Commercial buildings must have specific health and safety features for the occupants to be safe. Some of these features can be classified under fire safety, physical security, and the health of building occupants. Here is a list of some of the most common health and safety features in commercial buildings.
Fire Safety Features
A commercial building must have the following fire safety features that comply with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. They must also comply with local state regulations and building codes.
Fire Doors
A commercial building is required by law to have fire doors that help stop the spread of fire, heat, and smoke throughout the building. They also allow people to quickly pass through to other building areas or to the outside.
These doors must have specific fire-resistant characteristics that are rated and certified after inspection by the authorities. In newer buildings, you may find them to be functional while aesthetically blending in with the building’s design.
Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms
All commercial buildings must have smoke detectors and a fire alarm system that notifies occupants in the event of a fire. The system must also be connected to the local fire department. A licensed technician must test it yearly at the minimum to ensure it is working correctly.
More advanced smoke detectors are integrated with a camera system throughout the building. These cameras enable building authorities to verify more quickly the location where smoke and fire are detected.
Fire Extinguishers and Sprinklers
All commercial buildings must have an overhead sprinkler system that is capable of putting out a small fire and can help control bigger fires. The sprinkler system must be properly maintained and tested regularly.
A specific number of fire extinguishers are required for each floor based on the area and number of occupants. Fire extinguishers must also be checked regularly.
Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs
Emergency lighting is required in all commercial buildings in case of a power outage. The emergency lighting should be bright enough to allow people to safely evacuate the building.
It should be noted that emergency lighting is different from exit signs. Exit signs are required by law to be placed in all commercial buildings to help people find their way out in the event of an emergency. Exit signs must have emergency lighting, as well, to enable people to see them when there is a power outage.
Security Features
Best practices for commercial buildings include having a security system to protect people and property within the building from attacks from malicious intruders, theft, vandalism, and other physical harm.
Access Control
Access control systems are used to restrict access to certain areas of the building. This is usually done using electronic key cards or biometrics such as fingerprint scanners.
The system can be set up so that only authorized personnel can enter specific areas at specific times. This helps to improve security and safety by preventing unauthorized access to areas where sensitive information is stored or where dangerous materials are kept.
CCTV Surveillance
A commercial building must have a CCTV surveillance system in place to help deter crime and improve security. The system should be monitored by security personnel at all times. The CCTV footage can also be used as evidence if a crime does occur.
In more advanced buildings, the CCTV surveillance system is integrated with the fire protection system. It is, therefore, also linked with the fire alarm system’s connection to the fire department. This will enable the authorities to better monitor events in case there is an intrusion.
Intrusion Detection
An intrusion detection system is used to detect and report any unauthorized entry into the building. The system can be set up to trigger an alarm or alert security personnel in the event of an intrusion.
The system can also be linked to the CCTV surveillance system so that security personnel can more easily identify the intruder and take appropriate action.
Health Safety Features
The following features enable a commercial building to ensure the health and well-being of its occupants. Commercial buildings must comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Useful guidelines can also be found in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Air Quality
The air quality in a commercial building must be monitored to ensure that it is safe for occupants. Air quality sensors can be used to detect pollutants and contaminants in the air.
The sensors can be linked to a central control system that can automatically adjust the ventilation to maintain acceptable levels of air quality.
Water Quality
The water quality in a commercial building must be monitored to ensure that it is safe for occupants. Water quality sensors can be used to detect impurities in the water.
The sensors can be linked to a central control system that can automatically adjust the water treatment process to maintain acceptable levels of water quality.
Temperature and Humidity Control
The temperature and humidity in a commercial building must be controlled to ensure the comfort of occupants. Temperature and humidity sensors can be used to detect changes in temperature and humidity.
The sensors can be linked to a central control system that can automatically adjust the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to maintain the desired levels of temperature and humidity.
Soundproofing
Soundproofing is often used in commercial buildings to ensure the comfort of occupants. Soundproofing material that absorbs noise can be used to reduce the amount of noise that is transmitted through walls, ceilings, and floors.
The material can also be used to reduce the amount of noise that is produced by mechanical equipment such as HVAC systems. Green walls, which are vertical plantings that absorb noise, can also be used to reduce the amount of noise in a building.
Ensuring Safety in Commercial Buildings
A commercial building must have a number of features in place to ensure the safety of its occupants. These features include fire protection systems, physical protection systems, and health protection systems. With these in place, a commercial building can provide a safe and comfortable environment for its occupants.