Industrial fire prevention: a critical framework for industrial safety
Industrial fire prevention’s primary purpose is to protect life and property and to secure the continuity of operations. Industrial fires are usually caused by flammable materials, electrical faults and equipment malfunctions. They can have devastating consequences, such as the loss of stock and production facilities, loss of customers, loss of confidence and even the dismissal of employees - and in around 80% of cases, companies that suffer a fire never fully recover while 70% have to shut down their operations in the following months.
Understanding the importance of fire prevention
It is therefore important to take effective preventative measures to minimise these risks and avoid financial losses, if not worse. This means recognising risks early, installing detection and extinguishing systems and carrying out regular maintenance work. Equans offers a complete range of services from planning to installation, maintenance and inspection of fire protection systems so that they are always up to date and fully functional.
Over 30 years of experience and expertise in global fire prevention solutions
Through Axima Sécurité Incendie, Equans offers tailored fire protection solutions, leveraging expertise in fire protection engineering and an integrated approach. With more than 30 years of experience, 600 specialised employees and 29 branches, Equans has built a strong presence and close relationships with its clients to deliver a rapid and efficient response to fire safety requirements. For projects in France and abroad, clients benefit from the in-depth knowledge of local regulations and standards that Equans' experts possess.
Our solutions adapt to all risks and environments, including special hazards and confined spaces, meeting challenges in heavy industry, nuclear plants, food processing, logistics, retail, and commercial property, both in France and internationally.
Equans’ comprehensive fire protection services
Equans’s comprehensive fire protection services cover design, installation and maintenance services as well as continuous remote monitoring through advanced monitoring modules and specialised systems for industrial risks.
Equans’ commitment to the reliability, operational efficiency and energy performance of its solutions also includes the implementation of energy performance contracts that provide financial guarantees through a bonus-malus system. Equans' teams perform both preventive and corrective maintenance to guarantee optimal performance and compliance for all assets.
Key offerings in fire protection services:
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Bespoke fire safety solutions: including fire detection and suppression systems, portable fire extinguishers, gas extinguishing systems, foam systems, hydrants, sprinklers and water supply systems.
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Specialised risk assessment and management: expertise in dealing with specific risks such as hydrocarbon fires requiring foam systems or data centres using inert gas for fire suppression.
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Maintenance services: preventive and curative maintenance to ensure the longevity and compliance of fire protection systems. Advanced data analytics is leveraged to prevent failures and predict when equipment will need replacing.
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Training programmes: including comprehensive training on fire safety standards, procedures, first level maintenance and emergency protocols.
Integration of digital technologies in fire prevention
IoT and AI are integrated into our solutions for intelligent monitoring and predictive maintenance, improving the efficiency and responsiveness of our fire protection systems. These technologies enable real-time tracking of system performance and early detection of potential problems to facilitate timely intervention.
Building Information Modelling (BIM)
BIM enables better planning and maintenance of facilities by providing detailed and accurate data about the building infrastructure. Leveraging its Building Information Modelling (BIM) Equans can design and manage fire protection systems more effectively. Its design offices conceptualise and dimension projects for new buildings, extensions or renovations, while its technical departments offer comprehensive BIM solution projects and advice on regulatory compliance.
Development and implementation of emergency response plans
Equans assists its clients in the development and implementation of robust emergency plans to ensure optimum preparedness against fire hazards. Regular training programmes are provided for employees on fire safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure quick and coordinated responses in the event of a fire.
Equans fire protection equipment includes:
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Sprinkler systems: automatic fire suppression systems that release water when heat is detected.
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Fire hose cabinets: these cabinets are essential for manual firefighting and contain ready-to-use hoses.
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Standpipes and riser pipes: vertical pipes used to supply water to different levels in a building.
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Fire extinguishers: portable devices for immediate firefighting.
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Fire doors and walls: are installed to contain fires in a specific area and prevent them from spreading.
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Static gas detection systems: to monitor and detect dangerous gas concentrations to prevent fires.
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Smoke extraction systems: designed to remove smoke and heat from the building during a fire.
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Emergency units: for safe evacuation and proper functioning of emergency systems during a fire.
Cooling systems
Temperature controlled storage systems are essential for industrial and commercial applications. With a 35% share of the French refrigeration market, Equans uses advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance to ensure the reliability and energy efficiency of its installations. The use of natural refrigerants and cascade cooling systems are prioritised as part of our commitment to sustainable and efficient solutions.
Equans’ cooling and fire protection offering includes:
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- Customised cooling systems:developed for storage at positive and negative temperatures, especially for the food and petrochemical industries.
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- Predictive maintenance:using sensors to monitor equipment, Equans detects temperature, vibrations and leaks, enabling timely intervention and reducing maintenance costs.
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- R&D for refrigerants:continuous research and development in environmentally friendly and natural refrigerants to support sustainable practises in refrigeration for various sectors such as retail, industry and warehousing.
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Making fire safety an industrial priority
Industrial fire protection is a life-or-death imperative of corporate risk management. Leveraging decades of expertise in fire prevention engineering and cooling systems, Equans is committed to shielding industries from the devastating effects of fire hazards. By providing innovative, integrated, and tailor-made solutions, Equans not only protects people and property but also ensures companies can maintain safety and business continuity.
