CEO, Firewize
01 May, 2023
Alarm Delay Facilities (ADFs) play a vital role in reducing nuisance fire alarm conditions in residential buildings. False alarms can cause unnecessary panic and disrupt daily activities, while also placing a burden on emergency services.
By providing a local warning, building occupants have an opportunity to address the alarm before it escalates to a fire alarm condition, helping to prevent false alarms and maintain a safe living environment.
In this article, we will explore the application of ADFs in residential buildings, focusing on their usage in smoke detectors and the requirements set out by Australian Standard AS1670.1:2018.
Understanding how ADFs function and the standards that govern their implementation is crucial for building owners, property managers, and occupants to ensure a safe and efficient response to potential fire emergencies.
We will delve into the specific requirements for ADFs, such as their applicability in different building classes, the need for clear warning signals, and the importance of adhering to the prescribed delay periods.
Through a comprehensive understanding of ADFs and their role in residential fire safety, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding the installation and maintenance of these essential systems.
ADF is specifically intended for use with smoke detectors within sole-occupancy units (SOUs) of Class 2, 3, and 4 buildings. When an alarm condition is detected by a smoke detector, the ADF activates a local warning through an audible alarm device (AAD) within the SOU.
For units designated for the hearing impaired, visual alarm devices (VADs) are also activated. ADFs give occupants the chance to clear the alarm condition before it becomes a full-scale fire alarm.
If the condition is cleared within a set delay period (adjustable from 0 to 300 seconds), the ADF automatically resets without generating a fire alarm condition at the fire detection and alarm control and indicating equipment (FDCIE).
Australian Standard AS1670.1:2018 outlines several requirements for the application of ADFs in residential buildings:
Contact Firewize to discuss how we might be able to help you implement a practical solution and use an Alarm Delay Facility in certain Class 2, 3, and 4 residential buildings to reduce the effects of nuisance fire alarms.
By adhering to the requirements outlined in Australian Standard AS1670.1:2018, building owners and managers can ensure the proper implementation of ADFs to enhance safety and minimize disruptions to occupants.