Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

Fire Safety Tips

  • 07/01/17

These tips for college leaders are offered by Columbus State Community College (With campuses located in several communities in Ohio, Columbus State Community College was named #1 for Best Campus Security 2016 by the website BestColleges.com):

  • Safety and security design consultants should be retained early during design and construction for system recommendations.
  • A risk analysis of the building’s contents and risks inherent to certain educational programs such as aviation can determine the appropriate fire detection and suppression systems.
  • Designers and planners should consider best practice in occupant design which will provide safer and timelier evacuations, enhanced by integrated emergency messaging directing crowd flow via public address systems integrated into fire systems, smartphone apps and digital signage.
  • Just as Building Information Modeling (BIM) software programs have resulted in more efficient buildings, the evolution of Fire Dynamic Simulator software programs can lead to more effective fire systems in the original building design based on actual modeling of your proposed building attributes in the event of a fire.
  • The best fire suppression system is one that’s never used. Sensor technology is evolving — such as infrared devices that can sense even sooner when the potential for fire exists — sparing the college from property loss, water and fire agent damage, and continuity of operation impacts.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • How a Portable Sink Helped an Art Classroom Run More Smoothly

    Classroom design decisions can have outsized effects on instructional time and safety at schools juggling mismatched infrastructure, strict budgets, and crowded schedules — particularly in the arts. Between spilled paint and dirty brushes, art classes run smoother with a sink in the studio. But many schools don’t have a sink in every art classroom.

  • Zurn Elkay Releases 2025 Sustainability Report

    Zurn Elkay Water Solutions recently announced the release of its annual sustainability report, according to a news release. The 2025 report discusses the organization’s efforts to maintain good environmental stewardship and the solutions provided in helping customers meet sustainability goals.

  • Countway Library at Harvard Medical School

    From Shadows to Sanctuary: The Transformation of Light at Countway Library

    The renovation of Countway Library at Harvard Medical School demonstrates how biophilic design and advanced lighting strategies transformed a formerly dark, insular space into a vibrant, welcoming hub that supports wellness, learning, and community engagement.

  • Hawaii Elementary School Breaks Ground on New Classroom Building

    Kealakehe Elementary School in Kailua, Hawaii, recently began construction on a new, $16-million classroom building for its campus, according to a news release. The 13,000-square-foot building will stand two stories and connect the existing upper and lower campuses.