Euralarm issues guidance document on extinguishing systems maintenance

Unlike common production tools, for example, a fire protection system is on operational standby and only activated in the event of a fire. Some faults may appear without being detectable by a non-specialist operator. This is precisely why it’s necessary that regular maintenance visits are carried out by specialists to confirm performance levels by way of functional tests.

Beyond technical verification of the correct functioning of an extinguishing system, maintenance must also include:

*the preventative replacement of critical components that may degrade over time.

*adapting the extinguishing installation to changes in risks and protected premises

*keeping the extinguishing system installation in conformity with the rules/standards/regulations in force

*checking the tightness of the protected enclosure to ensure that it’s capable of retaining the extinguishing agent for a specified period of time, which is normally at least ten minutes

It’s the responsibility of the end user/owner to ensure the safety of all staff, but also the equipment such as fire safety systems that help to sustain the business. That said, visual inspection and maintenance of these systems by end users isn’t sufficient. Inspection and maintenance procedures must be conducted by professional contractors. By entrusting this task to specialists, end users/owners are ensuring the correct level of competence is applied to system testing.

Aim of the guidance

The aim of the new Euralarm guidance document is to make all those send users with an extinguishing system at their premises – or who are planning to install one – fully aware of the importance of system maintenance to ensure constant and consistent performance and availability.

The document specifically covers gaseous fire extinguishing systems, but the content may also be applicable to other fire extinguishing or fire prevention systems.

*Copies of the guidance document can be downloaded from the Euralarm website at www.euralarm.org