NEW CODE OF FIRE DETECTION:
LIGHTS AND SHADOWS
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We try to avoid beating around the bush: the new Code of Fire Prevention is a big breath of fresh air (read the approach based on risk assessment), but for those involved in the detection and fire alarm (IRAI), isIt is intended to create many problems.
We share:
- The alternatives of paragraph G.2.6: good idea, because it confirms the opening of the road to international standards of project (not of the product!), Such as NFPA 72 or BS 5839. But what about the use of products or innovative technologies? The application of products that are not covered by harmonized standard is submitted to the designer, who should conduct a risk assessment supported by certifications relating to standards or test specifications. I do not know if the oxymoron is clear to readers, but it seems obvious that an innovative product, as such, does not have certificates. This formulation is substantially incorrect and inapplicable, also because it gives the practitioner a task that, except in rare cases, is not able to perform.
- The distinction between the attribution of performance level III and IV for IRAI is smoky. Certainly understandable (activities subject are many), but the benefit of an approach based on risk assessment – attribution of performance levels – choice of compliant solutions / alternatives could be spread more quantitative setting a boundary between these two levels. Especially as they fall, for example, almost all industrial activities.
- The relationship between the Code and EN 54-13 (of which we have written several times) resembles usual attempt to kick the ball for a corner. If in fact the EN 54-13 (standard system) are in fact mandatory for IRAI assets subject covered by the code (it’s a very relevant news!), Is not at all clear who is to perform the verification of compatibility and interconnection (problem 1) and that there is difference between plant and system (problem 2). I would not want to exaggerate, but without a circular application this subject there is a risk that most of the IRAI does not comply!
- The connection between the code and the standards EN 54 product still remains very problematic: I refer, in particular, to EN 54-21 and charting software, for which there are many doubts applications.
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The risk inherent in the application of the Code of fire detection is to transfer to the legislature (the National Body of Fire Brigades) the responsibility to fix the problems of Standardization (ie writer technical standards).
If the EN 54-13 is in fact applicable, it is for Standardization write a good standard, clear and easy to apply. If the transmission of alarm and fault monitoring stations manned not have products suitable for sending to remote stations, it is up to the manufacturers to equip and offer certified solutions; the solution can not certainly go for the waiver of this important function, especially for those organizations not constantly manned!
If it is not sufficiently clear that the graphics software do not have specific standard, we must roll up our sleeves to write it, or vice versa, you must declare them as accessories in a detection system and fire alarm.
Do not you think?
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