Fire alarm system


A fire alarm system (FAS) is a set of devices and components designed to detect and signal a fire in buildings. It aims to ensure the safety of people and property in the event of a fire by:

  • Early fire detection: Detecting a fire in its early stages is crucial for effective evacuation and fire suppression. FAS components like smoke detectors and heat detectors can identify these signs promptly.

  • Alerting occupants: Once a fire is detected, the FAS triggers alarms to notify occupants of the danger. This may include audible sirens, flashing lights, or voice messages.

  • Enabling safe evacuation: FAS plays a vital role in facilitating safe evacuation by providing clear guidance and exit routes. It can activate emergency lights, unlock doors, and control elevators to ensure a smooth and orderly evacuation process.

  • Activating fire suppression systems: In addition to alerting occupants, FAS can also activate fire suppression systems like sprinklers or water misting systems to extinguish or contain the fire.

Main Components of a Fire Alarm System:

  1. Fire Detectors: These devices sense various fire indicators, such as smoke, heat, flames, or combustion products, and send signals to the alarm control panel.

  2. Alarm Control Panel (ACP): The brain of the FAS, the ACP receives signals from fire detectors, processes them, and initiates the appropriate alarm response.

  3. Audible and Visual Alarm Devices: These devices, such as sirens, horns, strobe lights, and enunciators, alert occupants of a fire and provide direction during evacuation.

  4. Control Devices: These allow manual activation of the alarm system and provide control over various system functions, such as silencing alarms or initiating emergency procedures.

  5. Power Supply: The power supply ensures a continuous and reliable source of electricity for all system components to operate effectively.

Types of Fire Alarm Systems:

  1. Conventional Systems: These are simple and cost-effective systems suitable for small buildings. They divide the building into zones, but don't pinpoint the exact location of a fire.

  2. Addressable Systems: These advanced systems identify the precise location of a fire down to the zone or even the individual room. This facilitates targeted response and evacuation.

  3. Analog Systems: These systems offer more precise fire detection compared to conventional systems by measuring analog signals from fire detectors.

  4. Digital Systems: The most sophisticated type, digital FAS provide a range of advanced features, including integration with building management systems (BMS) and enhanced communication capabilities.