American industry is highly regulated and advanced. Yet the risk of fire is always present, even in the most careful facilities. Fortunately, proper fire alarm design can minimize this risk. By hiring experts to strategically place smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, sprinkler systems, and gas-utilizing fire suppression systems, business owners can ensure the safety and preservation of their employees, materials, and space.
A number of risk factors can make cutting-edge commercial fire protection even more essential. The presence of any of the following can make a building more prone to fires:
The presence of combustible liquids or gasses
Countless chemicals with important industrial applications also happen to be extremely flammable. Many volatile chemicals release gasses which can easily be ignited by even the smallest spark. Following OSHA guidelines and giving potential ignition sources a very wide berth from combustible liquids and gasses can help to minimize risk. Additionally, factories must have the most up-to-date fire suppression technology to combat these chemical fires should an accident occur.
Particulate matter
The tiny dust particles which are a byproduct of innumerable industrial processes can present an enormous fire risk. Not only can small piles of dust suddenly ignite — these explosions can also spread to dust in the air, or create their own aerial dust cloud which then catches fire, and result in even more damage. Fast-responding fire alarm design can prevent these harmful chain reactions from taking place.
Electrical issues
In hospitals, electrical malfunctions were responsible for 19% of non-confined fires from 2004-2006. Faulty cords, outlets, and switches can easily spark and ignite any flammable materials which happen to be nearby. Often, these issues spawn from light fixtures; anything from a flammable lampshade to improper wattage can quickly cause a fire.
Metalworking
Industrial processes which involve welded or torch-cut components are particularly susceptible to fire. Even soldering pieces as innocuous as small circuit boards can cause sparks and other high-temperature byproducts which can ignite combustible material in the area.
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