Most countries have made it mandatory for commercial buildings to have adequate fire protection systems installed as a condition to granting of business licence to commercial establishments. The design, package and installation of fire protection equipment have to comply with the relevant statutes, standards and codes of the local authorities. Failure to do so can result in heavy penalties for non-compliance.

Fire prevention equipment includes smoke detectors, small fire suppression systems, portable extinguishers, large fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, explosion suppression systems, etc. The use of appropriate fire protection equipment would depend on the size of the building, the materials used for construction, the type of furnishing, the nature of materials stored in the building, the type of electrical wiring and installation, etc.

Fire prevention consultants have a thorough knowledge of the combustible nature of every material used in building construction. They perform fire modelling that includes fire development, growth and movement, structural response to fire, evacuation of personnel, etc. This is particularly necessary for the modern large commercial complexes and industrial establishments. Such fire protection service consultants are also helpful in bringing old and historic buildings to adequate safety standards. They should ensure compliance with the January 2003 amendments to Building Code of Australia (http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/energyefficiency/buildings/code.html) so that there is no room for any problem in complying with the governmental regulations on fire fighting systems.

Fire suppression systems are effective in buildings that house telecommunication facilities, halls and museums containing valuable artefacts, data processing centres, etc. Portable extinguishers are necessary for small offices, cinema halls, auditoriums and other places where people assemble. Extinguishers come in several models such as cartridge operated type, wheeled type, kitchen class type, etc.

Fire alarm systems are a must in any commercial building today. Fire alarm systems should have a fast response and should be integrated with the fire extinguishing equipment usage, so that the hazard is minimised and controlled at the lowest possible level. Large commercial and industrial establishments have sprinkler systems with a full assembly of spray nozzles that come in open types and automatic types. They also have several nozzle orifice sizes and spray patterns to suit all types of applications. The materials used for fire control and extinguishing are also different according to the need, like carbon dioxide, dry chemical, foam, water, etc. Nowadays, in large establishments, the fire protection equipment and the fire protection installation carry ISO certifications to meet the high standards required. Fire fighting equipment manufacturers and suppliers and fire fighting service consultants in Australia can be easily approached for effective fire management system in the buildings, since nearly all of them are listed in several trade directories available in the country.