Types of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems – July 2021
Types of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
There are generally four main types of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems commonly found in commercial properties
- Conventional
- Addressable
- Wireless
- Aspirating
Fire detection and alarm systems are a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order for non-domestic premises such as Offices, Shops, Hotels, Public Venues.
Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
Conventional fire detection and alarm systems can be found in smaller premises such as shops and restaurants and are comprised of dividing a building into a number of detection zones in a circuit that are linked to a control panel. If a detector is activated, the control panel will identify the circuit where the detector is located and therefore the zone from which the fire alarm has come. These systems tend to be less expensive to install than other types of fire detection and alarm systems.
Analogue Addressable Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Addressable fire detection and alarm systems can be found in larger, more complex premises such as offices, schools, hospitals, hotels, manufacturing facilities. These systems are able to locate a specific detector in the event of an alarm which enables the emergency services to tackle the exact position of the potential fire. An addressable system reduces the risk of false alarms and can also be extended more easily.
Wireless Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Wireless fire detection and alarm systems are suited to premises where it is impractical to run cables throughout a property such as listed buildings. Detectors and call points are connected using radio connectivity. These systems are typically more expensive to buy but are less expensive to install and upgrade than conventional and addressable systems.
Aspirating Smoke Detection and Alarm Systems
Aspirating Smoke Detection and Alarm Systems can typically be found in warehouses and unmanned data rooms. These systems use a fan to draw air from around a building using a network of sampling zones. Precision detectors constantly analyse the air and give warning when it detects smoke particles. These systems are typically more expensive to install due to the network of pipes and air filtration detection required.
;){kind=icon}
