Fire safety and security – why the two go hand in hand

The last few months have proved a testing time for most businesses. Each industry has faced its own challenges and had to adapt to very different ways of working. Agility and continuation of operations as near to normal as possible is of course a priority. However, every industry is also now very much aware of safety provisions, staying safe and the huge importance of best practice – whatever that might look like for their setting.

Fire safety and security are two such segments, as more and more emphasis is put on a prevention-based approach that identifies and addresses issues before they are given chance to happen.

Here, we look at how the fire safety and security segments can support each other in their essential roles, and discuss how fire engineers can contribute in the push towards facility security (and how security providers can aid the transforming fire safety industry).

Working to one common goal

Many businesses find managing the continuous upkeep of their crucial facilities to be a task that’s not without its difficulties. Ensuring buildings are protected from fire and theft is a top priority for facilities managers – especially as the current economic state has left more and more premises unattended. Security and fire safety could explore options to work together to remain competitive and, importantly, better meet end users’ needs. Although each segment may have separate objectives, bringing them together could ensure everything is covered. Security installation firms can upsell and expand their business simply by being aware of their customer requirements when it comes to fire safety. For example, commercial buildings with at least five users are legally required to conduct a full fire risk assessment, which necessitates fire safety measures such as fire detection and warning systems and fire extinguishers.

Integrating fire safety and security offers a more comprehensive approach to risk assessment and control – a better ability to handle large evacuation procedures and other time-sensitive instances and ensure the safety of all those involved. 

Reasons to offer both services

Fire safety and the protection of people’s lives and property will remain a crucial factor of any business’ running. However, the demand for video surveillance systems is expected to skyrocket over the next few years. Because they’re internet-connected, businesses can keep watch over sensitive and vulnerable areas – meaning the security and fire safety markets can work together to tap into this opportunity and save customers having to deal with multiple contracts.

At a time when facility and building managers must put in place measures to respond quickly, the ability to provide a wide-ranging portfolio of products, including fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, CCTV and video surveillance, would ensure you’re a one-stop shop with the ability to develop and nurture long-lasting relationships. Businesses are provided with the means to comply with all regulations set out in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as well as keep in with the requirements of insurance companies where break-ins and theft is concerned. You’ll provide a more efficient and cost-effective all-round service, which will kick in at a time when every second is precious, making you invaluable to your customers.

Get in touch to find out more about how CheckFire can help the fire safety and security markets support one another in a time of national challenge.