September 9, 2013 – A new ISO (International Standards Organization) standard on the design and installation of fire detection and alarm systems aims to help save lives and protect property and the environment.

The purpose of these systems is to detect a fire in or outside a structure as early as possible. ISO says that, in the past, equipment performance has often been hampered by poor system design and installation, as well as inadequate maintenance.

So, to work well, a fire detection and alarm system must be installed and maintained correctly by experienced personnel. Hence, ISO 7240-14 (2013) “Fire detection and alarm systems – Part 14: Design, installation, commissioning and service of fire detection and fire alarm systems in and around buildings”.

“Part 14 is the missing part of the jigsaw puzzle. For the first time, we have a series of standards dealing with both the equipment and its configuration and installation,” said Peter Parsons, chairman of ISO technical committee ISO/TC 21, subcommittee SC 3, which developed the standard. “This will help ensure that fire detection and alarm systems give building occupants early warning of fire.”

Parsons added it is “great to be able to bring together the various fire detection and alarm system standards into one system design and installation standard”.

The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) adds this new standard highlights the importance of installation by skilled personnel, maintenance, and suitable material quality.

— With files from Sandrine Tranchard, ISO