Behind the Standards: I.S. 3218 Certificates Explained
When it comes to Fire Detection & Alarm Systems, the terminology can sometimes be complex and technical.
To support those with responsibility for fire safety, we’ve compiled our top 30 terms every ‘person having control’ should know!
GENERAL TERMS:
Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS)
A system designed to detect fire and alert building occupants
Fire Alarm Control Panel/Fire Alarm Panel (FACP)/(FAP)
The central unit that monitors and controls the system.
Addressable System
A system where each device has a unique address for precise identification.
Conventional System
A system divided into zones; devices do not have unique addresses. Precise identification not available. Indication given as a general area of the building only.
Zone
A defined area covered by one or more devices in the system
Loop/Circuit
The wiring path that connects devices in an addressable system (Loop) OR in the case of a conventional system (Circuit).
DETECTION DEVICES:
Smoke Detector
Detects smoke as a sign of fire.
Photoelectric Smoke Detector
Detects larger smoke particles from smoldering fires.
Heat Detector
Senses temperature changes or a fixed temperature threshold.
Rate-of-Rise Heat Detector
Activates when the temperature rises rapidly.
Fixed Temperature Heat Detector
Activates when a preset temperature is reached.
Multi-Sensor Detector
Combines two or more detection methods, such as smoke and heat.
Beam Detector
Detects smoke across large open spaces using an infrared beam.
Flame Detector
Senses infrared or ultraviolet radiation from flames.
NOTIFICATION DEVICES:
Sounder
Emits a loud noise to alert occupants of a fire.
Strobe/Beacon
Visual warning device, often for hearing-impaired individuals.
Sounder Beacon
Combines a sounder and strobe.
Voice Alarm/Evacuation System
Delivers spoken evacuation messages.
Other Components:
Manual Call Point (MCP)/Break Glass Unit (BGU)
Allows individuals to manually trigger the alarm by breaking glass or pressing a button.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Provides power to the system or other related devices, including a backup battery.
Repeater Panel
Duplicates the main control panel’s display for remote monitoring.
Interface Module
Integrates external systems (e.g., sprinklers, access control, HVAC) with the fire alarm system.
Relay
Electrically operated switch used for interfacing or controlling devices.
COMPLIANCE & STANDARDS:
I.S. 3218 Irish Standard for Fire Detection & Alarm Systems – System Planning, Design, Installation, Commissioning, Servicing, and Maintenance
BS 5839 UK Standard for Fire Detection & Fire Alarm Systems for buildings -Design, installation, commissioning and Maintenance.
EN 54 European standard for fire detection and alarm systems.
UL Listed Devices certified to meet Underwriters Laboratories standards.
CE Marking Certification for compliance with European safety standards.
Got a question? We’re happy to help! Reach out at info@guardianfire.ie
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