Hiller Systems Inc.

Safe Awake - New Product Announcement

2011-06-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

In response to the new requirements of NFPA, the Safe Awake provides a unique alerting capability for awakening the deaf, profoundly deaf and hard of hearing individuals when a smoke alarm is activated.

NFPA 72 now requires the use of TACTILE NOTIFICATION DEVICES, such as the Safe Awake, in sleeping areas, including hotels, dormitories, assisted and independent care facilities, and certain rental properties.

The patented 6” by 3” product simply plugs into any 120V electrical bedside outlet and is placed on a bedside nightstand or mounted on a wall adjacent to the bed. It is equipped with a battery backup system which provides power in the event of a power failure. It’s speaker emits a high decibel, low frequency audible signal and a flashing indicator light. The tactile stimulating bed shaker fits directly under the mattress.

For More Information, Contact Kim Boice @ (757) 549-9123 or Kim.Boice@hillerva.com!

Hiller Systems Receives Training Recognition

2011-05-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

By: Mark Herzog

On May 8th, 2011, Hiller Systems was awarded a commemorative plaque, recognizing 20 years of commitment to the Robert E. Rumans Hampton Roads Firefighting Symposium. Hiller has been involved in the Marine Firefighting Symposium since its inception in 1991. Hiller’s contribution involves an overview of fixed firefighting systems and equipment, including function and emergency operational procedures. Our trailer-mounted Fixed Carbon Dioxide System discharge is a perennial favorite of the class attendees who hail from both coasts of North America, South America, Panama, Singapore and Europe. Originally, Mark Herzog was the instructor, with those duties being handed over to Dave Faller many years ago. Hiller Systems is proud to be a part of one of the only Marine Firefighting courses of its kind. The Symposium was named posthumously for Robert E. Rumens, who was one of the original founders of this valuable training course.

The Robert E. Rumens Hampton Roads Firefighting Symposium was sponsored by:

• Virginia Port Authority/MIRT (Marine incident Response Team)

• Virginia Department of Fire Programs

• Virginia Maritime Association

• Ft. Eustis Fire Department

• Maritime Administration

• Norfolk Fire Rescue

• U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Hampton Roads

• U.S. Navy Fleet Training Center Fire School, Norfolk, VA

• Military Sealift Command

• Tri-State Maritime Safety Association

• Hampton Roads Fire Chiefs Association

This course is designed to familiarize land-based firefighters and Maritime personnel on procedures necessary to handle a marine incident within a port or waterway. This course meets NFPA 1005 standards, is ProBoard and IFSAC certified.

Course Topics included:

• Vessel Construction

• Vessel Safety

• Firefighting Tactics

• Incident Management Procedures

• Vessel and Terminal Operations

• Vessel Firefighting Systems

• Legal Issues

• Live Firefighting Evolutions

• Waterborne Exercise

• Practical Workstations

• Vessel Tours

• Review of Past Incidents

• Contingency Planning

• WMD/Hazmat Incidents

For more informaiton about this or other marine fire fighting applications, contact us today at

Securiplex Receives USCG Water Mist Certification for 3000m3 System

2011-03-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

Securiplex, LLC, a United States based manufacturer of Water Mist Fire Protection Systems (an earth friendly [green] alternative more traditional fire protection systems such as CO₂, FM200 or Novec 1230), with headquarters located in Mobile, Ala. recently was awarded ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) and United States Coast Guard certification for the high pressure Water Mist fire protection systems to protect spaces up to 3000 m3. Securiplex had previously received certification for SOLAS which is required for all Local Application Systems. Securiplex fire protection systems have been installed on a number of United States commercial and Naval vessels. All Secruiplex systems are completely and totally designed and manufactured in the United States.

The Securiplex FIRE-SCOPE® 5000 Water mist fire protection system can solve your fire protection needs across a number of platforms spanning the industrial, commercial, mining, marine, chemical, and other markets. If you would like an alternative to CO2, FM200, sprinklers or even Novec 1230, water mist offers
advantages than no other fire suppression system can offer!

With the oldest reputation for water mist fire protection in North America, Securiplex has set the standard against which all other manufacturers in the industry are measured. We achieved the first FM approved water mist fire protection system in North America. Our water mist system tested at US government laboratories has shown that we surpass all other major manufacturers in extinguishment times by several orders of magnitude in many cases.

Learn more about Securiplex, LLC or learn more about this specific application here.

Hiller Systems Inc. is a proud authorized distributor of Securiplex products. Contact your Hiller Systems Sales Representative today to learn more about this eco-friendly fire protection solution.

Hiller Systems Inc. & Extreme Makeover: Home Addition

2011-02-14T08:53:00.000-08:00

Businesses all over Hampton Roads pitched in and donated time, food and resources to the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition that was filmed recently in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Hiller Systems Inc. was no different. Our employee's donated a total of 108 lbs. of food and one of our employee's even participated in the week long build of the new house for Beverly Hill, Fred Burdette and their six adopted daughters.

Trademark Construction of Chesapeake Virginia took the lead on the build and took the family's modest home, pictured here:

and turned it into this spacious and comfortable home for the family:

Beverly Hill is known in Hampton Roads to have a heart of gold. She has been sharing her love for over 15 years and has helped raise 35 foster children, according to a press release from Extreme Makeover. A friend of the family nominated the family last year after the TV show announced it was looking for a deserving family in southeastern Virginia.

"Giving back to the community that helped build our business is only right. I am very proud of the Hiller Systems employee's who donated their time, food and energy to this project. It truly exemplifies what Hiller Systems stands for", said Mark Herzog, Vice President and General Manager of the Hiller Systems Inc. Chesapeake, VA branch.

Hiller Systems Inc. was very proud to participate in this event. The episode will air in a few weeks and we look forward to watching the week come together and see how we helped a most deserving family benefit from the kindness of strangers the way others have benefited from their kindness and goodwill.

Hiller Systems Supports Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center Emergency Management Fair

2010-12-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Hiller Systems Inc., your premier Fire Protection and Security Solutions provider, presents: "Hiller Systems Supports Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center Emergency Management Fair". - Article written and submitted by Mike Glover and Teresa Rosen.

Recently, DePaul Medical Center of Bon Secours, conducted an Emergency Management Fair to better prepare the Bon Secours employees and their families for disasters in the Hampton Roads area. Hiller Systems, Inc. was invited by Michael Craig, Director of Safety, Security and Emergency Management to assist in putting this fair on.

Pictured here: Teresa Rosen and Michael Craig

The fair was a great success. The employee's of Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center learned a lot about how to prepare and react to natural and man made disasters here in Hampton Roads. Hiller Systems Inc. was proud to be a contributing member of this worth while cause.

If you have any questions or would like to talk to someone about having a display at your Health care event or facility, please contact Teresa Rosen with the following contact information:

Hiller Systems Attends the Annual Towing Vessel Safety Seminar

2010-12-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

Hiller Systems Inc., your premier Fire Protection & Security Solutions provider, presents: "Hiller Systems Attends the Annual Towing Vessel Safety Seminar". - Article written and submitted by Dan Clift.

Recently, the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads and the Virginia Maritime Association sponsored the 11th Annual Towing Safety Seminar. Hiller Systems, Inc. was invited to demonstrate the operation of high pressure CO2 fire suppression systems at the seminar. The United States Coast Guard and the Virginia Maritime Association host this seminar to provide specialized training for towing vessels and tugboat crews/professionals to stay up on the latest safety and fire protection techniques available. Dan C. and Joe G., representing Hiller Systems, Inc. attended the seminar to demonstrate the operation of a high pressure CO2 fire suppression system. During and after the high pressure CO2 fire suppression system demonstration, Hiller Systems personnel provided an in depth look at what a typical CO2 system would look like and what safety inspectors should be looking for when reviewing a system.

By bringing a fully operational high pressure CO2 fire suppression system mock-up to this Towing Vessel Safety Seminar, Hiller Systems easily demonstrated proper operation, safety features and inspection techniques the crews would need on board their vessels. In addition, the crews were also introduced to FM-200 clean agent fire suppression systems. This type of training is extremely beneficial to the United States Coast Guard and the Tugboat industries.

Also provided for display were several different styles and sizes of portable fire extinguishers for display. These extinguishers provided the Coast Guard and the tugboat industry personnel an opportunity to see different types of portable fire extinguishers. They were able to see the differences between a CO2, ABC, PKP and Water portable fire extinguishers. These portable fire extinguishers are important because these are the first line of defense in firefighting on a vessel, often times, the portable fire extinguisher will be used before the activation of the high pressure CO2 fire suppression system or an FM-200 clean agent fire suppression system.

If you have any questions or would like to talk to someone about having this display at your event or facility, please contact Dan Clift with the following contact information:

Hiller Systems Supports AGC and American Red Cross

2010-12-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

Hiller Systems Inc., your premier Fire Protection & Security Solutions provider, presents: "Hiller Systems Inc. Supports the Associated General Contractors of Virginia and the American Red Cross. Article written and submitted by Belinda Arthur.

On November 11th, 2010, in honor of Veteran’s Day, Hiller Systems Inc. hosted a blood drive for AGC (Associated General Contractors of Virginia) and the American Red Cross. Hiller Systems employees and valued customers and vendors donated 59 pints of blood that day in honor and in memory of the men and women who serve our country. The Vice President and General Manager of Hiller Systems personally served a free lunch to all donors that day. In addition, each donor was presented with a certificate for a free Chick-Fil-A sandwich compliments of Chick-Fil-A on Battlefield Boulevard. This was the second drive in less than a month as Hiller Systems employees also hosted a Blood Drive at the Greenbrier Mall on October 30 where they were able to obtain 44 pints of blood. Free Chick-Fil-A nugget certificates were given to all donors at that drive compliments of Chi-Fil-A at Greenbrier Circle Mall. Hiller Systems support of the Red Cross is an annual event coinciding with the AGC Annual Blood Drive.

Donating blood is something that just about everyone can do to give back to the community! 97% of us will either need blood or know someone who will need blood in our lifetime. With that said, only 5% of the eligible population that can donate does so. That leaves 95% of us that can, but aren’t. There are many myths about not being able to donate. You CAN donate despite having a tattoo as long as it was done at a licensed facility. You CAN donate while being on most medications. Very few medications will actually defer you.

Did you know…

that every 2 seconds someone in the US needs blood?
that YOUR single donation of blood will help save lives?
that ALL blood types are needed; Type O is the most requested blood type for hospitals?
that you can donate every 56 days?
that blood cannot be manufactured? Volunteer donations are our the only means of keeping an adequate community blood supply.

If this blog inspired you to donate blood and you don’t know where you can do it, go to http://www.weneedblood.org/ to find a local blood drive near you!

Belinda Arthur, Director of Sales & Marketing for Hiller Systems is the chairperson for the AGC Blood Drive. She proudly announced that the local chapter membership of AGC successfully collected over 400 pints of blood this year as part of the annual drive. As you can see, we are VERY proud of Belinda and all she has accomplished with this endeavor.

How the USCG Inspection Teams Learn About Shipboard Fire Fighting Systems...

2010-10-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc., your premier Fire Protection & Security Solutions provider, presents: Training the Inspectors, How the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Inspection Teams learn about shipboard fire fighting systems. Article written and submitted by David Faller and Mike Glover.

Hiller Systems Inc., located in Chesapeake Virginia, has been conducting training for the USCG Inspection Teams since 2004. This annual course serves as an indoctrination for all newly assigned USCG inspectors and any experienced inspectors that require a refresher course. During their 1 or 2 day course, inspectors are exposed to every type of shipboard fire fighting system they may encounter on vessels and cover basic components of each system such as time delays, manual release mechanisms and basic system operation and maintenance. The inspectors also learn everything they need to know to properly inspect each system. How often the systems require inspection, what type of inspections are required for each system and how to test each system.

"This course has been extremely beneficial to the USCG Inspection Teams in training newly assigned inspectors as well as seasoned inspectors. Giving the inspectors the tools they need to properly inspect these systems and make sure everyone is safe while inspecting the systems and after the inspection....that's why we do this." - Dave Faller, Senior Instructor, Hiller Systems Inc.

"Hiller Systems helps get our teams up to speed much faster then just relying on [on the job training]. Even our more experienced inspectors learn something new when they attend this course. We truly appreciate everything that Hiller Systems does for the USCG in this effort." - USCG Inspection Teams.

Hiller Systems Inc. can help you no matter how large or complicated your fire protection problem is! Be sure to contact us for more information or to schedule a hazard analysis. See our line card for more information on the manufacturers we represent and the systems and services we provide.

Ducktape Regatta - The Devil Ducks Win ! ! !

2010-08-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

The annual Duck Tape Regatta took place this past Saturday to raise money for Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD). Entry fees raise money for the hospital which hoped to raise at least $35,000 this year. Since it's inception in 2004, the event has brought in over $125,000 to help provide needed medical care to children of all ages. Participant teams receive the following material ONLY to construct a seaworthy vessel:

One 60' roll of 2" duct tape
One pound of fasteners, 1" fine Thread Drywall Screws
One sheet of (4' X 8' X 1/4") plywood
Two (2" X 4" X 8') pieces of lumber

From those meager materials and with four hours to construct their boats, the teams commence building. Once done, they race them in a series of heats. Prizes are awarded for creativity and speed. The whole event offers food, entertainment and children's activities throughout the day.

This year, the winning team was the Devil Ducks. The Devil Ducks have been competing in this event for years. The team consists of a group of friends who got together to try and help CHKD. Two Hiller Systems employee's participate each year. Donnie Coulsting and Jay Burns. The boat this year was appropriately named "Smoke"...

The competition was tougher than ever this year. Lot's of corporate teams from businesses all over Hampton Roads. The competition gets tougher and tougher each year. The Devil Ducks beat them all though. They won their respective heats and then headed into the finals against the ever tough "ODU Engineering Squad". The Devil Ducks pulled it off though and brought home 1st Place !

Hiller Systems Inc. would like to extend a warm and hearty "Congratulations" to the Devil Ducks for their hard work and effort for such a worthy cause. Giving back to the community embodies the spirit of Hiller Systems and Hampton Roads!

Congrats again Devil Ducks...now you just have to retain your title!

The Devil Ducks (from left to right): Morgan Burns, Jay Burns, Gary church, Donnie Coulsting, Chris Foster & Michael Blunt

A Story About Surviving....

2010-08-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

A few years ago...Dan Clift, a good and faithful, longtime employee of Hiller Systems, was diagnosed with cancer. If you have ever known someone who has been through this, you probably instantly welled up with emotions that bring back vivid memories of what they went through. It's an incredibly difficult and painful process that all to often ends with dire consequences. This however, is a story of survival. A story of hope. A story that needs to be shared. This is Dan's story, in his own words...

I am a survivor. In February of 2005 I was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (blood borne cancer disease). I was diagnosed after having had a tumor taken out of my neck.  I sat in the doctor’s office as he pulled out a chart and began telling me the percentage of people who beat this cancer and the percentage of surviving. None of the percentages were 100%. This began the toughest fight I would ever face. I spent the rest of the year having chemotherapy, taking pills, getting sick, and eating scrambled eggs and Ramen noodles. I had the support from my family, friends and my fellow workers at Hiller Systems, Inc.

After I was diagnosed with cancer, a whirlwind of activity began. I had so many tests to go through. I had an MRI, a CT scan, a PET scan, and probably some other tests from the alphabet. They found three more, smaller tumors around my neck and vocal cords. I moved from a stage one to a stage two cancer level. If you do not know, the higher the stage, the further along your cancer is. The doctor and I discussed the options available for treatment. He was not in favor of radiation, because it could do more damage to my neck, throat, and mouth. We agreed that chemotherapy would be the best course of treatment. I went home after that appointment and cried. All I could remember was there was a chance that I would not make it, and there were things I still needed to do. All of my family and friends called to get an update on the diagnoses and treatment, I let the phone ring. I could not answer it, or talk to anyone. I had to get my head around the fact I was in for the toughest fight of my life.

My first day of chemotherapy was here. I went into the Oncologist office and sat in a big recliner. We started about 9:00 A.M. All day they kept taking the empty bags down and hanging new ones. They gave me medicine to counter-act the potential side effects, and that helped me sleep through most of the treatment. The needle finally came out around 3:00 P.M. The following six months would consist of more Chemotherapy, PET Scans, shots, pills, and finding the strength to keep on fighting.

The morning after my second chemotherapy treatment I was taking a shower, and the first physical side-effect became apparent. I washed my hair, looked down at my hands, and they were full of hair. From this point on, my hair would fall out by the hand full. It was at this point that I received an email from one of my coworkers. Dave Faller, a long time co-worker and friend had shaved his head, as well as several other friends all in a show of support. The beginning of the following week, a bunch of my coworkers helped me shave my head in the warehouse on our lunch break. They made it a game, took pictures, and made funny hair styles in my head. The following days would have my facial hair fall out, eye brows, arm hair, and leg hair. I found out when you have a bald head, you are cold all the time. Hair on your head helps retain heat.

As the chemotherapy treatment progressed, the sicker and more fatigued I would become. There were days I could not get out of bed. This is when I was at my worst. It was a struggle to get out of bad, a struggle to eat, a struggle to survive. If at any point I did not think I would make it through this, this was that time. I had trouble eating....nothing tasted good, I had sores in my mouth that felt like I was swallowing broken glass.  If I did manage to get food down it usually did not stay long. I saw first hand why some people give up.  You spend most of your time in bed or sick. If it was not for the great support network, I do not know if I would have found the strength to fight. Bottom line, no one should ever have to go through this alone.

Fast forwarding through chemotherapy, being sick and tired all the time. August 3rd is here, this would be my last day of chemotherapy. I have received my latest PET scan results; all of the tumors are gone....my body is clean of all cancer, I have won the fight. The last therapy session is to ensure the cancer stays gone. This was the best therapy session, my mom sat with me for the whole day as if to put the exclamation point on the end of the sentence, “the cancer is gone!”.

My birthday was coming up in a few weeks after my final treatment. The doctor said I could go back to eating real food whenever my body could tolerate the food. I made a plan, and several people from my office were ready. The week of my birthday would start my food fest. It started with pizza, went to fried chicken and then Mexican. I wanted all of the things I could not eat while fighting the cancer. I even ate a whole bag of grapes for dinner one night. Grapes, believe it or not, was something the doctor had said to stay from.

The following months would have more doctors’ appointments and PET scans. The night before was always tough, all I could think of was the conversation in that office explaining there was a chance I would not make it through this. I would get little to no sleep, go see the doctor, and he would tell me everything was great. There were still no cancer cells detected, my blood work was good, and I was gaining my strength back.

Fast forward to present time. The date is August 4th, 2010 and I have a follow up appointment with the Oncologist. Five years have passed from my last chemotherapy treatment. This was the day I have been looking for since that life changing day five years ago. I want to hear him say the words, “you are cured”. The appointment went very well. The doctor was as excited as I was. He checked all of my blood work, did a physical examine, and concluded that I was indeed, cured.

The fight was over and I had won. I could not have made it through without my family, friends, and the people at work who supported me through this terrible time in my life. This has changed the way I look at my life. The small things that use to get me upset or mad, just does not matter anymore. I watch people sitting in traffic getting upset; I turn my radio up and remember that I am glad to be able to sit in traffic. I ask that everyone take a look at their lives and realize what is truly important, and surround yourself with only positive things. You do not need a brush with death to enjoy your life to the fullest.

Today, I am part of the Light the Night team. Every year, we walk two miles to raise money to find a cure for Leukemia and Lymphoma. To be on the oceanfront and see the waves of lighted balloons carried by people there to support me and everyone else battling a blood cancer is somewhat overwhelming. I see the red balloons, which are people supporting someone who has cancer. There are the white balloons for the survivors, or the people still fighting. The gold balloons are for people walking in memory of someone who lost the fight. As I look out over the sea of balloons, I always say a small prayer for the white balloons and a prayer for the gold balloons.  The thought that someone could be carrying a gold balloon for me, just makes me want to live my life to the fullest and enjoy everything life has to offer and everyone around me.

Thanks for reading my story - Dan Clift

If you are interested in supporting the Light the Night Team. Visit the web site and find out more.

In this picture: Mark Herzog, Dan Clift & Belinda Arthur 5 years later....

Hiller Systems Inc. - Employee's of the Quarter (3rd Qtr, FY2010)

2010-08-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. proudly announces the 3rd Qtr FY2010 Employee's of the Quarter! Each of these employee's were nominated by their respective supervisor and hand picked because of their outstanding service during the 3rd Quarter of the year. These employee's exemplify the Hiller spirit, team work and customer service that makes up "The Hiller Difference". Congratulations to...

JOHN "RUSS' ABRAMS

DAVE MASDEN

PATRICK CRIBB

The employee's were treated to a celebration lunch with the management team, received a certificate of appreciation and a check in a show of appreciation for the hard work and dedication to the Hiller team.

Congratulations gentlemen...and keep up the hard work!

Hiller Systems Inc. - SALES PERSON OF THE QUARTER !

2010-08-02T05:40:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. proudly announces the 3rd Qtr FY2010 Sales Person of the Quarter! Dan Clift earned the top spot for the 2nd quarter in a row. Dan was treated to a lunch with the best Sales Manager in the world and his co-workers to show our appreciation for his hard work and dedicated, loyal service.

In this Picture (from left to right) - Mark Herzog (boss man), Dan Clift & Belinda Arthur

Congratulations Dan! Keep up the hard work...we ALL appreciate it very much!

Firefighter Appreciation Rebate on Akron Brass Nozzles and Monitors, available through Hiller Systems Inc.

2010-06-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Written and submitted by Belinda Arthur:

Hiller Systems Inc., an authorized distributor of Akron Brass, proudly presents the Firefighter Appreciation Rebate on Akron Brass Nozzles and Monitors:

You’re in the business of saving lives. To show our appreciation, we’d like to help you save money! Take advantage of this fantastic offer and upgrade to the latest life safety equipment by Akron Brass.

Trade in your used combination nozzle and purchase a new Turbojet, Saberjet or Assault nozzle to receive a $50.00- $75.00 cash rebate!

Trade in your portable or fixed monitor and purchase a new Mercury Quick Attack or MercuryMaster 1000 monitor to receive a $150.00 - $200.00 cash rebate!

There is no limit on the number of items that you can trade in. Each qualifying trade-in and purchase will receive a cash rebate.

For details, contact Belinda.Arthur@hillerva.com or (757) 549-9123. Hurry as the rebate offer will end on September 30, 2010!

Smoke Detectors: What is the difference between a Photoelectric Smoke Detector and an Ionization Smoke Detector?

2010-06-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

This article written by: Mike Glover, Security & Fire Alarm Operations Manager @ Hiller Systems Inc. Virginia.

Hiller Systems Inc. - Your premier fire protection and security systems contractor in Virginia for all of your fire protection and security systems needs, presents a brief explanation of the difference between photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors and smoke alarms.

At Hiller Systems Inc., we actually get this question a lot. The short answer is that they detect different types of particles that are released during different times of a fire's life cycle. Which smoke detector or smoke alarm is best for you? Well, that depends on the application you intend to use the detector for. Before you can decide which type of detector you should use, you should first probably know a little more about the way each one works. Here is a brief outline designed to give you the knowledge you need to properly identify the correct type of detector for your particular application.

Ionization Detectors - This type of detector uses an ionization chamber and an additional source of "ionizing radiation" also known as "alpha radiation" to detect smoke. Inside an ionization detector is a small amount (usaully about 1/5000th of a gram) of americium-241 radioactive material. During normal operation and without the presence of smoke or fire particulate matter, the ionization chamber sends a very small electrical current through the ionization chamber. The detector goes into an "alarm" condition when particulate matter from a fire enters this chamber and disrupts the normal electrical current flow through the chamber. Once this is detected, an "alarm condition" is generated by the unit.

Photoelectric Detectors - This type of detector operates on a different principal. They also have a smoke sensing chamber, however instead of sending electricity across the chamber, the photoelectric detector sends photoelectric beams of light across the sensing chamber. Any smoke particles that are present in the chamber will instantly begin to reflect the light and change the pattern by sending the light 90 degrees from the direction it was intended. The redirected/reflected light is then picked up and sensed by the photoelectric sensor in the detector and that condition then triggers an alarm condition on the unit.

For smoke "alarms" (units made and sold for residential and consumer use) the unit activates an internal sounder that alerts people of the fire/smoke condition present. In an industrial or commercial application where the detector is part of a larger fire alarm and detection system, the detector creates an alarm condition and notifies the Fire Alarm Control Panel, which in turns activates and evacuation signal via the notification circuits which can be either chimes, horns or in some cases voice notification of the alarm condition.

Because of these different detection technologies, ionization sensors are more likely to detect smaller, less visible fire particles, like those produced by flaming fires, sooner than photoelectric sensors. However, photoelectric sensors are more likely to detect larger, more visible fire particles, such as those produced by smoldering fires, sooner than ionization sensors. Remember, these detectors look very similar in body type and color. Determining which principal a detector operates on is not always easy to tell...

Can you tell which detector is an Ionization detector and which one is a Photoelectric Detector?

So which unit is best for you? Well again, that depends on the application you intend to use the detector for. Hiller Systems Inc. strongly recommends contacting a factory authorized representative of these type of units and consulting with a professional to help you select the correct detector for your application. Remember, whether you are selecting a smoke alarm for your house or a smoke detector as part of a larger fire alarm and detection system, the best choice is always to let the professionals help you! Learn more about Hiller Systems Inc. at our website or by clicking the about us page of this blog. If you are still determined to go it alone...here is an informative video produced and published by NFPA (the National Fire Protection Association), that may help you!

Hiller Systems Inc. Virginia can help you no matter how large or complicated your fire protection problem is! Be sure to contact us for more information or to schedule a hazard analysis. See our line card for more information on the manufacturers we represent and the systems and services we provide.

FM200 Fire Extinuishing Agent - Hiller Systems Inc., Virginia

2010-06-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. - Your premier fire protection and security systems contractor in Virginia for all of your fire protection and security systems needs, presents a brief explanation of the FM-200 fire suppression system.

FM-200 is the trusted choice in waterless fire suppression and was originally developed as part of the DuPont family of clean agent fire extinguishants. FM-200 is an accepted and respected solution in the fire protection market worldwide, with a strong history of protecting some of the world's most critical assets. In fact, FM-200 is in use in more than 70 countries and in hundreds of thousands of applications from data centers to industrial and manufacturing applications.

Hiller Systems Inc. has been designing, installing and servicing FM-200 systems since its inception in 1993 and today we are installing FM-200 systems throughout Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic region. FM-200 systems are available in cylinders and can be designed as "pre-engineered" or more commonly, as "engineered systems". Engineered systems consist of components and a certain amount of fire suppression agent that is "designed" by an experienced and certified designer. At Hiller Systems Inc. we support and encourage NICET certification for all of our designers and installers. Our special hazards designers are all factory trained and NICET certified. A sample FM-200 design would look like something this:

Discharge Nozzles
Releasing Panel
FM-200 Storage Tanks
Protected Equipment

FM-200 systems are designed to reach extinguishing levels in 10 seconds or less, stopping fires before they cause significant damage. When fire is extinguished this quickly, it means less damage to equipment, property and lives. It also means less downtime and disruption of business after the event. FM-200 fire suppressant can also be safely used in occupied spaces, helping to ensure the safety of your employees.

In design applications where available space is at a concern, FM-200 fire suppression systems are the best choice. The FM-200 agent is stored in cylinders as a liquid and pressurized with nitrogen, saving storage space. In fact, for the same amount of protection, FM-200 systems take up to seven times less storage space than systems based on CO2 and other "inert" gases.

A good demonstration video on FM-200 can be seen here:

Effectively Dealing With Employee Theft....

2010-06-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

From Security World News (by Shipali Sharma): Every business, every industry, every service, regardless of their stature, or expanse, suffers to some degree due to the problem of employee theft. This problem has always, and unless curbed, will continue to be a leading cause of the reduced profits and performance of businesses everywhere.

By definition, employee theft refers to the stealing, use or misuse of one’s employer’s resources without permission to do so. Noticeably, money or financial assets are not the only resources which are victimized by this widespread problem of employee theft. There are several other kinds of “employee theft” which......Read more here.

If you are experiencing any level of employee theft, inventory shrinkage or loss, Hiller Systems Inc. can help you! We offer FREE site analysis and recommendations. Learn more about the security and loss prevention services we offer at http://www.hillersystemsinc.com/ or email us at security@hillerva.com .

Summer Time Safety!

2010-06-07T05:36:00.000-07:00

Every year thousands of people are injured during summer time activities such as barbeque's, picnics, fire works and general outdoor activities. Please be sure to take some extra precautions during this fun and festive time of year!

From the USFA: Annually just under 10,000 Americans are injured by fireworks and almost 5,000 are injured by charcoal/wood-burning and propane grill fires. Read more here.

Did you know that many older Hotels/Motels lack fire sprinklers?

2010-06-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

NFPA: ...federal officials say an estimated 3,900 hotel and motel fires are reported to U.S. fire departments each year, causing on average 15 deaths, 150 injuries and $76 million in property loss. The National Fire Protection Association says it's rare for a guest to die when a fire breaks out in a room with sprinklers, and that there hasn't been a documented fire in a sprinklered hotel that killed more than one person. Read more here.

Electrical fires continue to be a leading cause of home fires...

2010-06-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

NFPA: “Electricity literally runs modern lifestyles by powering the amenities that so many of us depend on day to day, so fire safety is something to keep in mind whenever electricity is being used,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of communications. “There are lots of simple things each of us can do to prevent electrical fires, like keeping lighting fixtures and light bulbs away from things that can burn, and never using extension cords to plug in major appliances.” Read more here.

Every year in the United States, about 3,000 people die in home fires...

2010-06-02T05:12:00.000-07:00

The "Install. Inspect. Protect." Campaign is part of the U.S. Fire Administration’s effort to reduce fire deaths and injuries across the nation by urging residents to install smoke alarms in their homes and inspect and maintain them on a regular basis. Working smoke alarms and sprinklers save lives. Read more here.

Hiller Systems Inc. celebrates their own for Memorial Day!

2010-05-29T05:57:00.000-07:00

In honor or Memorial Day, Hiller Systems Inc., honored their own Veterans (and all veterans) by having a cook out lunch. The veterans who work at HIller Systems (pictured below) come from all over the country and from all branches of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines). We appreciate the sacrifice they and their families have made! THANK YOU all for your service!

(not pictured here: Jason Nuss, Dave Masden & John Ludwig)

email Mike Glover if you know of others missing from this pic!

HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND !

2010-05-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

From all of us at Hiller Systems Inc. - Please take a minute to remember what this weekend is all about. The men and women who have served in our armed forces. It is by their efforts and sacrifices over MANY years and many wars that allow us the freedom we so much enjoy. Have a Happy and SAFE Memorial Day weekend!

Hiller Systems Inc. - SALESPERSON OF THE QUARTER (2nd Qtr FY2010)

2010-05-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. proudly announces the 2nd Qtr FY2010 Sales Person of the Quarter! Dan Clift earned the top spot for the 2nd quarter. Dan was treated to a lunch with the best Sales Manager in the world and his co-workers to show our appreciation for his hard work and dedicated, loyal service.

In this Picture (from left to right) - Mark Herzog (boss man), Dan Clift & Belinda Arthur

Congratulations Dan! Keep up the hard work...we ALL appreciate it very much!

Hiller Systems Inc. - EMPLOYEE'S OF THE QUARTER (2nd Qtr FY2010)

2010-05-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. proudly announces the 2nd Qtr FY2010 Employee's of the Quarter! Each of these employee's were nominated by their respective supervisor and hand picked because of their outstanding service during the 2nd Quarter of the year. These employee's exemplify the Hiller spirit, team work and customer service that makes up "The Hiller Difference". Congratulations to...

CHRIS AMORESE

GREG BODKINS

MIKE HOSHAK

In this Picture (from left to right) - Mike Hoshak, Mark Herzog (boss man), Chris Amorese & Greg Bodkins

Congratulations gentlemen...and keep up the hard work!

NFPA 25 - Proposed changes for 2011!

2010-05-27T07:52:00.000-07:00

via May 2010 issue of Sprinkler Age - The NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, Report of Comments (ROC) for the 2011 edition has been issued and there are significant changes in the attempt to clarify the roles of the owner and the inspection provider. Read more here.

Green solutions from Siemens for Expo 2010

2010-05-26T05:27:00.000-07:00

CITIES need sustainable infrastructure that is compatible with the environment. Siemens shows how this works at Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China, which is themed “Better City, Better Life” and is the first “green” world exposition.

Visitors will experience solutions from Siemens relating to building technology, transportation, energy and water supply as well as healthcare. For example, Siemens supplied 150,000 environmentally friendly Osram LEDs, fire safety solutions and energy-efficient building technology systems for the world exposition’s pavilions and boulevards. With a total of 706 air- and gas-insulated medium-voltage switchgear, Siemens supplied all pavilions with reliable and environmentally friendly electricity.

Read more: Green solutions from Siemens for Expo 2010

Automatic Sprinklers: Dry Pipe Differential Principle

2010-05-25T06:33:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. - Sharing information that MATTERS !

Via the USFA (Automatic Sprinklers: Dry Pipe Differential Principle) - Dry pipe sprinkler systems commonly are used where the ambient temperature of the space they are protecting is expected to be less than 40 °F (4.4 °C). The sprinkler pipe is filled with compressed air or nitrogen that is released when a sprinkler opens and allows the dry pipe valve to open, filling the overhead pipes with water. Read more here.

Fire Statistics - 2008

2010-05-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

Nationally, there are millions of fires, thousands of deaths and injuries, and billions of dollar loss - which makes the U.S. fire problem one of great national importance. Between 1999 and 2008, there was an average of 1,634,150 fires resulting in an estimated $11,634,800,000 in direct dollar loss each year. An average of 3,625 Americans lost their lives and another 18,765 were injured annually as the result of fire. Some quick stats from 2008 can be found here.

Is Security a necessary evil?

2010-05-24T05:02:00.000-07:00

Traditionally, from managements point of view, corporate security has always operated from a fish bowl. This is due in part because security is a necessary evil ,that does not contribute to the corporation’s bottom line profit. So security should be extra cautious, when responding to managements innuendos. Read more here.

Firefighters Test SCBA 'Flat Pack' Prototype

2010-05-21T05:15:00.000-07:00

firehouse.com news - Firefighters in Prince George's County, Md. this week got the chance to test out a new SCBA "flat-pack" prototype.

The device relies on pressure-vessel technology, which is intended to make breathing apparatuses smaller, lighter and more efficient than the single-air cylinder design of conventional SCBA.

Read more here.

You’re Only As Good As The People You Hire

2010-05-21T05:07:00.000-07:00

Ray Kroc, founder of McDonald’s Restaurants, often would say, “None of us is as good as all of us”. Kroc understood that his growing company could only be successful if it had the support and the dedication of its workers behind it. The same holds true, in the corporate security and/or safety fields. So, where does this mind set start? Read more here.

Hiller Systems Supports NICET Certification

2010-05-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

If you are serious about your career in engineering technology, then you have come to the right place. Attaining one of NICET's technician or technologist certifications will establish your professionalism and mark you as one of the best in your field.

Want to stand out to your peers? Your boss? Your customers? Advancing through the levels of NICET certification will show what you have accomplished and what you are capable of doing. Learn more here.

Sprinkler systems save 40 horses from death

2010-05-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

Proper planning was the key to averting disaster early Sunday morning (May 9) when fire struck a barn at Plainridge harness racing track. "This fire speaks volumes about fire prevention," was how Plainville Fire Chief Ted Joubert characterized the event. Read more here.

ASIS Survey ~ Results indicate that the need for security has increased.....

2010-05-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

ASIS International conducted a survey of its members in January in an effort to assess the impact of the current economic environment. The survey respondents were asked about the economic impact on the security functions of their organizations during the previous six months (June-December 2008). ASIS is the preeminent organization for security management professionals...read more here.

Elevators for High Rise Evacuation?

2010-05-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

Elevators not forbidden: Seminar explores high-rise building evacuation...Though controversial, thoughtfully planned use of elevators can yield faster evacuation times and help deal with mobility-impaired occupants.

By Molly Kalmus, Research Assistant
The Christian Regenhard Center for Emergency Response Studies (RaCERS)

Although associated with 9/11 and the World Trade Center, the issue of managing emergencies in high-rise buildings goes back into the 1970s, when new construction techniques and technologies helped create awareness of the hazards of fire and smoke spread in modern high-rise. Read more here.

Fire Protection - Going GREEN

2010-05-14T07:57:00.000-07:00

Recent advances in fire-detection technology and fire-suppression systems and the ongoing development of international and national codes and standards have made possible the "greening" of facility fire-safety systems, which increasingly is becoming a priority for building owners. The installation of environmentally friendly fire-protection technology can...(read more here).

NFSA Launches 40 Hour Training Course...

2010-05-14T05:23:00.000-07:00

Security Systems News - "More places are adopting laws that mandate the installation of sprinklers in new homes and that, said National Fire Sprinkler Association president John Viniello, has more contractors than ever—plumbers, fire alarm installers and others—getting interested in dabbling in the fire-sprinkler installation business. To ensure that anyone who installs a sprinkler system is qualified, the NFSA on April 30 launched a new training program." Read more here at Security System News.

NFPA News (codes newsletter) - FREE

2010-05-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. - NFPA News is a free, monthly, newsletter providing detailed information on NFPA codes and standards activities. NFPA News typically includes special announcements, notification of proposal and comment closing dates, requests for comments on NFPA documents, publication of Formal Interpretations (FIs), Tentative Interim Amendments (TIAs), Errata, and notice of the availability of Standards Council minutes. Get your copy here NFPA News

Hiller Systems Inc. - GSA expo

2010-05-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. - Recently participated in the 2010 GSA Expo in Orlando, Florida. At the show, a new product rollout was presented on the Stat-X product line, the First Responder unit which is an aerosol hand unit that is thrown into a fire to temporary knock the fire down so that safe evacuation from a building can be made. This unit is also being used successfully to suppress manhole fires. The fixed system product line utilizes aerosol units that are installed inside a protective space and require no piping. Visit Stat-X to learn more about this new and innovative offering.

Hiller Systems Inc. - Guest Speaker for VA-FM

2010-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. - Mark Wagner, a Senior Systems Sales Representative with Hiller Systems Inc., was a guest speaker at the recent Hampton Roads Industrial and Facility Maintenance Show held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Mark is a seasoned fire protection professional with over 15 years of experience designing, selling and installing fire protection systems in the Hampton Roads area. Mark spoke on “Protecting your facility and employees from fire”. The show was well attended by local and regional facility and industrial plant managers. For more informaiton on the Hampton Roads Industrial and Facility Maintenance show click here .

Hiller Systems Inc.

2010-05-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

Hiller Systems Inc. is proud to become a Platinum Sponsor of VSHE (Virginia Society of Healthcare Engineers) .