Using Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

Fire detection and alarm systems should provide appropriate protection reliably and effectively. The main objectives for fire detection and alarm installations are to: evacuate everyone from the building; get the fire brigade into the building to fight the fire; and, initiate appropriate equipment which controls and/ or puts out the fire. In essence the objectives are focused on saving lives and protecting property.

The requirements for fire detection and alarm installations may differ depending on the premises and the associated level of use by personnel of said premises. For example, sounding alarms may not be required in an unmanned warehouse, but will be fundamental for office blocks and residential buildings. In the warehouse, a signal to fire-fighters is crucial but perhaps not always necessary in the office block if full evacuation of the building is carried out. British Standard 5839, Part 1 focuses on fire detection and alarm installations related to life-safety (type “L”) and property protection (type “P”) situations (and type “M” for purely manual systems).