In the workplace, the five most common causes of fire are faulty electrics, flammable and combustible materials, human error, general negligence and arson. Alarms, warning systems, sprinklers and fire proof doors can all help stop the spread of fire and reduce the risks to human life.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that is difficult to detect because it is odourless, tasteless and colourless. When breathed it displaces the oxygen in the blood and deprives vital organs of oxygen. Large amounts of CO can cause loss of consciousness and suffocation within minutes.

With addressable fire alarm systems, you can pinpoint exactly which alarm device has been activated. Every device has its own unique address, so in a fire situation, the particular device that has been activated will be highlighted on the control panel – meaning you can tell the exact location of the fire and take action quickly. This solution is most suitable for larger buildings covering multiple levels.

With a conventional system on the other hand, there is no way of pinpointing the exact location of the fire as the alarm devices are not individually identified.

Fire Alarms and Sprinkler Systems are serviced monthly, with detailed annual and five yearly services. Extinguishers, fire doors, penetrations and emergency lights are serviced six monthly and annually.

During our inspection we will check that your fire system is working correctly. To do this we:

1. Test and calibrate alarm sensors
2. Simulate inputs and test the announcement system
3. Set the sensitivity levels
4. Co-ordinate with the fire department to test input into their system
5. Check any batteries for corrosion and expiry date

The monthly fire alarm inspection duration depends on the size of the building and the number fire panels that need to be checked. Other than the test of the announcement system, it’s unlikely you will notice the inspection is taking place.

Annual fire alarm tests are quite a bit more involved and are usually attended by two technicians. Depending on the size of the building the testing can take as long as a full day.

What should I do to keep my fire system in good order?

Fire sprinkler systems are heat activated, with each sprinkler head being automatically triggered by fire-specific temperature. In most situations, only one or two sprinklers are required to extinguish or contain a fire.

To keep you fire sprinklers in top condition it’s important to keep decorations, paint, and other objects away from them. Be careful when moving large objects so you don’t bump into fire sprinkler heads or pipes. And obviously you should never hang anything from fire sprinklers as these can damage sprinklers and cause them to fail during a fire.

The type of system required depends on the building it is located in. The Building Code of Australia sets out specific requirements which QFE will discuss with you so you can be confident you comply with all regulation and that your people and property are protected.

QFE is happy to perform an audit of your existing system and let you know if it is compliant, and if it needs upgrading or replacing.

No, QFE is not a fire monitoring service.

Absolutely! One of the areas we specialise in is integration with legacy equipment and our fire system design will take this into account.