Fire Detection

Introduction

Early signs of smoke, heat and flame are detected. When this happens – an alarm sounds and various other systems are activated to warn and evacuate people - Public Address and Evacuation Systems give the operator complete control in the event of an emergency.

The system can be programmed to Isolate the Fire and Prevent Smoke and Fire from Spreading to other parts of a building. Other features include Lift Homing, Shutting down Air Conditioning units, activating a Fire Suppression System , Sending a Signal to a Remote Security Control Room and Communication to the local Fire Department.

Two Types of Fire Detection Systems

There are two types of fire detection systems, namely conventional and analogue addressable systems. Both systems use field or line devices, such as, but not limited to thermal, photoelectric, beam and flame detectors, to detect the presence of heat, smoke or flame. Also, both make use of manual call points to allow people to manually activate the fire alarm. These call points or break glass units are usually located close to or on route to fire escape doors.

Which one to choose   

Conventional Systems are generally for smaller applications such as small offices or blocks of flats where the system is mainly used for evacuation. Each Zone on the Fire Panel represents an area within the building. There is usually a description next to each zone number. This type of panel may also be accompanied by a mimic panel containing a diagram of the building and LED’s, showing security personnel which zone has been activated. This type of system is suitable where detection equipment is installed in common areas but has it’s limitations in larger buildings as it does not pinpoint which device is in alarm.

Addressable Systems are used for medium to large installations. These are much more advanced than Conventional Systems. They are completely programmable thus making it very flexible. Another advantage is that it identifies exactly which device is in alarm as each line device has its own unique address.

Coupled with computer mapping software, this system allows security personnel to quickly and accurately locate the fire and take necessary action. This system is perfect for large buildings with lots of staff, or complex sites with multiple buildings. Due to its flexibility, this system can be tailor made to suite any application. It has allows for a peer-to peer network so size will never be an issue – the system “grows” as you require. An Addressable System can easily interface with a new or existing Access Control , Burglar Alarm , CCTV , Public Address and Building Management Systems.

This means complete integration without losing system integrity. Interface units allow the system to monitor anything from Flow Switches to the Status of a Door, while line relays are able to switch on or off high or low voltage external devices. What FireSpec Systems cc gives you here is the complete solution to all you safety and security requirements.