FireNet Community

THE REGULATORY REFORM (FIRE SAFETY) ORDER 2005 => Q & A => Topic started by: Drew on June 29, 2009, 06:57:23 AM

Title: Interlinked smoke detection
Post by: Drew on June 29, 2009, 06:57:23 AM

Hi All,

Regarding interlinked mains smoke detection in a four storey block of flats, located on each floor in a protected lobby. What are the servicing requirements for this type of detector?
Having asked various people I can not get a difinitive answer, do they come under B.S 5839 for six monthly servicing and do they require weekly testing?
My thoughts would be that it is only good practice to carry out the servicing/testing but i would like to know the facts.
   

Title: Re: Interlinked smoke detection
Post by: kurnal on June 29, 2009, 08:42:01 AM

Hi Drew
Its not surprising you have been getting confusing replies because BS5839 part 6 recommends different standards for testing and maintenance depending on what grade of system has been installed.

Grade A, or B systems have a fire alarm control and indicator panel 

Grade C systems are systems comprising interlinked alarms but both the main power supplies and the back up supply are common to all  detectors from a singler power control box (ie not a fire alarm control panel)
Grade D systems are a system of mains powered alarms in which each alarm has its own standby battery or capacitor.

From what you say i think you probably have a grade C or D system.The commissioning certificate should indicate which.

All systems except Grade A - all detectors should be operated weekly. If a central switch is provided,or a manual call point,  this can enable the testing of all alarms simultaneously from a remote location.

Grade B & C systems sould be serviced six monthly in accordance with manufacturers instructions


For grade D systems detectors should be cleaned periodically in accordance with manufacturers instructions.

For radio linked systems in a HMO additional recommendations are made in respect of regular changing of batteries.

Hope this helps.

Title: Re: Interlinked smoke detection
Post by: Drew on June 29, 2009, 10:51:45 PM

Hi Kurnal,

Thanks for your reply,

After checking the system today it is indeed a grade c system. Thank you for clearing this one up for me, much appriciated

Title: Re: Interlinked smoke detection
Post by: colin todd on July 05, 2009, 01:18:05 AM

its a little unlikely  to be a grade c system.