Recent changes to Documents B and J of the Building Regulations have introduced more stringent guidelines when installing smoke and CO alarms. Here, Steve Havell, product manager at Newey & Eyre, examines the changes in more detail and looks at the options open to contractors
Changes to the regulations means that it is now more important than ever for contractors to make the correct choice when it comes to fire and smoke alarms. However, with so many options available, making that choice can be tough.
The correct use of fire and smoke detection can be the difference between life and death and, in light of this, Approved Document B and BS 5839: Part 6: 2004 are the definitive codes of practice to which architects, building professionals and installers should refer to for recommendations on the design, installation and use of smoke and heat alarms for both new and existing homes.
BS 5839-6:2004 uses Grades from A to F to describe the type of alarm system, and categories from LD1 to LD3 to describe the amount of alarms to install and the areas of the property to cover. It also gives recommendations for alarm systems, taking into consideration factors such as the size, type, age and existing fire precautions within the property.
For new and many existing homes, Grade D, Category LD2 is considered the standard. Under this, there should be at least one mains powered smoke alarm with a dedicated back-up supply on every floor, plus alarms in the ‘high risk’ rooms – typically the living room and kitchen (which would be a heat alarm as opposed to a smoke alarm). So, as the housing market trend continues to shift from new builds to refurbishment projects, this legislation is set to become ever more important. Therefore, the onus is on the contractor to have a full understanding of what technology is available to help prevent dangers in the home. However, with so many options – where to begin?
A good place to start
It is important to first establish what type of sensor is needed to detect smoke – ionisation or optical – as each offers its own benefits due to their sensitivity to different types of fire and smoke.
Ionisation detectors are more responsive at detecting small particulates within smoke, which are produced in greater amounts by fast burning fires. This type of fire rapidly consumes combustible materials such as paper, cardboard and bedding, and spreads rapidly.
The second option is an optical smoke alarm, which is more adept at reacting to larger fire particles. These tend to be produced by slow smouldering fires, which may smoke for some time before bursting into flames, for example a cigarette burning on furniture. This may not seem such a direct threat, but smoke inhalation can be fatal, so optical alarms definitely have a role to play in fire detection.
Both of these alarm types have improved rapidly in recent years and now offer the option to interlink as many as up to 12 mains powered smoke and heat alarms, as well as LED indicators, helping users to quickly identify the source of an alarm.
In the right place
Siting the alarm in the right place will enable the technology to offer the best level of protection. Ionisation technology is suited to areas that are not prone to cooking fumes. Optical alarms are ideal for the majority of locations within a property, and as this type of technology is less susceptible to the effects of cooking fumes, it can reduce the number of nuisance alarms even when positioned close to the kitchen.
In terms of the Grade of alarm, there is quite literally a solution to meet every requirement. For ultimate protection, many modern fire alarms include an integral 9V battery back-up system which will continue to protect even in the event of a power cut, making it well suited for new builds and materially altered dwellings under Grade D. Alternatively, for a temporary solution on a budget there is a battery powered alarm, in line with Grade F – although it should be noted that this type of alarm may not meet the requirements of Building Regulations or BS 5839-6:2004.
To protect residents from the deadly effects of carbon monoxide, the latest Building Regulations Approved Document J states where a new or replacement fixed solid fuel appliance is installed in a dwelling, a suitable CO alarm should be provided in the room where the appliance is located.
Summary
The requirements of building regulations mean that it is more important than ever that contractors stay abreast of any updates in order to keep their customers safe. The industry has responded to this with a range of products to suit every application and every budget – a primary concern for many contractors these days. By assessing every installation on a case by case basis, coupled with a solid understanding of the technology that is available, installers can make the safest choices.
Newey & Eyre
T: 0121 328 9000
