There are two different types of fire protection: active and passive. Though different, the two types are equally important fire protection aspects that require regular maintenance and inspection. Learn the difference between the two types and how they work together to provide your facility with the highest level of protection.
Active Protection
As the name implies, active fire protection involves movement or action in the apparatus used to extinguish the fire. Active types of fire protection include fire alarms, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, suppression systems, and some ventilation systems. In some way or another, these components work together to combat fire directly.
Because active fire protection types often involve many movable parts to function, each component must be regularly inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure full functionality in the event of a fire.
Passive Protection
While passive types of fire protection may sound less effective than active ones, they are equally important. Passive fire protection is incorporated into the structure of your building. Types of passive fire protection include firewalls, fire doors, smoke barriers, fire-resistant floors, and fire-resistant ceilings. Together, these components work to provide fire protection by delaying or preventing heat and particles of combustion from spreading throughout the building. Though passive fire protection components are often immovable and can not typically be tested after installation, regular inspection is essential.
Why Your Facility Needs Both
Active and passive fire protection work independently but together to provide comprehensive coverage for your facility. In the unfortunate event of a fire, active fire protection methods work to extinguish the fire, while passive fire protection keeps the fire from spreading to other areas in the building. Efficient and ultimate fire protection requires both types to function in tip-top shape.
How Fire Systems, Inc. Can Help
Keeping track of required fire protection maintenance can be daunting for facility managers to attend to on top of all other duties. In addition to this, building codes and fire codes can vary based on location and can be challenging to decipher. Fire Systems, Inc. is an Atlanta-based fire protection company that can help keep track of all aspects of your fire protection system’s required inspections and maintenance, helping ensure you never miss a deadline. In addition to tracking, Fire Systems technicians train to design, install, test, inspect and maintain every aspect of your building’s fire protection systems. We even offer 24/7 alarm monitoring.
If you’re ready to start with an all-services fire protection company, visit our website or call us at 770-333-7979.
