What to Know When Selecting Firefighting Equipment Suppliers

by Unknown 23:25 11 comments Fire Extinguisher Manufacturer Fire fighting safety equipment Fire fighting systems

Making premises fire safe should be our number one priority. Whether it is a school, an office, a home or a factory, the devastation of fire can be easily avoided with few simple measures. It is also our legal obligation to ensure that these standards are maintained. 

For big establishments, it also means substantial investment in firefighting equipment. According to the National Building Code, there are stringent and detailed directions on the kind of equipment required. So, its imperative that you find a reliable fire fighting equipment supplier. Here are some factors to consider when looking for a supplier.

Range Of Equipment

Many establishments require multiple fire safety equipment for a comprehensive coverage. This can include equipment that range from hydrants, sprinklers to extinguishers. Some of these are necessary under the relevant National Building Code. Sourcing these equipments can become a problem if you start looking at multiple suppliers. It means multiple negotiations, which takes up time and will end up taking your precious time and resources.

Alternatively, you can try suppliers who keep a wide range of equipments. Not only should they keep different equipments, but also the various types within one kind of equipment, such as different types of extinguishers. This is necessary to ensure that you can source exactly what you are looking for. The wider the range, the more options you have.

Budget

While equipping our establishment is important, the budget can always be an issue. In some cases like a high-rise, you may not have a choice when it comes to the number or type of equipment used, but in most cases you can pick and choose the amount of coverage according to your budget.

But remember, you get what you pay for! So, don't look for cheapest bargain or you may be saddled with a malfunctioning equipment, which will end up too expensive in the long run. Instead, do a little research of the market rate in various products, find the average price range and base your budget on that. Keep recurring costs, like maintenance, in mind when planning the budget.

There are a number of affordable equipments offered by reliable fire fighting equipment suppliers today. So, make your choice wisely.

Associated Services

Fire safety equipment does need care and maintenance. Sprinklers, extinguishers and alarms must be checked regularly. Extinguishers need refilling every time they are expelled. The equipments must be repaired or changed anytime these develop cracks or flaws. This is imperative to ensure that these are in perfect working order.

But this can also drive up your cost. Frequent maintenance services, fire extinguisher refilling means a regular expense. So, be wise about these recurring charges and look for a supplier or manufacturer who also offers maintenance services. You can get a good package deal and the original manufacturer will have the right know-how on managing the equipment.

Expertise

A reliable fire fighting equipment supplier will have comprehensive knowledge of the trade and firefighting. It shows that the supplier is up-to-date with the latest technology, products and the relevant standards in the industry. A good supplier will give you multiple options to work with, while explaining the pros and cons. So, talk to the supplier to gauge their level of expertise.

Locality

If you are looking for a bulk order, you may want to stick to a supplier in your locality. A single piece of equipment like an extinguisher or helmet can be bought from a speciality store or even ordered online, but for a bulk order it makes sense to find stick with a supplier who can be called upon in case of emergencies. It also makes deliveries smoother.

Certifications

Certifications are extremely necessary when it comes to firefighting equipment. Complying with guidelines like ISO standards means that at least the minimum required quality control is in place. Since it is not possible for us to check every piece of equipment personally, these standards are meant to be a check on the quality. In some cases certification is a legal necessity, especially if you are an owner of a commercial establishment.

Conclusion

Finding a reliable fire fighting equipment supplier is important. So, take your time when assessing suppliers.