How Effective are Fire Suppression Systems?

Fire suppression systems are used in properties and businesses across the country. But, how effective actually are they? 

In short, these systems are an absolutely critical part of best practice fire safety. Unlike standard fire extinguishers or sprinkler systems, suppression systems can detect and control fires automatically. This means they can often address a fire before it is allowed to spread, protecting people, your property and business operations in the most effective way possible.

Below, we’ve outlined how the two main types of fire suppression systems work – Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems and Electrical Cabinet Fire Suppression Systems. We’ve also explained what makes them so effective for their specific sectors and use cases.

Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems

When it comes to fires, commercial kitchens are some of the most high risk environments. This is due to the spaces’ high temperatures, open flames, hot oils and busy working conditions – all of which increase the likelihood of a fire starting. 

In these high risk environments,  traditional fire-fighting methods may be less effective or even dangerous. Whereas a Kitchen Fire Suppression System provides fast, automatic protection against a fire. 

How does it work?

A kitchen fire suppression system usually consists of:

• Heat or flame detectors, which are installed above key areas (e.g. fryers, grills and hobs)
• A network of pipes and nozzles, which are positioned to release a fire-suppressing agent directly on the source of the fire
• An automatic control unit, which triggers the system to action when abnormal heat or flame activity is detected
  

Then, if a fire breaks out, the system automatically releases a wet chemical agent over the affected area. This agent is designed to react with hot cooking oils and fats, forming a cooling, soapy layer, which prevents re-ignition. Simultaneously, the system will shut off the gas and electricity supply.

Why is it so effective?

Kitchen suppression systems can:

• Detect and suppress fires in seconds
• Target the entire kitchen, minimising damage to equipment
• Operate automatically and without the need for any manual actions, thereby minimising the risk of injury to staff
• Address the fire with minimal disruption, allowing kitchens to resume operating quickly
• Ensure compliance with fire safety standards and regulations

Electrical Cabinet Fire Suppression Systems

Electrical fires present a particularly difficult challenge, as traditional suppression methods (e.g. water sprinklers) can actually escalate the issue. This is because they are not compatible with electrical components and equipment. 

Electrical Cabinet Fire Suppression Systems provide targeted protection for electrical enclosures, data cabinets, and control panels, tackling fires without damaging the electronics.

How does it work?

Electrical cabinet suppression systems are installed next to or inside the electrical cabinet. They have sensitive heat or smoke detectors, which are triggered at the first sign of a fire (often even before it becomes visible).

Then when triggered, the system releases either a clean gas or aerosol agent, which immediately suppresses the fire (common agents include FM-200, Novec 1230 or dry powder). 

These agents are designed to rapidly reduce oxygen levels or otherwise disrupt the chemical reaction of the fire, meaning the fire is quickly tackled, without any residue being left behind.

Why is it so effective?

Electrical cabinet suppression systems can:

• Activate automatically and rapidly 
• Stop electrical fires at their source 
• Operate without leaving behind any residue 
• Be active 24/7, protecting equipment even when staff are not on site (this is ideal for businesses that operate continuously, e.g. telecommunications or IT businesses)
• Be safely used in live electrical components

Fire suppression systems from Target Fire Protection

These fire suppression systems represent best in class modern fire protection technology. 

As you can see, their rapid response and precise, dependable protection prove absolutely invaluable for businesses. 

At Target Fire Protection, we are one of the UK’s leading fire safety specialists. We design, install and maintain an extensive range of fire suppression systems, including both kitchen and electrical cabinet solutions. 

All of our systems are built to attain the highest safety standards, and are tailored to suit the exact requirements of each business that we work with. 

To find out more about how fire suppression systems work, or to enlist our professional team to support your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch.