Installing fire alarm system for smart protection

The fire-fighting system is a fundamental pillar in securing buildings and facilities and protecting them from hazards. This system operates using manual and automatic mechanisms to limit the spread of fire and control it quickly and effectively.

a fire alarm system is one of the most prominent services offered by United Company, the sole and authorized agent of the Emirati company, Wattex. In this article, we'll learn together what a fire-fighting system is and what systems the company offers in this field. Follow along...

Types of fire alarm systems and their uses

Fire alarms vary depending on their operating technology and the location where they are used. Detection methods vary between devices that rely on heat, smoke, or a combination of both to ensure a rapid and effective response to any emergency. Here are the most common types of fire detectors.

• manual fire alarm
  • It is used in emergency situations and is operated manually by breaking the device's glass cover. It is usually placed near entrances or in stairwells and is connected to a separate electrical source to ensure it works even during a power outage.
  • It is one of the most widely used devices in public buildings.
• Automatic fire alarms
  • Fire alarm installation companies indicate thatIt operates automatically without human intervention when the start of a fire is sensed, whether by sound or warning light. It includes several types.
  • heat detector: It detects sudden temperature rises and is usually used in areas where there may not be heavy smoke but where there is a risk of abnormal temperature rises.
  • Ionic smoke detectorIt relies on ionization technology inside a chamber containing a radioactive material. When smoke containing carbon particles enters, a reaction occurs that causes a power outage, immediately triggering the alarm.
  • Optical smoke detector (optical or laser)This type of detector detects smoke that obstructs the light beam inside the device, triggering an alarm. This detector is suitable for fires that produce thick, dark smoke.
  • Photo-ionic smoke detector:This device combines ionization and optical detection technologies, making it one of the most powerful, accurate, and effective detectors available for responding to various types of fires.

 

If you're looking for an efficient and secure fire alarm system in Cairo, United Company offers the latest technologies at competitive prices. We offer comprehensive solutions that include the supply, installation, and maintenance of fire alarm systems of the highest quality, ensuring complete protection and lasting peace of mind.

Fire alarm components

A fire alarm system consists of a set of basic components that work together to detect a fire in its early stages and quickly alert those present. These components include:

• Fire Alarm Control Panel:It is the main unit in the system, connecting all devices, monitoring their status, and activating alarms as soon as any indication of fire is detected.
• Manual Initiating Devices:Such as manual pull stations that can be manually activated to sound the alarm when a fire is detected.
• Smoke DetectorsDetects the presence of smoke in the air and sends an immediate signal.For the boardControl.
• Duct Detectors:Used in air ducts and air conditioning to monitor smoke moving through ventilation systems.
• Heat Detectors: Detect abnormal temperature rises, which may indicate a fire. Contact the best fire alarm installation company now.
• Beam Detectors:It covers large areas such as warehouses and uses a light beam to detect smoke.
• air samplersIt draws air from the surrounding environment to analyze the presence of particles associated with the fire.
• Water flow switches: Used in sprinkler systems to monitor water flow when the system is running.
• Tamper SwitchesDetects any tampering or unauthorized changes to the fire-fighting system valves.
• Notification DevicesIt alerts individuals of the presence of a fire via audio or visual devices.
• Audible Devices:Audible alarms such as bells or whistles are issued to warn building occupants of a fire.
• Strobes/HornsIt combines visual and auditory alerts to alert all occupants, including the hearing impaired. To inquire about installing fire alarm systems, contact United Company, the agent of Emirates Wattex, now.
• Recorders/Communicators:Sends signals to the relevant authorities or monitoring systems when an alarm occurs.
• Power units:Provides the power needed to operate the audible and visual alarm devices.

Learn more about: Firefighting equipment prices list

The best places to install fire alarms inside buildings

Fire alarm installation companies point out that the correct distribution of fire alarms in a property or institution is essential to ensuring rapid detection of fires or carbon monoxide leaks, which contributes to protecting lives and property. Although each building's design varies, there are general principles that must be observed:

Here are the locations of smoke and heat alarms:

• Install the appliances as far up the ceiling as possible within the room.
• It should be at least 30 cm away from walls and obstructions such as lamps.
• It is preferable to have an alarm device at a maximum distance of 3 meters from each bedroom door.
• Installing devices between hazardous areas such as the kitchen and bedrooms.
• Avoid installing alarms in or near bathrooms to avoid being affected by steam.
• Where stairs are present, fire alarms should be installed at the top and bottom of the stairs on level surfaces, not directly on the sloping ceiling.

On sloping roofs:

• Smoke alarms: Do not exceed 60 cm from the top of the ceiling.
• Heat alarms: max 15cm from top.
• Multi-sensor devices: Follow the 60cm rule.

In the presence of symptoms:

• If the beam depth is less than 10% of the room height, fire alarms shall be installed at a distance equal to twice the beam depth or 50 cm, whichever is less.
• If the depth exceeds 10%, the beam is treated as a wall and alarms are installed on the sides, or below it if its depth is less than 60 cm.

Adherence to these instructions ensures the efficiency of the alarm system and enhances safety within the building. Contact us now. United Company Best fire alarm installation.

manual fire alarm

A manual fire alarm is an essential component of alarm systems and is used to manually activate the alarm when a fire is detected by a person before the automatic detectors respond.

Manual fire alarms are installed in strategic locations such as building entrances, corridors, and stairwells, making them easily accessible in an emergency. They are activated simply by breaking the glass cover or pressing a dedicated button, triggering an audible and visual alarm to alert everyone to the presence of danger, facilitating rapid evacuation of the building and taking necessary action.

• These devices are operated manually by pressing the emergency button installed in conspicuous places inside the building.
• They are useful in situations where someone notices a fire before automatic alarms respond.

fire extinguisher types

Each type of fire extinguisher is designedfire extinguisher typesTo combat a specific type of fire, choosing the right extinguisher is essential to effectively control the fire and minimize losses.

Fire extinguishers are classified into five main categories:

• Water extinguishers..
• Foam.
• Dry powder.
• Carbon dioxide.
• Wet chemicals.

Each type is designed to handle fires of different categories, such as solids, flammable liquids, or electrical devices.

Along with knowing the right type, safe use and regular maintenance are equally important. This includes obtaining a safety certificate or civil defense license, signing periodic maintenance contracts, and conducting regular inspections.

Ensure all employees are familiar with how to use fire extinguishers properly. Taking these measures enhances facility readiness and ensures maximum safety in emergency situations. Contact the best fire alarm installation companies now.

What is the difference between a manual and automatic fire alarm?

Fire alarm systems are divided into:Two main typesManual and automatic. The difference between them lies in the method of operation as follows:

• Manual systems require human intervention to activate the alarm, such as pulling a manual alarm station, and are suitable for small buildings where a rapid response from personnel is expected.
• Automated systems operate automatically when smoke, heat, or flames are detected, providing a rapid response without the need for human intervention, making them ideal for large buildings.

 

In short, manual systems rely on people, while automated systems rely on technology, and the two are often used together to ensure maximum safety.

The most common mistakes when installing fire alarm systems

In fire alarm systems, troubleshooting and repair are vital components of maintaining the safety of buildings and their occupants. This process begins with the fire alarm system.

This process begins with understanding the common causes that can lead to a malfunction in a fire alarm panel, which helps you perform effective maintenance and avoid false alarms. Here are the most common potential causes of malfunctions during fire alarm installation:

• Damaged wiring: Weak or corroded connections can cause poor communication between the panel and the devices, especially in environmental conditions such as humidity or the presence of rodents.
• Power supply problems: Power outages or weak backup batteries are major causes of panel inefficiency or false alarms.
• Equipment Malfunctions: Damage to smoke or heat detectors or suction stations due to improper installation or dirt can cause unexpected malfunctions.
• Programming Errors: Inaccurate programming or improper sensitivity settings may cause incorrect alarms or system malfunction.
• Harsh environmental conditions: High temperature, humidity, or dust accumulation can affect the operation of electronic components.
• Tampering or sabotage: Intentional tampering with components impairs the effectiveness of the system.
• Communication failure: Signals to surveillance systems stop sending due to a network outage or equipment failure that puts the building at risk.

Fire alarm systems cost

Costs vary greatly depending on the factors that affect the cost of installing a commercial fire alarm system, including:

• Building size and age.
• Type of fire alarm system.
• Components of your commercial fire system.
• Cost of maintaining fire alarm systems.
• Fire alarm installation costs.

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