Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings - Code of practice for the design, installation and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in dwellings
This part of BS 5839 gives recommendations for the planning, design and installation of fire detection and fire alarm systems in dwellings and dwelling units that are designed to accommodate a single family, and in houses in multiple occupation that comprise a number of self-contained units each designed to accommodate a single family. The recommendations apply to both new dwellings and existing dwellings. Recommendations for routine attention are also given.
The systems covered in this part of BS 5839 range from those comprising a single self-contained smoke alarm to systems of the type described in BS 5839-1. The recommendations of this part of BS 5839 may also be applied to the fire detection components of combined domestic fire and intruder alarm systems or fire and social alarm systems.
This part of BS 5839 applies to forms of dwelling including bungalows, multi-storey houses, individual flats and maisonettes, mobile homes, sheltered houses, housing providing NHS supported living in the community (as defined in Health Technical Memorandum 88 [1]), mansions, and houses divided into several self-contained single-family dwelling units. It does not apply to hostels, caravans or boats (other than permanently moored boats used solely as residential premises), or to the communal parts of purpose-built sheltered housing and blocks of flats or maisonettes. It does not apply to any premises used for purposes other than as a dwelling (e.g. small shops, factories or similar premises used solely as places of work).
This part of BS 5839 is intended for use by architects and other building professionals, enforcing authorities, contractors and others responsible for implementing fire precautions in dwellings. It is not intended for occupiers, for whom advice is published by the Government. However, recommendations are given for simple systems that may be installed by non-specialists.
The recommendations refer principally to fire detection and fire alarm systems installed for the purpose of life safety. However, recommendations are given for systems that are also intended to protect property.
note:1) The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (in England and Wales), the Scottish Executive and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Northern Ireland).