With Memorial Day next week, we take some time to honor and remember those soldiers who have died while serving in the Country’s armed forces. However, there are many Veterans who have fought for our Country that are still living but may no longer be able to take care of themselves. To show our appreciation, we want to fight to make their lives as happy and safe as possible. As a veteran hospital, making sure you have a strong fire safety plan is important for the safety of your patients. That’s why passive fire protection systems have been designed to help protect the building and its occupants during a fire.
A Building’s Passive Fire Protection Services Include:
Fire/Smoke Dampers – These are used in the building’s ducts to prevent the spread of fire/smoke within the duct work through fire-resistance rated walls and floors.
- According to The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 80 and 105, “Each damper shall be tested and inspected every 4 years, except in hospitals, which is every 6 years”.
Fire Doors – If kept shut, help contain the fire to one specific location of the building, while also allowing occupant a safe evacuation route.
- NFPA 80 states, “Fire door assemblies must be inspected and tested annually, with a written record of the inspection signed and kept for the inspection by the AHJ”.
Firestopping – Firestop materials help prevent the spread of fire and smoke by sealing up any holes and gaps in a building’s fire walls/barriers.
- According to the International Fire Code (IFC) and the International Building Code (IBC), “Firewalls, partitions, smoke barriers, ceilings and floors) must be maintained annually and properly repaired, restored or replaced when damaged, altered, breached or penetrated”.
Photoluminescent Egress Path Markings and Exit Signs – This system will continue to glow in smoky or black out conditions, allowing people to navigate their way to safety.
- IFC and IBC state, “Approved luminous egress path markings outlining the exit path shall be provided in buildings having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle”.
