History and Overview

Photo courtesy of bryantx.gov

In the United States, the first fire detection system was implemented in the mid-1600s in New York City. Designated persons would traverse the city carrying a bell and bucket. If they spotted a fire, they would ring the bell to alert nearby citizens and attempt to extinguish the fire. This method was better than nothing, but the results, as one might imagine, were not very effective. Later advancements over the following centuries included:

Currently, there is a vast array of fire detection systems available to fit almost every fire risk. They can further be programmed to carry out a myriad of functions that help contain the fire, manage smoke, etc. Modern fire detection systems include, but are not limited to, installations of one or more of the following:

In some instances, the fire detection system can be integral to the fire suppression system. This is particularly the case in sprinkler systems and some models of condensed aerosol systems.

Which codes and standards apply to fire detection systems?

For large-scale facilities such as petrochemical plants, hospitals, and large retail centers, the proponent (builder, owner, property manager, etc.) will often engage the services of a certified fire protection engineer. The engineer will be intimately familiar with all applicable codes and standards.

For smaller installations, a reputable and certified installer will also be required to adhere to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®) codes and standards[1] as well as other applicable local fire codes and Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) standards.

In addition to NFPA, OSHA, and AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) requirements, in many instances the insurance company covering the risk may have fire detection system conditions. Failure to meet fire detection system conditions specified in the policy can result in a claim being denied in the event of a fire-related loss.

There are several factors to consider when designing a fire detection system for a residential, commercial, or public occupancy. “Occupancy” in this context refers to the use of the structure(s). These factors are defined in NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code®. Furthermore, installed systems must conform to NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, NFPA 70 – National Electrical Code®, and OSHA 1910, Subpart L. There may also be local fire codes that supersede NFPA codes/standards. Local fire codes are mandated and enforced by the AHJ.

For installations in hazardous areas, OSHA 1910, Subpart S requires that detection equipment be certified for use in said hazardous areas. NFPA 70, Chapter 5 provides detail about the classification and division designation of hazardous areas. In brief, a “hazardous area” is a location where: flammable gases and/or vapors may be present in ignitable quantities; combustible dusts are present (e.g., grain silos); or fibers which can ignite easily are present or processed. Meeting the requirements of these codes and standards is not optional. Additionally, the codes and standards are a great resource in fire detection system design.

What are the components of a fire detection system?

A fire detection system includes several components:

Fire detection systems are critical components to protect life and property. They should be included in any new construction, major renovation, or retrofitted in situations where they do not exist. The detection system options currently available all but guarantee that there is a fire detection solution for every risk. To ensure the most appropriate system is selected, it is vital to consult applicable codes and standards and use high-quality equipment installed by reputable professionals.

To access the companion article Designing a Fire Suppression System, click here.

Sources

[1] Codes dictate minimum requirements that can be converted to law by the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction), whereas standards dictate how a system should be designed, built, and tested.

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