BS 5839-1:2017 - A Guide to Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for Buildings
Fire detection and fire alarm systems are essential for protecting lives and properties from the devastating effects of fire. They can alert occupants, staff, emergency services and other relevant parties to the presence of a fire, as well as initiate other fire protection measures, such as activating sprinklers, closing doors or shutting down equipment.
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However, not all fire detection and fire alarm systems are created equal. Depending on the type, size, use and risk profile of the building, different levels of fire protection may be required. Moreover, fire detection and fire alarm systems need to be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained in accordance with the best practices and standards to ensure their reliability, effectiveness and compliance.
One of the most widely recognized and respected standards for fire detection and fire alarm systems in the UK is BS 5839-1:2017. This standard provides a code of practice for designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. It covers a wide range of buildings, such as offices, shops, hotels, schools, hospitals, care homes and more.
In this article, we will explain what BS 5839-1:2017 is, why it is important, what are the main changes compared to the previous version, and how to design, install, commission and maintain a fire detection and fire alarm system according to this standard.
What is BS 5839-1:2017 and why is it important?
The scope and purpose of BS 5839-1:2017
BS 5839-1:2017 is a British Standard published by the British Standards Institution (BSI). It contains recommendations for the locations of fire alarm system components based on the objective the system should fulfil, known as categories. It also provides a code of practice for designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises.
The term 'fire detection and fire alarm systems' in the context of this standard includes systems that range from those comprising only one or two manual call points and sounders to complex networked systems that incorporate a large number of automatic fire detectors, manual call points and sounders. It also includes systems that are capable of providing signals to initiate the operation of other fire protection systems or safety measures.
The standard does not cover systems whose primary function is to extinguish or control fire. It also does not cover voice alarm systems, systems combining fire alarm functions with non-fire related ones, audible or visual way-guidance systems designed to complement the fire alarm function, or public emergency call systems (999 or 112).
The legal and regulatory context of BS 5839-1:2017
BS 5839-1:2017 is not a legal requirement, but rather a code of practice that provides guidance and recommendations for achieving compliance with the relevant legislation and regulations. The main legal framework for fire safety in the UK is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in England and Wales, the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 in Scotland, and the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 and the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 in Northern Ireland.
These regulations place a duty on the responsible person, such as the owner, employer, occupier or manager of a premises, to carry out a fire risk assessment and implement appropriate fire safety measures to protect the people and property in the premises. This may include the provision of a suitable and sufficient fire detection and fire alarm system, depending on the outcome of the risk assessment.
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By following BS 5839-1:2017, the responsible person can demonstrate that they have taken reasonable steps to comply with their legal obligations and reduce the risk of fire. However, BS 5839-1:2017 is not a substitute for a fire risk assessment, and it may not cover all aspects of fire safety that are relevant to a specific premises. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a competent fire safety professional before designing, installing, commissioning or maintaining a fire detection and fire alarm system.
What are the main changes in BS 5839-1:2017 compared to the previous version?
BS 5839-1:2017 is the latest version of the standard, which was published in September 2017. It supersedes BS 5839-1:2013, which was published in August 2013. The main changes in BS 5839-1:2017 compared to the previous version are as follows:
Improved definition of the L2 fire alarm system
The L2 fire alarm system is one of the categories of fire detection and fire alarm systems defined by BS 5839-1:2017. It is intended to provide early warning of fire in areas of high risk or high fire hazard within a building. The previous version of the standard did not specify which areas should be covered by an L2 system, leaving it to the discretion of the designer or the responsible person.
The new version of the standard provides a clearer definition of the L2 system, stating that it should cover all areas that are defined as escape routes (such as corridors, stairways and exits) and all rooms or areas that open onto escape routes. This means that an L2 system should provide full coverage of all parts of a building that are likely to be used by occupants to escape from a fire.
Modified guidance for use of multi-sensor detectors
Multi-sensor detectors are devices that combine two or more types of sensors, such as smoke, heat or carbon monoxide sensors, to detect different characteristics of a fire. They can offer advantages over single-sensor detectors, such as improved performance, reduced false alarms and increased flexibility.
The previous version of the standard recommended that multi-sensor detectors should be treated as either smoke detectors or heat detectors, depending on which sensor was dominant. The new version of the standard recognizes that multi-sensor detectors can have different modes of operation and response depending on the type and combination of sensors. Therefore, it provides more detailed guidance on how to select, position and configure multi-sensor detectors according to their specific characteristics and functions.
Clarification on the use of voice alarm devices and visual indicator devices
Voice alarm devices are devices that broadcast pre-recorded or live voice messages to alert occupants of a fire or other emergency situation. Visual indicator devices are devices that emit flashing or steady lights to indicate the presence of a fire or other emergency situation. Both types of devices can be used to supplement or replace conventional sounders in certain situations.
The previous version of the standard did not provide clear guidance on when and how to use voice alarm devices and visual indicator devices in fire detection and fire alarm systems. The new version of the standard clarifies that voice alarm devices should be used when they can provide more effective communication than sounders, such as in large or complex buildings, buildings with high ambient noise levels, buildings with occupants who may not respond well to sounders, or buildings where sounders may cause panic or confusion.
The new version of the standard also clarifies that visual indicator devices should be used when they can provide more effective warning than sounders, such as in buildings with occupants who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, buildings with high ambient noise levels, buildings where sounders may be masked by other sounds, or buildings where sounders may cause interference with other systems.
Inclusion of a section on testing of the power supply
The power supply is a vital component of any fire detection and fire alarm system, as it provides the necessary electrical energy to operate the system. The power supply can consist of mains electricity, batteries, generators or a combination of these sources. The power supply should be designed and installed to ensure that the system can function normally and reliably under normal and fault conditions.
The previous version of the standard did not include a specific section on testing of the power supply, although it did mention some general requirements for testing and inspection of the system. The new version of the standard includes a dedicated section on testing of the power supply, which specifies the frequency, methods and criteria for testing the different types of power sources and their components. It also provides guidance on how to record and report the results of the testing.
Guidance for persons who work at night to recognize the alarm
Some buildings may have persons who work at night, such as cleaners, security guards, maintenance workers or night shift workers. These persons may not be familiar with the fire detection and fire alarm system or its operation, and they may not be able to hear or see the alarm signals due to their location, activity or personal protective equipment.
The previous version of the standard did not provide any specific guidance for persons who work at night to recognize the alarm. The new version of the standard provides some recommendations for ensuring that persons who work at night are aware of the fire detection and fire alarm system and its signals, such as providing them with training, information, instructions or portable devices that can alert them to the alarm.
How to design, install, commission and maintain a fire detection and fire alarm system according to BS 5839-1:2017?
The role and responsibilities of the designer
The designer is the person or organization who is responsible for designing the fire detection and fire alarm system in accordance with BS 5839-1:2017 and the relevant legislation and regulations. The designer should have adequate knowledge, skills and experience in fire safety engineering and fire detection and fire alarm systems. The designer should also consult with the responsible person, the enforcing authority, the fire service, the insurer and other relevant parties to ensure that the system meets their requirements and expectations.
The designer should carry out a detailed survey of the premises, including its layout, structure, occupancy, use, fire hazards, fire protection measures and existing fire detection and fire alarm system if any. The designer should also conduct a thorough analysis of the fire risk assessment and identify the objectives and categories of the system. Based on these information, the designer should prepare a design specification that defines the scope, performance, functionality and configuration of the system.
The designer should also prepare a design drawing that shows the locations and types of all components of the system, such as detectors, call points, sounders, control panels, wiring and cabling. The design drawing should be clear, accurate and up-to-date. The designer should also provide a design certificate that confirms that the system has been designed in accordance with BS 5839-1:2017 and other relevant standards.
The categories of fire detection and fire alarm systems
BS 5839-1:2017 defines two types of categories for fire detection and fire alarm systems: property protection categories (P) and life protection categories (L). Property protection categories are intended to protect the building and its contents from fire damage. Life protection categories are intended to protect the occupants and users of the building from fire hazards. The categories are further divided into subcategories based on the level of protection and the areas covered by the system.
The table below summarizes the main categories and subcategories of fire detection and fire alarm systems according to BS 5839-1:2017.
Category
Subcategory
Description
P
P1
A system that provides full coverage of the building, including all rooms, spaces and voids, except for those that are deemed to be of no or negligible fire risk.
P2
A system that provides partial coverage of the building, covering only those areas that are defined as high fire risk or high fire hazard.
L
L1
A system that provides full coverage of the building, including all rooms, spaces and voids, except for those that are deemed to be of no or negligible fire risk.
L2
A system that covers all areas that are defined as escape routes (such as corridors, stairways and exits) and all rooms or areas that open onto escape routes.
L3
A system that covers all areas that are defined as escape routes (such as corridors, stairways and exits) and adjacent rooms that present a high fire risk to the escape routes.
L4
A system that covers only those areas that are defined as escape routes (such as corridors, stairways and exits).
L5
A system that covers only those areas that are specified by a fire risk assessment or other relevant authority, such as areas where fire may pose a particular risk to life or property.
M
A system that comprises only manual call points and sounders, without any automatic fire detectors.
The choice of the category and subcategory of the system depends on the objectives and requirements of the system, which should be determined by a fire risk assessment and consultation with the relevant parties. The category and subcategory of the system should be clearly stated in the design specification and the design drawing.
The selection and positioning of fire detectors and manual call points
Fire detectors are devices that sense one or more characteristics of a fire, such as smoke, heat or flame, and generate a signal to activate the fire alarm. Manual call points are devices that allow occupants to manually raise the alarm by breaking a glass or pressing a button. Both types of devices are essential for detecting and reporting a fire in a timely manner.
The selection and positioning of fire detectors and manual call points should be based on the category and subcategory of the system, the type and layout of the building, the nature and distribution of the fire hazards, the environmental conditions and other factors that may affect their performance. The designer should follow the recommendations and guidance provided by BS 5839-1:2017, as well as the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for each device.
Some general principles for selecting and positioning fire detectors and manual call points are:
Fire detectors should be chosen according to their suitability for detecting different types of fires, such as smouldering, flaming or rapid growth fires. For example, smoke detectors are more suitable for detecting smouldering fires than heat detectors, while heat detectors are more suitable for detecting flaming fires than smoke detectors.
Fire detectors should be positioned to ensure adequate coverage of the area to be protected, taking into account the size, shape, height and configuration of the area. For example, smoke detectors should be spaced at no more than 10.6 m apart in a square pattern or 7.5 m apart in a rectangular pattern, while heat detectors should be spaced at no more than 5.3 m apart in a square pattern or 3.7 m apart in a rectangular pattern.
Fire detectors should be positioned to avoid obstructions, interference or adverse environmental conditions that may affect their operation or cause false alarms. For example, smoke detectors should not be located near ventilation outlets, air conditioning units, cooking appliances or sources of steam or dust, while heat detectors should not be located near windows, skylights, heaters or sources of cold air.
Manual call points should be located on every storey of the building, at every exit from the building or storey, at every exit from an area covered by an automatic fire detection system, and at every change of direction along an escape route. They should also be located within easy reach of occupants, preferably at a height of 1.4 m from the floor, and clearly visible and accessible. They should also be marked with appropriate signs and instructions.
The selection and positioning of fire alarm sounders and visual alarms
Fire alarm sounders are devices that produce audible signals, such as bells, sirens, horns or voice messages, to alert occupants of a fire or other emergency situation. Visual alarms are devices that produce visible signals, such as flashing or steady lights, to indicate the presence of a fire or other emergency situation. Both types of devices are essential for communicating and warning occupants of a fire.
The selection and positioning of fire alarm sounders and visual alarms should be based on the category and subcategory of the system, the type and layout of the building, the nature and distribution of the occupants, the ambient noise levels and other factors that may affect their performance. The designer should follow the recommendations and guidance provided by BS 5839-1:2017, as well as the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for each device.
Some general principles for selecting and positioning fire alarm sounders and visual alarms are:
Fire alarm sounders should be chosen according to their suitability for producing clear and distinctive signals that can be heard by all occupants in all areas of the building. For example, voice alarm devices may be more suitable than conventional sounders for providing more effective communication, especially in large or complex buildings, buildings with high ambient noise levels, buildings with occupants who may not respond well to sounders, or buildings where sounders may cause panic or confusion.
Fire alarm sounders should be positioned to ensure adequate coverage of the area to be protected, taking into account the size, shape, height and configuration of the area. For example, sounders should be spaced at no more than 30 m apart in a square pattern or 21 m apart in a rectangular pattern. The sound level of the sounders should be at least 65 dB(A) or 5 dB(A) above the ambient noise level, whichever is higher, in all areas where occupants are likely to be present.
Fire alarm sounders should be positioned to avoid obstructions, interference or adverse environmental conditions that may affect their operation or cause false alarms. For example, sounders should not be located near ventilation outlets, air conditioning units, machinery or sources of vibration or electromagnetic interference.
Visual alarms should be chosen according to their suitability for producing clear and distinctive signals that can be seen by all occupants in all areas of the building. For example, visual indicator devices may be more suitable than conventional sounders for providing more effective warning, especially in buildings with occupants who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, buildings with high ambient noise levels, buildings where sounders may be masked by other sounds, or buildings where sounders may cause interference with other systems.
Visual alarms should be positioned to ensure adequate coverage of the area to be protected, taking into account the size, shape, height and configuration of the area. For example, visual indicator devices should be spaced at no more than 15 m apart in a square pattern or 10.5 m apart in a rectangular pattern. The luminous intensity of the visual indicator devices should be at least 0.4 cd or 0.04 lm/m2 in all areas where occupants are likely to be present.
Visual alarms should be positioned to avoid obstructions, interference or adverse environmental conditions that may affect their operation or cause false alarms. For example, visual indicator devices should not be located near windows, skylights, lamps or sources of glare or reflection.
The wiring and cabling of fire detection and fire alarm systems
The wiring and cabling of fire detection and fire alarm systems are the means of connecting the components of the system, such as detectors, call points, sounders, control panels and power sources. The wiring and cabling of fire detection and fire alarm systems should be designed and installed to ensure that the system can function normally and reliably under normal and fault conditions.
The designer should follow the recommendations and guidance provided by BS 5839-1:2017, as well as the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for each component. The designer should also comply with the relevant electrical safety standards, such as BS 7671:2018 (the IET Wiring Regulations).
Some general principles for wiring and cabling fire detection and fire alarm systems are:
The wiring and cabling should be of adequate size, type and quality to carry the current and voltage required by the system. For example, the wiring and cabling should be able to withstand a short-circuit current of at least 1.5 times the rated current of the system for at least 0.2 seconds.
The wiring and cabling should be protected from mechanical damage, corrosion, moisture, heat, fire and other hazards that may affect their integrity or performance. For example, the wiring and cabling should be enclosed in suitable conduits, trunking, ducts or cable trays, or covered with fire-resistant materials.
The wiring and cabling should be arranged in such a way that they do not interfere with the operation or maintenance of the system or other systems or services in the building. For example, the wiring and cabling should not cross over or under pipes, ducts, beams or other obstructions that may hinder access or cause damage.
The wiring and cabling should be identified and labelled to indicate their function, origin and destination. For example, the wiring and cabling should be marked with colour codes, numbers, symbols or tags to show which circuit they belong to, which component they connect to, and which direction they run.
The commissioning and handover of fire detection and fire alarm systems
The commissioning of a fire detection and fire alarm system is the process of verifying that the system has been installed correctly and operates as intended according to the design specification. The handover of a fire detection and fire alarm system is the process of transferring the ownership and responsibility of the system from the installer to the responsible person.
The commissioning and handover of a fire detection and fire alarm system should be carried out by a competent person who has adequate knowledge, skills and experience in fire safety engineering and fire detection and fire alarm systems. The commissioning and handover should also follow the recommendations and guidance provided by BS 5839-1:2017, as well as the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for each component.
Some general principles for commissioning and handover of fire detection and fire alarm systems are:
The commissioning should include a series of tests and checks to ensure that the system is complete, correct and compliant with the design specification and the relevant standards. For example, the commissioning should verify that all components are present, correctly located, securely fixed, properly connected, adequately powered, correctly configured, fully functional and free from faults or defects.
The commissioning should also include a demonstration of the system to the responsible person and other relevant parties, such as the enforcing authority, the fire service, the insurer and the occupants. The demonstration should show how the system operates under normal and alarm conditions, how to use the system controls and indicators, how to test and maintain the system, and how to respond to an alarm.
The handover should include a formal transfer of documentation and information from the installer to the responsible person. The documentation should include a copy of the design specification, the design drawing, the design certificate, the commissioning certificate, the user manual, the log book and any other relevant records or certificates. The information should include a clear explanation of the responsibilities and duties of the responsible person regarding the operation and maintenance of the system.
The maintenance and servicing of fire detection and fire alarm systems
The maintenance and servicing of a fire detection and fire alarm system is the process of ensuring that the system remains in good working order and performs as intended throughout its service life. The maintenance and servicing of a fire detection and fire alarm system should be carried out by a competent person who has adequate knowledge, skills and experience in fire safety engineering and fire detection and fire alarm systems. The maintenance and servicing should also follow the recommendations and guidance provided by BS 5839-1:2017, as well as the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for each component.
Some general principles for maintenance and servicing of fire detection and fire alarm systems are:
The maintenance and servicing should include a regular inspection, testing and cleaning of all components of the system, as well as a prompt repair or replacement of any faulty or damaged parts. The frequency and extent of the maintenance and servicing should depend on the type, complexity and usage of the system, as well as the environmental conditions and risk factors in the premises. For example, BS 5839-1:2017 recommends that a visual inspection of all manual call points and sounders should be carried out weekly, while a functional test of all detectors should be carried out annually.
The maintenance and servicing should also include a periodic review of the system to ensure that it remains suitable and sufficient for the premises. The review should take into account any changes in the layout, structure, occupancy, use or fire risk profile of the premises that may affect the performance or adequacy of the system. The review should also consider any feedback or suggestions from the responsible person, the enforcing authority, the fire service, the insurer and the occupants regarding the operation or improvement of the system. The review may result in a modification or upgrade of the system to meet the current or future needs of the premises.
The maintenance and servicing should be recorded and reported in a log book that is kept on the premises or in a secure location. The log book should contain information such as the date, time, type and results of each inspection, test, repair or review, as well as the name and signature of the person who carried out the work. The log book should also contain any certificates, reports or notices that are issued by the installer, the maintainer, the enforcing authority, the fire service or the insurer regarding the system.
Conclusion
Fire detection and fire alarm systems are vital for protecting lives and properties from fire. However, they need to be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained in accordance with the best practices and standards to ensure their reliability, effectiveness and compliance. BS 5839-1:2017 is one of the most widely recognized and respected standards for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises in the UK. It provides a code of practice for designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining fire detection and fire alarm systems in a variety of buildings, such as offices, shops, hotels, schools, hospitals, care homes and more.
BS 5839-1:2017 covers all aspects of fire detection and fire alarm systems, such as the role and responsibilities of the designer, the categories of fire detection and fire alarm systems, the selection and positioning of fire detectors and manual call points, the selection and positioning of fire alarm sounders and visual alarms, the wiring and cabling of fire detection and fire alarm systems, the commissioning and handover of fire detection and fire alarm systems, and the maintenance and servicing of fire detection and fire alarm systems. It also includes some significant changes compared to the previous version of the standard, such as improved definition of the L2 fire alarm system, modified guidance for use of multi-sensor detectors, clarification on the use of voice alarm devices and visual indicator devices, inclusion of a section on testing of the power supply, and guidance for persons who work at night to recognize the alarm.
By following BS 5839-1:2017, designers, installers, maintainers and responsible persons can ensure that they have taken reasonable steps to comply with their legal obligations and reduce the risk of fire. However, BS 5839-1:2017 is not a substitute for a fire risk assessment, and it may not cover all aspects of fire safety that are relevant to a specific premises. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a competent fire safety professional before designing, installing, commissioning or maintaining a fire detection and fire alarm system.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about BS 5839-1:2017 and fire detection and fire alarm systems:
Q: How can I obtain a copy of BS 5839-1:2017?
A: You can purchase a copy of BS 5839-1:2017 from the BSI website or from other authorized distributors. You can also access a free online version of the standard through the BSI Online Library, which requires registration and login.
Q: How can I find out if my existing fire detection and fire alarm system complies with BS 5839-1:2017?
A: You can contact a competent fire safety professional who can inspect and assess your system and provide you with a report and recommendations. Alternatively, you can compare your system with the requirements and recommendations of BS 5839-1:2017 and identify any gaps or deficiencies.
Q: How often should I test and maintain my fire detection and fire alarm system?
A: You should test and maintain your system according to the frequency and extent specified by BS 5839-1:2017, the manufacturer's instructions and specifications, and the recommendations of the competent fire safety professional. As a general rule, you should test your system weekly, monthly, quarterly and annually, and maintain your system at least annually.
Q: What should I do if my fire detection and fire alarm system activates?
A: You should follow the emergency plan and procedures that have been established for your premises. This may include evacuating the building, calling the fire service, locating and extinguishing the fire, resetting the system, investigating the cause of the activation, and reporting the incident.
Q: How can I improve the performance and reliability of my fire detection and fire alarm system?
A: You can improve the performance and reliability of your system by following the best practices and standards for designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining your system. You can also ensure that your system is suitable and sufficient for your premises by conducting a regular review of your system and making any necessary modifications or upgrades. 44f88ac181