Fire protection engineering is a critical yet often overlooked discipline focused on protecting people and property from the impacts of a fire. Despite its importance, many are unaware of the field and the career opportunities. This article highlights the career path of an early-career consultant at Telgian Engineering & Consulting, Zoe Wagner, offering insight into how she entered the field and what aspiring professionals can expect from a career in fire protection consulting. What is the main role of a fire protection consultant? Fire protection consultants contribute to keeping people and buildings safe by assessing fire protection and life safety…

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report “Fires in Structures Under Construction,” statistical data from 2017 to 2021 indicate that fire incidents have been increasing. Who is responsible for the fire prevention strategy? Ultimately, the owner is responsible for their construction site. However, NFPA 241 states that the owner should designate a fire protection consultant for implementing and managing the fire prevention strategy during times when the building is undergoing alterations, construction, or is being demolished.  That fire protection consultant will be charged with: Ensuring fire safety measures are being overseen. Conducting regular inspections. Ensuring compliance with NFPA…

A Career in Fire Protection: Fire Sprinkler Design This article is part three of a three-part series. Click here to read part one Click here to read part two Introduction The role of the fire sprinkler designer is instrumental throughout the process of developing a fire sprinkler system. This makes them invaluable and a much-needed role in the fire protection engineering field. Benefits of Being a Fire Sprinkler Designer Choosing fire sprinkler design as a career provides job security for several reasons. Fire sprinklers will be necessary in buildings for the foreseeable future. The codes requiring fire sprinklers change every…

This article is part two of a three-part series:   Click here to read part one Click here to read part three Introduction During the design phase of a project, the sprinkler designer will go through several steps. These steps may vary depending on the specifics of the project, or the order may change due to the individual designer’s methods. 1. Consult with the building owner/client. It is normally best to start with a meeting with the client to determine a clear scope of work. Some of the following steps may be affected or even added/removed based on the clarification of…

This article is part two of a three-part series:   Click here to read part two Click here to read part three Introduction When a fire erupts in a building, fire sprinkler systems activate to help keep the assets and occupants of the building safe and give them time to evacuate, if needed. These systems are a crucial component of fire safety, so having a skilled professional design them is key. Various codes and standards mandate these systems in various facilities throughout the U.S. and other parts of the world, making the need for designers ever-growing. As long as there are…