QUICK INFO

How to date detectors:

• Notifier/System Sensor: Locate the 4-digit code followed by a 'T'. Format: YYMMT (e.g., 2310T = 10th week of 2023).
• Apollo: Format: YYMMDD (e.g., 230113 = 13th Jan 2023).
• Gent: Format: WWYY (e.g., 5225 = 52nd week of 2025).

BS5839-1 Categories (Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for Buildings):

• M: Manual activation (e.g., Manual Call Points/MCPs only).
• L1: Detection throughout all areas of the building, including any voids over 800mm high.
• L2: Detection in high-risk areas as well as those defined in L3.
• L3: Detection on escape routes and in rooms or areas that open onto those escape routes.
• L4: Detection on escape routes only.
• L5: Specific fire risks not covered by L1-L4.
• P1: Detection throughout the whole building (MCPs not essential).
• P2: Detection in specific, designated areas (MCPs not essential).

BS 5839-6 Grading (Domestic Fire Alarm Systems):

System Grades

• Grade A: A system of detectors linked to a central control panel with battery backup, designed to commercial standards for the highest-risk properties.
• Grade C: A system of interconnected detectors and alarms powered by the mains with a backup supply and a central controller.
• Grade D1: A system of interlinked mains-powered alarms, each with its own tamper-proof, long-life backup battery.
• Grade D2: A system of interlinked mains-powered alarms, each with a user-replaceable backup battery.
• Grade F1: A system using alarms powered by a tamper-proof, long-life battery.
• Grade F2: A system using alarms powered by user-replaceable batteries.

Categories of Protection (Coverage)

• LD1: Provides maximum protection with detectors installed in all rooms and circulation areas where a fire could start.
• LD2: Provides additional protection with detectors in all circulation spaces and high-risk rooms like kitchens and living rooms.
• LD3: Provides minimum protection with detectors installed only in circulation areas that form part of an escape route.

Sound Levels:

• 65dB: Standard minimum for most areas.
• 60dB: Can be reduced in specific areas like a staircase or enclosed area up to 60m.
• If background noise exceeds 60dB(A) for more than 30 seconds, the sounder must be 5dB(A) louder than that background noise.
• Sleeping risk: 75dB @ bedhead.
• 120dB: Maximum.

Intruder Alarm Grading (EN 50131):

• Grade 1: Low risk (e.g., apartments), often not monitored.
• Grade 2: Small to medium risk (e.g., retail stores), often monitored.
• Grade 3: High risk properties (e.g., larger retail stores, warehouses, or high-value residential).
• Grade 4: Banks, museums, or government buildings.