Things to consider when selecting a fire protection contractor

As industrial, construction and mining sectors undertake rationalisation programs and centralise procurement, cost and efficiency are weighing more heavily into the purchase of fire protection systems than ever before. While these are important considerations, this should never be at the expense of life safety.

The unfortunate reality is that selecting low-cost fire protection systems may result in low-quality equipment and inferior servicing and maintenance capabilities. This can have devastating and costly consequences.

A fire incident can result in significant staff injuries, fatalities and costly damage. In specialised industries, damage to custom-built machinery can put a rapid halt to operations as equipment is rebuilt over months or even years.

In addition to installing an appropriate fire protection system, businesses must ensure sprinklers and equipment are properly maintained and tested, and comply with Australian Standards and any regulatory changes. Ultimately, if fire systems are not regularly checked by professional and licensed providers, they may not perform as intended during an emergency.

A careful and consultative approach to selecting fire protection systems is vital. Fire protection is a shared responsibility and it is essential that all those involved with fire safety (including procurement departments, health and safety teams, and on-site management) invest in quality fire protection solutions.

Appointing a reliable and quality fire protection provider requires careful consideration of a number of factors, including those set out below.

1. Insurances

Always work with a reputable fire protection company that holds appropriate public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance. The Fire Protection Association of Australia’s (FPAA) Providers of Choice are bound by a Stringent Code of Practice that requires insurance cover for public liability and professional indemnity.

2. Licences

Licences vary between states and territories and unfortunately, there are some providers in the industry who do not hold all the necessary licences. It is important to address this during the procurement process. Always select a fire protection provider that holds all required state and federal licences or certifications, and whose staff are suitably qualified in all practising activities.

The FPAA recently introduced its Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS), which provides professional recognition to technicians for their training and competency. Wormald has committed to accrediting all of its inspect and test technicians under this program and will move its business towards FPAS Recognised Business status.

3. Reach

For Australia-wide businesses, using a national fire protection provider can help to centralise processes, minimise inconsistencies and capitalise on economies of scale. Look for a fire protection provider with a wide branch network and that has a presence in every state and territory your business operates in.

4. Local expertise

Fire safety is heavily regulated and it is the responsibility of every organisation to comply with appropriate legislation and Australian Standards. The national building code, Australian Standards, the principal workplace health and safety regulations in each state and territory, and state and territory legislation governing the maintenance of fire protection systems are central to fire safety.

Failing to comply with these can compromise safety and result in hefty fines. It is important to work with a fire protection company that demonstrates a strong understanding of local and national requirements in relation to regulatory audits, compliance codes and reporting.

5. Reporting

Coupled with vigilant human management, smart reporting technology can make it easier and faster to keep track of fire protection systems and maintenance systems, especially for those businesses with sites located across different states and territories. Reporting systems such as Wormald Connect, an online portal that provides real-time visibility and 24-hour access to fire service calls and inspection data, can help to centralise fire safety maintenance and ensure every site is compliant. In addition to Wormald Connect, Wormald offers key account management to provide customers with one point of contact.