July 4, 2024
Which Emergency Alarm Should I Choose?
Fire safety is a critical aspect of building design and maintenance, particularly in residential properties where the safety of occupants is paramount.
The British Standard BS 5839-6:2019 provides guidelines for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises.
In this blog, we will outline the different grades of the BS 5839-6:2019 grading system to help you decide which alarm you should choose. We recommend always seeking the advise of a qualified professional to confirm the exact requirement for your application.
The Grading System
The BS 5839-6:2019 standard categorizes fire detection and alarm systems into different grades based on the application. Here is a breakdown of each grade which the Red Arrow & X-Sense range of alarms cover.
Grade D1
A system of one or more mains powered detectors, each with a tamper-proof standby supply consisting of a battery or batteries.
Grade D2
A system of one or more mains powered detectors, each with an integrated standby supply consisting of a user-replaceable battery or batteries.
Grade F1
A system of one or more battery powered detectors, powered by a tamper-proof primary battery or batteries.
Grade F2
A system of one or more battery powered detectors, powered by a user replaceable primary battery or batteries.
Choosing the Right Grade
The selection of the appropriate grade depends on several factors. These include the size and layout of the property, the occupancy type, and specific fire risks associated with the property. Here are some considerations:
- Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to understand the specific fire hazards and required response times.
- Occupancy Type: Higher-risk occupancies (e.g., those housing vulnerable individuals) may require higher-grade systems.
- Building Size and Layout: Larger and more complex buildings typically need more sophisticated systems to ensure full coverage and reliable performance.
Implementation and Compliance
Implementing a fire detection and alarm system that meets BS 5839-6:2019 involves several steps:
- Design: Choose a system that aligns with the required grade and specific needs of the property.
- Installation: Ensure the system is installed by qualified professionals to guarantee it meets the standard’s requirements.
- Commissioning: Test and commission the system to confirm it operates correctly and provides the necessary coverage. [insert how Red Arrow & X-Sense products can be tested etc].
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance and testing are crucial to ensure the system remains operational and effective. [insert how Red Arrow & X-Sense products can be maintained etc].
Protection Levels
LD1 – High Protection
(All areas where a fire could start)
Hallways, Landings, Living Rooms, Bedrooms and Kitchen.
LD2 – Medium Protection
(Escape routes and high risk areas)
Hallways, Landings, Kitchen and Living Room.
LD3 – Minimum Protection
(Escape routes) Hallways and Landings.
Conclusion
Understanding the BS 5839-6:2019 grading system is essential for ensuring the safety of domestic premises.
Both the Red Arrow range of Smoke, Heat & Carbon Monoxide Alarms alongside the X-Sense range of Smart, Smoke, Head & Carbon Monoxide alarms meet the standards and offer complete peace of mind.
Accessories
We offer a range of different accessories to complement the Red Arrow & X-Sense range of alarms.
