Fire suppression is a crucial part of any fire safety plan. After all, it isn’t enough to simply be able to detect fires – protecting people and property is what counts. The sprinkler systems required by fire code are very effective under some circumstances, but often a better solution is available. That’s where clean agent suppression comes in.
The term “clean agent” refers to fire suppressing chemicals that are released as a gas, unlike traditional water sprinklers. Clean agent suppression is not an alternative to code-required sprinklers, but instead is a necessary extra layer of protection. Why use clean agent solutions? There are several simple reasons:
1. Clean agent systems offer faster detection.
Usually, fire sprinklers activate when the temperature of a room rises above 155° Fahrenheit.Unfortunately by this point, the fire has often generated a great deal of heat and smoke. More often than not, this means damage, and risk of spreading.
Clean agent systems use smoke detection, not heat. Because smoke is often produced well before heat reaches detectors, this allows the system to catch the problem earlier.
2. Clean agents don’t damage high-value assets.
Sprinklers control fires effectively, protecting the building itself and saving lives in the process. However, they are less effective in protecting the property inside. Electronics, artwork, documents, or other valuables can all be damaged or destroyed when doused with water.
Clean agents, on the other hand, do not conduct electricity or leave behind any residue. This means they do not cause damage to high-value assets, or require any clean-up. Because they are a gas at atmospheric pressure, they fill the entire room they are released in. This allows them to permeate server cabinets and other partially-enclosed spaces that water would not reach. Afterwards, the clean agent simply evaporates.
3. Clean agents are safe for people, and the environment.
All clean agents are tested for toxicity, under the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP). All modern clean agents are SNAP approved, which includes compatibility with humans. Of course, as a general rule it is not advisable to be near a fire regardless, but in the event a fire is detected where people are present, it is obviously preferable to extinguish it without harming anyone.
In addition, all SNAP-approved clean agents are essentially non-emission, which means they are neutral to the environment. So in the end, they are just as safe as water, for everyone involved.
So, how can I protect my business with a clean agent system?
At Tech Electronics, we understand the importance of protecting your people and valuable assets – it’s what we do. Our suppression experts can help you through each step of the process, from designing a solution that addresses your needs, to installation and implementation.
