#FireAlarmInspection

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Fire Alarm System Plans & Permitting Process in Houston

Fire Alarm Houston is your one-stop solution for all fire alarm installation and servicing needs, including comprehensive plans and permitting processes. Our expert services include:

As-Builts

Site Drawings

System Design in various formats (CAD, Visio, PDF)

Municipality Applications

Inspections

Ensure your property is fully protected and compliant with local regulations. Contact us today!

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UL864 9th Edition and NFPA72 Guide Fire Alarm Contractors

All fire alarm contractors should be aware of the requirements set forth in UL864, 9th Edition, for qualifying fire detection equipment as UL certified.  Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL), is an American safety and certification company, recognized globally for examining and applying Certification Marks for products that pass their testing and inspection standards.   UL864 is the Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems, governing the fire protection industry worldwide, with the most recent ninth edition revised in 2008.  UL864 is the most widely accepted regulation recognized globally, with the exception of Europe which adheres to regulations set forth by the European Commission.  

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72

  UL864 follows the life safety code issued by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.  NFPA72 is the standard that details the latest provisions set forth for fire detection, fire alarm signals and requirements for emergency communications.  NFPA72 also includes standards and regulations for Mass Notification Systems (MNS) utilized during weather emergencies, biological, nuclear and chemical emergencies and terrorist events and threats.     NFPA72 is updated and managed on regular intervals, typically every three years, by a committee of industry and subject matter experts to incorporate technological changes.  The most recent edition of NFPA72 was revised and updated in 2016.  UL864 requires that all fire alarm equipment that was manufactured after 2005 must comply with NFPA72, 2002 revision.  Manufacturers had until December of 2008 to comply with those revision.    

UL864 Ninth Edition

  UL864 Ninth Edition incorporates a minimum of four areas of NFPA72, and forced manufacturers of fire alarms to update all product lines so that they comply with NFPA72.   Areas of focus in UL864 Ninth Edition include: Changing the scope of the standard itself Changes that make UL864 consistent with UL’s methods of testing products Changes that bring UL864 congruent with other UL safety standards Changes to make UL864 consistent with the current edition of NFPA72   The new standard with its expanded scope covers: NFPA13 Sprinklers NFPA15 Water Spray Systems NFPA16 Foam Water Systems NFPA17 Dry Chemical Extinguishers NFPA17A Wet Chemical Extinguishers NFPA92A Smoke Control NFPA92B Smoke management in malls NFPA2001 Clean Agent Extinguishing Systems These are in addition to the standards previously covered in UL864 Eighth Edition, which include NFPA12, 12A, 12B and 72.    

UL864 Ninth Edition Applies to Fire Alarm Equipment Only

  Fire alarm design and installation companies will not be affected by UL864 as this applies solely to the actual fire alarm equipment, with no impact on how fire detection systems are installed.  Fire alarm design firms have been adhering to NFPA72 along with other various building codes, federal and local.  An example is the response time for fire alarms to be ten seconds or less during a minimum of two cycles, this requirement is included into the equipment standard of UL864.     Additional key requirements are as follows:   Enhanced resistance to RF Interface Better synchronization of Notification Appliances Greater software integrity Broader programming requirements Updates in Supervision, Monitoring, Compatibility, Power transmission   UL864 Ninth Edition made great strides in providing assurance and confidence of meeting and exceeding the most recent industry fire safety standards.    

HRSS Provides Compliant Fire Alarm Equipment and Design

  High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire, life and safety consulting firm providing system design, UL certified equipment, implementation, testing, repairs, maintenance and monitoring 24/7/365.  We offer decades of experience in meeting all fire safety code regulations, and exceeding the bare minimum requirements to provide the best system possible no matter the building design.   We are experienced at designing fire and smoke detection systems for all types of commercial properties including low-rise, high-rise, college campuses and medical complexes.  We employ highly skilled design engineers experienced with all local, state and federal regulations to design the optimum fire system with AutoCAD software.    

HRSS Provides Fire Extinguisher Service

HRSS is licensed in the state of Illinois to provide portable fire extinguisher service for all fire extinguisher types.  We provide annual fire extinguisher service, 6-year and 12-year maintenance, and all portable fire extinguisher services.     High Rise Security Systems is experienced with all National Fire Protection Association standards related to fire alarm equipment, design, installation, notification and testing requirements.  We work closely with building owners, safety managers and electrical engineers to ensure a compliant fire detection system that goes above and beyond actual code requirements, to provide maximum safety to building properties and occupants.     UL864 Ninth Edition is a springboard for safer, better fire alarm equipment and products, providing confidence to building engineers, architects and owners that their fire detection system will meet the technological demands required of buildings today.   High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire, life and safety company with decades of experience to ensure total compliance and safety for all commercial properties.  Contact us today to speak with an engineer to learn more about how we can assist with your fire and safety requirements.     Read the full article

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Is it time for your annual fire alarm inspection? E Fire provides service and troubleshooting for fire alarm systems. #firealarminspections #firealarmsystems #efire

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Fire Protection System Inspections, Service, and Repairs. Call the Professionals at Reliable Fire & Security. #firealarminspections #firealarmrepair #firealarmexperts #reliablefireandsecurity

[firealarmhouston]

Fire Alarm Houston provides Fire Alarm Inspection in Houston, TX, and Surrounding Areas

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Enhance Campus Safety with Integrated Fire Alarm and Emergency Communication System

A Mass Notification System (MNS) is also referred to as an Emergency Communication System (ECS) with both terms used interchangeably to identify a system which provides real-time information to notify all occupants of a facility or campus and the immediate vicinity of emergency situations.  The United States Department of Defense outlines necessary criteria for mass notification and emergency communication systems in the Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) publication.   Emergency communication systems must also comply with standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the International Building Code (IBC), OSHA and FEMA’s Outdoor Public Alerting System.   In our last post, Mass Notification Systems are Much More Than an Alarm, we outlined the main code requirements from the UFC and the NFPA, and the components of an MNS.  Every school, college and campus must understand the local, state and federal code requirements of an emergency communication system, which are necessary but can seem overwhelming. Incorporating the assistance of a fire safety system professional early in the process will save time, money, and ensure adherence to regulations.  High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, provides total code compliance including datasheets to assist with permit approval to commercial facilities and educational institutions in Illinois.

School and Campus Safety Risk Analysis

Prior to the design and implementation of an Emergency Communication System, a thorough risk analysis must be completed to identify threats most relevant to the unique campus situation. It is important to gather all relevant stakeholders which typically include: Facility owners and Board of Directors Facility safety directors and emergency management officials Security officials of the campus Facilities maintenance personnel Local first responders Fire alarm design professional Fire alarm system integrator Risk analysis must include potential threats relevant to the specific campus. For example, schools and campuses located in the Midwest should include an emergency plan with instructions on how to respond during tornadoes.  Whatever your unique situation, including all relevant stakeholders and school professionals in the process will help to identify all threats so that the selected team can prioritize them and determine where to focus attention to mitigate risk. While all steps and security measures should be taken to prepare for natural disasters and to prevent the intrusion of harmful individuals, risk analysis must also include a plan for when these measures fail.  How will you let the occupants know that a situation exists and the best way to respond? How will you communicate evacuation procedures or changes in procedures for certain areas? Campuses benefit from a multifaceted approach, with life and safety systems that provide emergency communication of unique messages that can change with the situation, allowing facilities to deliver the right message, at the right time, to the right people.   Emergency communication systems can deliver notifications to occupants in various ways, which may include: Prerecorded or live voice announcements delivered inside or outside the building Digital signs where a warning could be displayed and updated Social media alerts Text messages Texting alerts are highly effective as they are quickly seen on most devices and are hard to miss. Digital signs, social media and text alerts are also beneficial in loud arenas like sporting or music events. Strobe lights can help to grab the attention of the listener and are proven to make an audible message more effective. Risk analysis must also include identifying the situations in which the ECS would be deployed, and the best methods for communication to reach the intended occupants. Once the risk analysis is complete and all participants agree on the plan, a fire alarm system design professional can provide guidance on the proper system design and integration.

Involve a Fire Alarm System Professional Early for Best Results

High-Rise Security Systems, HRSS, is a qualified fire alarm system design and integration professional, experienced in working with risk analysis teams to develop and enhance an effective Emergency Communication System and overall fire, life and safety system. Best results including lower costs, adherence to all codes and regulations and a smooth installation of a high-performing, reliable ECS and fire safety system occurs when incorporating professional fire and safety system consultants early in the risk analysis process.

Emergency Communication and Fire Alarm Systems

Emergency Communication Systems are required to contain features similar to fire alarm systems which include: Survivability Supervision Backup power Intelligibility Consistent maintenance and testing Some PA systems may offer ECS services, but many lack these mandated requirements.  Working with a licensed fire alarm system professional ensures the adherence to all code requirements with approved equipment and proper placement of all sensors and devices.  Meeting code regulations, however, is only one part of the overall safety system design. A timely and organized evacuation in time of emergency is a critical consideration of all emergency communication systems.   An experienced fire and safety system professional can ensure that safety and evacuation measures are put in place that go above and beyond code requirements to provide additional safety measures relevant to your unique building structures. Integrated ECS and fire alarm systems offer both public and private mode signaling, with web- based systems designed to prioritize hazard announcements to targeted audiences.  High Rise Security Systems provides safety system design for protection in educational institutions from fire, natural disasters and intrusion which must be the highest priority of all educational facilities. HRSS is experienced in protecting several educational institutions in Illinois including Chicago public schools, the University of Chicago, the Loyola school of medicine, the University of Illinois at Chicago and many other campuses. Including the fire system professionals at HRSS in your advanced planning phases will minimize costs while providing a thoroughly developed, code compliant and effective fire and safety system.     Read the full article

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The Importance of End User Training for Security Systems

Fire alarm and life safety systems have evolved with technology, offering sophisticated smart systems which provide great benefit to building owners. Along with valuable benefits comes the responsibility of training end users to educate responsible personnel on how to use the fire and security system effectively. Building owners and business management must ensure that safety personnel know how to respond to alarm and maintenance alerts. The new technology of today is no longer an inflexible, closed-circuit system consisting of cumbersome proprietary equipment. Fire alarm and life safety systems today operate on IP networks with Wi-Fi technology, utilizing sophisticated fire, smoke and gas detection systems.  High-tech security cameras incorporated with cloud-based data storage systems provide immediate access to live footage from anywhere including mobile devices.  

Account for Training in Your Emergency Action Plan

  Building owners and managers must account for training in their Emergency Action Plan (EAP), which must be updated with any additions or changes to the fire alarm system.  When upgrading equipment be sure to include training for all end-users to ensure your system will provide the intended protection. Fire alarm systems are a critical component of all commercial structures, designed to save lives and protect property.   Part of your EAP should include how and where to access basic information on your fire alarm system. This is critical to end-users, first responders and fire alarm technicians. Building managers and end users must be trained on system operation, protocol for responding to alerts, and how to assist with evacuation procedures.     First responders react to alarm notifications from smart systems which help identify the source of a fire, pinpointing the exact location down to a particular room on a specific floor.   Fire alarm technicians have the important responsibility of ensuring your safety system is operating to its fullest potential. Access to system information is helpful to identify the specific location of system malfunctions.

High-Rise Security Systems Offers Licensed Fire Alarm Inspections

High-Rise Security Systems, HRSS, offers licensed fire alarm inspections from field trained fire system specialists.  HRSS has decades of experience in working with building and electrical contractors to ensure total code compliance of your fire and life safety system. High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire safety consulting firm offering comprehensive services throughout the Chicago area. We provide fire alarm system design, inspection, testing, maintenance and monitoring 24/7/365. Contact us today to speak with an experienced fire and safety system expert to learn more about our fire, life and safety protection services.   Read the full article

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High Tech Fire Alarm Systems Offer Advanced Features

Fire alarm systems today are sophisticated and smart, offering advanced features to prevent disasters and prepare for emergencies with early detection and warning.  Fire detection and notification systems utilize advanced technologies to detect fire, noxious gases and smoke. Intelligent initiating devices and sensors measure the amount of gas in the atmosphere, with sensitive measuring chambers to detect even minute amounts of gas or smoke.  

Addressable Fire Alarm Systems Provide Networked Coverage

Integrating fully addressable fire alarm control panels gives specific, detailed data on the source of a fire pinpointing the location down to the particular room on a floor of high rise buildings.  Fully integrated and networked systems can be controlled by a central control unit for automatic functions such as opening all doors during an evacuation or even monitoring elevators with video. Notifier® fire alarm panels provide Digital Voice Command for clearly communicated evacuation procedures.  The advanced technology available today in high tech fire alarm systems provides early warning to prevent disasters and save lives.  

High Rise Security Systems Offers High Tech Fire Alarm Systems

HRSS is a leading fire and safety systems consultant, designer and provider of code compliant systems designed to protect your property and most importantly, save lives.  Fire safety systems must be a top priority for building owners, with code compliance only one part of a well-designed safety plan. We go above and beyond mandated requirements to provide a custom designed fire alarm system based on your unique building structure or structures to protect people and property.  We offer decades of experience with all fire code regulations in the city of Chicago, the State of Illinois, and all National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, codes and standards.    

Fire Alarm System Design Services

HRSS is a fire and safety consulting firm, offering comprehensive services aimed to provide total protection from fire, natural disasters and threats.  We develop a detailed, custom design of your building or buildings with CAD software, identifying locations for sensors, exits, audible and visual alerts, all equipment and components.  We provide ongoing maintenance, testing and inspections to keep your system in optimum condition and ready to respond to emergencies.   High Rise Security Systems offers high tech fire alarm systems which provide sophisticated monitoring and reliable protection, proven to save lives and property.  We offer comprehensive fire alarm system designs utilizing UL listed equipment, total code compliance and ongoing services including monitoring 24/7/365. Contact us today to learn more about our fire and safety systems proven to save lives.   Read the full article

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Business Can Now Deduct the Full Cost of Fire Alarm Systems

Section 179 refers to the tax code that allows businesses to deduct an amount larger than normal depreciation for assets, typically thousands of dollars, during the year placed in service.  The expenses allowed to businesses under the Section 179 deduction is designed as an incentive for companies to invest more in their business, as the tax savings can be significant. Given the expansion of the Section 179 deduction under the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, there has never been a better time for businesses to add equipment, and now even building improvements.   One of the most important changes with H.R.1, the new tax law signed on December 22, 2017, is the incentive for businesses to invest in building fire protection and alarm systems.  Beginning in 2018, businesses may expense the entire cost of these systems in the year placed in service, up to specific limitations.  The limits are now set at $1 million, which begin to phase out after a company has reached $2.5 million in qualifying asset acquisitions.   While tangible personal property such as machinery and equipment was the typical expense under Section 179, the expansion now includes improvements to qualified nonresidential real property such as heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, roofs, ventilation, security systems and fire protection and alarm systems.  Click here to review all types of qualifying property.  

HRSS is Your Full-Service Fire Alarm System Provider

  High Rise Security Systems is recognized is a full-service fire and safety systems provider, offering skilled fire system design, inspections, repairs, testing and monitoring 24/7/365.  We are a certified distributor of the leading brand names in fire safety, including Honeywell Notifier® fire alarm systems which offer fire and safety systems for any sized building or property.  HRSS works with building owners, electrical contractors, engineers and architects to develop the best fire system design for your building.     HRSS provides fire safety systems that meet all code requirements including local fire safety codes specific to the city of Chicago, the State of Illinois and National regulations including all National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, standards, Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, requirements, International Building Code, IBC, regulations and any other applicable fire safety regulations.     Whether you are constructing a new building or retrofitting an older one, HRSS has the fire and safety solution which goes above and beyond code requirements.  We ensure early detection and warning systems are designed to provide maximum safety to your occupants and protection to your property.  

Let HRSS Help Determine the Best Fire Alarm System for Your Property

  High Rise Security Systems will help you evaluate your options with fire and safety systems to determine the best type to fit your building.  We offer fire alarm system design for all types of commercial properties including, high-rise buildings, low-rise buildings, mass complexes and campuses.     Take advantage of the Section 179 deduction and invest in or upgrade your fire alarm safety system for your commercial property. HRSS will partner with you to be sure that you install the best system for your property, without spending more than you need to.     HRSS is recognized as a leading fire alarm system company, providing comprehensive services to provide maximum protection to your building occupants and property.  Contact us today to learn how you can save on taxes when you invest in building improvements such as reliable fire detection and alarm systems.   Read the full article

[hrsssite-blog]

Business Can Now Deduct the Full Cost of Fire Alarm Systems

Section 179 refers to the tax code that allows businesses to deduct an amount larger than normal depreciation for assets, typically thousands of dollars, during the year placed in service.  The expenses allowed to businesses under the Section 179 deduction is designed as an incentive for companies to invest more in their business, as the tax savings can be significant. Given the expansion of the Section 179 deduction under the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, there has never been a better time for businesses to add equipment, and now even building improvements.   One of the most important changes with H.R.1, the new tax law signed on December 22, 2017, is the incentive for businesses to invest in building fire protection and alarm systems.  Beginning in 2018, businesses may expense the entire cost of these systems in the year placed in service, up to specific limitations.  The limits are now set at $1 million, which begin to phase out after a company has reached $2.5 million in qualifying asset acquisitions.   While tangible personal property such as machinery and equipment was the typical expense under Section 179, the expansion now includes improvements to qualified nonresidential real property such as heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, roofs, ventilation, security systems and fire protection and alarm systems.  Click here to review all types of qualifying property.  

HRSS is Your Full-Service Fire Alarm System Provider

  High Rise Security Systems is recognized is a full-service fire and safety systems provider, offering skilled fire system design, inspections, repairs, testing and monitoring 24/7/365.  We are a certified distributor of the leading brand names in fire safety, including Honeywell Notifier® fire alarm systems which offer fire and safety systems for any sized building or property.  HRSS works with building owners, electrical contractors, engineers and architects to develop the best fire system design for your building.     HRSS provides fire safety systems that meet all code requirements including local fire safety codes specific to the city of Chicago, the State of Illinois and National regulations including all National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, standards, Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, requirements, International Building Code, IBC, regulations and any other applicable fire safety regulations.     Whether you are constructing a new building or retrofitting an older one, HRSS has the fire and safety solution which goes above and beyond code requirements.  We ensure early detection and warning systems are designed to provide maximum safety to your occupants and protection to your property.  

Let HRSS Help Determine the Best Fire Alarm System for Your Property

  High Rise Security Systems will help you evaluate your options with fire and safety systems to determine the best type to fit your building.  We offer fire alarm system design for all types of commercial properties including, high-rise buildings, low-rise buildings, mass complexes and campuses.     Take advantage of the Section 179 deduction and invest in or upgrade your fire alarm safety system for your commercial property. HRSS will partner with you to be sure that you install the best system for your property, without spending more than you need to.     HRSS is recognized as a leading fire alarm system company, providing comprehensive services to provide maximum protection to your building occupants and property.  Contact us today to learn how you can save on taxes when you invest in building improvements such as reliable fire detection and alarm systems.   Read the full article

[strange2075]

Local businesses, museums, libraries, and haunted facilities, E Fire is your local source for Fire Alarm Inspections. Call Today to schedule an appointment. #firealarminspections #firealarmsystems #efire

[strange2075]

Batteries that are not functioning properly will cause your fire alarm or emergency light to have trouble issues. Annual fire alarm and emergency light inspections help to determine potential issues. E Fire is your local source for Annual Fire Protection Equipment Inspections and replacement batteries. #replacementbatteries #firealarminspections #emergencylightinspections #efire

[strange2075]

Whether you have a small conventional fire alarm system or a large intelligent fire alarm system, E Fire is your local source for Annual Inspections. Call today and one of our experts will be happy to help you. (662) 842-7201 #firealarminspections #firealarmsystems #efire

[strange2075]

To meet the local fire codes, your fire alarm system must be inspected at least annually. E Fire provides fast, professional fire alarm inspections. #localfirecodes #firealarminspections #efire

[strange2075]

Zac the man heading out to perform several fire alarm inspections.  When was the last time your fire alarm system was inspected?  E Fire provides a complete 360 degree maintenance program for all your fire protection equipment.  Call today to schedule an appointment.  #efire #360degreeprotection #fireequipmentservice #firealarminspections 

[bsafealarmss-blog]

Learn the advantages of regular certified fire alarm inspections.