Packing Specification
Fire Alarm Detector Service Details:
Fire alarm servicing is typically broken down into different
frequencies and levels of detail.
- Daily/Weekly
Checks (User-level): These are simple, routine checks that can often
be performed by a designated person on-site. They involve a visual
inspection of the control panel to ensure no fault or fire signals are
present (often indicated by a green LED), and a weekly test of a different
manual call point (pull station) to ensure the alarm sounds.
- Monthly/Quarterly
Inspections (User-level): These are more detailed inspections that
include checking batteries, ensuring all devices are free from physical
damage or obstruction, and verifying that the system is properly logged.
- Semi-Annual/Annual
Professional Maintenance: This is a comprehensive service performed by
a certified fire alarm technician. It is a legal requirement in many
jurisdictions and is essential to maintaining the system's operational
integrity.
Key Aspects of a Professional Service
A professional fire alarm service for detectors and the
overall system generally includes:
- Functional
Testing of Detectors:
- Smoke
Detectors: Technicians will use a specialized aerosol "test
smoke" to simulate the presence of smoke and confirm that the
detector goes into alarm.
- Heat
Detectors: A heat gun or similar device is used to apply heat to the
detector until it activates at its specified temperature.
- Manual
Pull Stations: Each pull station is physically activated to ensure it
sends the correct signal to the control panel and triggers the alarm.
- Beam
Detectors and Aspirating Systems: These more complex systems require
specific tests to verify their functionality.
- Sensitivity
Testing and Cleaning:
- Dust
and dirt can significantly affect the sensitivity of smoke detectors,
leading to false alarms or, more dangerously, a failure to detect a real
fire.
- Technicians
will use a professional tool to measure the sensitivity of the detector's
chamber. If it's outside the manufacturer's specified range, the detector
will be cleaned with a vacuum or compressed air. If cleaning doesn't
restore the correct sensitivity, it must be replaced.
- Battery
and Power Supply Checks:
- The
service includes testing the backup batteries to ensure they can provide
power to the system for the required duration during a power outage.
- This
often involves a discharge test to confirm the battery's capacity and
voltage. Batteries are typically replaced every five years, but this can
vary.
- System-Wide
Checks:
- Control
Panel: The technician will inspect the main control panel for any
fault codes, ensure all wiring is secure, and check the software and
firmware versions.
- Audible
and Visual Alarms: All horns, sounders, and strobes are tested to
confirm they are functioning and are not obstructed.
- Interface
with Other Systems: Fire alarms are often integrated with other
building systems, such as smoke vents, fire doors, lifts, and fire
suppression systems. The service will test these interfaces to ensure
they respond correctly.
- Documentation
and Reporting:
- A
detailed report is a mandatory part of the service. It should include the
date and time of the service, the name of the technician, a list of all
devices tested, and their individual test results.
- Any
issues found, along with recommended corrective actions, must be noted.
This service log is a crucial document for regulatory audits and
compliance.