COMMERCIAL SECURITY toxic smoke filling the building , instead facilitating the spread of it .
Some fire safety myths are born purely from convenience , with responsible parties often trying to bend the rules to something that suits the operation of their building . For example , it may be that fire doors slow the movement of people through a building or act as an additional obstacle when items are moved throughout the premises and as a result , they ’ re illegally left open . Despite the dangers and risk of fines , penalties and prison , a large proportion of people who do so fail to see the safety of occupants as a priority until disaster strikes .
‘ it ’ s imperative to educate ourselves on a subject that can rapidly turn into a life-or-death matter ’
Home Truths
Perhaps this is where a lack of education plays a part in the spread of misinformation . Today , decision makers and installers have a variety of options when it comes to fire door hardware , with tailored options able to adapt to a building ’ s specific needs .
Electromagnetic door control solutions for example , can be linked to a building ’ s alarm system with fire doors kept in an open position until the alarm is sounded ,
fixing potential convenience issues in a safe and sustainable way . By correctly specifying products that suit the use of a building more closely , not only can we educate decision makers further , but there ’ s an opportunity to significantly increase fire safety standards , too .
For gaps in practical knowledge , such as the process of fire door and equipment checks , industry standard guidelines are readily available from legitimate experts and regulatory bodies . Helpful guidelines and checklists on
everything from door hardware to fire safety compliance are also accessible . However , this information must now be used more regularly , replacing the gossip and conjecture that is unfortunately being followed by too many .
With the legal regulations and ramifications at stake , it ’ s imperative to educate ourselves on a subject that can rapidly turn into a life-or-death matter .
The Key to Fire Safety Most fires are preventable . By adopting accurate procedures and fire safety practices , decision makers can prepare themselves and their buildings for the worst , creating a safer environment and sharing authentic knowledge on the subject .
Only when we eliminate the ‘ corner cutting ’ and reduce the potency of fire safety myths can we truly achieve a fire safe future .
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Sources ; https :// www . hse . gov . uk / myth / september . htm ; https :// www . firesafe . org . uk / category / legislation /; https :// www . firedoorsafetyweek . co . uk / advice ; https :// www . legislation . gov . uk / uksi / 2005 / 1541 / contents / made ; https :// www . allegion . co . uk / en / productcatalogue / door-controls0 / electromagnetic-closers / briton-2700-te . html ; https :// www . allegion . co . uk / en / promo / fdsw2018 . html
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