The BSI’s recent update of the domestic fire detection and alarm system standard, specifically Part 6 of BS 5839, outlines the code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic properties.
First launched in 1995, British Standard BS 5839-6 has long established itself as a key reference standard for specifiers, architects and fire safety personnel, outlining the specific systems that should be installed for the purpose of life safety and property protection.
Covering the implementation of fire precautions in domestic premises, including HMOs and sheltered housing, throughout both the dwelling units and common areas, the Standard is applicable to both new build and materially altered dwellings (in conjunction with regional building regulations) as well as existing properties.
The recommendations can be applied to the fire detection components of combined domestic fire and intruder alarm systems, or fire and social alarm systems.
New recommendations have been added for fire detection in supported housing in particular, whilst revised guidance on the installation of communal fire alarm systems in purpose-built blocks of flats has also been introduced. The Standard has also been updated to reflect the updates made to Part 1 in 2017, which addresses non-domestic premises, combined with any other updates made to other Standards since the last full revision.
Whilst BS 5839-6 has previously been split into six varying Grades, each outlining the level of protection appropriate for certain properties and their corresponding levels of risk, the new update has altered the six sections, removing Grade B and Grade E, whilst Grade D and Grade F have been split into Grade D1 / Grade D2 and Grade F1 / Grade F2 respectively. Grade C has been revised and its recommendations expanded.
The new grading system is as follows:
Separate detectors, sounders and central control and indicating equipment with back-up power supply that conforms to British Standards BS EN 54.
Separate detectors and sounders that are mains powered with back-up power supply and central control equipment.
A system of one or more mains powered detectors, each with a tamper‑proof standby supply consisting of a battery or batteries.
A system of one or more mains-powered detectors, each with an integral standby supply consisting of a user‑replaceable battery or batteries.
A system of one or more battery-powered detectors powered by a tamper‑proof primary battery or batteries
A system of one or more battery-powered detectors powered by a user‑replaceable primary battery or batteries.
Grades B and E are no longer defined in BS 5839-6:2019.
Professionals should adhere to the above grades when designing, constructing and managing fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic properties. They should also be aware of the revisions made to Table 1 of The Standard, which outlines the minimum grade and category of system that should be installed to provide protection of life in typical premises. The updates have been made to reflect current living conditions.
In conjunction with Table 1, a new table has also been created, which outlines the recommended testing and servicing by grade to prevent the blocking or delaying of fire alarm signals transmitted via social alarm systems in sheltered housing to an alarm receiving centre.
(as per BS 5839-6-:2019) :
With regard to categories, the standard of protection in sheltered housing flats has been increased from Category LD2 to Category LD1, positioning it as a higher potential risk. To meet LD1 requirements, the installation of a fire detection system is required throughout the premises - this includes all rooms (and circulation areas that form part of the escape routes) except toilets, bathrooms and shower rooms.
The three categories for fire detection and fire alarm systems are listed below and outline where fire detection systems should be installed:
Escape routes, high risk rooms plus all areas where a fire might start
Escape routes, high risk rooms plus all areas where a fire might start
Category LD1: The highest level of protection of all occupants who might occupy the dwelling over the lifetime of the fire detection and fire alarm system. A system installed throughout the premises, incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises, and in all rooms and areas, other than those with negligible sources of ignition, such as toilets, bathrooms and shower rooms.
• Hallway
• Landing
• Living Room
• Kitchen (Heat alarm)
• Bedroom
• Airing / Meter Cupboards
• Loft
• Garage
Escape routes plus high risk rooms
Escape routes plus high risk rooms
Category LD2: A system incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises, and in all specified rooms or areas that present a high fire risk to occupants, including any kitchen and the principal habitable room.
• Hallway
• Landing
• Living Room
• Kitchen (Heat alarm)
Escape routes only
Escape routes only
Category LD3: A system incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises.
• Hallway
• Landing
Note: This minimum category now only applies to owner occupied bungalow, flat, single-storey unit or maisonette with no floor level above 4.5m from ground level or owner-occupied two-storey house.