ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY FROM THE USE OF MODERN FIRE SAFETY SYSTEMS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Abstract

The article examines the economic efficiency of implementing modern fire safety systems in construction projects, emphasizing their role not only as technical requirements but also as strategic investments in risk management, financial stability, and corporate reputation. Traditionally, fire safety in Ukraine has been perceived as a regulatory obligation, with limited attention to its economic dimension. However, recent international and domestic studies demonstrate that advanced fire protection technologies — such as automatic sprinkler and drencher systems, addressable fire alarms, fire-resistant materials, intelligent monitoring solutions, and robotic firefighting complexes — provide measurable financial benefits alongside enhanced safety. The research highlights that automatic sprinkler systems reduce direct fire losses by 40–50% and lower insurance costs by up to 30%, while addressable alarms significantly decrease response times and minimize damage. Fire-resistant materials, though more expensive initially, extend the lifespan of structures and increase property value in the long term. Intelligent monitoring systems based on IoT sensors enable real-time control of temperature, smoke, and equipment conditions, preventing accidents and reducing maintenance costs. Robotic firefighting systems, though requiring substantial investment, are critical for industrial facilities, ensuring personnel safety and reducing large-scale losses. A comparative analysis of Ukrainian and European practices reveals that in the EU, fire safety is integrated into sustainable development strategies and considered an investment with clear economic returns. In contrast, Ukrainian construction projects often treat fire safety as mandatory expenditure rather than a source of financial optimization. This difference underscores the need for a paradigm shift in Ukraine, where fire safety should be recognized as a driver of competitiveness and investment attractiveness. The methodology of the study combines literature review, comparative analysis, economic evaluation, and case studies of construction companies. The findings confirm that modern fire safety systems generate multidimensional economic effects: reduction of direct and indirect costs, optimization of insurance payments, preservation of assets, and strengthening of corporate reputation.