What Is an Out of Service Fire Protection System?
If your fire protection system is out of service, it won’t operate as it should. Your system will not function as intended during a fire event which presents a hazard to the property, its occupants, and first responders. No matter the system or its issue, scheduling professional service is critical.
We know that even a short period of downtime can lead to big problems, such as delayed emergency response, damage, and even injuries. Below, we’ll explain the risks of out of service fire protection systems, the steps you should take, and how Fire Pros can help.
The Risks of an Out of Service Fire Protection System
Each fire protection system in your facility helps keep people safe and alerts emergency responders. When one or more is out of service, the entire building becomes more vulnerable. Here’s what can happen when a fire protection system isn’t functioning as it should:
- Increased risk of injury or death for staff, visitors, or first responders
- Severe property damage from fires that go undetected or unsuppressed
- Violation of local fire codes, which can lead to fines or forced closure
- Higher insurance premiums or denial of claims following a fire
- Unexpected repair costs if issues aren’t addressed quickly
Most buildings today rely on more than just a single fire protection system. Whether it’s due to a small component or a major part of your system, any out of service fire protection equipment puts your building at serious risk.
Steps to Take When a Fire Protection System is Out of Service
If you manage a building or facility, you might not always spot a fire protection issue immediately. Whether it’s a sprinkler, alarm, fire extinguisher, or suppression system, you’re responsible for resolving the problem quickly.
Follow these steps if a fire protection system is out of service:
- Notify the fire department.
- Assign an impairment coordinator to manage the situation.
- Review and comply with your fire protection impairment program. For more information, refer to your local fire code and NFPA codes.
- Reference the inspection or service report from your fire protection company.
How Our Techs Handle Out of Service Fire Protection Systems
The licensed and insured team at Fire Pros understands how overwhelming it can be when a fire protection system in your building isn’t working. Our technicians will follow these steps when a system is out of service:
- Notify staff: We’ll alert your team to the issue immediately. If your employees are not onsite, we’ll notify them via the email address on file.
- Tag the equipment: We place an official out of service tag on the affected system so everyone in the building knows not to rely on it during an emergency.
- Issue an impairment notice: This document clearly identifies what system is down and helps you report the issue to the AHJ, your insurer, or anyone else who needs to know.
- Provide a repair or replacement quote: If we can’t fix the issue while we’re onsite, we’ll send a quote as soon as possible—so you can approve the repair and minimize downtime.
- Notify the fire code official: We’ll notify the local fire authority where required by code or jurisdiction.
- Proceed with repairs upon approval: Once you approve the quote, we’ll schedule the repair, or, in some cases, handle it immediately if we have the right parts and tools on hand.
Choose Fire Pros for Fire Protection System Services
When it comes to protecting your business, experience matters. For over 40 years, Fire Pros has been the trusted partner for fire protection services across Western Michigan. We handle everything from inspection and testing to repair and maintenance for all types of fire protection systems.
At Fire Pros, we don’t just restore fire protection systems—we deliver the peace of mind that comes from knowing your facility is safe, compliant, and ready for an emergency.
Call Fire Pros today to request a quote for out of service systems.
FAQs
What is an impairment coordinator, and why do I need one?
The impairment coordinator is an employee assigned to manage the process of resolving an Out of service fire protection system. They will be the go-to contact for everything related to the situation.
Where can I find the contact for my local fire code official?
Your local city, county, or state will have contact information on their website for the Fire Marshal, Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), and fire department.
Do I need to contact the AHJ about my situation?
Yes, the AHJ must be notified when any of your fire protection systems are out of service. They may facilitate a fire watch, suspend hazardous processes, require alternative fire protection, or, in severe cases, order a building evacuation.
Will I be on fire watch while the system is down?
Not necessarily, as only a Fire Marshal can place you on fire watch. Your insurance company may also put restrictions on your business activities while the system is out of service.
Can Fire Pros perform the repairs and restore the system while onsite?
If our technician has the required materials to restore or repair the system, they will seek approval to perform the repairs. If not, they will send a quote to your facility contact for approval and return at a later date.
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