Video Smoke Detection
Video smoke detection utilizes high-resolution cameras and advanced algorithms to detect smoke in open areas like atriums, expansive warehouses, and outdoor locations with potential fuel sources.
Can I use a magnet to test my fire detector?
A fire detector a generic term that can describe a Heat Detector, Smoke Detector, Flame Detector or Carbon Monoxide fire detector. Some manufacturers include a reed switch within the body of the detector for functional testing. Does using this comply with the requirements of AS1851?
Shower steam can cause false alarms
One of the most common causes of false alarms in a building with a bathroom is steam from a hot shower. Steam is an airborne aerosol that from a smoke detectors perspective is very similar to smoke. This can cause a smoke detector to operate unnecessirarly where a bathroom is not well ventilated and a smoke detector is located too cloase to a bathroom door.
What is the best type of fire detector for...
No one type of detector is most suitable for all applications and the final choice of detector must depend on the individual circumstances. In certain situations it may be useful to combine different types of detectors (including multi-criteria detectors) to achieve the best results.
Smoke Detector vs Smoke Alarm
Depending where you are in the world, the terms smoke detector and smoke alarm have different meanings. Google Trends offers an interesting insight into what the public search for and illustrates the difference within various countries.
Smoke Detector Contamination & Nuisance Alarms
Over time, smoke detectors can accumulate airborne contamination such as dust, pollen, microscopic insects and other aerosols that can make the detector more sensitive to false alarms. Firewize provides a service for the fire industry that helps identify then replace these detectors before the cause a false alarm.
Contaminated (dirty) Smoke Detectors
Dirty smoke detectors are one of the most common causes of nuisance (false) alarms. With regular inspection, testing and maintenance dirty smoke detectors can be easily identified and replaced, improving the reliability and safety of fire detection systems for building occupants.
Nuisance Alarms
According to the Melbourne Metropolitan Fire Brigade a false alarm (nuisance alarm) is "A false alarm occurs when the MFB attends an incident to find there is no emergency and there is no need for their fire fighting skills or other expertise. Most automatic fire alarm systems are a legal requirement, or have been installed to provide fire safety, and it is essential they operate efficiently at all times."
Smoke Detectors
The fourth instalment of the Principles of Fire Safety series looks at smoke, gas and flame detectors. Again, research and development has continued to improve well established detection technologies and provided an array of new technologies to improve fire detection while also being less susceptible to the causes of false alarms.
