Paint Booth Fire Suppression
Every paint booth fire suppression system is different, and proper service depends on the booth type, suppression agent, ventilation design, and fire risk level.
Thompson Safety provides expert inspection, testing, maintenance, and repair services for paint booth fire suppression systems, helping you stay compliant with NFPA 33, local AHJ requirements, and manufacturer standards so your system performs when it matters most.
Service Overview
Paint booths are among the highest fire-risk areas in manufacturing and finishing facilities. Flammable vapors, overspray residue, and ignition sources can lead to fast-moving fires without warning. Thompson Safety provides full lifecycle support for paint booth fire suppression systems.
How It Works
- Facility Assessment: Our technicians evaluate system layout, hazard exposure, and suppression coverage to identify gaps and optimize protection.
- Inspection & Testing: We conduct inspections and functional testing in accordance with NFPA standards, manufacturer requirements, and local code expectations.
- Maintenance & Repairs: We service, repair, re-charge, and replace system components to ensure reliability and readiness.
- Compliance Documentation: Detailed inspection reports, tags, and service records help support AHJ reviews, insurance audits, and internal safety programs.
- Ongoing Support: Our team provides responsive scheduling and expert service support—so your suppression program stays compliant and reliable.
System Types We Service
Thompson Safety inspects and maintains all major fire suppression system types, including:
- Paint booth fire suppression systems
- Industrial spray finishing suppression systems
- Special hazard fire suppression systems
- Dry chemical and clean agent systems
- Commercial and facility-wide suppression
Our technicians ensure each system meets both manufacturer requirements and local code standards.
How Paint Booth Fire Suppression Systems Work
Paint booth fires spread quickly due to flammable vapors and confined airflow. Paint booth fire suppression systems are engineered to respond automatically and rapidly when fire is detected. These systems typically include:
Most paint booth fire suppression systems work through four key stages:
- Detection: Advanced heat, flame, or smoke detection devices monitor the booth and exhaust system for early signs of fire.
- Activation: When a fire is detected, the system triggers without manual intervention to initiate suppression.
Suppression: A specialized extinguishing agent is discharged into targeted high-risk areas, such as:
- Booth interiors
- Exhaust plenums and ductwork
- Overspray collection zones
- Mixing or solvent storage space
Agents may include dry chemical suppression or other fire retardants selected for the application and performance criteria.
- Control & Protection: Fast suppression limits fire growth, protects personnel, and significantly reduces equipment damage and production downtime.
Routine inspection and service ensure these systems activate correctly when needed.
Who We Help Protect
Thompson Safety helps protect:
- Automotive and transportation paint booths
- Industrial spray finishing operations
- Aerospace coating facilities
- Powder coating lines
- Exhaust ducts, plenums, and overspray zones
Whether you operate a single booth or an entire finishing line, Thompson Safety ensures your suppression system is ready and code compliant.
Compliance Standards
Paint booth suppression systems are governed by standards and requirements including:
- NFPA 33: Spray Application Using Flammable Materials
- NFPA 17 / 17A: Chemical Suppression Standards
- OSHA workplace fire protection regulations
- AHJ: Local Authority Having Jurisdiction requirements
Regular inspection, service, documentation, and adherence to required inspection intervals help maintain compliance and reduce liability. Thompson Safety helps ensure your facility stays compliant, protected, and inspection ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Inspection frequency depends on the system type, manufacturer requirements, and local codes. Most facilities require routine service at least semi-annually or annually to remain compliant and ensure the system will activate properly in an emergency.
Paint booth suppression systems are typically designed to protect multiple high-risk zones, including:
- Booth interiors
- Exhaust plenums and ductwork
- Overspray collection areas
- Mixing rooms or solvent storage spaces
Proper coverage is critical because fires can spread quickly through ventilation systems.
Common ignition sources include:
- Flammable vapor buildup
- Static discharge during spraying
- Sparks from tools or equipment
- Overspray residue accumulation
- Electrical or mechanical malfunction
Suppression systems are designed to respond automatically before these hazards escalate.
Yes. Thompson Safety provides inspection, maintenance, and upgrade support for both new and existing paint booth suppression systems. We can evaluate your current protection and recommend code-compliant improvements when needed.
Yes. Every inspection and service includes digital and written reports for easy submission to AHJ or insurance providers.
Paint booths that use flammable or combustible materials are often required to have suppression systems per NFPA 33, local fire codes, and AHJ mandates.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t wait for an incident to expose gaps in fire protection. Thompson Safety is ready to inspect, maintain, and support your paint booth fire suppression system with trusted expertise and comprehensive service. Request a quote today to schedule service or an onsite assessment.
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