Fire alarm systems can remain in service for decades, but age is only one factor that may prompt a retrofit. Renovations, building expansions, changes in occupancy, discontinued equipment, and code requirements can all create challenges for an existing system. In many cases, the system still performs well overall, yet certain parts no longer meet the building's operational needs or long-term goals. When these situations arise, a fire alarm retrofit can provide a path forward by updating the right portions of the system without replacing everything. Fire alarm retrofits require more than simply swapping out old equipment. They require informed guidance…

Article by Saleel Anthrathodiyil published in Supply & Demand Chain Executive and Food Logistics – June 2026 The rapid growth of rechargeable battery-powered products is creating new fire protection challenges for warehouses, manufacturers, distributors, recyclers, and facility owners. In his article, “Tackling Fire Code Requirements for Storage of Batteries in Warehouses,” Saleel Anthrathodiyil, PE, CFPS, explains why lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries can no longer be treated as ordinary stored commodities. The article examines the hazards associated with bulk battery storage, including thermal runaway, fire propagation, flammable gas generation, deflagration potential, and emergency response challenges. It also outlines how recent…

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…