The introduction of an innovative device, a smoke tester could improve inspections by the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority’s (SFESA).

The device was introduced by Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA Volunteer Mr. Tadashi Baba

The increase in fire cases in Samoa is one unnecessary incident too many. SFESA’s primary goal is to ensure safety and compliance for high-rise buildings, hazardous material facilities, public buildings and Samoa residences, whilst reducing national risks.

Mr. Baba commenced working at SFESA last July 2023.  One of his key tasks is to accompany SFESA staff for fire and preventive inspections to identify problems and areas for improvement of fire service operations.

The necessity arose to procure the portable equipment because the conventional method of inspecting fire alarms was to light a fire with a lighter and check the sensor’s response, but this was very dangerous and inefficient.

The Fire Detector Testing Kit uses a smoke tester and support rod for working at heights to simulate smoke detectors mounted up into ceilings, sending signals for inspection of existing buildings and allowing for safe, faster, and more reliable inspection of firefighting equipment.  

The effectiveness of this product allowed Mr. Baba to achieve SFESA’s objectives in reducing risks.

“Staff can improve the safety of the site and improve the quality of the inspection by this device. The inspection of fire alarms is very important to detect fires early and prevent damage,” Mr Baba said.

“Staff can easily inspect by using this device, so they are motivated and the site is secure. We can contribute to protecting the lives of local people by using this device.”

SFESA Assistant Commissioner Aufa’i Petaia Tausanimaiomanu said: “During Mr. Baba’s time with us we have identified some of the technical needs of requiring a fire alarm tester machine that tests the operational requirement of fire protection equipment. The contraption will largely assist in compliance testing of fire alarms as this will be the first for SFESA.”

Mr. Baba plans to familiarise SFESA staff with the product manual to ensure efficient implementation. Training of SFESA staff will follow to maximize inspection handling.