In part one of our article on managing false fire alarm incidents, we looked at the top five major causes of false alarms as cited by fire brigades and what part the fire system designer can play in reducing costly false alarms.
In this second part, we look at a few more of the reasons behind the large rise in false alarm calls to the brigades and how they can best be avoided.
Poorly trained users: When completing a fire alarm install, it’s all too easy for the engineer to test the last detector, check the panel is showing “normal” and then pack up his tools and leave, without first fully demonstrating the fire alarm to the end user. While explaining the functions of the detectors and alarms, there is also an opportunity to cover the avoidance of false alarms. Of course, in the case of a building site, the end user may not be present on handover so it is extremely important for the installation company or engineer to allow for a return visit to demonstrate the system, within the cost of the fire alarm. This of course extends to explaining the importance of the management of faults or pre-alarm, which may well be a precursor to false alarms.
Lack of maintenance: Maintenance is critical in avoiding false alarms. As mentioned in our last article it is important to site detectors away from air conditioning and fresh air grills. But detectors do need to be checked at each service visit to ensure that there is no build-up of dirt or dust. They are best kept clean by using a detector duster spray on them.
It is also very important that all detectors are tested at least once a year. At Fire Depot we stock the Testifier range of testers to ensure that you complete the service efficiently and safely. And remember, it’s not only the fire alarm system (including the detectors) which needs checking. This was never better illustrated than the year the bugler in Gloucester shopping centre was just about to play The Last Post at 11am on Remembrance Day before the two minutes silence, which also happened to be the exact moment that someone chose to turn on an electric heater for the first time that autumn! The result was three minutes of alarm bells instead of the traditional silence!
The system being tested without informing the call centre: I have to admit that on one occasion at least, I have been testing a fire alarm and heard the approaching sound of sirens heralding the arrival of not just one, but three fire engines on site because I had forgotten to call the monitoring centre and take the system off watch.
Just about any system that is being monitored will rely on human intervention to make sure the signals don’t go through, but it can be made easier by fitting a relay isolation switch, with an indicator by the panel to isolate the signal relay. Better still, with an addressable system you can use a key switch on the panel linked to an input, which is also programmed to show an isolation at the panel. In this way the site is not left without fire cover should human memory fail and forget to switch the monitoring back on.
Steam, aerosols and other fumes activating the detectors: It is very important for the designer to take into account the potential for steam, the use of aerosols and other fumes which may occur once the building is in use. Probably the most obvious example of this is hotel bedrooms, with steam from the showers and the use of hair sprays etc. The correct detector needs to be selected and positioned. Many hotels also have a search time programmed into the cause and effect programming, which needs to be recorded and checked to ensure that it is correctly set up.
A contractor working near a detector: This is quite a common source of false alarms and shows the need for a “hot work” permit to work, as well as the use of detector covers, (which are supplied with new alarms) being made available for temporary use. The cover also will be useful if carrying out disk cutting work to stop contamination of the detector.
Tim Mann has more than 30 years’ experience in the electrical industry and has specialised in the fire protection industry for the last 20 years. As Group Technical Manager at Sentura Group, his role is to provide help and advice to ensure that customer’s installations are done right first time and to assist in solving their existing equipment and installations problems.
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In part one of our article on managing false fire alarm incidents, we looked at the top five major causes of false alarms as cited by fire brigades and what […]
According to the latest UK Fire and Rescue statistics, 40 per cent of all incidents attended by fire and rescue services were false alarms*. In fact, fire and rescue services attended more false alarms than fires in the period from April to September 2015, resulting in the already financially stretched Fire Authorities, having to waste precious resources attending these calls.
The five major causes of false alarms given by fire brigades are:
• Incorrect or poorly designed systems
• Fumes from cooking or burnt food
• Steam, aerosols and other fumes activating the detectors
• The build-up of dust on a detector, caused perhaps by building work or air conditioning outlets
• Accidental damage to a 'break glass' point
So what part can the fire system designer play in reducing false alarms?
Of course, false alarms are not only costly to the Fire Services; there is also a cost to your business in terms of lost production and disruption caused by staff evacuation. According to the Fire Industry Association, it is estimated that false alarms cost UK businesses in excess of £1 billion per annum, so how can the design of your fire system assist in reducing incidents and their associated costs?
Let’s take each of the causes cited in the list above:
• Incorrect or poorly designed system. This highlights the importance of the system being correctly designed at the point of installation. BS 5839-1: 2013 is the current code of practice that makes recommendations for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises and also includes a section devoted to False Alarm management for reference but reputable fire safety equipment suppliers will also have qualified experts on hand to advise and assist you.
• Fumes from cooking or burnt food. The advent of breakfast at work for those arriving early has brought the toaster into the workplace. This in turn generates a huge amount of false alarms, so the detector within the room needs to perhaps be a rate of rise heat detector.
But what about the corridor outside the room? Corridors on escape routes must be protected by smoke detectors. Look at the corridor - does the detector have to go outside the kitchen door? Many typical corridors are less than 2M wide, so take advantage of the increased spacing allowed in such corridors and assess the best place for the detector, away from door of the room containing the toaster.
• Steam, aerosols and other fumes activating the detectors. Steam from showers in hotel bedrooms is a given, so consider using a CO detector within the room (these are specially designed for fire detection and are not to be confused with those placed near boilers for life safety). Don’t just place the detector in the centre of the room near the shower door, place it at the furthest point from the shower door - even if it is 500mm away from a wall on the other side of the room. Alternatively, take advantage of the many features offered by today’s addressable systems and engineer a solution using multi sensors and output delays to allow search time. Most importantly, don’t forget to have these solutions agreed by all parties and record them on the design certificate.
• The build-up of dust on a detector, caused perhaps by building work or air conditioning outlets. It’s amazing how much dust is created by an air conditioning outlet. Detectors should be located at least one metre from any outlet. Once again look for the best place within the room, as long as it’s over 500mm from a wall or beam and it complies with the general coverage constraints.
• Accidental damage to a 'break glass' point. Consider moving away from detectors and using break glass call points instead. These are normally positioned at all external doors, high risk areas, at internal zonal boundaries etc. Where there is a possibility that the call point might be accidentally activated, why not fit a call point cover, or perhaps in a bar area of a pub, put the call point behind the bar? These will need to be recorded as variations but it does help to reduce false alarms.
In part 2 of this blog, we will explore some of the other common reasons for fire false alarms and what can be done to proactively manage and reduce such incidents.
Tim Mann has more than 30 years’ experience in the electrical industry and has specialised in the fire protection industry for the last 20 years. As Group Technical Manager at Sentura Group, his role is to provide help and advice to ensure that customer’s installations are done right first time and to assist in solving their existing equipment and installations problems.
* The Fire False Alarms information was taken from Fire Statistics Monitor: England April to September 2015 as published by the Department for Communities and Local Government[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
According to the latest UK Fire and Rescue statistics, 40 per cent of all incidents attended by fire and rescue services were false alarms*. In fact, fire and rescue services […]
Living in a rented flat means that your landlord or managing agent must provide a fire risk assessment and fire safety equipment to comply with UK law.
The main reason fires start in blocks of flats is due to overloaded electrical sockets which cause electrical faults. A more obvious problem is cigarettes, which have not been put out properly and disregarded out of windows causing fires in neighbouring flats. While unattended candles and chip frying pans are also a threat.
Most fires in blocks of flats start by people living in flats rather than in communal areas. Often carelessness has a big effect and through extra care you can effectively reduce fire risks.
Four Fire Safety Risks to check today
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Smoke Detectors
The best way to prevent a fire and alert others is with a smoke detector. Mains wired smoke detectors are the safest option as many people fail to test their smoke alarm every week. We recommend changing the battery in your smoke alarm every year, testing it once a week as well as changing your smoke detector every ten years.
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Fire Resistant Doors
The front door of your flat is the best security there is if there is a fire in your block of flats. As doors will reduce the spread of smoke and fire to corridors and the escape routes. Make sure that your door is not damaged in any way as this may affect its performance. If you plan on changing your front door, make sure that you are aware of the effects on fire safety and that you have permission from your landlord.
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Know your Fire Plan
Knowing the optimal exit route from your flat is essential information that you can’t afford to ignore. By testing the route you could save your life and those you live with. Additionally, by testing the route you know if the emergency exit is blocked by rubbish, bikes and prams that other residents have left there.
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Fire Extinguisher
Your landlord or the managing agents has a legal obligation to provide a fire extinguisher. It should be attached to the wall or as part of extinguisher stand, if you do not have one we urge you to contact your landlord or managing agent today.
Fire risk assessment for flats
Since 2006 building owners and occupiers need to carry out a fire safety risk assessment.The landlord or the managing agents has a legal obligation to organise a fire risk assessment for communal areas only. This must completed to determine fire risks and hazards so that all risks are known and are up to date.
If you’re living in a flat and are unsure of the potential risk in communal areas, contact your landlord to find out more.
If you’re a landlord, contact us now so we can put you in touch with a local, qualified Fire Depot installer who will be able to address your needs further.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Living in a rented flat means that your landlord or managing agent must provide a fire risk assessment and fire safety equipment to comply with UK law. The main reason […]
Are you taking advantage of two part fire stands? They’ve been in the range for a couple of years now – perhaps it’s time to review the benefits:
Firstly, there’s the space saving. Stands can be bulky and awkward to fit in your van. The two part fire stands come flat packed meaning they take 40% of the space to store! This means you can be sure to have a stand with you when you need one, making sure you can take advantage of that immediate sale opportunity.
This space saving also brings a second benefit: the price. With the ability to get 60% more on a pallet, there are cost efficiencies to be had. Call the team on 0330 999 2233 to discuss these.
Finally, why not modernise? These stands have been designed to look great and not be obtrusive in design-led environments.
Made from top-quality rotationally moulded plastic, these stands are a must have! They are tried, tested and proven to be one of the most durable stands in the marketplace. Add that to the benefits above and they’re the perfect choice.
View the stands online here and get in touch with the team to discuss your requirements.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Are you taking advantage of two part fire stands? They’ve been in the range for a couple of years now – perhaps it’s time to review the benefits: Firstly, there’s […]
There’s a lot of talk out there about fire safety for landlords…and rightly so! It is the responsibility of the landlord to ensure their property complies with fire safety legislation. Broadly speaking, they must put these measures in place before a tenant moves in:
1) Ensure that the standard fire safety regulations (such as clear escape routes etc) are in met
2) Make sure furniture in the property is fire safe
3) Provide fire alarms and extinguishers (if the property is a large House in Multiple Occupation)
Unfortunately, some landlords don’t keep to these laws and this leads to some potentially dangerous situations. There have been cases recently where landlords have been fined up to £10,000 for not taking the necessary steps to ensure fire safety.
The question that we raise is: are landlords aware of what they need to do? If not, they need to be! So spread the word with these 8 tips on how to make a start:
1) Commit yourself to learning what you need to do to ensure fire safety compliance
2) Carry out a fire risk assessment on every new house you buy
3) Fit smoke detectors to all properties (and carbon monoxide alarms if required)
4) Consider banning smoking in your properties
5) Fit self-closing doors on all rooms to slow down a fire if one does occur
6) Ensure all electrical appliances in the property are tested regularly
7) Be sure to make exit routes very clear
8) Enlist the help of a professional fire safety advisor (whether a private professional or your local fire brigade)[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
There’s a lot of talk out there about fire safety for landlords…and rightly so! It is the responsibility of the landlord to ensure their property complies with fire safety legislation. […]
As part of our mission to save lives and property from fire, Fire Depot have put together '6 Simple Fire Safety Tips All Office Workers Should Follow', all in one handy infographic!
We want to make offices the safest working environment possible and that involves everyone following these simple rules & company fire safety practices...
Embed this office fire safety infographic on your website: Simply copy & paste the code below... Please help to spread this simple message by sharing now with friends & family on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or by email. Together we can reduce the 16,000 non-dwelling fires each year which costs lives, ruins local businesses and puts hard working people out of a job.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
As part of our mission to save lives and property from fire, Fire Depot have put together ‘6 Simple Fire Safety Tips All Office Workers Should Follow’, all in one […]
The Fire Depot Thrive! loyalty program has been running now for nearly 3 years. Since the launch, there have been 1000’s of free gifts redeemed showing the success of the scheme.
So what is Thrive!? Thrive! is a customer loyalty program whereby you earn a point for every pound you spend with Fire Depot. Points can then be redeemed in the following ways:
1) Promotional gifts with your company branding
2) Gifts to charities
3) Staff incentives
“The most effective use of the program is to go for promotional gifts.” remarks George Graham, Fire Depot’s Marketing Manager. “Printed mugs, pens, pads – we all love them but they can be such a hassle to purchase. With Thrive! we take all that hassle away for you.”
Joining the scheme is really easy. Just contact the Fire Depot team on 0330 999 2233 for your Thrive! invite code. Once you have that, there are just three simple steps to complete and you’ll be set up in no time.
You can also visit the Thrive! website to view what’s available to you.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
The Fire Depot Thrive! loyalty program has been running now for nearly 3 years. Since the launch, there have been 1000’s of free gifts redeemed showing the success of the […]
Tired of rusty looking stands on petrol forecourts? We have the answer. The Firechief Premium Fire Point is made of rotationally moulded plastic making it the most robust and hard-wearying mobile fire point on the market.
Why focus on petrol forecourts? Well, that’s probably where we notice rusted fire points most often. Petrol forecourt maintenance focuses on keeping the area tidy, clean and well-presented so that customers have a pleasant experience. And one item that continues to look unkempt in their improving environments is the extinguisher trolley! Why shouldn’t petrol forecourt fire safety look neat and tidy as well?
Changing to the premium trolleys is a no-brainer. They are manufactured from 100% recyclable PE which makes them non-corrosive and scratch resistant. This material is also UV resistant meaning that they don’t even fade in sunlight!
Interested to learn more? Contact the team today on 0330 999 2233.
View the Firechief Premium Fire Trolley[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Tired of rusty looking stands on petrol forecourts? We have the answer. The Firechief Premium Fire Point is made of rotationally moulded plastic making it the most robust and hard-wearying […]