AS 1670 1 1995 fire detection, warning, control and intercom

A mezzanine level may be connected to the alarm zone facility associated with the storeyfrom which access to the mezzanine is gained, provided that the total protected area and thenumber

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AS 1670.1-1995 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems - System

design, installation and commissioning - Fire

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002

Australian Standard ™

Fire detection, warning control and intercom systems—System design, installation and commissioning

The following interests are represented on Committee FP-002:

Asset Services—Department of Administrative Services Australian Building Codes Board

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Australian Chamber of Manufactures

Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association Australian Fire Authorities Council

Australian Fire Protection Association Commonwealth Fire Board

CSIRO—Division of Building, Construction and Engineering Federal Bureau of Consumer Affairs

Fire Protection Industry Association of Australia Insurance Council of Australia

New Zealand Fire Equipment Association N.S.W Fire Brigades

Standards New Zealand Telecom Australia

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Standards are living documents which reflect progress in science, technology and systems To maintain their currency, all Standards are periodically reviewed, and new editions are published Between editions, amendments may be issued Standards may also be withdrawn It is important that readers assure themselves they are using a current Standard, which should include any amendments which may have been published since the Standard was purchased.

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This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 94182.

Australian Standard ™

Fire detection, warning control and intercom systems—System design, installation and commissioning

Published by Standards Australia International Ltd GPO Box 5420, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia

This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New ZealandCommittee FP/2 on Automatic Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, to supersede AS 1670—1986.Its preparation is concurrent with the issue of AS 1603 in a number of parts to cover therequirements for specific items of equipment used in an automatic fire detection and alarmsystem and installed in accordance with this Standard

This Standard incorporates Amendment No 1 (June 1997), Amendment No 2 (June 1998), Amendment No 3 (May 2001) and Amendment No 4 (November 2001) The changes required by the Amendments are indicated in the text by a marginal bar and amendment number against the clause, note, table, figure or part thereof affected.

This Standard is the result of a consensus among the members of the Joint Committee toproduce it as an Australian Standard

Maintenance requirements for fire detection and alarm equipment are included in

AS 1851.8, Maintenance of fire protection equipment, Part 8: Fire detection and alarmsystems

In this edition, sections have been arranged to provide users of the Standard with a logicalsequence as they work through the design, installation and commissioning of a fire alarmsystem

This Standard has been considerably expanded to include many practices that are in currentuse and embrace additional scenarios where the previous edition was silent

Appendix B ‘Guidance for the selection of detectors’ assists personnel engaged in thedesign, installation and commissioning of fire protection and suppression systems

The commissioning section encompasses Appendices F and G which are report forms toindicate the installation content and its compliance with this Standard

The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define theapplication of the appendix to which they apply A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part

of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance

Page

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE 5

1.2 APPLICATION 5

1.3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS 5

1.4 DEFINITIONS 5

1.5 COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STANDARDS 7

1.6 INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIED LIMITING VALUES 7

SECTION 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2.1 COMPONENTS 8

2.2 SEPARATION OF SYSTEMS 8

SECTION 3 ALARM ZONE LIMITATIONS 3.1 GENERAL 10

3.2 ADDRESSABLE SYSTEMS 10

3.3 DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS 11

3.4 INTERMIXING OF ACTUATING DEVICES 14

SECTION 4 LOCATION OF DETECTORS 4.1 GENERAL 16

4.2 SPECIFIC LOCATIONS 16

4.3 LOCATIONS WHERE PROTECTION IS NOT REQUIRED 19

SECTION 5 HEAT DETECTION SYSTEMS 5.1 GENERAL 21

5.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS 21

5.3 LINE-TYPE SYSTEMS—TUBULAR OR CABLE 23

SECTION 6 SMOKE DETECTION SYSTEMS 6.1 GENERAL 27

6.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS 27

6.3 MULTIPOINT ASPIRATED SMOKE DETECTORS 30

SECTION 7 FLAME DETECTION SYSTEMS 7.1 GENERAL 37

7.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS 37

7.3 FIXING OF DETECTORS 37

7.4 DETECTOR LENSES 37

7.5 PROTECTION FROM WEATHER 37

SECTION 8 INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS 8.1 GENERAL 38

8.2 POWER SOURCE 38

8.3 CONNECTION OF EXISTING INSTALLATIONS 40

8.4 FIRE INDICATOR PANEL 40

8.5 SUBINDICATOR PANEL 42

8.6 ALARM VERIFICATION FACILITY 42

8.7 WARNING SYSTEMS 42

8.8 MANUAL CALL POINTS 43

8.9 REMOTE INDICATORS FOR FIRE DETECTORS 43

8.10 SMOKE AND FIRE DOOR RELEASE CONTROL 44

8.11 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM 44

8.12 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM SUPERVISION 45

8.13 CONTROL OF ANCILLARY DEVICES 45

8.14 VALVE MONITORING DEVICES 45

8.15 FLOW/PRESSURE SWITCHES 45

8.16 FIP INDICATORS 45

8.17 WIRING 46

8.18 MONITORING SERVICE 47

8.19 WIRE FREE ALARM ZONE CIRCUITS 48

SECTION 9 COMMISSIONING 9.1 GENERAL 49

9.2 COMMISSIONING OF INSTALLATION 49

9.3 STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE 51

9.4 CIE DOCUMENTATION 51

APPENDICES A LIST OF REFERENCED AND RELATED DOCUMENTS 53

B GUIDANCE FOR THE SELECTION OF DETECTORS 55

C WIRING SYSTEMS RATING 65

D EXAMPLES OF POWER SOURCE CAPACITY CALCULATIONS 67

E FIRE ALARM SYMBOLS 70

F COMMISSIONING TEST REPORT 72

G STANDARD FORM OF STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE FOR FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS 76

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard Fire detection, warning control and intercom systems—System

design, installation and commissioning

1.2 APPLICATION

All installations of automatic fire detection and alarm systems shall comply with thegeneral requirements of Section 2 and specific requirements of Section 3, Section 4 andSection 8 with the additional requirements of Section 5, Section 6, or Section 7 according tothe actuating device type, and the commissioning requirements of Section 9 Manual callpoints installed in conjunction with an automatic fire detection and alarm system or as aseparate system shall comply with the general installation requirements of this Standard

Where an automatic fire detection and alarm system is ancillary to an automatic extinguishing installation, the detection system shall comply with the appropriaterequirements of this Standard

1.4.2 Alarm investigation facility (AIF)

That part of the control and indicating equipment (CIE) which delays the transmission of afire alarm to provide time for manual acknowledgment and investigation

1.4.3 Alarm signalling equipment (ASE)

Equipment designed to communicate alarm and fault signals and other information between

a fire alarm system and a monitoring service

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1.4.4 Alarm verification facility (AVF)

That function of the CIE that verifies an alarm signal so that a spurious signal does notinitiate an alarm signal to the monitoring service or ACF functions and alarm warningsystems

1.4.5 Approved and approval

Approved by, or the approval of, the regulatory authority

1.4.10 Extra-low voltage (ELV)

That voltage defined in AS 3000

An area of a building equipped with an automatic fire detection and alarm system installed

in accordance with this Standard or an approved automatic fire suppression system

1.4.17 Protected building

A building equipped throughout with an automatic fire detection and alarm system installed

in accordance with this Standard or an approved automatic fire suppression system

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1.4.18 Remote controlled equipment (RCE)

Remotely located parts of CIE that provide the connection of alarm zone circuits and otherstatus monitoring circuits, or the connection of ancillary control and warning devices or anycombination thereof without required visual and audible indications and user controlfacilities Such facilities are provided at the FIP or SIP

1.4.19 Sole occupancy unit

As defined in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) for a Class 2 and 3 building, andClass 4 part of a building

1.5 COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STANDARDS

The fire detection and alarm system shall comply with the appropriate electrical safetyrequirements specified in AS 3000 and the individual parts of the installation shall complywith the appropriate Australian Standards listed in Appendix A

1.6 INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIED LIMITING VALUES

For the purpose of assessing compliance with this Standard, the specified values hereinshall be interpreted in accordance with the ‘rounding method’ described in AS 2706, i.e theobserved or calculated value shall be rounded to the same number of figures as in thespecified limiting value and then compared with the specified limiting value For example,for specified limiting values of 2.5, 2.50, and 2.500, the observed or calculated value would

be rounded respectively to the nearest 0.1, 0.01, 0.001

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S E C T I O N 2 G E N E R A L R E Q U I R E M E N T S

2.1 COMPONENTS

The individual equipment items shall be selected in order to achieve stable and reliableperformance The selection of detectors, and their location, shall be such as to minimizefalse operation The components in the system shall be used in accordance with themanufacturer’s specifications and shall be shown to be compatible in the configuration asdesigned Individual alarm indicators shall be latching, except where the detector isrequired to be non-latching, e.g supply air detection associated with smoke management,and shall be provided by one of the following means:

(a) Fire detectors selected to suit the particular hazard and risk to life or property, orboth Detectors shall comply with the relevant product Standards

(b) Individual alarm indicators provided by one of the following means:

(i) Integral with the detector, except where specific installation requirementspreclude their use, such as hazardous areas

(ii) Remote from the detector, except where specific installation requirementspreclude their use, such as hazardous locations, in accordance with Clause 8.9

(iii) As unique alarm indication at the CIE, except where specific installationrequirements preclude their use, such as hazardous areas

Where the detector is not required to latch in an alarm state (for example, supply airdetectors associated with a smoke management system), the indicator may be non-latching

(c) Control and indicating equipment complying with AS 1603.4 or AS 4428.1

(d) A fire warning system as specified in Clause 8.7

(e) A manual call point complying with AS 1603.5

2.2 SEPARATION OF SYSTEMS

The fire detection and alarm system shall be independent of any building monitoring andcontrol systems (BMCS), and the control and indicating equipment shall be containedwithin its own enclosure(s) Interfacing is permitted to provide data to the buildingmonitoring system or to initiate automatic testing of the fire detection and alarm system(see Figure 2.1 for typical arrangement) Alarm and fault signals shall be displayedindependently of the BMCS

Controls, indicators and equipment which form part of an associated fire protection system,such as monitoring and control of—

(a) fire detectors;

(b) fire extinguishing systems;

(c) air handling plant; or

(d) fire warning systems as required by Clause 8.7

may be housed within the CIE enclosure provided all such controls, indicators andequipment are segregated from other AS 1603 equipment

NOTE: Metal enclosures, earthed screen cabling or 50 mm separation distance is taken to be adequate segregation Associated equipment installed in the same enclosure must not interfere with the serviceability of and access to the field wiring Any heat generated by associated equipment must not cause any of the equipment within the enclosure to operate outside the manufacturer’s specifications.

Where the fire detection and alarm system is used to control a smoke hazard managementsystem or a fire suppression system, additional consideration shall be given to cableintegrity and reliability in excess of the requirements of Clause 8.17, in accordance with theoperational requirements of the system under control

FIGURE 2.1 EXAMPLE OF INTERFACE WITH BMCS

A mezzanine level may be connected to the alarm zone facility associated with the storeyfrom which access to the mezzanine is gained, provided that the total protected area and thenumber of actuating devices required do not exceed the alarm zone limits specified above.

Point type detectors shall be arranged and indicate as alarm zones Individual detectorsshall not be displayed as separate alarm zones unless representing the only detector within acompartment

3.2 ADDRESSABLE SYSTEMS

Alarm zone circuits with more than one alarm zone shall comply with the following:

(a) A single open circuit shall register as a fault

(b) A single open circuit shall not prevent an alarm transmission from more than onealarm zone

(c) Any condition including short or open circuit which prevents the transmission of analarm shall register as a fault on all alarm zones affected

(d) Any wire-to-wire short circuit shall disable not more than 250 devices on the alarmzone circuit and in any case not more than one building

(e) Any wire-to-wire short circuit may register no more than a single alarm

(f) Unless the wiring of the alarm zone circuit is installed in two separate cable paths,and each is protected against mechanical damage, WSX2 in accordance with

AS 3013, the alarm zone circuit shall not serve more than 10 storeys or more than a

20 000 m2 floor area in one building

NOTE: Separation of cable paths should be that which is sufficient to protect the separate cables from the anticipated mechanical damage in a likely single incident.

Addressable systems shall contain not more than 1000 devices on each alarm zone circuitand such alarm zone circuit shall be limited to those buildings located on one site, underone ownership

Where addressable devices other than detectors are used on an addressable alarm zonecircuit, such as ancillary control devices, each such device shall count as one device

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Where addressable systems are used to control other essential services such as a smokehazard management system or a fire suppression system, the integrity and reliability of theaddressable system shall be subject to the requirements of the relevant Standard.

3.3 DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS

3.3.1 Classifications

Distributed systems are classified as follows:

Class 1 non-data transfer based system with subindicator panels

Class 2 data transfer based system with subindicator panels

Class 3 data transfer based system with remote control equipment (RCE)

3.3.2 General

Subindicator panels (SIPs) shall only be connected directly to the fire indicator panels(FIPs) and not via any other SIP or remote part of the CIE unless the failure of such anintermediate unit does not prevent the transmission of an alarm to the FIP Such a failureshall also indicate as a signal path fault (see Table 1)

Where a separate signal from an SIP is not provided to indicate a common isolated,common AZC fault, and power supply failure, these signals shall also indicate as a signalpath fault at the FIP (see Table 1)

TABLE 1 FAULT TOLERANCE AND INDICATION REQUIREMENTS

FOR DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS

10 alarm zones maximum

1 alarm zone maximum

10 alarm zones or 250 devices maximum

10 alarm zones or 250 devices maximum

10 alarm zones or 250 devices maximum

3.3.3 Class 1 systems

The following applies to the signal path or signal paths between the FIP and the SIP:

(a) A single open circuit shall indicate as a signal path fault at the FIP

(b) A single open circuit shall indicate as a signal path fault at SIPs with more than

10 alarm zones or 250 devices

(c) A short circuit shall indicate as either a signal path fault or an SIP alarm at the FIPfor SIPs with no more than 10 alarm zones or 250 devices

(d) SIPs with more than 10 alarm zones or 250 devices shall be interconnected using twoseparate cable paths These cable paths shall be individually and suitably protectedagainst mechanical damage in accordance with AS 3013, the category being specified

a signal path fault at the FIP and the SIP

(f) Only one SIP shall be connected to each set of signal paths Multiple SIPs mountedadjacent to each other shall be considered as one SIP for the purpose of thisrequirement

The connection between the FIP and the SIP may be as shown in Figure 3.1(a) and (b)

FIGURE 3.1 CLASS 1 SYSTEMS A1

3.3.4 Class 2 systems

The following applies to the signal path or signal paths between the FIP and the SIP:

(a) Any signal path fault shall indicate as a signal path fault at the FIP

(b) SIPs on a common path totalling more than 10 alarm zones or 250 devices shall beinterconnected using two separate cable paths These cable paths shall be individuallyand suitably protected against mechanical damage in accordance with AS 3013, thecategory being specified in Appendix C

NOTE: Separation of cable paths should be that which is sufficient to protect the separate cables from the anticipated mechanical damage in a likely single incident.

(c) A fault on any of the signal paths from SIPs with more than 10 alarm zones or

250 devices shall not prevent the transmission of an alarm and shall also indicate as asignal path fault at the SIP

(d) Only one SIP shall be connected to a single signal path Multiple SIPs mounteddirectly adjacent to each other with a combined total not exceeding 10 alarm zones or

250 devices shall be considered as one SIP

The connection between the FIP and the SIP may be as shown in Figure 3.2(a) and (b)

3.3.5 Class 3 systems

The following applies to the signal path or signal paths between the FIP and RCE:

(a) Any signal path fault, or remotely supplied power supply fault, shall indicate as asignal path or power supply fault respectively, at the FIP

(b) RCEs on a common path totalling more than 10 alarm zones or 250 devices shall beinterconnected using two separate cable paths These cable paths shall be individuallyand suitably protected against mechanical damage in accordance with AS 3013, thecategory being specified in Appendix C

NOTE: Separation of cable paths should be that which is sufficient to protect the separate cables from the anticipated mechanical damage in a likely single incident.

(c) A single open circuit on any of the signal paths or remotely supplied power supplylines for RCEs, shall not prevent the transmission of an alarm from more than onealarm zone

(d) A single short circuit on any of the signal paths, or remotely supplied power supplylines for RCEs, shall not prevent the transmission of an alarm from more than

10 alarm zones or 250 devices

The connection between the FIP and the RCE may be as shown in Figure 3.3(a), (b) and (c)

3.3.6 Signal path fault indication

Where required by Clauses 3.3.3, 3.3.4 and 3.3.5, a fault in the FIP to SIP signal path shall

be indicated by a dedicated yellow/amber LED suitably labelled, or by the common faultLED, provided the nature of the fault can be determined by other means, such as from analphanumeric display The fault shall also indicate audibly as per AS 1603.4 Facilities tosilence or isolate the fault sounder shall be provided A fault in the signal path shallindicate within 60 s of such a fault occurring

3.3.7 Signal path protection

Where the signal path is not duplicated or is not routed via separate fire-rated paths, thesignalling cables shall have a rating of not less than WS5XW in accordance with AS 3013

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Mechanical protection where required shall comply with Appendix C Where installedunderground the signal path shall also comply with the requirements for category B systemsunderground wiring (see AS 3000).

Where two separate paths are used and a single short circuit does not affect the alarm signalfrom any zone or device, mechanical protection shall only be required where cables may besubject to impact from equipment, vehicles or ladders, in the course of normal buildingoperation and maintenance Hence cabling in false ceiling, roof spaces and the like will notrequire mechanical protection to WSX2

3.4 INTERMIXING OF ACTUATING DEVICES

Intermixing of the various devices on one alarm zone circuit is permitted, provided that thedevices are suitably rated for the system voltages and are compatible

FIGURE 3.2 CLASS 2 SYSTEMS

FIGURE 3.3 CLASS 3 SYSTEMS A1

S E C T I O N 4 L O C A T I O N O F D E T E C T O R S

4.1 GENERAL

Detectors shall be located throughout all areas Smoke detectors shall be installed in allsleeping areas and egress paths serving sleeping areas, where no fixed cooking facilities areinstalled The following considerations shall apply in determining the location of detectors

to be installed:

(a) Where an area is divided into sections by walls, partitions, or storage racks, reachingwithin 300 mm of the ceiling (or the soffits of the joists where there is no ceiling),each section shall be treated as a room, and shall be protected

(b) A clear space of at least 300 mm radius, to a depth of 600 mm, shall be maintainedfrom the detector or sampling point

(c) Detectors shall be mounted such that their indicators are visible from the path ofnormal entry to the area they protect

NOTE: Additional protection may be required where any special structural features or conditions exist (see Appendix B).

4.2 SPECIFIC LOCATIONS

4.2.1 Accessible service tunnels

Accessible service tunnels, not fire-isolated, which provide communication betweenbuildings or sections thereof shall be protected (see Clause 4.2.8)

Detectors shall be provided in the following locations within air-handling systems:

(a) Return-air system Buildings with a return air-handling system serving more than one

room shall have at least one smoke detector to sample air from each return airopening for each storey in the building

NOTE: Where return air smoke detectors are installed to comply with AS 1668.1 and they meet the requirements of this Standard, then those detectors may be used to satisfy this requirement.

(b) Supply-air ducts Air-handling plant supplying air to more than one storey within the

building shall have a smoke detector installed as close as practicable to the plant todetect smoke downstream of the supply air fan

NOTE: Where supply-air smoke detectors are installed to comply with AS 1668.1 they may

be considered to satisfy this requirement It is recommended that where AS 1668.1 does not apply, the operation of any detector associated with the air-handling systems within the building should shut-down the air-handling equipment to prevent the spread of smoke throughout the building.

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(c) Exhaust ducts Ducts that are used for exhausting cooking fumes, flammable

vapours, lint material and the like shall have at least one detector at the furthestpracticable downstream point of the duct

NOTE: Detectors for this application should be carefully selected to suit the environment so that spurious alarms are minimized A fully sealed heat detector would normally be used.

4.2.3 Concealed spaces

4.2.3.1 General

Protection shall be provided in all concealed spaces, except those areas specified inClause 4.3 Access for maintenance of detectors in concealed spaces shall be provided.Where personnel entry to the concealed space is required the access dimensions shall be notless than 450 mm × 350 mm

For the purpose of this Standard, electrical wiring installed in accordance with AS 3000,and any enclosures of light fittings not deemed combustible which protrude into a falseceiling, are not regarded as electrical equipment

NOTE: The detector used in the protection of the equipment in concealed spaces does not necessarily constitute protection of the concealed space.

4.2.3.3 Remote indicators

Detectors installed in concealed spaces shall have remote indicators located in a positionclearly visible from the occupied area and close to or clearly indicating the location of thedetector Remote indicators are not required where the concealed space is readily accessibleand—

(a) has a height exceeding 2 m;

(b) is beneath removable flooring (such as computer flooring); or

(c) the detector’s location is indicated at the CIE

Where detectors are mounted under removable flooring such as computer rooms, a labelshall be affixed to the ceiling or ceiling grid immediately above the detector indicating thelocation of the detector below

extra-NOTE: For electrical cubicles not requiring protection, see Clause 4.3.

4.2.5 External walls

Where the external walls of protected buildings are clad with combustible material theyshall be protected The spacing of detectors shall be in accordance with the corridor spacingspecified in Clause 5.2.1 Detectors shall be located under the eaves or at the roof level

NOTE: Heat detectors mounted under the eaves would normally be used for the protection of external walls Where eaves are not available to mount the detectors, line-type detectors should be used at the top of the wall.

4.2.6 Intermediate horizontal surfaces

Protection shall be provided under intermediate horizontal surfaces such as ducts, loadingplatforms, and storage racks in excess of 3.5 m in width and whose undersurface is inexcess of 800 mm above the floor

Where the distance from the underside of the intermediate surface to the ceiling is less than

800 mm, the underside of the intermediate surface may be considered as the ceiling

If the side of the duct or structure is in excess of 800 mm from the wall or other ducts orstructures, detectors shall be provided at the highest accessible point on the ceiling

Where a concealed space is formed above or below the intermediate surface, such as ductsabove false ceilings in corridors, Clause 4.3 applies

4.2.7 Monitor, sawtooth, or gable ceilings or roofs

Where a structure has a monitor ceiling or roof, a sawtooth ceiling or roof, or a gableceiling or roof, a row of detectors shall be installed between 0.5 m and 1.5 m from the apexmeasured horizontally (see spacing requirements and typical detector locations inSections 5, 6, and 7)

4.2.8 Near doors

Where a door is permitted to be held open, and separates a protected area from anunprotected area, a detector shall be placed inside the protected area not more than 1.5 mfrom the door, see Clause 8.10

NOTE: Additional detectors may be required for the control of automatic door closures.

4.2.9 Open grid (or egg crate) ceilings

Detectors may be omitted from the underside of open grid portions of the ceiling whichhave not less than two-thirds of the ceiling area open to the free flow of air and havedetectors installed on the ceiling above the open grid

Where any solid portion of the ceiling has a dimension in excess of 2 m and has an area inexcess of 5 m2, normal protection shall be provided on the underside of the solid portion ofthe open grid ceiling

Where flame detectors are used they shall be installed both above and below the open gridceiling The space above the open grid ceiling shall be protected, if required by thisStandard

4.2.10 Restricted access

Where detectors are installed in areas to which fire brigade access is restricted, each areashall be a separate alarm zone, or have a suitably labelled remote indicator installed outsidethe entry to the area

NOTE: Examples of restricted access may include, vaults, strongrooms, lift motor rooms, lift shafts, locked cool rooms, freezers and high voltage switch rooms.

4.2.11 Sole occupancy units

Sole occupancy units consisting of one main room and water closet/shower/bathroom, with

a bounding FRL minimum of 60/60/60 may be protected by one detector located in the mainroom provided that the total area of the whole unit is less than 46 m2 The watercloset/shower/bathroom and the ceiling space containing a fan coil unit need not beprotected

Detector(s) installed in each sole occupancy unit room shall be connected to a separatealarm zone facility Common alarm zone facilities may be used, provided that a clearlylabelled separate remote indicator is provided in the common access area outside each soleoccupancy unit

NOTE: The location of the detector should take into account airflows and airstream.

4.2.12 Stairways

Non-fire isolated stairways shall be protected at each floor level within the stairway

4.2.13 Vertical shafts and openings

Vertical risers, lift shafts, and similar openings between storeys, which exceed 0.1 m2 inarea, shall be protected within the riser at the top and as follows:

(a) Where vertical shafts penetrate any storey and are not fire-isolated, a detector shall belocated on the ceiling of each storey not more than 1.5 m horizontally distant fromwhere the vertical shaft penetrates the storey above

(b) Any ceiling which contains openings exceeding 9 m2 and permitting free travel of firebetween storeys shall have detectors located within 1.5 m of the edge of the opening,and spaced not more than 7.2 m apart around the perimeter of the opening Suchdetectors may be regarded as part of the general protection for the area below theopening If the opening is less than 0.5 m from a wall no detectors are requiredbetween the wall and the opening

4.2.14 Walkways

Enclosed covered walkways, irrespective of the type of construction, shall have a detector

in the covered way within 1.5 m of the adjoining protected area, except where the totalcovered way is, itself, protected in accordance with this Standard A covered walkway shall

be considered as enclosed if 90% of wall area above the height of the doorway into theprotected building is enclosed within 3 m of the building

4.3 LOCATIONS WHERE PROTECTION IS NOT REQUIRED

Notwithstanding the foregoing requirements, detectors are not required in the followinglocations:

(a) Air locks Air locks, opening on both sides into protected areas, provided that they do

not contain electrical equipment, are not used for the storage of goods or for access tocupboards and are not used as washrooms

(b) Concealed spaces Concealed spaces as follows (see Clause 4.2.3):

(i) Concealed spaces other than between intermediate floors, which are less than

800 mm high, do not contain electrical lighting and power equipment and arenot used for storage

(ii) Concealed spaces between intermediate floors having a fire-resistance level ofnot less than 120/60/30 and the ceiling below, which are less than 800 mm highand which do not contain electrical lighting and power equipment

(iii) Concealed spaces to which there is no access and which are fire-isolated with aminimum fire-resistance level 60/30/15.

(iv) Concealed spaces to which there is no access and which are less than 350 mmhigh, irrespective of construction

(v) Concealed spaces which are less than 2.8 m3, do not contain electrical lightingand power and are not used for storage

(c) Covered ways Verandas, balconies, colonnades, open-sided covered walkways

(except as required by Clause 4.2.14), overhanging roof areas, and the likeconstructed of non-combustible material and not used for the storage of goods or as acar park

(d) Cupboards containing water heaters If a cupboard, opening off a protected area is

solely for the use of a water heater and does not exceed 2 m3 in volume, protection isnot required

(e) Exhaust ducts In ducts exhausting from toilets, or rooms containing single ironing

and laundry facilities

(f) Fire suppression system Any area protected by an approved automatic firesuppression system (applies to heat detectors only)

(g) Sanitary spaces Any water closet or shower-recess or bathroom, with a floor area of

less than 3.5 m2 and opening off a protected area

(h) Skylights Skylights as follows:

(i) With an opening on the ceiling of less than 0.5 m2 and not used for ventilation.(ii) Installed in areas not requiring detection (such as sanitary spaces)

(iii) That have less than 4.0 m2 area, have a recess height of not more than 800 mmand are not used for ventilation

(iv) With an opening on the ceiling of less than 0.15 m2.(i) Switchboards Any non-recessed or freestanding switchboard or switchboard cubicle

protected by the normal protection of the area in which it is contained

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S E C T I O N 5 H E A T D E T E C T I O N S Y S T E M S

5.1 GENERAL

Each detector shall be installed so that no part of the sensing element is less than 15 mm ormore than 100 mm below the ceiling or roof Where roof purlins inhibit the free flow ofheat to the detector, the detector may be installed on the purlin provided that the sensingelement is not further than 350 mm from the roof (See Section 3 for the maximum number

of detectors per alarm zone facility and alarm zone limitations.)

The maximum spacing and location of detectors shall comply with the requirements ofClause 5.2 (see Figures 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3 for detector locations)

Detectors shall be installed in the highest point of the ceiling (see Figure 5.2); however,where the ceiling is constructed with beams or joists or a step less than 300 mm deep, thedetector may be installed on the underside of the beam or joist

Heat detectors, beneath roofs and ceilings subject to solar radiation, shall be installed withthe sensing element between 180 mm and 350 mm vertically below the roof or ceiling

NOTE: The type of detector for use in various locations is described in Appendix B.

5.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS

5.2.1 Spacing between detectors for level surfaces

For level surfaces, excluding corridors, detectors shall be arranged so that the distance fromany point on the ceiling of the protected area to the nearest detector does not exceed 5.1 m(see Figure 5.1(a)) In addition, the distance between any detector and the nearest detector

to it shall not exceed 7.2 m

For corridors, the distance between detectors shall not be more than 10.2 m(see Figure 5.1(b))

5.2.2 Spacing between detector for sloping surfaces

The spacing between heat detectors for sloping surfaces in the longitudinal direction fromthe heat detectors near the apex shall not exceed 7.2 m The lower rows of heat detectorsshall be spaced not greater than 7.2 m measured horizontally from adjacent rows, theoutside wall or partition The spacing between heat detectors in a longitudinal direction mayextend to 14.4 m in the lower rows, where the slope of the ceiling is ≥ 1 in 10 (seeFigure 5.2)

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 5.1 (in part) TYPICAL DETECTOR SPACING—LEVEL SURFACES

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 5.1 (in part) TYPICAL HEAT DETECTOR SPACING—LEVEL SURFACES

5.2.3 Spacing in concealed spaces requiring protection

Concealed spaces for which protection is required under Clause 4.2.3 shall be protected inaccordance with Clauses 5.2.1 to 5.2.5, subject to the following exceptions:

(a) Concealed spaces with level upper surfaces in excess of 2 m high shall have detectorsspaced in accordance with Clauses 5.2.1 and 5.2.4

(b) For concealed spaces with level upper surfaces less than 2 m high and havingdownward projections, such as beams and ducts not exceeding 300 mm from theupper surface of the space, the spacing between detectors shall not exceed 10 m, andthe distance between any wall or partition to the nearest detector shall not exceed

of the space, is 800 mm The spacing between detectors in a longitudinal directionmay be extended to 14.4 m in the lower rows The distances between intermediaterows parallel to the apex shall not exceed 7.2 m The longitudinal spaces between thedetectors on the lower rows shall be arranged so that the detectors are spaced equallybetween the detectors on the adjacent rows (See Figure 5.2.)

5.2.4 Spacing from walls, partitions, or air supply openings

The distance from the nearest row of detectors to any wall or partition shall not exceed3.6 m, or be less than 300 mm (see Figure 5.1(a)) For corridors, the distance between theend wall and the nearest detector shall not exceed 5 m (see Figure 5.1(b))

Detectors shall not be installed closer than 400 mm to any air supply opening

5.2.5 Reduced spacing

For all types of heat detector, closer spacing may be required to take account of specialstructural characteristics of the protected area In particular, the following requirementsshall be observed:

(a) Where the ceiling of the protected area is segmented by beams, joists, or ducts, andthe vertical depth of such members is greater than 300 mm, spacing between detectorsshall be reduced by 30% in the direction perpendicular to the direction ofsegmentation

(b) The maximum coverage of a Type E detector shall be 9 m2

5.3 LINE-TYPE SYSTEMS—TUBULAR OR CABLE

Installations of line-type detectors shall comply with the appropriate requirements ofClauses 5.2.1 to 5.2.5, and with the following requirements:

(a) The maximum length for each line detection circuit shall be in accordance with thearea limitation specified in Section 3

The line detection circuit activating devices associated with the tube or cable shall notexceed the area specified in Clause 3.1 for each alarm zone facility

(b) The bore of the tubing shall be not less than 1.5 mm, and the thickness of the wallshall be not less than 0.3 mm

(c) All line detection circuits shall be installed so that they are not subject to mechanicaldamage

The heat-sensing portion of the line-type detection circuit shall not be installed inmore than one alarm zone unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent incorrectalarm zone identification

(d) Line detection circuits shall be disposed throughout the protected area so that there isnot more than 7.2 m between any two adjacent lines and within 3.6 m of any wall orpartition In the roof bays, there shall be a line detection circuit for each apex, eventhough these apices may be less than 7.2 m apart (see Appendix B, Paragraph B2)

Where the line-type detector is made up of a number of individual single elements, eachelement should be considered as a point-type detector for spacing purposes

1 Alternate rows offset.

2 Lowest row measurement taken from 800 mm height, applies to concealed spaces only.

3 Apex detectors should comply with Clause 4.2.7 and Figure 5.3.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 5.2 TYPICAL HEAT DETECTOR LOCATIONS FOR SLOPING SURFACES

NOTE: Detector always on side with least slope.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 5.3 (in part) TYPICAL DESIGN CRITERIA FOR POINT-TYPE AND

LINE-TYPE DETECTORS A1

NOTE: Infra-red scans of a building have shown heat pockets at spaces of roof structures due to solar radiation Therefore, to obtain effective fire detection, the detectors should be located below these pockets.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 5.3 (in part) TYPICAL DESIGN CRITERIA FOR POINT-TYPE AND

LINE-TYPE DETECTORS A1

S E C T I O N 6 S M O K E D E T E C T I O N S Y S T E M S

6.1 GENERAL

The location of detectors shall be to the best advantage for detecting a fire Where theceiling or roof height is more than 20 m from the floor, the detector location shall be based

on engineering considerations of the fire plume within the building environment

6.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS

6.2.1 General

The opening to the sensing element for ceiling-mounted point-type detectors shall be notless than 25 mm and normally not more than 600 mm below the ceiling or roof Where thedetector mounting height is over 4 m and less than 20 m from the floor, see Figure 6.5 forminimum distance below the ceiling line

For the purpose of this Standard, CO point type fire detectors, complying with therequirements of AS 1603.2, shall be installed in accordance with the requirements for pointtype smoke detectors (see also Appendix B)

NOTE: See Appendix B for guidance for the selection of smoke detectors.

Beam type smoke detectors shall be mounted not less than 300 mm and not more than

600 mm below the ceiling or roof Additional beam type detectors may be installed invertical shafts, e.g atria, at lower levels

NOTE: Where high temperatures are experienced close to ceilings and roofs, such as unlined roofs, it may be necessary to extend the location of the detector down below the ceiling to obtain the earliest response The lower limit of the mounting position of the detector may be changed to suit the individual application as determined by smoke tests Care should be taken to ensure that beam receiver units are not exposed to strong light, especially direct sunlight.

Other Standards or Codes may mandate the use of specific types of smoke detectors for specific application Direct substitution of another type may not be permitted.

The maximum spacing and location of detectors shall comply with the requirements ofClauses 6.2.2 to 6.2.7 and Figures 6.4 to 6.6

NOTE: The type of detector for use in various locations is described in Appendix B.

6.2.2 Spacing between detectors for level surfaces

For level surfaces, detectors shall be arranged so that the distance from any point on thelevel surface of the protected area to the nearest detector does not exceed 7.2 m, (seeFigures 6.1(a) and (b)) In addition, the distance between any detector and the nearestdetector to it shall not exceed 10.2 m

For beam type detectors, the distance shall not exceed 14.0 m

Aspirated systems shall be so arranged that sampling points have the same spacings asrequired for point-type detectors

6.2.3 Spacing between detectors for sloping surfaces

The spacing between smoke detectors for sloping surfaces in the longitudinal direction fromthe smoke detectors near the apex shall not exceed 10.2 m The lower rows of smokedetectors shall be spaced not more than 10.2 m measured horizontally from adjacent rows,from the outside wall or partition The spacing between the smoke detector in a longitudinaldirection may extend to 20.4 m in the lower rows where the slope of the ceiling is ≥ 1 in 10(see Figure 6.2)

6.2.4 Spacing in concealed spaces requiring protection

Concealed spaces for which protection is required under Clause 4.2.3 shall be protected inaccordance with Clauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5, subject to the following:

(a) Concealed spaces with level upper surfaces in excess of 2 m high shall have detectorsspaced in accordance with Clauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5

(b) For concealed spaces with level upper surfaces less than 2 m high and havingdownward projections, such as beams and ducts not exceeding 300 mm from theupper surface of the space, the spacing between detectors shall not exceed 15 m, andthe distance between any wall or partition to the nearest detector shall not exceed10.2 m

Where downward projections exceed 300 mm, the spacing of detectors shall be inaccordance with Clause 6.2.7

(c) For concealed spaces with apices, the spacing between detectors in the longitudinaldirection at the apex shall not exceed 10.2 m In a sloping roof, the lower row ofdetectors shall be located at a maximum of 10.2 m measured horizontally towards theapex from a position where the vertical height between the upper and lower surfaces

of the space, is 800 mm The spacing between detectors in a longitudinal directionmay be extended to 20.4 m in the lower rows The longitudinal spaces betweendetectors on the lower rows shall be arranged so that the detectors are spaced equallybetween the detectors on the adjacent rows (See Figure 6.2.)

6.2.5 Spacing from walls, partitions, or air supply openings

The distance from the nearest row of detectors to any wall or partition shall not exceed5.1 m or be less than 300 mm (see Figure 6.1(a)) For corridors, the distance between theend wall and the nearest detector shall not exceed 5.1 m (see Figure 6.1(b))

Detectors shall not be installed closer than 400 mm to any air-supply opening

Where ceiling fans are installed smoke detectors shall not be installed within 400 mm of theblades of the fan

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 6.1 TYPICAL SMOKE DETECTOR SPACING—FOR LEVEL SURFACES

6.2.6 Areas of high airflows

For computer rooms or similar applications where the number of air changes exceeds 15 perhour, the spacing between detectors shall be not more than 7.2 m or more than 3.6 m fromwalls and partitions

NOTE: Special engineering consideration is required for areas where air velocities are 3 m/s.

6.2.7 Spacing where additional protection is required

Where roofs or level surfaces are compartmented by structural features which could havethe effect of restricting the free flow of smoke, the detectors shall be located so that earlydetection is ensured, subject (for point-type detectors) to the following (see Figure 6.6):

(a) For areas with ceiling height not exceeding 4 m and deep beam depth not exceeding

300 mm (see Area 1, Figure 6.6), the spacing of detectors shall be in accordance withClauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5

(b) For areas with ceiling height not exceeding 2 m and deep beam depth exceeding

300 mm (see Area 2, Figure 6.6), the spacing of detectors shall be in accordance withClauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5

(c) For areas with ceiling height greater than 2 m and not exceeding 4 m, deep beamdepth exceeding 300 mm (see Area 3, Figure 6.6), and the interbeam area less than

4 m2, detectors shall be mounted on the underside of the beams and spaced inaccordance with Clause 6.2.6

(d) For areas such as Item (c) above, where the interbeam area is equal to or greater than

4 m2, at least one detector shall be placed in each interbeam area, and the spacingshall be in accordance with Clauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5

(e) For areas with ceiling heights equal to or greater than 4 m and deep beam depthexceeding 100 mm (see Area 4, Figure 6.6), detectors shall be mounted on theunderside of the beams and spaced in accordance with Clauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5

NOTE: Where airflow reduces the response of the detector located in these areas, the detectors should be relocated in a more favourable position Notwithstanding, the spacing requirements of Clause 6.2.7 should not be exceeded.

6.3 MULTIPOINT ASPIRATED SMOKE DETECTORS

6.3.2 System design

The design (size and airflow) of air-sampling pipes shall ensure that the system has asensitivity equal to or greater than normal sensitivity point-type smoke detectors coveringthe same area

The air-sampling network design shall be such that the amount of airflow drawn from thepenultimate sampling point is at least 50% of that drawn from the sampling point nearestthe detector

NOTE: Manufacturer’s design calculations showing the sampling network design according to the above criteria, may be provided as a means of indicating compliance.

The sensitivity required in this Clause shall be the static sensitivity as determined by thedesign tool specified in AS 1603.8

The system shall respond within 90 s from smoke entering the least favourable samplingpoint

The system shall comply with the following:

(a) The system shall be designed to ensure dust particles of 30 microns or more do notadversely affect system performance

NOTE: Certain environmental conditions or applications may warrant this value to be adjusted.

(b) The installation and alignment of any part of the system shall be such that it can beeasily maintained and the sampling point orientation does not jeopardize the longterm reliability and performance of the system

(c) The power supply for an aspirated smoke detector system (including air pumps,sensing heads, indicators and similar) shall comply with the relevant parts of

(d) Each sampling point shall have an orifice sized to facilitate the correct operation ofthe system in accordance with the system design data.

The spacing of sampling points shall not exceed the spacing requirements of singlepoint-type smoke detectors given in Clauses 6.2.2 to 6.2.7

Each single compartment or room in excess of 46 m2 shall have a minimum of twosampling points

(e) Sampling points shall not be painted or coated with any substance that will reduce thesize of the opening Sampling points shall be deburred internally

(f) The location of the sampling point shall be marked in a contrasting colour

(g) Where non-metallic conduit is used for sampling systems and capillary tubes, it shallcomply with the following:

(i) Where subject to damage, it shall be of a type which has a mechanical strengthequivalent to heavy-duty PVC conduit complying with AS 2053

(ii) Where not subject to damage, it shall be of a type which has a mechanicalstrength equivalent to light-duty PVC conduit complying with AS 2053

(iii) It shall be installed in accordance with AS 3000

(iv) The joints shall be airtight and permanently bonded

(h) All sampling pipes shall be coloured red, or have visible red markers at least 2 mmwide, longitudinally along the pipe length The sampling pipes shall be marked with aword or words at intervals not exceeding 1 m, which describes the purpose such as

‘FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM—DO NOT PAINT’, in letters not less than 5 mm inheight

(j) Capillary tubes used to branch from the main sampling pipe shall be fixed at bothends so that the joints have a withdrawal force of not less than 100 N

Capillary tubes shall not restrict the airflow by changes of direction or reduction incross-sectional area Non-metallic capillary tubes shall comply with AS 1159

(k) Where the system piping is concealed, the air-sampling points attached to thecapillary tubes shall be clearly identifiable by a labelled plate of not less than

1900 mm2, with the words ‘FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM—DO NOT PAINT’, in lettersnot less than 3 mm high

(l) Sampling points for room protection shall be not more than 300 mm or less than

25 mm from the ceiling

NOTE: The lower limit of the mounting position of the sampling point may be changed to suit individual applications as determined by smoke tests.

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1 Alternate rows offset.

2 Lowest row measurement taken from 800 mm height applies to concealed spaces only.

3 Apex detectors should comply with Clause 4.2.7 together with Figure 6.4.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 6.2 TYPICAL POINT-TYPE AND SAMPLING SYSTEMS SMOKE

DETECTOR LOCATIONS FOR SLOPING SURFACES

NOTE: Lowest row measurement taken from 800 mm height applies to concealed spaces only.

NOTE: Detector always on side with least slope.

1 X = 10 200 for point and sampling tube type detectors

X = 14 000 for beam type detectors

Y = distance in accordance with Figure 6.5.

2 Infra-red scans of a building have shown heat pockets at apices of roof structures due to solar radiation Therefore, to obtain effective fire detection, the detectors should be located below these pockets.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 6.4 (in part) TYPICAL SMOKE DETECTOR (POINT-TYPE, BEAM TYPE AND SAMPLING SYSTEMS) LOCATIONS AT APEX OF CEILING, ROOF OR SURFACE A1

NOTE: Fire aerosols are transported by means of warm air from the fire source and their vertical progress is impeded when the temperature of the smoke equals that of the surrounding air; therefore, for high ceilings a larger fire source is necessary to transport the smoke to the detector For this reason, it is necessary for smoke detectors to

be installed below the warm air pockets at roof levels as indicated by the graph.

FIGURE 6.5 SMOKE DETECTOR LOCATIONS

FIGURE 6.6 DESIGN CRITERIA FOR POINT-TYPE DETECTORS AND SAMPLING SYSTEMS IN STRUCTURES WITH DEEP BEAMS

S E C T I O N 7 F L A M E D E T E C T I O N S Y S T E M S

7.1 GENERAL

The operating principles of flame detectors (infra-red or ultraviolet) need to be understood

to enable the correct selection and location of a particular device to suit the risk and thelevel of protection required Particular attention shall be given to the manufacturer’sinstallation instructions for the type of detector selected

NOTE: The type of detector for use in various locations is described in Appendix B.

7.2 SPACING AND LOCATION OF DETECTORS

Flame detectors shall be located so that their field of view is not blocked by structuralmembers of buildings or other objects, and so that they can be easily reached formaintenance, particularly the cleaning of lenses Flame detectors shall not be located nearbright lights nor behind glass or other transparent panels which prevent the transmission ofradiation from flames

Detectors shall be spaced to ensure that the risk areas are protected with a minimum ofshadowing or blind spots Where significant unprotected areas exist because of the presence

of objects such as aircraft or equipment high-pile storage racks, additional detectors tocover these areas shall be installed (see Paragraph B5.4 and Figures B1 to B3 ofAppendix B)

7.5 PROTECTION FROM WEATHER

Detectors mounted out of doors shall be housed in weatherproof enclosures of resistant material They shall be fixed and supported so that they are not liable to movementbecause of wind or other causes

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