Aico Smoke Alarm RFD User Manual

(68.52)  
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A Guide to  
Residential Fire Detection  
With Reference to BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004  
Ahead on Quality  
Ahead on Performance  
Ahead on Features  
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recommendations of BS 5839: Pt.6  
more clearly understood, and to offer  
advice on how to design, install and  
maintain a system that meets the  
requirements, with reference to the  
2004 amendments.  
In September 2004, the Code of  
Practice was extensively revised and  
updated by the publication of  
BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 and immediately  
superseded BS 5839: Pt.6: 1995, which  
is now withdrawn. The changes  
therein are important and need to be  
fully understood and appreciated by  
all those with responsibility for fire  
safety in domestic dwellings.  
INTRODUCTION  
When first introduced in 1995, the BS  
5839: Pt.6 Code of Practice became the  
most important set of recommendations  
ever made on fire safety in the home.  
At the same time, this guide is  
It had an immediate impact on  
architects, system designers, installers and  
landlords in the private or public sector, all  
of whom were required to familiarise  
themselves with these important  
recommendations. Landlords in particular  
needed to abide by these  
recommendations, as legal liability with  
regard to ‘duty of care’ would  
undoubtedly become a serious issue  
should a fire occur in an inadequately  
protected property.  
designed to help answer the most  
commonly asked questions about fire  
detection; for example,which types  
of detector to use and where not to  
use them’, and to help dispel the myth  
that alarms are all the same. They are  
not, as the Code itself is all too anxious  
to point out.  
This document is intended as a guide  
to BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004, highlighting the  
changes that have come into effect  
with the introduction of the 2004  
edition while still remaining a  
comprehensive guide to BS 5839 as  
a whole.  
This latest edition of the Guide has  
been produced to take on board  
new developments since the  
introduction of the Code, both in  
terms of fire statistics and evolving  
fire safety technology.  
This guide is not intended as a  
substitute for reading the Code of  
practice itself. Instead, it’s designed  
to help make the implications and  
In short, BS 5839: Pt.6 became the  
essential guide to providing adequate  
fire protection in all dwelling types.  
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3
FIRE SAFETY - THE STATISTICS  
BATTERY POWERED ALARMS  
Further evidence of the vital importance of  
smoke alarms comes from American  
studies. In American States where  
residential fire protection is mandatory,  
some 92% of homes have the required fire  
alarm systems. 50% of ALL the fire deaths  
which occur happen within the 8% where  
no alarms are fitted.  
According to the latest UK figures the  
majority - over three quarters - of all fire  
casualties occur in the home.  
The high failure rate of alarms with  
replaceable batteries is truly frightening.  
Landlords relying on battery powered alarms  
to protect tenants cannot be there all the  
time to check that batteries are present and  
working – but responsibility still lies with them.  
Until the introduction of BS 5839: Pt.6,  
business and commercial premises were  
the subject of far more stringent fire  
safety regulations than residential  
dwellings. BS 5839: Pt.6 was introduced  
to start redressing the balance.  
Essentially, the time when a smoke alarm  
with a replaceable battery was considered  
adequate has long passed. BS 5839: Pt.6  
itself recognises that, while they save lives,  
they are all too vulnerable to tampering to  
offer landlords much of a defence under  
‘duty of care’. It is no surprise to learn that,  
when one Council made an inspection of its  
properties fitted with battery units, it found  
that in excess of 50% of them were  
BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 itself says:  
“It has been estimated that, in dwellings  
without smoke detectors, a substantial  
proportion of the fatalities from fire could be  
avoided if smoke detectors were installed”  
Every year around 450 people die in fires  
in this country, and close to 13,000 are  
injured. The death toll is reducing and  
this is acknowledged to be directly  
related to increasing and more  
professional use of smoke alarms. At the  
time of the introduction of BS 5839 in  
1995, we were talking around 600 deaths  
and 15,000 annual injuries.  
SMOKE ALARM  
PERFORMANCE  
In 34,450 fires in 2003, no smoke alarm  
was present in the fire area. 261 people  
died in these fires, and a further 6,100  
were injured.  
‘defective’ in some way, due mainly to  
neglect or from removal of the batteries.  
COVERAGE  
A brief look at ‘Fire Statistics United  
Kingdom, 2003’, published by the Office  
of the Deputy Prime Minister in March  
2005, provides an invaluable insight into  
incidents of dwelling fires and the  
effectiveness of smoke alarms.  
In the cases where an alarm was present,  
the alarm operated correctly in 18,821  
cases (29% of dwelling fires), operated but  
failed to raise the alarm in 3,100 cases  
(5%) and failed to operate altogether in  
7,445 cases (12%).  
Inadequately or improperly installed fire  
alarms can have a significant bearing on  
their performance, as borne out by the  
Fire Statistics.  
A badly installed alarm may have its  
reaction time cut in half - offering  
• In 2003, dwelling fires fell to 63,800. The  
number of accidental dwelling fires also  
fell to 50,000 – the lowest figures for more  
than a decade  
• However, around 80% of all fire-related  
casualties occur in dwellings  
SMOKE ALARM RELIABILITY  
occupants as little as 90 seconds or two  
minutes to get out. By this time, routes of  
escape may have become impassable,  
forcing people to jump from high windows.  
Or flames may have reached them.  
It is worth quoting the Fire Statistics in detail  
here. The report notes that, in those  
dwellings subject to a fire in 2003, alarms  
failed to operate in 12% of cases:  
• In 2003, 447 people lost their lives in  
fires in the home. (That compares with  
430 in 2002 and 483 in 2001)  
• 12,600 people were injured, a  
reduction of 7% compared with 2002  
“However, this overall figure masks a wide  
difference in performance between battery  
powered alarms and mains powered alarms  
– 40% of all battery powered smoke alarms  
failed in 2003 compared to just 13% of mains  
powered alarms.”  
An incorrectly installed fire alarm may  
again leave landlords in both the private  
and public sector vulnerable to  
compensation claims from injured  
tenants or from families of victims.  
MORTALITY STATISTICS  
After one such fire tragedy in which a  
tenant died, one local authority found that  
the compensation it had to pay out, plus  
the cost of litigation, far exceeded the cost  
of installing quality fire alarms in every  
single council property in their area. To a  
private landlord without the resources of a  
local authority, such a compensation pay  
out could have been completely ruinous.  
The Report goes on to clarify:  
• In 2003, 68 people lost their lives in fires in  
homes where an alarm was present,  
operated and raised the alarm  
“The main reason for smoke alarm failures  
each year is missing or flat batteries. In 2003  
they accounted for 63% of failures in battery  
powered alarms. The main reason for failure  
of mains powered alarms was that the fire  
products did not reach the detectors (43% of  
cases)”.  
• In comparison, in the same period, 379  
people died in homes where either an  
alarm was not installed or an alarm was  
present but failed to raise the alarm  
The message is still all too clear: it’s vital to  
select, properly install and adequately  
maintain the best, most reliable smoke  
alarms possible - and to have both  
adequate back-up and measures for  
preventing tampering with alarms.  
The report suggests that 76% of households  
now have alarms, so the huge difference in  
death rates is strongly indicative not only of  
the need for smoke alarms, but also smoke  
alarms which work when they are needed.  
The message of BS 5839: Pt.6 is therefore  
to not only install an adequate number of  
smoke alarms, but to ensure that they are  
installed and maintained correctly in  
every respect.  
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4
• Heat alarms should be fitted in  
the kitchen and possibly the  
principal habitable room. The  
definition of a principal habitable  
room is ‘habitable room that is  
normally the most frequently used  
room for daytime living purposes’.  
This would normally be the living  
or dining room  
THE ESSENTIAL CHANGES TO  
BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 – AT A  
GLANCE  
panel is required and security systems are  
put forward as a possible means of  
meeting this requirement.  
THE DOCUMENT ITSELF  
Grades D, E and F now include heat  
alarms.  
Each clause of the document is now split  
into 2 parts. Firstly, there is the  
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT  
commentary – in italics – this sets out the  
reasoning behind what at first sight may  
appear to be arbitrary recommendations.  
The recommendations are in normal type,  
so it is quite possible to simply refer to  
these alone. The intention is to make the  
document easier to use; whether it  
succeeds in this aim is a matter of  
personal perception.  
Fire Risk Assessment receives brief  
coverage at the start, with much greater  
emphasis given to the subject in Annex A  
at the back of the document.  
CHANGES TO GRADES  
There is essentially no change to  
Grade F, although a five year  
minimum battery life is  
recommended in tenanted  
properties, along with a  
recommendation that the battery  
can only be removable by the use  
of a special tool. A slot headed  
screwdriver is not considered as  
meeting this requirement as many  
articles can be used as an  
alternative.  
It is worth noting the Commentary of  
Section 4.1: “It is considered that the level  
of fire risk in dwellings covered by this part  
of BS 5839 is unlikely ever to be sufficiently  
low to obviate the need for some form of  
fire detection and fire alarm system”.  
NEW BUILD PROPERTIES  
There are now extended  
recommendations with regard to new  
build properties. Essentially these are:  
• All properties must have mains  
powered alarms with a back-up  
supply – Grade D system  
LEVEL OF COVERAGE  
LD1, LD2 and LD3 remain unchanged.  
Grade C systems now require a central  
control, rather than a level of control as  
previously. This implies that some form of  
However, the terminology has changed.  
The Code now refers to ‘Category’ of  
system instead of ‘Type’ of system.  
• Smoke alarms should be positioned  
in escape routes  
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5
OTHER ALARM TYPES  
SYSTEM VARIATIONS  
alarms, it called for a single final circuit. This  
potential confusion has been resolved.  
For the first time, BS 5839: Pt.6 now covers  
CO fire alarms and multi-sensor alarms.  
Where a modification to a system is  
made, the standard now refers to it as a  
Variation’ rather than a ‘Deviation’, as  
the latter term implied that the system  
was in some way inferior. Note that, in  
cases where a variation from the  
recommendations is proposed, the  
system certificate has to be signed and  
agreed by all parties.  
Now, because of the introduction of new  
‘wireless’ or ‘radio’ interconnect systems,  
Clause 15.5 paragraph b says: “If smoke  
alarms and heat alarms are of a type  
that can be interconnected by wiring, all  
smoke and heat alarms should be  
connected on a single final circuit”. This  
is clearly intended for hard wired  
Heat alarms are given far more  
importance, as you will have noted  
from the New Build changes above, for  
example. Heat Alarms should always  
comply with BS 5446: Pt.2.  
FALSE ALARM CONTROL  
systems, as a note added to this  
recommendation states: ‘This  
RF INTERCONNECTION –  
WIRELESS SYSTEMS  
A detailed commentary is given on false  
alarm control, which should be studied  
as this is probably the major reason that  
smoke alarms are disabled by the user.  
Among its recommendations are:  
recommendation does not apply if the  
form of interconnection is not capable  
of conducting current, e.g. if the means  
of interconnection comprises radio  
communication rather than wiring.’  
Although the previous version of the  
document didn’t preclude the use of RF  
as a form of interconnecting smoke  
• Not using ionisation type alarms in  
escape routes  
• The use of heat alarms where nuisance  
alarms could be a problem – only in  
areas other than escape routes  
• A high level of maintenance to  
reduce the incidence of false alarms  
• No automatic connection to the Fire  
Brigade, because of the high level of  
false alarms generated in the home  
ALARMS FOR THE DEAF  
AND HARD OF HEARING  
BS 5839: Pt.6 now has specific  
recommendations to make on the use of  
specialist alarms for the deaf or hearing  
impaired. Strobes and vibrating pads are  
discussed, as are signalling requirements  
in daytime rooms. Specific reference is  
made to the BS 5446: Pt.3 standard.  
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6
BS 5839: Pt.6 - AN  
INTRODUCTION  
The new 2004 Code further takes into  
consideration “changes in technology,  
custom and practice, and changes in  
guidance that supports national building  
regulations” since 1995.  
domestic fires have increased by 24% in  
just one year. This has clear financial  
implications for the landlord. Good fire  
safety practice and adherence to the  
Code can give the best possible early  
warning of fire and so reduce the financial  
impact as well as human suffering.  
BS 5839: Pt.6 is not intended for  
householders themselves, but to  
provide guidance and  
recommendations for architects and  
other building professionals, enforcing  
authorities, contractors and others  
responsible for implementing fire  
precautions in buildings.  
BS 5839: Pt.6 also covers almost every  
conceivable type of premises,  
including:  
SYSTEMS  
Bungalows  
Multi-storey houses  
Individual flats  
BS 5839: Pt.6 defines a fire detection and  
alarm system as "a system that  
Individual maisonettes  
Mobile homes  
Individual sheltered  
accommodation  
Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)  
NHS housing in the community  
comprises a means for automatically  
detecting one of the characteristic  
phenomena of fire and a means for  
providing a warning to occupants". This  
means that it could simply comprise one  
smoke alarm or, at the other extreme, a  
full commercial panel system.  
Both new and existing dwellings are  
covered.  
Firstly, it is worth quoting the  
recommendations in Clause 4.2 of the  
Code:  
“A fire detection and fire alarm system  
complying with this part of BS 5839, should  
be installed in all dwellings.. whether new  
or existing”.  
Communal parts of flats, maisonettes,  
sheltered accommodation and  
hostels are not included; neither are  
caravans.  
The Code of Practice should not be  
quoted as if it was a specification and  
the standard itself warns that  
particular care should be taken to  
ensure that claims of compliance are  
not misleading.  
BS 5839: Pt.6 is primarily concerned with  
saving lives and reducing injuries.  
However, it does contain within it  
“Final design.. should, where reasonably  
practicable, be based on a form of fire  
risk assessment..”  
recommendations for helping to reduce  
property damage too. The 2002/3 British  
Crime Survey, issued by the Office of the  
Deputy Prime Minister, notes that the  
mean cost of financial damage caused  
by a domestic fire is now estimated to be  
£980 – up a very significant £230 from the  
£750 estimated in 2001/2. Gross losses to  
It is also pointed out that compliance  
with a British Standard cannot  
The effectiveness of a system is now  
based upon the probability of system  
operation (incorporating reliability,  
monitoring and maintenance issues) and  
the ‘success rate’ of the system (the  
number of alarms, their location, audibility  
issues and the lifestyle of occupants).  
automatically confer legal immunity.  
However, for a landlord or installer,  
compliance with the latest Code is  
obviously the best line of defence in  
any claim made against them.  
THE SCOPE OF BS 5839:  
Pt.6  
This Code of practice covers every type  
of fire detection ‘system’, from a simple  
self-contained battery smoke alarm right  
through to major hard wired 24V systems.  
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7
On the other hand, a low fire risk may  
not justify the cost, complexity and  
extent of such a system.  
The Code recommends that fire risk be  
assessed by taking into account a  
number of different factors. These are  
now to be found in Annex A of the  
2004 Code.  
SYSTEM DESIGN - FIRE RISK  
ASSESSMENT  
How can a system be designed to  
meet the latest standards?  
For example, the single occupant of a  
small bungalow might be adequately  
protected by the installation of one  
mains powered smoke alarm, whereas  
the risk to which families in a six storey  
house in multiple occupation are  
exposed would warrant much greater  
expenditure on a more complex and  
comprehensive system.  
Firstly, it recommends that each room in a  
dwelling be assessed for its own particular  
fire risk, taking into account current  
statistical information. How likely is it that  
a fire will start in a living room, for  
example? Or a bedroom? What are the  
possible sources of ignition in that room?  
Statistically, what are the chances of  
injury or death to an occupant if a fire  
does break out in that type of room?  
The Code recommends that a system is  
designed – where reasonably  
practicable - based on a fire risk  
assessment of the property.  
This needs to take into account:  
• The probability of fire  
• Ignition sources  
• Possible fire prevention methods  
• The lifestyle of the occupants  
• The probability and extent of harm  
• Means of escape  
This sort of common sense approach  
permeates the Code and this, coupled  
with its acknowledgement of economic  
constraints, makes the Code particularly  
simple to adhere to.  
ASSESSING FIRE RISK  
The Code discusses the generally  
• Number of storeys in the dwelling  
• Flammable materials (e.g. smoking)  
• The age, physical condition and socio-  
economic nature of the occupant  
The design of the system - which  
relevant factors in carrying out a fire risk  
assessment to determine the most  
appropriate design of fire detection and  
fire alarm system. However, it also notes  
that the lifestyle of the occupants may  
require a change to the assessment.  
includes considerations such as the  
number of and siting of alarms, and the  
form of power supply required should  
take the following factors into account:  
Fire risk then is essentially a combination  
of the probability of fire occurring and the  
magnitude of the consequences of fire.  
1. The probability of fire occurring  
2. The probability of injury or death of  
occupants if fire occurs  
3. The probability of the system operating  
correctly at the time of a fire  
4. The probability of early detection  
and warning to occupants in the  
event of fire  
The Code looks at where fatal fires  
typically break out and where occupants  
may be at the time.  
In this way, the Code is recognising that  
you don’t have to buy the most  
expensive fire detection system available.  
You must, however, ensure that the system  
is adequate for the risks involved.  
First and foremost, it notes that the  
greatest impediment to escape in the  
event of a fire is smoke obscuring the  
escape route. Any fire which starts in a  
circulation area - or spreads to a  
circulation area - needs to be detected  
as soon as possible. The Code says that  
“smoke detectors need to be installed in  
the circulation areas of all dwellings”.  
A high fire risk demands high reliability  
to ensure early detection of fire and  
warning to occupants, regardless of  
where the fire starts, and high  
reliability on the part of the system to  
operate correctly when required.  
Points one and two combined define  
the ‘fire risk’, while point three relates to  
system reliability. The fourth point is  
defined by the standard as ‘a form of  
success rate for the system’.  
BALANCE BETWEEN FIRE RISK & SYSTEM RELIABILITY & SUCCESS RATE  
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8
33% in1995 when the Code was first  
published). In most cases, the item  
ignited is bedding or furniture. If  
FIRE RISK -  
Fires caused by electrical appliances  
account for some 10% of all household  
fires, but result in only 6% of deaths. Electric  
WHERE DO FIRES START?  
occupants are known to smoke, there is  
a greater need to install smoke alarms in  
the living room or dining room areas. If  
the occupants smoke in bed, the Code  
suggests considering installing smoke  
alarms in the bedroom itself. Ominously,  
statistics reveal that - if such a fire begins  
in a room where an occupant is asleep -  
their chances of survival are greatly  
reduced. By the time an alarm sounds in  
an adjacent area, it may very well  
already be too late.  
Just over half of all fatalities occur in the  
room where the fire breaks out; in HMOs,  
this rises to 60%. The Code notes that, in  
the United Kingdom, some 40% of all  
fatal fires start in living rooms or dining  
rooms, whereas 30% of fatal fires start in  
bedrooms. For this reason, the Code  
recommends that if alarms are to be  
installed within rooms, the living room  
and the dining room should be the first  
priority. However, this consideration  
could be reversed if the bedroom  
presents a particular fire risk, such as the  
occupant smoking in bed or using an  
electric blanket.  
blankets and bed warmers cause 40% of  
all the deaths in fires due to faulty electrical  
appliances. The Code says that ‘use of  
electric blankets, particularly by high risk  
groups such as the elderly, increases the  
justification for providing smoke alarms in  
bedrooms’. As with smoking materials, by  
the time an alarm in an adjacent area  
detects smoke, it may be too late.  
The Code also specifically warns that  
occupants – especially those asleep  
and/or with a closed door between  
them and the alarm - may not hear the  
alarm in time. It stresses that it is  
‘therefore essential that fire detection  
and fire alarm systems are capable of  
operating correctly when occupants  
are asleep and are capable of rousing  
occupants from normal sleep. This is  
another reason why - if there is a  
significant fire risk in a particular room -  
consideration should be given to  
installing alarms in that room - and  
interlinking the entire system.  
Finally, the new 2004 Code acknowledges  
that there is a very worrying increase in the  
incidence of arson, just as it did back in  
1995. Malicious ignition is the second most  
common source of ignition in all fires in  
dwellings. Arson is particularly worrying in  
multiple occupancy dwellings and the Code  
stresses that the level of fire protection in  
such places needs to be very high if there is  
a significant risk of malicious fire-raising. It  
even goes so far as to suggest installing  
alarms near the door in case inflammable  
materials are pushed through the letterbox.  
Fires caused by space heating  
appliances are also particularly life  
threatening. After fires caused by  
smoking and cooking appliances, these  
types of fires account for more deaths  
than any other cause - around 12% of  
accidental fire deaths. These fires often  
occur when something inflammable is  
placed too close to the heater. The  
Code suggests that, if portable heaters  
or solid fuel fires are used at night, there  
may be good justification for installing  
smoke alarms in the relevant rooms -  
particularly bedrooms.  
After kitchen fires and electrical  
appliances and wiring, smoking  
continues to be the next most common  
cause of accidental fires in the home.  
However, it is the number one cause of  
fire deaths. Around 40% of all fire  
deaths are caused through matches or  
a discarded cigarette (the figure was  
WHO IS MOST AT RISK?  
The occupants of a property are another  
significant factor which needs to be  
considered.  
MOST COMMON CAUSES OF ACCIDENTAL FIRES  
The Code acknowledges that elderly  
people are at ‘significantly greater risk’  
from fire than other age groups. For those  
over 80, the probability of dying in a fire is  
several times that for those aged from 30  
to 59. Those aged between 60 and 80  
are also at increased risk. Children under  
five are at greater risk than adults.  
For that reason, the Code recommends  
greater levels of fire protection in  
dwellings occupied by the elderly or  
those with young children.  
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9
Interestingly, the Code acknowledges  
that people on a low income are  
more at risk than other groups, which  
is borne out by statistics from the  
British Crime Survey. They may not be  
able to afford to replace batteries in  
smoke alarms and the Code  
consequently points out that ‘a more  
reliable power supply for the fire  
detection and alarm system is  
People with impaired mobility require  
more time to escape. They need the  
earliest possible warning of a fire and  
greater alarm coverage. The hearing  
impaired also have very particular  
needs, and these are dealt with later in  
this document.  
TYPES OF ALARM  
TECHNOLOGY  
The next issue raised by the Code is  
the types of alarm available.  
BATTERY OPERATED  
SMOKE ALARMS - GRADE F  
It is obvious to any landlord - in the  
public or private sector - that those  
judged to be most at risk and in need  
of a high level of protection are those  
who form a typical cross section of  
their tenants.  
essential’. This worry, coupled with the  
fear of alarms being cut off to poorer  
residents along with their electricity  
supply, permeates the entire  
document and needs to be stressed.  
PROPERTY PROTECTION  
People living in a house in multiple  
occupation are between eight and  
ten times more likely to die in a fire  
than those in single family homes, it  
has been estimated. However, the  
Code distinguishes between  
properties commonly designated as  
HMOs. On the one hand, a family  
living with a lodger might not be  
classed as an HMO as the fire risk may  
be no greater than a normal dwelling.  
It identifies the greatest risk in houses  
converted into bedsits and to elderly  
people in sheltered accommodation.  
Generally, the risk is also greater if the  
property exceeds two storeys in  
BS 5839: Pt.6 also adds other  
considerations for the protection of  
property. However, it stresses that only in  
exceptional circumstances, for example  
in a house of historical importance  
where no-one sleeps, should the  
principle objective of a fire detection  
system ever be the preservation of  
property rather than lives.  
BS 5839: Pt.6 acknowledges the  
advantages of the single, battery  
operated smoke alarm. They’re  
simple to install and offer protection  
at very low cost. Battery operated  
smoke alarms conforming to BS  
5446: Pt.1 are recommended.  
If property damage is the decisive  
factor, the Code recommends  
installing a system which results in the  
fire brigade being called early enough  
to limit property damage.  
However, these alarms do have  
serious drawbacks. Occupants on  
a tight budget may not be able to  
afford to replace the batteries. A  
significant number of tenants have  
also been shown to remove the  
batteries to prevent false alarms or  
to use in other battery powered  
devices and then forget to replace  
them. For this reason, the Code  
recommends that these alarms  
should not be used to protect  
tenants in properties of more than  
one storey – and even then the  
batteries should be sealed-in and  
have a life in excess of 5 years.  
height. Here the Code recommends  
“where the risk in an HMO is relatively  
high, it is essential that there is  
protection by a highly reliable fire  
detection and fire alarm system. It is  
also essential that a warning is given  
in the event of a fault that impairs the  
standard of protection”.  
As a fire that starts anywhere will cause  
damage, consideration should be given  
to providing detectors in some or all  
rooms of the building. Coverage in  
circulation areas alone is unlikely to be  
adequate. Once again, areas with a  
statistically greater fire risk, such as  
kitchens and boiler rooms, where likely  
sources of ignition are present, should  
have priority for detectors.  
Property damage should, of course,  
never be a deciding factor for a  
landlord, but it is worth bearing in mind  
not only the human cost but also the  
financial cost of a fire breaking out in  
a property. Insurance premiums may  
rise, renovation costs may be  
expensive and revenue from the  
property will be lost while it is being  
made habitable, to say nothing of the  
cost of re-housing tenants. Once  
again, the cost-effectiveness of a  
quality fire alarm system offering the  
earliest possible warning is self-evident.  
As an aside, landlords have now  
been found liable in cases where  
tenants themselves have disabled  
an alarm. For this reason, it is  
unlikely that landlords will be able  
to trust tenants to adequately look  
after the alarms. The Code  
highlights the fact that battery  
powered alarms are only suitable  
for owner-occupied properties if  
the likelihood is that batteries will  
be replaced within five days of a  
low battery signal.  
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10  
electricity bills? Given that many  
tenants may have low incomes (in  
many local authorities, 70% or  
more of all tenants are on  
subsidised incomes), they may  
well experience periods of  
disconnection - and yet the  
landlord could well be liable if the  
alarm fails to sound because the  
tenant has not paid his or her bills!  
Unfair or not, as the law stands, it  
obviously makes good  
commercial sense to ensure that  
a reliable, high quality back-up  
battery facility is in place.  
SYSTEM PLANNING  
MAINS POWERED SMOKE  
ALARMS - GRADE E  
BS 5839: Pt.6 quite reasonably points  
out that, no matter how good the  
system is, people will only have an  
adequate chance of escape if there  
are enough detectors installed and if  
the alarms can successfully rouse them  
from sleep.  
The Code states that mains powered  
smoke alarms are potentially more  
reliable and are recommended to  
be installed in existing dwellings  
occupied by people who are unlikely  
to be able to change a smoke  
alarm’s battery.  
SILENCING & DISABLEMENT  
However, mains powered systems  
have their drawbacks; power cuts or  
the termination of supply for  
whatever reason disables them  
totally. They can also be rendered  
useless by the tripping of a protective  
device, or even - in some cases - by  
the fire itself. Householders may also  
disable them at the mains all too  
easily if false alarms are a problem.  
The minimum back-up duration  
recommended is 72 hours, and the  
Code acknowledges that there  
could well be circumstances where  
a longer stand-by period is justified  
e.g. tenants’ inability to pay their  
electricity bill.  
MAINS POWERED SMOKE  
ALARMS WITH STAND-BY  
SUPPLY - GRADE D  
FIRE DETECTORS  
SUPPLIED WITH  
POWER FROM A  
COMMON POWER  
SUPPLY UNIT  
The Code is very aware of the grave  
danger posed by tampering with  
alarms and their wilful disablement. It  
acknowledges that false alarms are a  
major reason why householders disable  
alarms, and looks at practical steps to  
help prevent this. Foremost among  
these recommendations is a built-in  
method by which alarms can be  
silenced without the use of a tool of  
any kind, for example a “Hush” or False  
Alarm Control button.  
The problems outlined above can  
be overcome by using alarms that  
incorporate, within each alarm, a  
stand-by supply such as a primary  
or rechargeable battery.  
This sort of system should be  
considered, says the Code, if the  
reliability of the mains supply is not  
high, or if the fire risk is likely to be  
high during periods of failure or  
disconnection of the mains supply  
to the dwelling. In new build and  
tenanted two storey properties this  
type of alarm is now considered  
essential.  
The Code stresses the role of  
specifying “good quality equipment”  
in reducing false alarms, and makes  
helpful distinctions between alarm  
sensor types in reducing sensitivity to  
environmental factors liable to cause  
false alarms, such as cooking  
vapours.  
Beyond this, more expensive high  
specification systems can offer  
connection of all fire detection  
devices to a common power supply  
via low voltage transformers, or  
interlinked fire and security systems.  
This begs a simple question of  
landlords - can they be sure that  
their tenants are paying their  
However, the need to avoid false  
alarms should never take priority over  
the need for early fire detection.  
Again, a minimum 72 hour back-up is  
recommended by the Code.  
The 2004 Code says that the high rate  
of false alarms in dwellings makes it  
‘generally inappropriate’ to connect  
domestic smoke alarms direct to a fire  
and rescue service. However, it  
acknowledges that vulnerable people  
such as the disabled might benefit  
from such a connection.  
OTHER SYSTEMS  
For larger applications, such as  
mansions and HMOs, or for areas  
with a high risk of fire, higher grade  
systems are recommended.  
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11  
the Code. For example, rather than a  
Grade E system landlords might think it  
prudent to install a Grade D system  
instead. This is especially true  
equipment to BS EN 54-2, and power  
supply to BS EN 54-4, installed to BS  
5839: Pt.1 with some minor  
QUALITY & COMPATIBILITY  
The quality of equipment installed is a  
factor that needs to be carefully  
exceptions  
considering the many restrictions that  
apply to the use of Grade E systems.  
Grade B - Fire detection and alarm  
system comprising fire detectors  
(other than smoke alarms), fire alarm  
sounders and control and indicating  
equipment to either BS EN 54-2 (and  
power supply to BS EN 54-4), or to  
Annex C of BS 5839: Pt.6  
Grade C - System consisting of smoke  
detectors and sounders (which may  
be smoke alarms) connected to a  
common power supply, comprising  
normal mains and stand-by supply,  
with central control equipment  
Grade D - System incorporating one  
or more mains powered smoke alarms  
(and heat alarms if required) each  
with an integral stand-by supply  
Grade E - System of mains powered  
smoke alarms (and heat alarms if  
required) with no stand-by supply  
Grade F - System of one or more  
battery powered smoke alarms (and  
heat alarms if required)  
considered. The Code states that, in  
general, all components should conform  
to relevant British Standards and should  
have undergone type testing to those  
Standards. Suppliers should preferably  
have approval to a recognised quality  
approval scheme such as the relevant BS  
EN ISO 9000 series standard. If no British  
Standards apply, reasonable care should  
be taken that components are fit for the  
purpose intended.  
LEVELS OF PROTECTION  
CATEGORIES OF SYSTEM  
This was previously referred to as ‘type’  
of system. It relates to the level of  
protection afforded by the system.  
Within the A - F grades defined earlier,  
the Code identifies three different  
categories of protection:  
The Code recommends that all  
individual system components should  
be mutually compatible.  
LD1 - A system installed throughout  
the dwelling, incorporating detectors  
in all circulation spaces that form  
part of the escape routes from the  
dwelling, and in all rooms and areas  
in which fire might start, other than  
toilets, bathrooms and shower rooms  
Conformance to the relevant British  
Standard is no guarantee that the  
components of a system will be  
compatible. Consequently, this should be  
confirmed at the design stage.  
THE GRADE SYSTEM  
LD2 - A system incorporating  
detectors in all circulation spaces  
that form part of the escape routes  
from the dwelling, and in all rooms or  
areas that present a high risk of fire  
The changes from the previous edition  
are relatively small: Grade A & B now  
refer to the latest European Standards  
and there are minor changes in  
requirements. Grade C now requires  
central control of the system. Grades E,  
D & F now have reference to heat  
alarms in addition to smoke alarms.  
Relates to system engineering not level  
of protection.  
BS 5839: Pt.6 grades fire detection  
systems from Grade A down to Grade F.  
Generally speaking, the greater the fire  
risk and the more demanding the  
application, the more comprehensive  
the system needs to be.  
LD3 - A system incorporating  
detectors in all circulation spaces  
that form part of the escape routes  
from the dwelling  
Concerned by problems with battery  
powered units in Grade F, the  
Apart from the change of name, there  
are no changes to the ‘Categories’  
from the previous version of the code.  
Grade A - Fire detection system  
prescriptive advice in the Code now  
recommends a minimum five year  
battery life and batteries that are  
secured so that a special tool is  
required to remove them for use in  
tenanted single storey properties.  
incorporating control and indicating  
It is noted that an LD3 type system is  
intended to protect escape routes for  
those not directly involved in the fire  
and may not save the life of anyone in  
the immediate vicinity of the fire.  
As the overwhelming number of  
residential applications in the UK will fall  
into the D to F categories, this is the  
area on which this guide will naturally  
focus. If you are particularly interested  
in unusual grades of protection, you are  
invited to look further at the relevant  
clauses of the Code.  
The Code also features two grades of  
protection for property - PD1 and PD2.  
Briefly, PD1 offers comprehensive  
coverage of all areas, while a PD2  
system includes detectors in only those  
areas where there has been judged a  
fire risk. Only by quoting Grade and  
Category can a meaningful and  
effective alarm system be specified,  
e.g. Grade D, Category LD2.  
Of course, installers and specifiers may  
install a system with greater safety  
features than laid down in the letter of  
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12  
and principal living room (smoke  
detectors are an acceptable alternative  
in the living room).  
All dwellings should be covered to at least  
an LD3 standard, with the decision being  
based primarily on fire risk.  
SELECTING THE RIGHT  
SYSTEM  
How do you choose which grade of  
system to install? The Code states that  
the grade of system that should be  
installed depends “on the nature of the  
dwelling, the level of the fire risk and the  
characteristics of the occupants.”  
Existing Properties  
If there is a high risk to occupants from  
fire in any part of the building, Category  
LD1 or LD2 protection level should be  
considered. Those who are infirm or  
elderly might particularly benefit from a  
higher level of coverage. If people are  
likely to be in a room where a fire may  
break out, this level of coverage is also  
recommended.  
Single storey - owner occupied  
Grade F, Category LD3  
Grade E should be installed if there is  
doubt regarding the ability of the  
occupier to replace batteries, or Grade  
D if the reliability of the mains power  
supply is suspect.  
Single storey - rented  
Grade F, Category LD3  
The battery should have an expected  
life in excess of 5 years and should only  
be accessible by means of a special  
tool. Grade E should be installed if there  
is doubt regarding the ability of the  
occupier to replace batteries, or Grade  
D if the reliability of the mains power  
supply is suspect.  
The Code acknowledges that in  
situations where a large number of  
properties are involved i.e. the housing  
stock of a Local Authority, it is perhaps  
not practical to undertake a Fire Risk  
Assessment on every one of these  
properties. To take account of this a  
table listing the ‘Minimum Grade and  
Category of fire detection and fire  
alarm system for protection of life in  
typical dwellings’ – often referred to as  
‘Prescriptive Advice’ - is provided. At first  
sight this appears to be an easy method  
of deciding on the appropriate system  
to use in any specific property type.  
However, care should be exercised in  
applying these recommendations as in  
many cases there are notes qualifying  
them; this is particularly relevant to  
those given for existing properties. If the  
notes are overlooked, there is a risk of  
applying an incorrect assessment to the  
property and as a result specifying what  
may be interpreted as an inadequate  
system. In view of this, it may be worth  
considering applying the ‘New Build’  
recommendations to existing properties  
to minimise this risk.  
2 or 3 storey house or maisonette -  
owner occupied  
Grade F, Category LD3  
It points out that Grade F systems  
(battery alarms) are the least reliable  
and the system used in new dwellings  
should be Grade D (mains powered  
with integral back-up supply) or higher.  
Existing owner occupied dwellings can  
be covered by a Grade F system  
provided:  
Grade E should be installed if there is  
doubt regarding the ability of the  
occupier to replace batteries, or Grade  
D if the reliability of the mains power  
supply is also suspect.  
2 or 3 storey house or maisonette -  
rented Grade D, Category LD3  
Category LD2 if a risk assessment  
justifies additional alarms.  
• The fire risk is not high  
• There is a reasonable certainty that  
batteries will be replaced within a  
short time, that is, no more than five  
days after a low battery signal  
Houses in Multiple  
Occupation  
If these criteria cannot be met, a Grade  
E or higher system should be installed.  
Existing tenanted dwellings of two or  
more storeys should have Grade D  
systems installed.  
Up to 2 storey - New Build  
Grade D, Category LD2  
Smoke alarms should be installed in  
circulation spaces, heat alarms in  
kitchen and principal living room (smoke  
alarms are an acceptable alternative in  
the living room).  
From a landlord’s point of view, the case  
for a Grade D system (mains with stand-  
by) seems to be quite obvious. Can  
they be ‘reasonably certain’ that a  
tenant will replace smoke alarm  
batteries within five days? Do they have  
‘absolutely no worries about their  
tenants paying their electricity bills’?  
The Code is asking for that level of  
assurance.  
PRESCRIPTIVE ADVICE  
SUMMARY  
Up to 2 storey - Existing property  
Grade D, Category LD3  
Category LD2 if a risk assessment justifies  
additional alarms.  
All other types  
Grade D, Category LD3 in individual  
dwelllings. Grade A, Category LD2 in  
communal areas.  
New Build  
Up to 3 storey - owner occupied or rented  
Grade D, Category LD2  
Smoke alarms should be installed in  
circulation spaces, heat alarms in kitchen  
and principal living room (smoke alarms are  
an acceptable alternative in the living  
room).  
Over 3 storey - owner occupied or rented  
Grade B, Category LD2  
Smoke detectors should be installed in  
circulation spaces, heat detectors in kitchen  
Where fire precautions are subject to  
legislative control, the enforcing authority  
should be consulted before a decision on  
the appropriate Grade and Category of  
system is reached.  
Once you have decided what Grade of  
system to use, you then need to ask  
yourself just how comprehensive the  
system needs to be, and this is what  
governs the LD ‘Category’ system.  
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13  
CHOOSING WHICH  
ALARMS TO USE  
BS 5839: Pt.6 also looks in depth at the  
different kind of fire alarm sensors on offer.  
Sensibly, it points out that there is no single  
type of alarm that is most suitable in all  
cases and the final choice of which type  
of alarm to use will depend on individual  
circumstances.  
In general, these circumstances are the  
desire to afford the earliest possible  
warning of a fire and the need to  
minimise false alarms.  
SINGLE STOREY DWELLING  
Optical or Ionisation smoke alarm as best suited for the particular circumstances  
Optical smoke alarm  
Smoke or heat alarm as best suited for the particular circumstances  
Heat alarm  
This means, in plain English, that the  
most suitable alarm should always be  
installed - and not just the cheapest  
option. This is a point that landlords  
cannot overlook in meeting their ‘duty  
of care’ obligations.  
Do not install smoke or heat alarms in bathrooms, shower rooms or toilets  
The Code also looks at a third type of  
alarm - heat. More emphasis is placed  
upon the use of heat alarms than  
For more information on the different  
types of detection technology  
available, please see the product  
information section towards the back of  
this guide.  
The Code recommends that optical  
smoke alarms should be installed in  
circulation spaces, such as hallways  
and near kitchens. They should also  
be considered in areas where a likely  
cause of fire is ignition of furniture or  
bedding by a cigarette.  
previously. The Code recommends that  
they should comply with BS 5446: Pt.2 and  
suggests they be used where nuisance  
alarms from other sensor types are a  
concern. In new build properties heat  
alarms are now recommended both in  
the kitchen and possibly the principal  
habitable room, such as the living room.  
CO and Multi-sensor fire alarms are  
introduced into the 2004 Code. CO fire  
alarms are specifically designed for  
detecting carbon monoxide produced  
in a fire and can respond quicker than  
heat detectors, but are almost always  
slower to respond than a smoke alarm.  
The type used for detecting CO gas  
from faulty appliances etc are  
designed to respond at much higher  
levels of CO. Consequently, CO alarms  
conforming to BS 7860 or BS EN 50291  
should not be used as CO fire alarms. It  
is not likely that CO fire alarms have a  
significant role to play in domestic  
dwellings at present.  
Ionisation alarms are recommended  
more for use in living rooms or dining  
rooms, where a fast burning fire may  
present a greater danger than a slow  
smouldering one, though due  
consideration needs to be given to the  
potential for false alarms. The new 2004  
Code does not recommend the use of  
ionisation types in escape routes.  
Domestic heat alarms require less  
maintenance than any other type of unit  
and aren’t prone to false alarms caused  
by contamination or smoke caused by  
cooking. For this reason, heat alarms were  
originally specifically designed for use in  
kitchens or garages, where other alarms  
are less reliable and more likely to go off  
accidentally. Fire deaths from fires  
originating in the kitchen are sadly  
increasing and such fires can often cause  
extensive property damage and,  
therefore, landlords might consider them  
good insurance. Heat alarms are  
generally less sensitive than smoke alarms  
and must not be used in circulation areas.  
A Multi-sensor alarm is defined in the  
standard as a “fire detector that monitors  
more than one physical and/or chemical  
phenomenon associated with fire”. An  
alarm consisting of an optical sensor and  
a heat sensor, or one containing an  
ionisation sensor and a CO sensor, would  
fit this definition. The benefit of this type of  
detector is that a broader response to  
different fire types can be achieved with,  
often, a reduction in false alarm  
BS 5839: Pt.6 recommends that heat  
alarms have a role to play in Category  
LD2 systems.  
The Code acknowledges that a mix and  
match approach to systems is sensible,  
installing different detector types in areas  
where they are most effective.  
problems. At present there are no  
suitable types available for use with  
smoke alarm systems.  
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14  
Positioning of Smoke  
Alarms:  
There are a number of factors one  
has to take into consideration  
when positioning and maintaining  
a smoke alarm. The design and  
occupation of the premises will  
obviously be one of the influencing  
factors in deciding where to  
position the units as well as the  
likely types of fire and also the  
maintenance required. There are,  
however, some general guidelines  
that apply to all smoke alarms.  
Loft Conversion  
Bedroom  
Landing  
Bedroom  
Garage  
Living Room Hallway  
Kitchen  
AVERAGE TWO STOREY HOUSE  
Ceiling Mounting:  
Hot smoke rises and spreads out so  
a central ceiling position is the  
preferred location. The air in  
corners is “dead” and does not  
move, therefore smoke alarms must  
be mounted away from corners  
and walls. Place the alarm at least  
300mm from any light fitting or  
decorative object that might  
obstruct smoke entering the smoke  
alarm.  
Optical or ionisation smoke alarm as best suited for the particular circumstances  
Optical smoke alarm  
Smoke or heat alarm as best suited for the particular circumstances  
Heat alarm  
Do not install smoke or heat alarms in bathrooms, shower rooms or toilets  
SITING OF SMOKE ALARMS  
How you position smoke alarms can be  
as important as choosing the right type  
of alarm to use.  
On a Sloping Ceiling:  
In areas with sloping or peaked  
ceilings install the smoke alarm  
900mm from the highest point  
measured horizontally, because  
“dead” air at the apex may  
prevent smoke reaching the unit.  
As a minimum, a typical bungalow  
would need at least one alarm, a two  
storey dwelling two alarms and so  
forth.  
In all Category LD systems, at least one  
smoke alarm should be located  
between the sleeping areas and the  
most likely source of fire - the living  
room and kitchen.  
Positioning Heat Alarms:  
A heat alarm must be placed on  
the ceiling, preferably in the  
centre, or close to the likely source  
of fire. Air within the corners is  
dead and so heat alarms should  
be placed away from any corners.  
The alarms should be placed at  
least 300mm from any light fitting  
or decorative object that might  
obstruct the heat travelling to the  
sensor. Interconnection with smoke  
alarms is essential.  
In a single storey dwelling with one  
alarm, the alarm should be placed as  
close as possible to the living  
accommodation, but consideration  
must be given to audibility in the  
bedroom. To achieve audibility of  
85dB(A) at the bedroom doorway,  
alarms should be sited within 3m of  
bedroom doors.  
x P  
x
x
P x  
x
Spacing recommendations say  
that, under flat horizontal type  
ceilings, the horizontal distance  
from any point in the protected  
area to the detector nearest to  
that point should not exceed 5.3  
metres for heat detectors and 7.5  
metres for smoke detectors.  
In a multi-storey house, at least one  
smoke alarm should be located on the  
ground floor between the staircase and  
any room in which a fire is liable to  
start. A smoke alarm should also be  
installed on each main landing. In LD2  
and LD1 systems, additional alarms  
need to be provided.  
x
Siting alarms in hallways and landings  
Correct ceiling siting position for alarms  
P
Do not install alarms here  
x
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15  
the edges, with the dust cover that should  
be supplied with each alarm. Only when  
all cleaning is finished should these dust  
covers be removed.  
In the event of a fire being detected, a  
small vibrating pad located beneath the  
sleeper’s pillow gently alerts them. At the  
same time a powerful strobe light flashes  
to provide a further visual warning.  
AUDIBILITY  
POWER SOURCE  
Devices such as these are now  
increasingly cited as important  
considerations and should be considered  
as a matter of course in applications  
where the residents are likely to be  
elderly, as in a nursing home for example,  
or in sheltered accommodation.  
The 2004 Code notes that the final system  
applied should take into account the  
assessed needs of the person being  
protected. However, it should always  
conform to BS 5446: Pt.3 (Grade A and B  
systems aside, where other standards  
quoted may be more appropriate).  
Audibility is another factor to be  
considered. The Code comments that  
ideally, an alarm system should be  
capable of producing a sound level of  
75dB(A) at the bedhead, but that this  
is unlikely to be achieved unless there  
is a sounder/smoke alarm in the  
The normal supply for Grade D and E  
systems is the public mains supply. A Grade  
D system should be connected either to an  
independent circuit at the dwelling’s main  
distribution board (with no other electrical  
equipment attached except for a  
INSTALLATION OF GRADE  
D AND E SYSTEMS  
bedroom itself. As there is no evidence  
of life being lost in single family  
dwellings due to the lower sound level  
achieved by siting an alarm within 3  
metres of the bedroom doors, in many  
dwellings this would be acceptable. In  
HMOs, where higher levels of ambient  
noise is likely, additional  
Once these considerations have all  
been taken into account and the  
system adequately planned, it can then  
be installed, tested and commissioned.  
dedicated monitoring device) or a  
separate, electrically protected, regularly  
used local lighting circuit. A Grade E  
system may only use the former option.  
Systems should be installed in  
alarms/sounders may be necessary.  
Hard wired interconnected smoke alarms  
should be on one final circuit. However, the  
2004 version of the code now accepts  
that smoke and heat alarms using a radio  
signal for the interconnect can be  
accordance with BS 7671 (IEE  
Regulations 16th Edition) by a qualified  
installer. All alarms should be fitted into  
place securely and permanently, and  
attention given to protecting all wiring  
from impact or rodent damage by  
recessing or trunking.  
A practical way to check audibility is with  
the alarm sounding in its intended  
location, check that the occupant is able  
to hear it in each bedroom with the door  
closed above the sound of a radio set to  
a reasonably loud conversation level. In  
this case, interconnected alarms provide  
an ideal solution, a remote alarm picking  
up the fire and a sounder being triggered  
to wake the occupier.  
separately wired from the nearest lighting  
circuit with a permanent mains supply.  
RADIO LINKED SYSTEMS  
If you intend to install the alarms in a new  
building, however, it is usually necessary to  
wait until all other work on site has been  
completed and the building has been  
fully cleaned before installing any smoke  
alarms. This is because excess dust and  
debris from building work can  
contaminate the alarms and render them  
prone to false alarms. However, new ‘Easi-  
fit’ style alarms are a useful exception,  
with the wiring able to be completed  
during ‘first fix’ and the detector head  
simply slotted into place when all  
Pages 41-44 of the 2004 Code now set out  
the criteria for radio-linked systems. It is  
acknowledged now that Grades D-F systems  
may use radio interconnection. However, it  
warns about the potential drawbacks of  
battery powered units being interconnected  
in such a way if there is a need to replace  
the batteries at regular intervals (by  
SPECIAL NEEDS  
PROVISION  
Back in 1995, the original Code  
acknowledged the special needs of  
people who are deaf or hearing  
impaired and recommended the use of  
alternative fire alarm systems to meet  
their needs. More attention is paid to the  
issue in the new 2004 update.  
implication mains powered radio-linked  
alarms do not have these drawbacks).  
As is typical with the Code, it stresses the  
need to ensure that such a system meets  
the needs of the application.  
cleaning work has been completed.  
If, for any reason, other types of alarms  
have to be installed before all work is  
complete, ensure that they are  
A special alarm can be incorporated  
into domestic mains fire alarm systems  
to protect people with impaired  
The new publication also goes out of its  
way to recognise that the old Code  
completely covered, particularly around  
hearing. It’s a simple, yet ingenious idea.  
16  
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operation, testing, maintenance, false  
alarms, escape plans and siting.  
• Connect to an independent circuit  
at the distribution board if the alarm  
does not have a standby supply -  
Grade E  
• RCD Protection is generally not  
required, but if used it should be  
dedicated only to the smoke alarm  
circuit or be independent of circuits  
supplying sockets or portable  
equipment  
provisions might have previously  
technically precluded the use of wireless  
systems and overcomes this by pointing  
out that issues relating to power supplies,  
fault monitoring and integrity and  
performance may not be the same for  
hard wired and radio linked systems.  
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE  
Regular routine testing and maintenance  
is very important and should be  
considered at the design stage.  
Special recommendations are also  
given to their use in HMOs.  
The Code states that the user has a  
responsibility for routinely testing the  
system and should be supplied with  
simple instructions on how to do this.  
Smoke alarms should not be  
installed in new or renovated  
buildings until all work is completed  
(including floor coverings) and the  
building has been fully cleaned,  
unless using an Easi-fit style alarm.  
Excessive dust and debris from  
building work can contaminate the  
smoke chambers and cause false  
alarms. It will also invalidate the  
guarantee. If alarms must be  
installed before work is finished,  
either use an ‘Easi-fit’ alarm or  
ensure that the alarm is completely  
covered, particularly around the  
edges, with the dust cover that is  
supplied with each of our smoke  
alarms  
WIRING OF MAINS  
POWERED SMOKE AND  
HEAT ALARMS  
All smoke alarm systems should be tested  
at least weekly using the integral test  
button. Remote test and false alarm  
control switches can be used to avoid  
the need for the user to reach up to the  
alarms. Systems should also be checked  
if the occupier has been away or the  
power has failed.  
When installing, any cable may be  
used which is suitable for domestic  
mains wiring, provided it is in  
accordance with the relevant parts of  
BS 7671.  
• There is no requirement for fire  
resistant cable and the use of red-  
sheathed cable is not required  
when installing Grade D, E and F  
systems  
In Grade D to F applications, smoke  
alarms should be cleaned periodically in  
accordance with manufacturers’  
recommendations. Where experience  
shows that excessive levels of dust are  
compromising the effectiveness of the  
system, more frequent cleaning and  
servicing may be required.  
• 6243Y mains cable is recommended  
using the third core for the  
interconnect circuit. The earth wire  
must not be used for the  
interconnect circuit. The maximum  
recommended cable run is 250  
metres, with 1mm2 or 1.5mm2 cable  
Where appropriate, cable penetrations  
should be fire-stopped. If there is any  
danger of impact damage, abrasion  
or rodent attack, appropriate  
NEGLIGENCE  
protection should be fitted.  
The exact question of negligence and  
liability falls outside the scope of the  
standard. It is up to the courts to judge  
these issues.  
Amendment No 2 to BS 7671: 2001  
allows 'harmonised' cable colours to  
be used for installations after 31st  
March 2004 (they must be used for  
installations commencing after 31st  
March 2006). The NICEIC  
recommends that 6243Y cable with  
the following colours should be used  
for smoke alarm systems.  
A convenient and reliable alternative  
to hard wired interconnection is now  
readily available in the form of  
RadioLINK from Aico (see page 22).  
From some considered opinion covering  
the area of legal liability we quote  
below extracts from an article written on  
behalf of the National Housing and  
Town Planning Council (NHTPC) by  
Martin Daley, to whom we are grateful  
for granting us permission to quote from  
his work.  
CERTIFICATION AND  
PAPERWORK  
The installer should certify that the  
installation conforms to BS 5839: Pt.6 for  
the correct Category and Grade of  
system. If any variations have been  
agreed to, these should be duly noted.  
The Code provides a model certificate  
for installers to complete.  
Live  
- Brown  
Neutral  
- Grey (oversleeve  
blue at terminations)  
- Black  
Interconnect  
According to Daley, the NHTPC has  
been fortunate in having sight of  
independent research on smoke alarm  
liability by Dr Anne Everton. The  
following ten situations, based on Dr  
Everton’s research, should, says Daley,  
‘be avoided at all costs’:  
Great care should be exercised in  
ensuring correct identification of the  
wiring connections as an  
interconnected smoke/heat alarm  
system will suffer irreparable damage if  
the live and neutral connections are  
reversed, or if a 240V phase conductor  
is connected to the interconnect  
terminal.  
Suppliers of the equipment should  
provide the occupier of the dwelling  
with clear and readily understood  
information on the system and its use.  
All alarms should come complete with  
user instructions, designed to be easily  
understood, covering such topics as  
1
Where the smoke alarm is defective  
in design  
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17  
not circulation areas  
2
3
4
Where the smoke alarm is defective in  
manufacture  
Where the smoke alarm is located  
where it cannot operate  
When there are not enough smoke  
alarms  
Where the source of power fails  
Where the source of power for the  
smoke alarm is removed  
When the smoke alarm has been  
incorrectly installed  
Where the smoke alarm has been  
damaged during installation  
Where the smoke alarm has been  
damaged as a result of malice  
It is clear that installing a battery  
powered smoke alarm unit and thinking  
that it is sufficient to protect the tenant is  
an outdated notion. Moreover, even  
mains powered systems without a  
reliable long term stand-by cannot be  
relied upon to provide adequate  
protection, as landlords cannot  
guarantee that tenants will never have  
their power cut off. The implication is  
clear that some form of stand-by supply  
(Grade D) is therefore required in  
tenanted properties.  
Must be interconnected with smoke  
alarms to provide adequate early fire  
warning  
LOCATION  
5
6
• Smoke alarms - within 7.5m of any  
door to rooms where a fire is likely to  
start, and within 3m of bedroom  
doors  
• Heat alarms - max 5.3m from any  
potential source of fire  
7
8
9
LOCATIONS TO AVOID  
With BS 5839: Pt.6 now reaching its tenth  
birthday, it is well established and  
recognised. There is now every reason  
to assume that it has significantly more  
weight behind it than when it was first  
introduced.  
10 Where the smoke alarm has been  
Do not place a Smoke Alarm in any  
of the following areas: bathrooms,  
kitchens, shower rooms, garages or  
other rooms where the smoke alarm  
may be triggered by steam,  
condensation, normal smoke, fumes  
or excessive dust. Keep the smoke  
alarm at least 6m away from sources  
of smoke or vapours that may cause  
nuisance alarms.  
removed from the property  
No matter how circumspect the landlord  
is, however, there is no cast iron guarantee  
that they can fully protect themselves  
against all possible liability claims.  
RAPID  
However, with regards to fire safety, the  
most fundamental step they can take  
now is to install at least a Grade D mains  
powered system. Failure to do so, for  
whatever reason, would simply be  
indefensible if and when a case came  
to court.  
REFERENCE GUIDE  
Ionisation Smoke Alarms  
• Respond quickly to fast flaming fires,  
less sensitive to larger smoke particles  
• Can be prone to false alarms from  
cooking vapours so should not be  
located near to kitchens  
• Suitable for general use, appropriate  
for dining and living rooms and areas  
where flaming fires could rapidly  
block an escape route  
Do not place Heat Alarms in any of  
the following areas: bathrooms,  
shower rooms or other rooms where  
the unit may be triggered by steam  
or condensation.  
‘Duty of care’ falls squarely upon the  
landlord. Dr Ann Everton says that,  
increasingly, landlords are under  
pressure to install smoke alarms to avoid  
the accusation that they are ‘failing to  
fulfil their duty of care towards their  
tenants’. This is particularly the case for  
local authorities who, in enforcing  
checks on private landlords, will have to  
ask themselves if they too meet the  
required standards!  
Do not place Smoke or Heat Alarms  
in any of the following areas:  
• Places where the normal  
temperature can exceed 40°C or  
fall below 4°C e.g. attics, furnace  
rooms etc. Directly above ovens  
or kettles as the heat/steam could  
cause nuisance alarms  
Optical Smoke Alarms  
• Sensitive to larger smoke particles,  
more responsive to smouldering fires  
from foam filled furniture, bedding or  
burning PVC wiring  
• Less vulnerable to false alarms from  
cooking vapours but more prone to  
false alarm from dust or insect ingress  
• Suitable for general use but most  
appropriate for circulation areas such  
as hallways and near kitchens  
• Near a decorative object, door,  
light fitting, window moulding etc.,  
that may prevent smoke from  
entering the smoke alarm  
• Surfaces that are normally warmer  
or colder than the rest of the room  
(for example attic hatches,  
uninsulated exterior walls etc.).  
Temperature differences might  
stop smoke from reaching the unit  
• Next to or directly above heaters  
or air conditioning vents, window  
wall vents etc., that can change  
the direction of the airflow  
Heat Alarms  
Fixed temperature type, temperature  
range 54° - 62°C. Not prone to false  
alarms from dust or vapours, but  
generally less sensitive than smoke  
alarms  
For use in areas where a  
• In very high or awkward areas  
where it may be difficult to reach  
the alarm for testing  
conventional smoke alarm is not  
suitable e.g. kitchens, garages and  
perhaps living and dining rooms, but  
18  
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insects or cobwebs from the sides  
and cover slots where the smoke  
enters. Turn off the mains and wipe  
the cover with a damp cloth. Dry  
cover thoroughly with a lint free  
cloth. Other than the cleaning  
described, no other customer  
servicing of the product is required.  
Repairs, when needed, must be  
carried out by the manufacturer  
(iv) Check the battery annually. Refer  
to the specific user instructions  
(v) Protect the alarm with the dust  
cover supplied when any renovation  
work or redecoration is being  
carried out. Remove the cover  
immediately when all work is  
• Do not locate unit within 1m of  
dimmer controlled lights and wiring  
- some dimmers can cause  
interference  
• Do not wire into the same circuit as  
a dimmer  
• Do not locate unit within 1.5m, or  
route wiring within 1m of fluorescent  
light fittings as electrical “noise”  
and/or flickering may affect the unit.  
Do not wire into the same circuit as a  
fluorescent light  
• Do not locate ceiling mounted units  
within 30cm of walls or corners  
• Do not locate near very dusty or dirty  
areas, as dust build-up in the  
chamber can make the unit too  
sensitive and prone to false alarm  
• Do not locate in insect infested areas.  
Small insects getting into the chamber  
can cause intermittent alarms  
reach the alarm. Smoke may be  
prevented from reaching the alarm  
if the fire is too far away or if the fire  
is behind a closed door, in a  
chimney or wall cavity for example,  
or if prevailing draughts carry the  
smoke away  
completed as the alarm will not  
function correctly with the cover in  
place. Alternatively, with ‘Easi-fit’  
style alarms, simply remove the  
detector head in the advised  
manner  
• Installing smoke alarms in every  
room, or a heat alarm in areas  
where a smoke alarm is not suited,  
will very significantly improve the  
probability of early fire detection  
• The alarm may not be heard. Once  
installed in its intended location you  
should check that you can hear the  
alarm even with the door closed;  
this is particularly important to test in  
the bedroom. If it cannot be heard,  
install more alarms. Remember  
mains powered alarms must be  
interconnected  
(vi) Do not paint an alarm or allow paint  
to contaminate it when decorating  
FALSE ALARMS  
• Smoke alarms may not detect every  
type of fire early enough. As stated  
earlier, ionisation alarms and optical  
alarms respond differently to the  
different types of fire. Fire caused by  
escaping gas, violent explosions or  
poor storage of flammable liquids  
can spread too quickly for a smoke  
alarm to give an early warning  
• A heat alarm will not sense smoke  
and will only trigger when the  
ambient temperature reaches the  
range 54°C to 62°C  
• Smoke and heat alarms do not last  
indefinitely. For example, a build up  
of contamination can cause false  
alarms, more so in the case of  
optical smoke alarms. Over a  
period, depending upon the  
TESTING & MAINTENANCE  
Minimum monthly, recommended weekly  
(i) Check that the green mains indicator  
light is on (if it is off check circuit  
These can best be minimised by the  
careful selection, siting and  
maintenance of alarms. It is a good  
idea to specify alarms with a ‘hush’  
(false alarm control) button to  
temporarily silence false alarms from  
cooking vapours, steam or excessive  
tobacco smoke, for example. This  
facility will also help to reduce the risk of  
users attempting to disable the alarm  
by, for example, removing the battery or  
tampering with the mains.  
breakers, fuses and wiring)  
(ii) Press the test button for at least ten  
seconds to ensure that the smoke  
chamber, electronics and sounder are  
working and that all the alarms that  
are interconnected are sounding. A  
red light behind the test button, or on  
the cover will flash rapidly while the  
horn is sounding. The alarm will stop  
soon after the button is released. Do  
not test with a flame or smoke  
(iii) Check for any sign of contamination  
such as cobwebs or dust. Smoke  
alarms must be cleaned regularly. This  
is particularly true of optical alarms,  
and alarms placed in dusty areas.  
Use the narrow nozzle attachment of  
a vacuum cleaner to remove dust,  
conditions, the electronic  
components will degrade. For these  
reasons, all manufacturers  
recommend regular testing and  
replacement after no more than  
ten years  
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE  
ALARMS  
• Smoke alarms will not detect a  
fire if sufficient smoke does not  
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19  
• Hush button for false alarm control  
MAINS POWERED ALARMS  
WITH BUILT -IN  
Easi-fit DESIGN  
TECHNOLOGY  
Interconnects with other Ei Professional  
mains powered smoke and heat alarms  
RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM  
CELLS - DESIGNED TO LAST  
THE LIFE OF THE ALARM  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Time and money saving Easi-fit design  
• 5 year guarantee  
One of the most significant developments  
in the design of smoke alarms since the  
introduction of BS 5839: Pt.6 has been the  
introduction of new ‘Easi-fit’ design  
technology. Easi-fit alarms are  
exceptionally quick and simple to install,  
helping to reduce installation costs.  
Further cost-savings are also made  
possible because Easi-fit alarms do not  
require the separate purchase of an  
additional wiring enclosure or mounting  
kit. Easi-fit technology is now available on  
both the 160 series and 140 series  
detailed below.  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
Why 10 year+ Technology -  
Rechargeable Lithium Cells  
Ei144 Heat With Hush  
• Ideal for protecting kitchens and areas  
where smoke alarms are not  
Highest Capacity  
• Over 6 months initial stand-by capacity  
without mains power  
• After 10 years on charge the stand-by  
capacity is sufficient to power the  
alarm for over 3 months without mains  
power  
considered suitable  
• Fixed temperature fast response  
thermistor sensor, range 54° - 62°C  
• Alkaline battery supplied already  
connected to reduce installation errors  
(does not draw power until alarm is  
fitted to mounting plate)  
• Hush button for false alarm control  
• Interconnects with other Ei Professional  
mains powered smoke and heat alarms  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Time and money saving Easi-fit design  
• 5 year guarantee  
Very Low Self Discharge  
Off charge the cells lose only  
approximately 2% of their total  
capacity per year - so even after long  
periods in storage, the cells could still  
power a smoke alarm for a  
considerable length of time prior to  
recharging (for up to three months after  
ten years). Cells can be discharged  
and recharged many times.  
INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND  
QUALITY FEATURES  
THROUGHOUT  
Whether you chose 160 series alarms with  
high performance 10 year+ rechargeable  
lithium back-up power cells, or opt for the  
140 series with conventional battery back-  
up system, the detection technology and  
build quality remain constant across every  
unit built by Ei. Because we understand  
that lives can depend on the  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.2: 2003  
Ei146 Optical With Hush  
• More responsive to slow smouldering  
fires  
• Advanced optical chamber with  
proven extended life capability. Fitted  
with insect resistant screen  
Built-in Tamper Resistant  
Construction  
• Cells are soldered for reliable long term  
connection  
performance and reliability of an alarm,  
even budget units are made to an  
• Alkaline battery supplied already  
connected to reduce installation errors  
(does not draw power until alarm is  
fitted to the mounting plate)  
• Hush button for false alarm control  
• Interconnects with other Ei Professional  
mains powered smoke and heat  
alarms  
• Terminals are laser welded for high  
reliability  
uncompromising specification.  
No cell maintenance required - cells  
designed to outlast the life of the alarm  
Easi-fit 140 SERIES MAINS  
POWERED ALARMS WITH 9V  
ALKALINE BATTERY BACK-UP  
Safety  
The cells have been tested and  
approved by the British Standards  
Institute and Underwriters Labs Inc (USA)  
for use in this application. They have  
also been comprehensively safety tested  
both by the manufacturer (Panasonic)  
and by Ei Electronics.  
Designed for applications where the  
budget is a key consideration and there  
is no requirement for lithium power cell  
back-up. The 140 Series provides an  
alkaline battery back-up instead of  
rechargeable cells and comprises  
competitively priced units built to the  
same high standard as all Ei alarm  
products. Further cost savings are  
offered through the use of Ei’s innovative  
and totally unique Easi-fit technology.  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Time and money saving Easi-fit design  
• 5 year guarantee  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
Easi-fit 160 SERIES MAINS  
POWERED ALARMS WITH 10  
YEAR+ RECHARGEABLE  
LITHIUM CELLS  
Ei141 Ionisation With Hush  
• Responds quickly to fast flaming fires  
• Unique and proven long life ionisation  
smoke chamber  
• Alkaline battery supplied already  
connected to reduce installation errors  
(does not draw power until alarm is  
fitted to the mounting plate)  
The 160 series offers all the advanced  
detection capabilities and quality  
lithium cell back-up afforded by the  
proven and best-selling 150 series, but  
combines it with the benefits of Easi-fit  
design technology and offers a new  
slimline, rounded shape.  
20  
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insect resistant screen  
back-up designed to outlast the  
alarm - life expectancy of cells  
endorsed by Panasonic  
Ei161 Ionisation With Hush  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Hush button for false alarm control  
• Low power cell warning in the event  
of a mains or cell failure  
• Precision charging circuit ensures  
peak cell performance  
• Proven 10 year+ rechargeable lithium  
cell back-up  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
Responds quickly to fast flaming  
fires  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
Advanced suppression and  
calibration technology  
THE 150 SERIES MAINS  
POWERED ALARMS WITH  
10 YEAR+ RECHARGEABLE  
LITHIUM CELLS  
Unique and proven long life  
ionisation smoke chamber  
Hush button for false alarm control  
Separate mains and warning LEDs  
10 year+ rechargeable lithium cells  
back-up designed to outlast the  
alarm - life expectancy of cells  
endorsed by Panasonic  
Advanced detection technology  
coupled with superior 10 year+  
rechargeable lithium cell back-up has  
made the 150 Series the market leader  
and the first choice for specifiers  
nationwide.  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
The 150 Series popularity and reliability  
is proven by the fact that several million  
units have now been installed and are  
currently protecting households  
throughout the UK.  
Ei151TL Ionisation With Hush  
• Responds quickly to fast flaming fires  
• Unique and proven long life Ei  
ionisation smoke chamber  
• Easy to use Test and Hush buttons  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Low power cell warning in the event  
of a mains or cell failure  
Ei164 Heat With Hush  
Ideal for protecting kitchens and  
areas where smoke alarms are not  
considered suitable  
DISPOSAL  
• Precision charging circuit ensures  
peak cell performance  
• Proven 10 year+ rechargeable lithium  
cell back-up  
Advanced suppression and  
calibration technology  
All ionisation smoke alarms contain a  
small amount of radioactive material  
(Americium 241). The radiation from this  
source is over 10,000 times less than  
natural background radiation from the  
ground, buildings and outer space.  
Fixed temperature fast response  
thermistor sensor, range 54° - 62°C  
Hush button for false alarm control  
Separate mains and warning LEDs  
10 year+ rechargeable lithium cells  
back-up designed to outlast the  
alarm - life expectancy of cells  
endorsed by Panasonic  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.1: 2000  
Ei154TL Heat  
• Ideal for protecting kitchens and  
areas where smoke alarms are not  
considered suitable  
• Fixed temperature fast response  
thermistor sensor, range 54° - 62°C  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Low power cell warning in the event  
of a mains or cell failure  
• Precision charging circuit ensures  
peak cell performance  
• Proven 10 year+ rechargeable lithium  
cell back-up  
Experts have stated that the risk is  
minuscule - the equivalent of moving  
to the floor above and being that  
much closer to the sun! The National  
Radiological Protection Board carries  
out extensive tests on ionisation smoke  
alarms and have concluded that they  
are radiologically safe. They also  
consider that it is safe to dispose of old  
smoke alarms in normal household  
rubbish, at the rate of one per bin of  
household refuse.  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.2: 2003  
Ei166 Optical With Hush  
• More responsive to slow smouldering  
fires  
• Advanced suppression and  
calibration technology  
• Large volume high performance  
optical chamber with proven  
extended life capability. Fitted with  
insect resistant screen  
• Kitemarked to BS 5446: Pt.2: 2003  
Ei156TLH Optical With Hush  
• More responsive to slow smouldering  
fires  
• Features the large, advanced Ei  
optical chamber with proven  
extended life capability, fitted with  
• Hush button for false alarm control  
• Separate mains and warning LEDs  
• Auto self-test feature continually  
monitors the sensor every 40 seconds  
for additional safety  
Please note that there are no special  
disposal requirements for the lithium cells  
used as back-up in Ei mains powered  
alarms as they do not contain any  
regulated materials.  
• 10 year+ rechargeable lithium cells  
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21  
ground level  
• Fitted with rechargeable lithium cells  
to last in excess of 10 yrs  
• Up to twelve alarms on one system  
• Programmable repeater function for  
more difficult applications  
• Allows easy identification of the site  
of a fire, or the location of a false  
alarm  
FOUNDATION OF THE  
COMPLETE SOLUTION TO  
RESIDENTIAL FIRE  
• No wiring required  
• Neat appearance – same size as a 2  
gang light switch  
• Wide range of compatible accessories  
DETECTION  
Fitted with long life 10 yr+ lithium cells  
RADIOLINK ANCILLARY  
PRODUCTS  
The use of radio interconnection in Grade D  
alarm systems means that it is much easier  
to comply with the extended alarm  
coverage recommended in BS 5839: Pt.6:  
2004. With no interconnect wiring required,  
the contractor and specifier can agree  
fixed costs, allowing a quicker, simpler and  
more cost effective solution to smoke and  
heat alarm installation programmes.  
• No battery replacement required  
• Unique coding to prevent  
interference  
• For use with 140 and 160 series  
alarms on an Ei168 RadioLINK base  
Ei428 Remote Relay  
Module  
Ei410 Wireless Remote  
Control – Hand Held  
• Mains powered  
• Easy to install  
• For use with 140 and 160 series  
alarms on an Ei168 RadioLINK base  
• Unique coding to prevent  
interference  
• Same features as the Ei411 but is a key  
fob size designed for personal use.  
Based on proven wireless technology,  
RadioLINK from Ei provides a quality mains  
powered wireless interconnect solution.  
The Ei168 RadioLINK base can be used  
with either Ei140 or Ei160 Easi-fit alarms,  
plus ancillary products thereby combining  
proven quality detection capability and  
performance with proven wireless  
technology.  
Rechargeable 10 yr+ cell back-up  
enables the relay to be operational  
even in a mains failure – ideal for  
Warden Call Systems and Alarm  
systems for the deaf and hard of  
hearing  
Ei407 Wireless Manual  
Call Point  
• 5 amp relay with volt free contacts  
• Switchable to constant or pulse  
operation  
Ei168 RadioLINK Base  
Ei411 Wireless Remote  
Control - Wall Mounted  
Switch  
• Allows manual testing of the system  
• Allows manual alarm to warn other  
occupants  
• Same size as a standard Manual Call  
Point  
• No wiring required  
• Fitted with long life 10 yr+ lithium cells  
• No battery replacement required  
• Unique coding to prevent  
interference  
• Mains powered  
• Easy to install - simply fits underneath  
each alarm  
• For use with 140 and 160 series alarms  
on an Ei168 RadioLINK base  
• Unique coding to prevent  
interference  
• Allows testing of the system at  
22  
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ANCILLARY FIRE  
DETECTION PRODUCTS  
• Alarm clock input  
• Can be used with RadioLINK  
ALARM SYSTEMS FOR  
THE HEARING  
IMPAIRED  
Ei169 - Control box with integral  
strobe, vibrating pad and cable for  
connections, for use with the 150  
series alarms (not supplied).  
Residents with hearing difficulties  
require a different approach to  
fire protection. The Ei Professional  
Alarm for the hearing impaired is  
currently the only unit on the  
market made by an experienced  
smoke alarm manufacturer.  
EI169/160 - As above for use with 160  
Series alarms (not supplied).  
• High intensity integral strobe  
• Can be interconnected with up to  
twelve alarms  
Ei169RF - Comprises control box with a  
RadioLINK transceiver, integral strobe,  
vibrating pad and cable for  
• Plug in or wire in options  
• Easily installed  
• Test buttons  
• Auxiliary socket  
• Self-diagnostics for extra safety  
• Remote trigger facility  
Comprising a powerful strobe light  
and vibrating disc, the unit is  
available with a mains powered  
control panel and either 230V or  
9V smoke alarm options with full  
battery back-up.  
connections. Only suitable for use with  
smoke and heat alarms using an Ei168  
RadioLINK base. Other RadioLINK  
control devices can be used with this  
model. RadioLINK base and  
smoke/heat alarm not supplied.  
Ei175 - Supplied with low voltage  
Ionisation Smoke Alarm.  
Ei176 - Supplied with low voltage  
Optical Smoke Alarm.  
Ei176RF - Comprises control box with a  
RadioLINK transceiver, integral strobe,  
vibrating pad and cable for connections.  
Supplied with RadioLINK Ei3105RF optical  
smoke alarm. Other RadioLINK control  
devices can be used with this model.  
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23  
This convenient unit allows the user to  
locate the precise source of an  
alarm in installations comprising three  
or more units. Pressing the locator  
button stops all the alarms sounding  
except for the one that was the  
source of the alarm.  
• The ideal way to quickly and easily  
find the source of any alarm  
• Easy to install  
MODIFIRE  
INTERMEDIATE SYSTEMS (GUIDE ONLY)  
A Modifire system is exceptionally simple  
to design and install, thanks to its modular  
design and unique Easi-fit technology.  
Just tailor the system to meet the needs  
of the premises. The Ei161R ionisation or  
Ei166R optical alarm with rechargeable  
back-up provides the starting point. Then  
you can add extra alarms, call points and  
locator switches as required, all  
• Ideal for larger premises and HMOs  
• Auto reset within ten minutes  
• Minimises disturbance to other  
residents  
interconnected with PVC mains wiring  
cable. Only one ‘R’ unit - Ei161R or Ei166R  
- is necessary for each system.  
• Suitable for use with any of the  
140, 150 and 160 series alarms  
BASIC SYSTEM (GUIDE ONLY)  
• System to cover escape routes only  
• Choose from Ei161R ionisation or Ei166R  
optical alarms  
• Connect Manual Call points MCP400  
into the circuit  
Ei128R Relay Base - mains  
powered only  
MCP400 Manual Call Point  
BASIC SYSTEM (GUIDE ONLY)  
• For use with 140 and 160 series  
• Surface Mount Kit or pattress  
• 5 amp relay with volt free contacts  
• Switchable for constant or pulse  
operation  
• Allows signalling to door closers,  
sounders, strobes etc  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
For use with Ei151TLR, Ei156TLR, Ei161R,  
Ei164R or Ei166R alarms  
Supplied complete with surface  
mount box  
Testing key supplied  
Supplied with non-breakable  
operating element  
Ei128RBU Relay Base  
- mains with rechargeable  
back-up  
Suitable for use with Modifire  
LPC approved, conforms to  
BS EN 54-11  
INTERMEDIATE SYSTEM  
• For use with 140 and 160 series  
• 5 Amp relay with volt free contacts  
(GUIDE ONLY)  
• System to cover escape routes AND  
high risk areas  
Ei159 Smoke Alarm  
Locator Switch  
Switchable for constant or pulse  
operation  
• Install Ei161R or Ei166R alarm and add  
further ionisation (Ei161), optical (Ei166)  
and heat alarms (Ei164) as required to  
a maximum of 20 alarms. The Ei128R  
relay base counts as one alarm  
• Connect into the circuit Manual Call  
Points MCP400 as required  
• Features rechargeable lithium back-  
up cells with 10 yr+ life  
• Ideal for signalling to devices not  
affected by a mains failure, such as  
Warden Call Systems  
• Connect into the circuit Alarm Locator  
Switches Ei159 as required  
• Mount an Ei128R or Ei128RBU relay base  
behind the ‘R’ unit to signal warden call  
devices, strobes, sounders etc  
24  
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SAB300 Remote Strobe  
Xenon Beacon  
• For operation via an Ei158R or Ei128R  
relay  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
Ei152 Remote Test & Hush  
Switch  
• Mains powered  
The Remote Test and Hush Switch is  
specifically designed for use with the  
Ei151TLR, Ei156TLR, Ei161R, Ei164R or  
Ei166R alarms.  
• Tests alarms or silences false alarms  
(only on ‘R’ models in the system)  
without the need to reach the  
alarm itself  
• For internal or external use  
• Flash energy of 3 watts and flash  
frequency of .9Hz  
• Clear or red lens options  
• For operation via an Ei158R or Ei128R  
relay  
MDH230 Magnetic Door  
Holder  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
• Ideal for the infirm or elderly  
• Wall mounted  
• Easy to use - large clear red  
buttons  
SABV4 High Intensity Strobe  
Xenon Beacon  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
Ei167 Remote Sounder  
• Mains powered  
• Automatically releases a fire door in  
the event of a fire  
• Test/Override button feature  
• Holding capacity of 11.3kg  
• Low current consumption  
• For operation via an Ei158R or Ei128R  
relay  
• Mains powered  
• Ideal for use where standard strobes  
may not be sufficiently visible  
• 5 joule high intensity flash  
• Low current consumption  
• Red or opal lens option  
• For operation via an Ei158R or Ei128R  
relay  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
Ei127 Surface Mount Kit  
The Remote Sounder can be used for  
interconnection with any Ei mains  
powered alarm. It contains no smoke  
sensor itself, but is triggered by a signal  
from the interconnect circuit. It is  
ideal for use where an alarm - but no  
detection - is required.  
• Wall or ceiling mounted  
• Integral rechargeable lithium cell  
back-up  
• Interconnects with all mains  
operated smoke and heat alarms  
• Manual test button  
• AC mains indicator light  
• 85dB(A) alarm at 3m  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
YO3 Remote Sounder  
A powerful mains operated sounder  
ideal for use in areas where a  
warning is required - but a detector  
isn’t.  
• Mains powered  
• For internal or external use IP54  
• Offers a range of switchable sound  
frequencies from 500Hz to 2900Hz  
• Switchable sound outputs from 97-  
100dB(A)  
• For 140 and 160 series alarms  
• For use on uneven ceilings  
• Useful for applications involving  
complex wiring  
• Suitable for use with Modifire  
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25  
SAT332 Smoke Alarm Tester  
9 Volt Alarms With 10  
year+ Life Lithium Battery  
Cells  
This useful device - used in conjunction  
with an SAA300 aerosol of synthetic  
smoke - is the only reliable method of  
testing the smoke chamber on ionisation  
and optical alarms.  
• Safe and easy to use  
• Synthetic smoke is non-flammable  
and environmentally friendly  
Both of these alarms are supplied with  
tamper-resistant, non-replaceable 10  
year life lithium battery cells to meet the  
requirements for a BS 5839: Pt.6, Grade  
F system for single storey tenanted  
properties.  
Ei115 Anti-Vandal Cage  
Ei100TYC- Ionisation with 10 year+ life  
Lithium battery, false alarm  
'silencer' button and  
interconnect.  
Ei3105TYCH- Optical with 10 year+ life  
lithium battery, false alarm  
'silencer' button and  
interconnect.  
Up to twelve Ei100TYC and Ei3105TYCH  
may be interconnected.  
Carbon Monoxide  
Protection  
• Fits all Ei alarms  
• Screws on to the ceiling  
• Test and Hush buttons can be easily  
accessed  
Ei Electronics is an acknowledged  
leader in the field of mains and battery  
powered Carbon Monoxide alarms.  
Please contact us for more information.  
• Measures 170 x 170 x 95mm  
LOW VOLTAGE  
180 SERIES ALARMS  
Ionisation - Model Ei181  
Optical - Model Ei186  
Heat - Model Ei184  
• Supply voltage 10.5 to 30 volts  
• Power on indicator  
• Interconnect up to twelve alarms  
• Alkaline battery back-up  
• Hush feature on all models  
• Relay contacts selectable for  
continuous or pulse operation  
26  
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key products. It’s a valuable resource  
for specifiers, contractors and  
wholesalers alike, and it’s being  
continually updated to bring you the  
very latest additions to our range as  
they arrive.  
All smoke alarms, but more particularly the  
optical type, are prone to dust and insect  
ingress which can cause false alarms. The  
latest design, materials and manufacturing  
techniques have been used in the construction  
of our alarms to minimise the effects of  
Ei SMOKE ALARMS - THE  
FIRST CHOICE FOR LOCAL  
AUTHORITIES AND  
HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS  
NATIONWIDE  
contamination. However, it is impossible to  
completely eliminate the effect of dust and  
insect contamination. Therefore, to prolong the  
life of the smoke alarm it must be kept clean so  
that excess dust does not build up. Any insects  
or cobwebs in the vicinity of the smoke alarm  
should be promptly removed. In certain  
circumstances, even with regular cleaning,  
contamination can build up in the smoke  
sensing chamber causing the alarm to sound.  
If this happens, the alarm must be returned for  
servicing or replacement. Contamination is  
beyond the manufacturer’s control, and is  
considered normal wear and tear.  
Ei Professional smoke alarms and  
ancillary products have been  
TROUBLE SHOOTING  
specified by literally hundreds of Local  
Authorities and Housing Associations  
in England, Scotland, Wales and  
Northern Ireland as the products of  
choice for their retrofit programmes.  
Many of these would be pleased to  
discuss their experiences of product  
reliability and after sales support with  
interested parties. Please contact our  
Customer Services Department for  
further information.  
Please Note: many alarms that are  
returned to Aico as “faulty” are found  
to have circuit damage. This is largely  
due to incorrect wiring on installation.  
Although all mains powered smoke  
alarms are double insulated, mixing live  
and neutral will damage  
interconnected alarms. This damage  
can also occur if the connector plug  
momentarily short circuits across the  
power pins when installation takes  
place with the power on. It is essential  
that live and neutral wires are correctly  
identified and that all connections are  
made before the mains power is  
switched on!  
In addition, many builders, architects  
and installers recognise the benefits of  
fitting smoke and heat alarms that  
have proven to be extremely reliable  
in many thousands of ‘New Build’  
installations throughout the UK.  
This list is not comprehensive. You should  
refer to the specific user instructions that  
accompany each product for further  
guidance.  
Problem  
Solution  
TECHNICAL SUPPORT  
Alarm sounds  
for no apparent  
reason  
Identify the alarm source. The red LED under the test button or on  
the cover will flash rapidly only on the unit which is the source of  
the alarm. Press hush button if fitted. Check for fumes, steam etc.  
from the kitchen or bathroom (paint and other fumes can cause  
nuisance alarms). Fan the alarm vigorously with a newspaper to  
disperse fumes. If alarm does not stop, switch off mains and  
remove the unit with the rapidly flashing red LED.  
Our highly trained and experienced  
staff in the Customer Services  
Department will be pleased to assist  
you with any queries that you may  
have regarding installation,  
maintenance, or product specification.  
Telephone 0870 758 4000 and ask for  
Customer Services.  
Alarm beeps  
continuously  
(approx once  
per minute)  
Alarm may be in ‘hush mode’ (Ei150, 151TL & 151TLR only). Cells (150  
& 160 series) or batteries (140 series) may be depleted. Check the  
green mains light is on. If not, check fuse, circuit breakers and wiring  
connections. 140 series - the battery may require replacement.  
Switch off the mains supply, remove the alarm and replace battery.  
150 & 160 series - the cells may require recharging. This will occur  
automatically if the mains power is connected. The cells are not  
replaceable. If all the above actions have not silenced the beeping,  
there may be a fault. Switch off the mains and replace the unit.  
Sections of BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 are  
reproduced with the permission of BSI.  
A complete edition of the standards  
can be obtained by post from: BSI  
Customer Services, 389 Chiswick High  
Road, London W4 4AL.  
Interconnected  
alarms do not  
all sound  
For more detailed information on our  
range of smoke, heat and Carbon  
Monoxide alarms, please ask for a  
copy of our latest product brochure.  
Hold test button for ten seconds to ensure that the signal is  
transmitted to all alarms on the system. Switch off the mains power  
and check that the live, neutral and interconnect wires are tight  
and have been correctly connected on all alarms in the system.  
Incorrect wiring will damage alarms.  
AICO ON THE WEB  
Frequent  
nuisance  
alarms occur  
Ensure the kitchen and bathroom doors are closed when in use.  
Ensure that the alarm is sited at least 6m away from sources of  
fumes. Contamination from insects, dust, paint etc. may have  
occurred; clean the alarm. If the problem persists, resiting of the  
alarm should be considered. Alternatively, changing to a model with  
a different sensor type may resolve the problem.  
If you haven’t already looked us up,  
you’ll find that the Aico web site at  
www.aico.co.uk is well worth a visit,  
with detailed technical information  
on our unrivalled range of products  
and guidance on the installation of  
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27  
A Guide to  
Residential Fire Detection  
With Reference to BS 5839: Pt. 6: 2004  
Aico Ltd, Mile End Business Park, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8NN  
Tel: 0870 758 4000 Fax: 0870 758 4010 • Sales - Tel: 0870 758 4001 Fax: 0870 758 4011  
e-mail: [email protected] • www.aico.co.uk  
Aico Ltd is a wholly owned  
subsidiary of Ei Electronics  
E & OE As our policy is one of continuous development,we reserve the right to amend designs and specifications without prior notice. Every  
care has been taken to ensure that the contents of Dthoiswdonclouamdenfrtoamre Wcowrrewc.tSaotmtheantimuaelso.fcpoumbl.icAaltlioMn aannduawles sShealal brcehunAdnedr nDooliwabnilliotyad.  
whatsoever in respect of such contents.  
GRFD0905 ISSUE 2  

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