Back to basics: the importance of fire detection in commercial facilities

Commercial facilities continue to face elevated fire risk as buildings grow more complex and densely occupied. According to the U.S. Fire Administration 2023 Fire Estimate, from 2014 to 2023 nonresidential buildings experienced approximately 110,000 fires (a 19% increase over the past decade), 130 deaths, 1,200 injuries and more than $3 billion in losses. Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to reduce harm and disruption and enhance occupant safety.

In his article for Facilities Management Advisor, “Back to Basics: The Importance of Fire Detection in Commercial Facilities”, Dr. Rodger Reiswig – Fellow & VP, Industry Relations at Johnson Controls – draws from nearly four decades in the fire protection industry and leadership roles across multiple NFPA and industry standards organizations to highlight the foundational practices facility leaders should follow to protect people and property. 

Building on Dr. Reiswig’s guidance, we have put together five essential pillars of fire detection readiness for today’s commercial facilities. These recommendations reflect industry codes and standards, as well as lessons learned through decades of fire protection experience supporting commercial facilities.

Pillar 1: Understand and apply NFPA 72

Design, placement and installation as well as ongoing inspection, testing and maintenance (ITM) of fire detection systems are governed by NFPA 72 (The National Fire Protection Association National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code). Treat these requirements as the baseline for system selection and performance. Make sure ITM schedules are documented and followed. 

Pillar 2: Confirm state and local requirements with the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)

Beyond national codes, both state and local guidance can vary by building size, use and location. Engage with the AHJ as early as possible to validate interpretations and ensure plan reviews, permits and acceptance tests align to local expectations.

Pillar 3: Educate occupants and plan egress per NFPA 101

Detection only protects people if occupants recognize alarms and know how to exit. NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) sets expectations for paths of egress (exit), signage and drills. Coordinate with tenant leaders to onboard new staff, run periodic exercises and keep routes unobstructed.

Pillar 4: Prioritize maintenance to eliminate hidden failures

As Dr. Reiswig notes, outdated or malfunctioning fire equipment is one of the biggest risks to fire safety in commercial facilities. Proactively replace unsupported panels and devices, promptly resolve trouble conditions and align spare parts strategies with OEM lifecycles.

Pillar 5: Modernize detection and notification for clarity and speed

Emerging capabilities include addressable systems, clearer notification appliances and improved monitoring and analytics. These advancements help shorten response times and improve situational awareness for both occupants and responders. Modernization closes gaps left by aging technology.

Conclusion

Fire detection is not simply a compliance requirement – it is a foundational element of operational resilience. By aligning with NFPA codes, understanding building-specific risks, proactively maintaining systems and modernizing outdated technology, facility leaders can significantly reduce the likelihood of injury, property loss and business disruption in commercial buildings.