What has been a major criticism of old fire safety standards?

The major criticism of old fire safety standards focusing on fire suppression is rooted in the understanding that these standards often prioritized methods to combat fires after they had started, rather than preventing them from occurring in the first place. This approach could lead to a false sense of security, as merely adding fire suppression systems does not address the underlying issues that contribute to fire risks.

Furthermore, by concentrating on suppression, these standards may have overlooked important aspects of fire safety, such as risk assessment, proactive prevention strategies, and comprehensive training for personnel. While suppression methods like sprinklers and extinguishers are essential, relying solely on these measures does not create a holistic fire safety plan. Modern standards increasingly recognize the importance of prevention and education in reducing fire hazards and promoting safety within buildings and communities. This broader approach can help mitigate risks more effectively and ensure safety measures are in place before incidents occur.