Protecting nonstructural components from earthquake damage In earthquake-prone areas, proper design and engineering make sure buildings stay structurally sound during a seismic event. But earthquakes damage more than just piers and beams, so it’s important … Read more
New technology spurs new requirements in the latest edition of NFPA’s inspection, testing, and maintenance standard The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) refers to its standards as living documents, continuously adding new ways to keep … Read more
Learn the requirements for AED signs, exit signs, and fire extinguisher signs No one expects an emergency to happen. But when they do occur, life and fire safety signs that illuminate the path to safety … Read more
Highly-visible signage is an essential life safety measure Most people can figure out how to exit a building in normal circumstances. But add fear and an emergency, and normal tasks suddenly become difficult. Darkness after … Read more
Safety signs are everywhere. In dangerous situations, they tell you what to do, where to go, and where to find vital equipment. In addition to the million or so exit signs you’ve seen in your … Read more
Electric, photoluminescent, and tritium exit signs are listed and tested to the same standards as their electric counterparts. But the choices you make can lower lifetime costs, reduce maintenance requirements, and keep signs in compliance with local laws.
Photoluminescent egress markers or safety signs guide people to exits in tall, supertall, and megatall structures—but when do life safety codes require them?
Learn how a balance of cost, code, and a love of the craft influences contractors’ choice of fire alarm bells, water motor gongs, and newer electronics.
Learn where seismic cable sway bracing is needed and how to install it In the previous installment of our series on seismic protections for fire sprinklers, we introduced the principles of sway bracing. Here, we … Read more
Seismic bracing for pipes, ductwork, electrical components, and more keeps systems up and running after the shaking stops The risk of fire runs high after earthquakes, most often triggered by broken gas lines, exposed wires, … Read more
