Fire Detection / Carbon Monoxide Alarm Systems
It is recommended dwellings should have a fire detection and alarm system, minimum category LD3, grade D2 standard. This recommendation is in accordance with BS 5839-6. A higher standard of protection should be afforded where occupants of a proposed dwelling would be at increased risk from fire.
Smoke alarms should be mains operated (with standby battery) BS EN 14604.
Heat alarms should be mains operated (with standby battery) BS 5446-2.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-approved-document-b
Carbon Monoxide detectors should be Kitemarked and conform to BS EN 50291. Can be mains or battery powered. If battery powered, the battery should be tamper-proof and last the life of the alarm. (England and Wales) Document J.
BS 5839-6: 2019+A1:2020
This amendment provides detail on the 3 categories of smoke detection and their associated grades.
Categories
LD1 - High protection, all areas where a fire could start.
LD2 - Medium protection, Escape routes and high-risk areas.
LD3 - Low protection, Escape routes.
Grades
A – Separate detectors & sounders, Mains powered + standby battery, separate central control.
C – Detectors & sounders sharing a common power supply, central control.
D1 – Mains powered + standby battery. (tamper-proof).
D2 – Mains powered + standby battery. (User replaceable).
F1 – Battery powered. (tamper-proof).
F2 – Battery powered. (User replaceable).
D1 & D2 Grades are usual for rental properties / owner occupied dwellings.
Note: Grades F1 & F2 Not mains operated.
The appropriate category of alarm system which will be suitable for your premises will be dependant on a number of factors. Such as whether the property is rented, owner occupied, sheltered housing or a H.M.O for instance. The number of floors the property has, loft conversions, attached garages, the number of fossil fuel/wood burning appliances installed in the building, flues passing through rooms/lofts etc. all have an impact on the required Category/Grade of the alarm system.
The aforementioned information has been provided for your consideration. Whilst every endeavour has been made to provide accurate up to date data. We would strongly advise home owners/landlords etc. to conduct a fire risk assessment. Your local fire prevention officer or a specialist risk assessment consultant will be able to assist you with this important matter.
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