When it comes to fire safety, commercial or residential, knowledge truly is power. Not knowing the basics may end up costing a few lives, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. By law, all industrial, commercial, residential, as well as health care facilities, are required to have properly installed fire safety equipment.
Along with knowing where and when to install the equipment, you also need to know how to maintain it in order to keep your employees safe.
1. Who is responsible for the building’s fire safety?
As the owner of a commercial building, it’s your responsibility to ensure your premises adheres to the National Building Regulations’ fire safety regulations. If not, you may receive hefty penalties and an increase in insurance premiums.
2. Who can service fire protection components?
The only companies permitted to service fire protection equipment such as fire extinguishers, are SABS 1475 approved companies. Fireco offers maintenance of fire protection components – adhering to applicable laws, regulations, codes and standards.
3. How often must fire protection equipment be serviced?
Depending on the equipment needing maintenance, fire protection equipment needs servicing at least once a year to adheres to safety standards.
4. When can an alternate fire escape for a building be warranted?
· When a building consists of three storeys or more
· When the distance to the nearest fire escape exceeds 45m
· When a room contains more than 25 employees
5. Can emergency escape doors be locked?
Due to security reasons, doors should be able to lock. However, the only time a fire escape is permitted to be locked is when a ‘push bar panic bolt’ mechanism is installed, and approved by the Fire Department.
You may also be interested in: Your Basic Business Fire Escape Plan
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