7. Smoke Detectors In The Home

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planning@worthing.gov.uk

Technical Guidance Note 7: Smoke Detectors In The Home

 Introduction

The danger of fire should not be underestimated.  The annual statistics show that approximately 60,000 fires occur in the home.  Fatalities amount to approximately 700 people, with 7000 others being injured every year.  The majority of these deaths and injuries may have been prevented if escape had been possible before it was too late.Where Should I Fit The Smoke Detectors?The Building Regulations 2000 Approved Document B1 and British Standard 5588: Part 1: 1990 Fire Precautions in the Design Construction and use of Buildings (Code of Practice for Residential Buildings) details the requirements for smoke alarms in the new dwellings.

In dwellings, smoke detection should be provided at each storey level.  Inter-linked detectors in all risk rooms can provide even better protection.  The kitchen can be provided with a heat detector, and smoke detectors sited elsewhere within 3 metres of bedroom doors.

You can fit a smoke detector in any room.  It is advisable however, not to install smoke detectors in Kitchens, Bathrooms or Garages, as steam or fumes may trigger a false alarm.  In the case of kitchens and garages a heat detector may be fitted.

Types of Detector

There are two main types of smoke detector, Ionisation (sensitive to hot "thin" smoke) and Optical (sensitive to a "thicker" smoke).  Optical smoke detectors are more suitable for the home.

Both types of detector can be powered by batteries or from the main electrical supply, with the option of a standby battery back-up.  A higher integrity and reliability is found when powered from the mains with a battery back-up contained within the detector.

Choosing A Smoke Detector

You should ensure the detector conforms to British Standard 5446: Part 1: 1990, and carries a British Standards Institution Kitemark.  If you require the warning facility of more than one detector, please ensure that they are inter-connectable.

The functioning of all alarms and detectors, together with their power sources should be checked periodically. A weekly check / test is recommended.  Batteries should be replaced when the "low level" sound is heard.

For further advice please contact Building Control's Fire Safety Officer, Tel: (01903) 221341.

For more general assistance, please don't hesitate to contact:
 
  Building Control Group
  Planning Section
  Portland House
  Richmond Road
  Worthing
  West Sussex
  BN11 lLF
 
  Tel: 01903 221344
 
  E-mail: building.control@worthing.gov.uk
 
  Minicom: 01903 204500
 
  Fax: 01903 207365
 
  Answerphone: 01903 214034

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