Fire can spread within minutes, leaving behind little time for individuals to react. While the fire alarm systems and extinguishers can be useful, manual actions may not be enough. This is where the need for an automatic fire suppression system is felt. These systems can automatically control and identify fires, eliminating the need for human intervention. Installing such a system is an effective way to safeguard individuals, business operations and property.
What is automatic fire suppression?
An auto fire suppression system identifies fire and helps control it immediately without manual effort. The system utilises sensors that can detect flames, heat or smoke. It also sprays water, mist, gas or foam to prevent the fire from spreading. These systems are installed in machinery, vehicles and buildings to safeguard against fire-related damage.
The auto fire suppression system is designed to activate on its own and safeguard lives and property.
Importance of automatic fire suppression
The automated fire suppression system is extremely crucial for modern-day fire safety, particularly for high-risk settings.
Here is why it is important:
- The system acts instantly, much faster than calling the fire brigade.
- Lowers the risk of damage by controlling the fire at its early stages.
- It allows people to evacuate a building safely, which is especially important in crowded places, such as offices and schools.
- By controlling the fire early, the system lowers repair costs and reduces financial losses.
- For business, it enables them to restart their operations soon.
Benefits of automatic fire suppression
Automatic fire suppression systems provide many operational and financial advantages, such as:
- Eco-friendly options: Modern-day systems use safe agents, such as water mists and gases.
- 24/7 protection: These systems function round the clock.
- Scalable solutions: This particular system can be easily customised for large industries or small workplaces.
- Lowers property damage: Early suppression of the fire can prevent significant losses from occurring.
- Insurance advantages: Businesses that have installed automatic systems may receive favourable fire insurance policy terms.
- Worker confidence: Employees will feel safer in a well-protected workplace.
Types of automatic fire suppression systems
Different working environments need different automatic fire extinguisher system methods. Below are some of the most common ones:
- Water mist systems
This specific system sprays out fine water droplets that suffocate and cool the flames without damaging sensitive equipment.
- Water-based systems
These automatic extinguisher systems release water through the sprinklers when the smoke or heat is detected.
- Gas-based systems
This type uses CO2 or FM200 gases to safeguard server rooms, data centres and electronics.
- Foam systems
The foam-based automatic extinguishers are highly effective against flammable liquid fires in chemical industries or fuel storage places.
Where are these systems used?
The automatic fire suppression systems are versatile and are used widely across these places:
- Restaurant and hotels: The auto fire suppression systems are crucial for oil and LPG-related fires.
- Factories and industries: They are particularly used where flammable materials are handled or stored.
- Hospitals: These systems are also essential in the healthcare sector, as they safeguard sensitive medical devices and protect patients.
- Storage and warehouse units: Automatic fire extinguishers can also protect goods, such as chemicals, fabrics or papers, stored at warehouses or storage facilities.
- IT parks and data centres: Installing these systems in the data centres and IT parks can protect costly electrical systems and servers.
How to choose the right system?
When selecting the right fire suppression system, it depends on the type of setting and the associated risk. Here are some of the things to consider:
- Budget and upkeep: It's crucial to pick a system that is affordable and easy to maintain.
- Size of the area: Bigger areas may require sprinklers, while smaller spaces may need gas-based automatic systems.
- Fire risk assessment: It’s essential to install these systems based on the type of fire risk an area or workplace may experience. There are many types of fire risks, including mixed hazards, electrical, liquid and solid. Based on these risks, choose the system that meets your requirements.
Role of fire insurance in case of fire
Even with an excellent suppression system in place, accidents can still occur, resulting in damage. Due to these reasons, having fire insurance can provide financial protection.
Here is what fire or property insurance can offer:
- Help with the rebuilding or repairing of damaged structures.
- Receive compensation for destroyed machinery or goods.
- Covers if someone is injured on your property or if your property causes damage to a third party’s property.
- Provides compensation for the loss of rent.
- Covers costs of temporary accommodation.
Conclusion
Automatic fire systems have become a necessity for public institutions, workplaces and factories. They help control and identify fires immediately, which, in turn, can help save lives, reduce downtime and improve safety. When looking for a suppression system, choose one that meets your specific requirements. Additionally, it is important to have a financial backup in the form of fire or property insurance.
FAQs
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Can auto fire suppression systems be installed in small offices?
These systems can be easily customised for small spaces, such as clinics, offices or stores.
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What is the primary purpose of the automatic fire suppression systems?
These systems are designed to automatically identify and control fires, even without human intervention.
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Which sectors need the automatic fire suppression systems the most?
Industries that handle flammable materials, such as those in the oil and gas sector, as well as hotels, healthcare facilities, warehouses and IT parks, will benefit greatly from these systems.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.