There were 42,800 fires in industrial and manufacturing structures between 2006 and 2010, according to National Fire Protection Association. These types of fires can be due to combustible materials, flammable materials or electrical and wiring problems. Fires might also occur when large quantities of dust, fibers or lint come into contact with flammable or combustible materials. To prevent these potentially catastrophic fires, certain prevention methods must be implemented to reduce the overall risk of fire, but also to prevent loss of life and property should a blaze ever break out.

Heat and Smoke Detection Systems

Industrial and manufacturing structures must be outfitted with heat and smoke detectors. Smoke detectors alert people inside the building if there is smoke in the air. These alerts enable people to escape from the fire. Heat detection systems are similar, but instead of detecting smoke, they detect a rise in heat, which can indicate that a fire has broken out. Some industrial and manufacturing companies install video flame and smoke detectors.

Gas Detection Systems

Because many types of gases are flammable or combustible, industrial and manufacturing buildings should have gas detection systems. For example, a carbon monoxide detector would go off if the gas was detected in the air. These systems are crucial because many gases, including carbon monoxide, are odorless and colorless. If a colorless or odorless gas is emitted, it can pose a fire or explosion risk and immediate alerts can be life-saving.

Spark Detection Systems

Spark detection systems are designed specifically to reduce the risk of fire due to combustible materials. These systems detect sparks in mechanical or pneumatic areas of the building and allow for immediate action to prevent a fire from occurring and spreading throughout the building. Spark detection systems are often installed in areas of a building where dust builds up or is created as part of the manufacturing process.

Explosion Prevention Measures

An explosion in an industrial or manufacturing structure is catastrophic and leads to large fires. Taking steps to reduce the risk of an explosion also cuts the chances that a fire will occur. Controlling the fire triangle is the method used. The fire triangle includes a fuel, an oxidizer and an ignition source. To prevent an explosion, these three items must be kept away from each other, stored properly and handled appropriately. Proper venting of the building is also necessary to prevent gases from building up and causing an explosion.

Contact fire prevention services, such as Ace Fire Protection, to further discuss your specific needs.