In order to undertake the process of designing a fire system for a building it is necessary to have a sound understanding of the relevant design standards, the legal framework surrounding building safety legislation and a sound working knowledge of product application theory. The importance of consultation with all relevant parties cannot be overstressed, neither can the importance of specialist advice in relevant areas. The following system design process is intended to give a reasonable overview of all the areas of knowledge required for the successful design of a fire alarm system.
It is envisaged that the user will refer to the information contained within the design section to determine the areas where further detailed advice will be required and to give guidance as to where such advice may be contained.
Due to the complex nature of legislation and design standards relating to fire alarm system design, this design guide is not intended to be a comprehensive guide to all aspects of fire alarm design but rather a very useful source of background information to which further application specific detailed information can be added from other sources as required.
The standards referred to in this section relate to the UK and Europe. Although the principles are broadly universal, it is recommended for readers in other countries that they familiarise themselves with specific local requirements from their own standards, only using the British or European standards where these have been accepted by local fire authorities. Information relating to equipment facilities and performance apply to Cooper Lighting and Security equipment and may not necessarily apply to other manufacturers equipment. The reader should carefully check whether such comments relate to equipment from other manufacturers before considering alternative equipment.
