A key feature of modern fire alarm design is the option to easily test each system to ensure it's working correctly. This is particularly important for businesses and office spaces, where the safety of dozens or even hundreds of employees and visitors is at stake, as well as highly valuable assets, products, and equipment. In the following guide, find out more about why fire alarm testing is essential for your workplace and what it involves.

The Importance of Fire Alarm Testing

Regardless of the quality of your fire alarm design, an alarm system can develop faults and flaws over time which may impede its ability to warn employees and staff of potential danger in time. Therefore, the primary reason why you should regularly inspect and test your system is to ensure you have a safe workplace which meets local, state, and federal safety requirements.

Besides safeguarding lives, a functioning alarm system can prevent avoidable property damage and legal and medical costs. For example, an insurance provider may offer discounts if they have confidence in a business’ fire safety precautions, whereas they may even refuse to insure a workplace without effective protection. Fire safety inspectors may also issue fines if they find an alarm system to be in poor condition or otherwise unsatisfactory.

In addition, although it’s a less serious concern, a faulty alarm system can go off at unpredictable times when it isn’t properly maintained and tested. This can prove to be a serious nuisance for employees and visitors, and it can severely disrupt routine operations if building occupants have to assemble at fire muster points for a false alarm. Inspecting the system to ensure it’s working properly will prevent these problems.

When and How to Test Your Fire Alarm System

According to federal fire safety standards, commercial fire alarm systems must be tested at least once a year to ensure they’re in working order. You may also be required to adhere to local and state laws regulating the use and maintenance of fire alarms and smoke detection systems.

Annual inspections and testing must be carried out by a qualified, licensed technician. Between these inspections, you can have an independent inspector or a qualified member of staff test your alarms. For example, you can use a battery load tester to ensure that fire alarm batteries have sufficient power.

A common feature in modern fire alarm design is incorporated testing systems, which make it possible to test the system from the central control unit. If your system doesn’t have this feature, you’ll need specialized equipment to inspect it.

When you’re in need of fire safety training, specialized alarm and suppression system testing, and fire alarm design services, get in touch with Fire Protection Specialists in Bangor, WI. Their certified specialists help area businesses maintain effective, reliable alarm and detector systems to protect their employees, customers, and assets alike. Call (800) 658-9463 to schedule a consultation, and visit them online to learn more about their services.