CO detectors in flat corridors to student accomodation

[Rocha]

Hi all,

Just been to a 4 storey student halls of residence which consists of single lobby protected stairwell, giving access to flats which consist of 6 bedrooms, toilets, shower room and kitchen, all off the flat corridor.

The fire detection arrangements are as follows.  Heat to kitchens and bedrooms, smoke to stair lobbies and stairwell and CO to the flat corridors.  I guess the CO was prescribed to prevent UWFS from the shower room etc.

BS5839 says that CO can be used in escape routes of L3 or L4 systems as long as in conjunction with smoke detection.  Do you think that the arrangement complies with the BS.

I am thinking of recomending that multi sensor detection be used to replace the CO upon the end of the 5-7 year life span.

Would love any help!!!   Rocha

[Big_Fella]

The BS does clearly state 'In a category L3 system a heat, smoke, combustion gas detector or multi sensor is to be installed on the accomodation side of any door that opens onto an escape stairway or corridor of more than 4 metres in length.

Therefore having this detector in situ fully complies if classed as an L3 system.

Then it goes onto say in an L2 system, the L3 category as stated above is recommended plus the additional rooms.

Also mentions that this detector can be used where a heat sensor would be acceptable other than high risk areas.  It's very common to have a heat sensor installed within the lobby of a flat/apartment, so I guess this detector would fit this criteria.