Do you own a residential or commercial building with a significant amount of valuable or delicate items? Does a clean agent fire suppression system sound like something that could benefit you based on the items you have housed in your building?
You should seriously consider installing a clean agent fire suppression system if you answer yes. Typical water systems may be efficient at containing fires, they’re not that great at minimizing property damage. When you have valuable items at stake that you’re highly invested in, there’s only one solution for fire suppression.
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Which Types of Fire Safety Equipment Companies Should Have on Premise?
OSHA is the regulatory body that ensures fire prevention at workplaces. To ensure workplace safety, OSHA has introduced safety standards for the workplace. Employers should implement fire safety measures for the employees and reduce fire hazards at the workplace. Every business or company with 10 or more employees needs to have a dedicated fire prevention plan and training to respond in emergencies. The National Fire Protection Association fire code makes it mandatory for all residential and commercial premises to maintain essential safety equipment like fire extinguishers and other fire protection equipment. There are different types of fire safety equipment available on the market that employees can use in an emergency if trained on using the safety equipment.
The following are the most functional and effective fire safety equipment that residential and commercial buildings must have to cope with unforeseen situations.
Fire Extinguishers
This is the primary safety equipment that every business should have at its premises. They should be easily accessible, ready to use, visible to employees, and inspected regularly. The fire extinguishers make fundamental fire safety tools capable of containing fire and saving lives from potential fire hazards. The equipment must be installed on walls at suitable places near the exits in the facilities. To operate the fire extinguishers, you need to follow the PASS method that involves pulling the pin, positioning the nozzle, pressing the lever, and moving the fire extinguisher from side to side.
Fire Suppression System
Fire Suppression Systems are used commonly for the safety of people and premises. They can prevent the potential damages of property and lives in the case of a fire eruption. NFPA 13 standards are followed for the design and installation of fire sprinkler systems. Fire extinguishers are only used to prevent small fires, whereas sprinklers provide an advanced protection system that prevents flames, smoke, and fire. The sprinkler system stops the fire from spreading and can completely secure the premises.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms can reduce the risks of fire eruption by almost 90% and timely alert the users. It is the best tool to identify smoke and flames rising out of the fire on the premises. These alarms can detect fire, smoke, and flames within a building, and these devices turn on/off automatically whenever a smoke or fire erupts and goes off automatically. It is advised to test your smoke thirst month, and smoke alarm batteries should be replaced every year. Experts recommend changing smoke alarms after 10 years to ensure the safety of the building.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
The presence of carbon monoxide in the atmosphere can be dangerous for people because it contains a poison, which can be inhaled with the breath. Carbon Monoxide alarms are tools that detect the carbon monoxide in the air and protect the workplace from potential poisonous gases that could have been inhaled along with other gases.
What Types of Fire Sprinkler Heads Can You Use in Your Restaurant Fire Suppression System?
Understanding the differences between the various types of fire sprinkler heads available on the fire suppression market is crucial to ensure that you're investing in the best possible system. There aren't that many options to pick from, and all of them are relatively popular. You may see all four fire protection sprinkler heads often in your everyday life but have just not been paying attention to what types of fire sprinkler heads you can use in your Restaurant Fire Suppression System until now. Let's look at what's available and what each type of head is appropriate for.
Pendant Fire Sprinkler Head
This is the one that you'll likely see most often in commercial buildings and other similar environments. A pendant fire sprinkler head is shaped in a circle and hangs from the ceiling. It sprays water downwards, hitting a specially curved plate at the bottom of the sprinkler. This causes the water to spray in a conical shape centered around the fire sprinkler head, effectively covering a large part of the area consistently. The plate has tiny gaps in it to create the spraying effect, and its exact angle may vary from one design to another. The general principle is always the same, though. Pendant fire sprinkler heads are valued for their utility. You can use Pendant fire sprinkler heads in various environments where fire suppression coverage requirements are for a large area with a short coverage time is the primary concern.
Upright Fire Sprinkler Head
An upright fire sprinkler head functions similarly to a pendant, but it's inverted vertically. The sprinkler is placed at a low location (typically on the floor or close to it), pointing upwards. The deflector plate sits on top of the sprinkler and accomplishes the same effect as in a pendant fire sprinkler, forcing water to spray in a circular pattern around the device. Upright fire sprinklers have several applications, and they are commonly found in environments with a more complicated layout, where covering the entire area from above may be an issue. They are often found in industrial settings, where overhanging machinery can pose a problem for pendant fire sprinklers, blocking them partially (or even fully) and limiting their effectiveness. Buildings without a roof also typically rely on upright sprinklers.
Sidewall Fire Sprinkler Head
A sidewall fire sprinkler head is mounted vertically, typically on a wall. It works similarly to the above designs, but the deflector plate is shaped differently to point the water spray in a specific direction – typically downwards. This means that a sidewall sprinkler will usually not spray in a full circle around itself – which may sound like a limiting factor. Still, it's desired behavior in environments where space is limited, and a typical ceiling-mounted fire sprinkler will not be sufficient. Sidewall sprinkler heads are also frequently used to circumvent obstructions in places where an upright fire sprinkler will not get the job done correctly and in tighter environments.
Concealed Pendent Fire Sprinkler Head
Concealed pendant fire sprinkler heads are similar in their overall design to pendant sprinklers. Still, with one significant difference, they are specifically designed to blend into the environment more efficiently, avoiding any aesthetic disturbances. This is typically achieved by integrating the sprinkler into the ceiling itself, with a plate covering its bottom that blends with the ceiling's design, concealing the device. The plate is designed to fall automatically when a certain temperature threshold is reached. To ensure proper, unobstructed operation of the fire sprinkler, that threshold is typically below the activation temperature of the sprinkler itself. That way, there is some delay between the plate falling, and the sprinkler activates.
Majestic Fire Protection serves many companies with complex buildings designs that require multiple types of fire sprinkler systems, fire sprinkler heads to be installed. This method of multiple systems design ensures proper coverage of more complicated areas. In some cases, numerous sprinklers of different types may even be deployed in the same room. This is common in environments with heavy machinery and other factors that restrict the spreading of water from the fire protection system. Plumbing can be a significant challenge when installing complicated fire sprinkler systems services. The existing conditions may not facilitate all designs equally well, so an alternative approach may be required. Well, I hope this article has helped you in your decision process for What Types of Fire Sprinkler Heads Can You Use in Your Restaurant Fire Suppression System.
Fire prevention 101: The basics on restaurant fire safety. (2017). Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://www.restaurant.org/articles/operations/fire-prevention-basics-on-restaurant-fire-safety
Campbell, R. (2020, December 12). Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments. Retrieved February 14, 2017, from https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/Eating-and-drinking-establishments
Do you need a Fire Sprinkler System in your Home?
A fire sprinkler is a water system that automatically detects dangerous levels of fire in an enclosed area and sprays water through a sprinkler on a large range of areas to put down the fire. The sprinkler is usually attached at the ceiling in the middle of the room to cover maximum spread as evenly as possible. In this article is discussed why Fire Sprinkler systems should be installed at homes.
If you need some professional assistance to install Fire Sprinkler at your home you can contact us anytime.
Why are they needed at home?
Fire sprinkler systems are usually installed in commercial buildings and offices. Houses have little to no initiatives to prevent fires in most cases. At best, people may own a fire extinguisher in their homes to put out fire when the need arises. However, experts are suggesting that Fire Sprinklers are important for residential houses too. In fact, they hold benefits above many other precautionary means.
Final Thoughts
Having Fire Sprinklers installed in the home would be beneficial in the long run. It will ensure safety, given its effectiveness and timely response. Since they are released only in areas where there is a treat of fire, it won’t affect the rest of your house, being more cost friendly, efficient, and precise. It is best to stop relying on manual methods and go completely automatic.
We are here to offer you our professional services anytime. Contact us now and we will be at your door steps to help you as soon as possible.
Fire Prevention Week 2020
Getting to know your Extinguisher
They’re red, they’re heavy, and they can save your life. We’re talking about Fire Extinguishers! Fire Extinguishers can protect you from life threatening flames and are the most commonly owned peace of fire protection equipment. Extinguishers are the first line of defense when a flame occurs and can be a determining factor in yours and the safety and those around you. Whether it is in an office, restaurant or even your home these large pieces of metal are often ignored but can make the difference between a small fire and complete destruction. With that being said, you probably have seen an extinguisher or passed by one as you walked to your desk this morning. But do you know your extinguishers? Not many people realize, but there are different extinguishers for every type of fire. Understanding the different types of extinguishers can help you be prepared for every type of hazard.
There are 4 main types of fire extinguishers: CO2, Dry Powder, AFF Foam, and Water. First are CO2 extinguishers which are commonly used for flammable liquids and electrical fires. These guys are usually found in locations that have large amounts of electrical equipment like computer server rooms. Next we have dry powder extinguishers or ‘ABC’ extinguishers because they can combat against all three classes of fires. These extinguishers are the most commonly used but beware of using them inside as they make a big mess because of their expelling agents! Dry powder extinguishers can most likely be found in offices, schools, or hospitals. Now AFF foam are good for A and B fires. They can be found in large buildings or warehouses. Finally we have water extinguishers, and these are best for class A fires that deal with paper, fabrics, textiles and wood. You can find one of these near the exit of most buildings made of wood or other organic materials.
Although you may not see all of these types of extinguishers all of the time, it is important to have a basic knowledge of any extinguisher that way you are set for every type of fire. Good knowledge of fire extinguishers can help keep you and your loved ones safe, and safety is top priority!
National Fire Prevention Week 2018
Fires can be extremely scary, in seconds you can lose almost everything. Knowing what to do when an emergency occurs is crucial to your safety and is why the National Fire Protection Association created Fire Prevention Week some time ago. In 1925 the great Chicago fire destroyed homes and even took lives. In commemoration of those who were lost, this week is now a way to educate and further spread awareness about fire prevention to the surrounding community. Because fires are unpredictable and can spark at any time it is important that all members of your family are properly informed on how to stay safe. Safety is what matters most!
This year’s campaign initiative is “Look, Listen, and Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere”. Look for places a fire could start and make sure that all things that be potential “fire starters” are taken care of. Items such as lit candles, built up dryer lint, and loose lighters are household items that are usually overlooked but are extreme fire starters. Next make sure to Listen for an alarm. Fires do not have a clock and can start anytime anywhere so to ensure you are ready designate a meeting area that is far enough from the potential flames and get out as quickly as possible. Finally is the learning aspect of it all. Whether you are in school or not it is important to learn your surroundings. No matter where you are, make sure to designate 2 forms of exit should a flame start.
Thankfully technology makes everything easier and so does the NFPA. Using printable information cards, online videos, and Sparky the Fire dog of course, the NFPA has made celebrating this week of knowledge fun and easy. There’s no need to look any further with their many resources. If you are looking for an even better experience of this national celebration, many local fire departments will be participating in this initiative as well. By visiting schools, allowing for fire prevention seminars, and even cookouts the options are endless. Make sure that you research your local fire department to see if there are any events you can be a part of. For more information about Fire Prevention Week and to learn how you can prevent any of your own fires visit nfpa.org.
Why Should I Choose an FM-200 Suppression System?
Why Should I Choose an FM-200 Suppression System?
If you’ve done some research into fire suppression and the most effective methods of fire suppression, you’ve probably run across FM-200 fire suppression systems. Although traditional fire sprinkler systems are still used in many residential and business buildings, a waterless option can result in less cleanup and a more efficient suppression. Here are some of the most obvious benefits of using an FM-200 suppression system as your fire suppression system of choice.
Waterless and Clean
Water-based suppression systems are a great choice for some homes and businesses but can leave the entire fire area dripping wet. Electronics and paper products can be ruined, or it may just make for some tedious and potentially expensive cleanup. The FM-200 suppression system, on the other hand, is completely waterless and doesn’t result in those kinds of consequences. In addition, with the California drought, using a fire sprinkler system may be extremely expensive, especially for large business clients in Los Angeles, and some municipalities may have limits on the amount of water your business can use in a certain time period without incurring fines or other punishments. With an FM-200 fire suppression system, you won’t have to worry about that.
Some fire extinguishing systems use carbon dioxide or certain chemicals to smother the fire. While by themselves these are usually non-toxic if used in certain ways they can be extremely dangerous. Triggering a carbon dioxide extinguisher in a small, enclosed space can cause a lack of oxygen, and some people may react poorly to even non-toxic chemicals in fire extinguishers. FM-200 is formed of carbon, fluorine, and hydrogen, all of which are extremely common chemicals and are highly unlikely to cause a reaction in anyone. The most potentially dangerous side effect is that skin contact with the liquid, which is very rare, can cause frostbite.
Extremely Easy to Clean Up
No matter what type of fire extinguisher that’s used, whether it’s water, chemicals, or foam, there is going to be some cleanup required after the fact. Much of the time, this cleanup is as taxing as the actual fire and can take multiple hours. However, the FM-200 fire suppression system discharges within 10 seconds, then leaves absolutely no residue. It’s gained worldwide acceptance and been installed over 100,000 times, and it’s likely that it’s a great idea for you and for your business.
Saving Energy Around the Home – What is the Best Type of Insulation?
Saving Energy Around the Home – What is the Best Type of Insulation?
You probably already know that adding insulation to your home is one of the best ways to lower your utility bills and save money. Installing additional insulation in your attic and in your walls can keep the warm air in during the winter and the cool air in during the warmest days of summer.
What you may not know is what kind of insulation is best for each installation. Every home is different, and it is important to match the type of insulation to the specific needs of the room.
Rolls and Batts
Rolls and batts are often referred to as insulation blankets. These insulation blankets are flexible and constructed from mineral fibers like rock wool and fiberglass. This is among the easiest type of insulation to install, since it is available in widths that match the standard spacing between wall studs and floor joists.
That standard size makes this type of insulation an excellent choice for the attic. Choose R-13 or R-15 batts for a 2 x 4 inch walls. R-19 or R-21 insulation products are the best choices for 2 x 6 inch walls.
Loose Fill Insulation
Loose fill insulation is typically made of rock wool, cellulose, fiberglass or fiber pellets. This type of insulation is the perfect choice for those hard to reach areas. Loose fill insulation can be blown into spaces that need to be filled. Special pneumatic equipment is used to blow the insulation into place.
Loose fill insulation is often used to insulate around wires, pipes and ducts. It also conforms well to non-standard sized building cavities, and it is often used in older homes to fill in the gaps left by the original builders.
Rigid Foam Insulation
Rigid foam insulation is often used to sheathe exterior and interior walls and to shore up basement walls. Rigid foam insulation is generally more costly than both loose fill and rolls and batts, but it can be very effective.
This type of insulation is available in a wide variety of R-values – from R-4 to R-6.5 per inch. This is more than twice as much as most foam in place insulation styles.
Foam in Place Insulation
Foam in place insulation can be a good choice for insulating under floors, along walls and on attic surfaces. Like loose fill, foam in place insulation can be blown into place to prevent air leakage and the associated energy loss.
Foam in place insulation often comes in special pressurized cans that can be used to seal holes and cracks around window and door frames and to reduce air leakage where electric wires and plumbing fixtures enter the home.
There are actually two different types of foam in place insulation – closed cell and open cell. Both closed cell and open cell are constructed of polyurethane. Closed cell foam uses high density cells filled with gas that allows the foam to expand and fill the space around it. The most effective closed cell insulation has an R-value of about R-6.2 per inch.
Open cell foam cell insulation is not as dense. This type of insulation is filled with air, giving the insulation a spongy texture. The best open cell foam in place insulation will have an R-value of about R-3.7 per inch.
Choosing between open cell and closed cell insulation will depend on a number of factors, including how you plan to? use it and your insulation budget. Closed cell foam in place insulation has a higher R-value and has better protection against air leakage and moisture. Open cell insulation is less expensive, lighter and easier to work with, but it should not be used below ground level because it tends to absorb water.