Packing Specification
Fire Automatic Detector System Service Details:
1. Types of Service and Frequency
Fire alarm system service is a tiered process with different
frequencies and responsibilities.
- Weekly/Monthly
Checks (User-Level): These are simple visual checks performed by a
designated person on-site.
- Inspect
the main fire alarm control panel for any fault lights or indicators. The
panel should be in a "normal" state.
- Check
for any signs of tampering or obstruction on detectors and manual pull
stations.
- Verify
that the fire alarm log book is up-to-date.
- Quarterly
Inspections (Expert-Level): Many regulations (e.g., DIN 14675 in
Germany) require a more detailed inspection every three months, which can
be done by a trained, competent person.
- Check
all batteries and power supplies.
- Inspect
all system components for damage or soiling.
- Check
for any structural changes in the building that might affect the system's
coverage.
- Annual/Bi-Annual
Professional Maintenance: This is a comprehensive, hands-on service
performed by a certified fire alarm technician. In many cases, this is a
legal requirement.
- Annual:
Required in many places, like the US (NFPA 72).
- Bi-annual:
Required in some countries, like the UK (BS 5839-1).
2. Key Aspects of Professional Service
A professional service goes beyond a visual inspection and
includes a detailed testing and maintenance procedure for all system
components.
- Detector
Testing and Calibration:
- Smoke
Detectors: Technicians will use a specialized aerosol to simulate
smoke and test that the detector correctly enters an alarm state.
- Heat
Detectors: A heat gun is used to apply heat to the detector until it
activates at its set temperature.
- Multi-Criteria
Detectors: These detectors, which use a combination of heat, smoke,
and CO sensors, are tested to verify that all sensing elements are
functioning correctly.
- Sensitivity
Testing: The technician will use a specific tool to measure the
sensitivity of the smoke detector chamber. If the sensitivity has drifted
outside the manufacturer's specified range due to dust or age, the
detector will be cleaned or replaced.
- Alarm
and Notification Device Testing:
- All
audible (horns, bells, speakers) and visual (strobes) alarm devices are
tested to ensure they are functioning and are not obstructed.
- The
sound levels of the alarms are often checked to ensure they meet the
minimum decibel requirements for the area.
- Control
Panel and Power Supply Checks:
- The
fire alarm control panel is inspected for any fault logs, and the
system's software is checked for the latest version.
- The
main power supply is verified, and the backup batteries are tested to
ensure they can power the system for the required duration in an
emergency. Batteries typically need to be replaced every 4-5 years.
- Interface
with Other Systems:
- Fire
alarm systems are often integrated with other building safety systems. The
service will test these interfaces to ensure they are working correctly.
This can include:
- Releasing
fire doors.
- Recalling
elevators to a safe floor.
- Shutting
down ventilation systems to prevent the spread of smoke.
- Activating
automatic fire suppression systems (e.g., sprinklers, gas suppression).
- Documentation:
- A
detailed report is generated, including a list of every device tested and
its "as-found" and "as-left" condition.
- A Fire
Alarm System Service Certificate is issued, which is a mandatory
document for regulatory compliance and insurance purposes. The service
log book is updated to record the date and details of the service.
3. Detector Replacement
Fire detectors, particularly smoke detectors, have a limited
service life. Most manufacturers and regulations (e.g., NFPA 72) recommend that
smoke detectors be replaced every 10 years, regardless of their apparent
working condition, as their sensitivity can degrade over time.