Schools - Use of Dorgards

[hammer1]

Ive have seen magnetic fire door release doors in Schools along corridors etc where the system should give warning of smoke in the areas on either side of a door fitted with an automatic release device.  The positions of the detectors should be in accordance with  BS 7273 ? 4 2007 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures ? Part 4 Actuation of release mechanisms for doors.

However I visited a School last week where they had Dorgards along the corridors, there are smoke detectors on either side of each door as you would normally find  but they are normal FD30S with Dorgards fitted, had a look at the FRA (conducted by the fire safety advisor for the Local Authority) and there absolutely no info in it at all.

Would these be accepted ??

[kurnal]

The specific recommendations for the siting of detectorrs set out in 7274-4 apply where there is no general detection in the premises- if there is an appropriate L category system then detectors sited in accordance with 5839-1 would be acceptable to enable use of dorgards- subject to an assessment of their suitability in respect of resilience. If for example the doors protect a single staircase then a more resilient grade A  hold open device may be appropriate.

[hammer1]

These buildings were designed with a type M installation per BS5839 Part 1, however over the years some areas have has smoke or heat detection installed, however no paperwork re- modification/alteration certs?. The building doesn't confirm to any specific L catergory system to be honest.

Seems the design was as you say siting the detection as set out in 7274-4 due to type M being installed but since then seems installers have gone in and added some here, some there but not to a specific L category?.

[kurnal]

then 7273-4 siting applies as per your original post hammer.

[colin todd]

...and the 2015 version not the 2007 version.

[hammer1]

Thanks chaps.