Fire Alarm Detection System Design

In order to undertake the process of designing a fire system for a building it is necessary to have a sound understanding of the relevant design standards, the legal framework surrounding building safety legislation and a sound working knowledge of product application theory. The importance of consultation with all relevant parties cannot be overstressed, neither can the importance of specialist advice in relevant areas. The following system design process is intended to give a reasonable overview of all the areas of knowledge required for the successful design of a fire alarm system.

OVERVIEW OF THE DESIGN PROCESS:
The following describes a typical fire alarm system design process
• Understand the reasons for installing the fire alarm system in the specific property
• Conduct a risk assessment to help determine requirements
• Consult with all interested parties
• Decide on the relevant design standard
• Establish if third party approval is required - for equipment and/or installation.
• Decide on the type of alarm technology to be used
• Decide on the appropriate protection category and extent of coverage where relevant
• Discuss and agree the fire strategy
• Plan the zoning of the building
• Select and position relevant system components
- Select the appropriate detectors for each area
- Position the detectors- Select suitable callpoints and position at appropriate locations
- Agree on the means of summoning the fire authority
- Plan the alarm signalling arrangements (sounders, beacons, pagers etc)
• Select a suitable panel (suitably sized and rated with adequate standby autonomy)
- Review the design such as to - minimise the potential for false alarms
- Select Contractor- Ensure suitable wiring of the system
- Make suitable arrangements for commissioning
- Appoint/Establish responsible person
- Make suitable arrangements for ongoing maintenance and monitoring of system performance

I will explain each one of the previous items in more detail