Fire Alarm Testing

[carl9254]

Done alot of work at a local factory, and they have asked me if i can just service there fire alarm system. They just have detectors, sounders and the break glass spread about. But i have never serviced a fire alarm system before, is this difficult to do??

Thank you.

 

[Darkwood]

This can be a simple procedure, testing all points, checking all bells/sounders operate as well as sound level checks in each area -changing any batteries in excess of 4yrs this would be for a standard 24v system, checking log books and routine tests have be done by assigned safety/fire test person etc etc, or it can be alot more complicated with addressable systems with data logging, printout, programmable options etc (usually specialist companies do the service testing on these, i usually get GENT out to do yearly service at local schools as its there system installed, either way a report needs to be filled out and issued, and from your question i'd say you really need to swat up on requirements etc for fire alarms in different environments as your service report will also need to point out any issues with how its installed.
A background of fitting and wiring fire alarm to regulations is a minimum in my mind so you know what you are looking for while testing and what improvements may need to be made.
Remember this is a safety system and if you ok it and then someone is injured or dies due to existing system having flaws that you should have made client aware of then the blame will be in your hands.

 

[UNG]

For testing of heat and smoke detectors you will need specialist equipment like this Smoke, Heat and CO Detector Testing - No Climb Products Ltd  and it isn't normally cheap

 

[Engineer54]

Done alot of work at a local factory, and they have asked me if i can just service there fire alarm system. They just have detectors, sounders and the break glass spread about. But i have never serviced a fire alarm system before, is this difficult to do??

Thank you.

There is a recognised procedure for testing fire alarm systems, there not difficult, but a definite sequence is required to go through a system correctly!! The fire alarm panel may well have volt free contacts to shut down AC systems, or other plant on initiation of an alarm.

As i say not rocket science by any stretch of the imagination, but you WILL need to gen yourself up on all the requirements that a particular fire alarm system will need to be tested for. You will also need a recognised or manufactures test procedure and report sheets....

As others have stated you will also require the appropriate test equipment, including kit that can measure the sounders db levels, along with heat and smoke testing equipment. And No, ...a heat gun and a smoke won't cut it these day's ...lol!!