August 22, 2018 Fire protection engineering in building design is essential for every building, whether for high-rise, warehouse, military, education, health care, retail or hospitality. As a business owner, “putting out fires” is a daily occurrence. But, should a real fire start in your structure, you want to feel confident that the proper fire protection elements have been correctly implemented and installed.
Our team of fire protection engineers here at KMB wants to keep you and your building occupants safe, so we’ve put together this overview for business owners.
What is Fire Protection Engineering?
The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) defines fire protection engineering as the application of science and engineering principles to protect people and their environment from destructive fire. It includes: “analysis of fire hazards; mitigation of fire damage by proper design, construction, arrangement, and use of buildings, materials, structures, industrial processes, and transportation systems; the design, installation and maintenance of fire detection and suppression and communication systems; and post-fire investigation and analysis.”
Fire Safety Tips for Business Owners
- Start Protected. Fire protection engineering design standards play an important role in the design and construction of building mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems. Whether in new construction or as a retrofit, detailed design standards can improve emergency response procedures for life safety and overall building protection.
- Stay Protected. The best thing business owners can do is to assess risks and prevent fires from occurring in the first place. Be aware of simple hazards such as ensuring office equipment is working properly, instructing employees to practice safe cooking and making sure pathways and exits are clear.
- Get Equipped. Make sure your building is equipped with the proper equipment. From fire sprinklers and smoke detectors to automatic fire extinguishers and emergency communication systems, you can never be too prepared.
- Prepare with a Plan. Unfortunately, fires are unpredictable. Business owner must be as prepared as possible with an emergency plan. Map out and post escape routes to ensure everyone can get out as quickly and safely as possible.
KMB Fire Protection Engineering and Safety Services
As a full-service engineering provider licensed in the United States and Europe, KMB Design Group fire protection engineers are skilled in helping commercial clients meet NFPA standards and building code requirements in the safest, most efficient ways. From building fire modeling and smoke control system design to building code consulting and risk analysis, we work seamlessly with clients to find the most cost-effective, life-safety solution for their structure.
Contact us to learn more about the best fire protection engineering innovations available for your specific building and location.