To design and install the proper commercial security systems for a business, hospital, office building or apartment complex requires an in-depth analysis of the uses and configuration of the facility. Protection for the occupants and contents is always the primary objective. Construction engineers and architects collaborate with fire and security experts during the early stages of the design in order to integrate the right number, location, and types of detection and warning equipment that best serves the needs of the facility and occupants.
Types of Commercial Security Systems
Several categories of security alarm equipment should be considered. Some commercial security systems, such as alarms and cameras, may serve more than one function in an emergency. Systems include:
- Fire and smoke detection, fire suppression monitoring, alarms and evacuation initiation
- Gas detection and burglar alarm
- Security systems that include secure access and identity readers
- Closed-circuit TV monitoring systems throughout hallways, entry points and parking lots
- Control center monitoring equipment
Integrated Security & Fire Systems
Fire and Smoke Detection
Significant potential threats to occupant safety in larger, high-rise structures are fire and smoke. A well-designed building with the correct number and placement of smoke and fire detection devices, plus alarms and carefully planned evacuation routes, is the core objective of a secure design. High-tech fire detection and alarms systems, such as NOTIFIER™️ by Honeywell, have extremely sensitive heat and smoke detection ability and require little maintenance. These devices should be properly placed throughout the structure to ensure that any developing problem is recognized early to allow for the the complete evacuation of the occupants.
Fire suppression and sprinkler systems are necessary to suppress the fire before spreading.
An essential part of the design process is identifying primary and secondary evacuation routes. With recorded or live voice systems, occupants may be directed to the safest route from the building and away from danger.
Gas Detection and Alarm Systems
NOTIFIER™️ by Honeywell produces a range of gas detection systems that detect potentially harmful gases in the atmosphere. Standalone or network systems can alert occupants to potential danger and initiate evacuation by activating the alarm system.
Physical Security Systems
Card access control eliminates entry by unauthorized individuals and is necessary to protect occupants and property. Many commercial buildings and residences require secure controls to manage access. Entry systems operated by ID cards or other, more sophisticated means identify who, when and where people have entered or left the building. Closed circuit TV in halls, at entryways and around the exterior can also alert security staff to potential intruders.
Central locking control can be used to secure the entire building or specific areas when access by unauthorized individuals may not be allowed.
Central Monitoring Capability
The whole range of detection, warning and evacuation processes should be managed from a central command and control location. With each fire and physical safety device integrated and observed from a single point, trained personnel can direct the appropriate fire and police departments while overseeing a smooth evacuation. Integrating all of these systems into a single harmonious network is more efficient, effective and economical.
Most importantly quick detection and response saves lives and reduces asset damage.
Expert Fire and Security in Chicagoland: High Rise Security Systems (HRSS)
HRSS is a qualified sales and service provider of NOTIFIER Fire safety equipment. Using CAD (computer-aided design) system during the design stage, HRSS experts can create the optimal fire and security system for complete protection of the occupants and building. HRSS utilizes NICET-certified (National Institute of Certification in Engineering Technologies) designers whose designs meet and exceed NFPA and other local code requirements for safety.