The importance of fire sprinkler systems in building design cannot be overstated. In fact, there has never been a building fire that resulted in multiple-occupant loss of life when the structure had a properly designed, installed and maintained fire sprinkler system using certified components.
The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) exists to continue that record. The IFSA is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to "to globally promote the use of effective water-based fire protection systems."
What Does the IFSA Do?
The IFSA works to be “the worldwide center for information on automatic water-based fire suppression systems and the leader in the advancement of their widespread use.” To accomplish this, the organization passionately encourages government authorities to require fire sprinkler component testing and evaluation.
Additionally, the IFSA believes that in order to have a properly functioning fire sprinkler system, each component in the system must meet specific standards and attain certain certifications. To that end, they work to ensure that designers, builders, and contractors only use products featuring the certification mark of a recognized fire sprinkler testing laboratory, such as:
- Underwriter Laboratories (UL): A global independent safety science company dedicated to promoting safe living and working environments.
- FM Global: An international leader in third-party testing and certification services.
- VdS: One of Germany’s leading independent safety testing institutions for fire protection and security.
- Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB): sets the standards needed to ensure that fire and security products and services perform effectively.
The organization’s recent certification video addresses this information.
The Importance of Certified Fire Sprinkler System Components
A fire sprinkler system’s network of piping, sprinklers, and water supply is only as effective as its weakest component.
And, as the market for fire sprinkler systems grows, so does the number of manufacturers entering the market with uncertified materials. Without the rigorous testing and certification awarded by a reputable organization, these materials likely won’t perform under extreme conditions.
The uncertified components may melt, perform poorly or fail entirely.
That’s why it’s incredibly important to educate designers, contractors and installers on the need for certified fire sprinkler system materials.
BlazeMaster® Fire Sprinkler System’s Commitment to Certified Products
BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems believes so strongly in the IFSA’s mission, we have been Executive Governing Board members of the IFSA from its inception.
We are committed to promoting the use of effective water-based fire protection systems across the globe. We also fulfill one of IFSA’s primary goals—making sure all fire sprinkler products used are certified—because our fire protection systems are all certified by key approval organizations.
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems and IFSA agree on the importance of providing the facts you need to install certified products with confidence. That’s why we make educating and training professionals like you one of our top priorities.
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