AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION SYSTEMS

(version 2.0)

Many fires develop from a simple origin like an overheated motor, a smouldering cigarette or friction on a drive shaft. If detected in good time, such fires can easily be extinguished. However, fires often start outside working hours or in secluded areas, for instance in concealed roof spaces or in other areas where there is no permanent supervision. Discovery often takes place when the size and intensity of the fire is such that major damage is unavoidable. The aim of automatic fire detection systems is to detect fire at an early stage in order to ensure safe evacuation of people and reduce the fire damage to buildings, inventory and goods. Automatic fire detection can be a relatively cost-effective contribution to a companys risk control strategy. The installation of fire detection systems may be required by the local authorities or insurance companies. The loss reduction factor depends on the use of the protected area and the follow-up procedures. Also a correct design, installation, supervision and last but not least maintenance of the fire detection system are important (See also Insurance and Loss Prevention Bulletin, Issue 14; paragraph Managing Unwanted Alarms). In many cases fire detection systems do not have a loss reducing effect in areas with a high fire load, like warehouses in which combustible products are stored in combustible packaging materials. Fire will spread very rapidly in these buildings and consequently the time between the detection / alarm and intervention by the public fire brigade may be

Risk Control Handbook

too long to prevent a complete loss of the goods in warehouse. In these situations fire detection systems are only effective in combination with adequate firewalls. Investments in fire detection systems may be open to debate in cases where the fire brigade is stationed at a remote location or the supply of extinguishing water is insufficient. A risk assessment should determine whether a fire detection system is a suitable protection measure before installation. The Risk Control Managers of Unilever Corporate Insurance & Risk Control are able to assist in making this assessment. Key elements in the selection and use of fire detection are: 1. In principle the fire detection system should cover all areas. However, at least buildings where hazardous materials are stored or hazardous operations take place should be protected. Moreover, fire detection systems should be considered in areas which are not constantly supervised / occupied or in areas with vulnerable equipment. 2. Fire alarm systems should comply with national codes of practice if these are available and internationally accepted or otherwise with applicable codes of the American National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). 3. Fire alarm systems should be designed and installed by approved suppliers using tested and approved equipment. Preferably an independent skilled engineering company should review the design. This procedure will contribute to the quality of the fire alarm system and may also save costs.

Risk Control Handbook

4.

A fire detection system will not be effective unless an alarm is automatically transmitted to the fire brigade or a permanently manned alarm station. This applies to both fire alarms and technical alarms. Audible alarms without an off site connection are of little or no value if the site is not occupied. A company emergency plan and a plan of attack for the public fire brigade should be in place to ensure early response to a fire alarm.

5.

A fire detection system should be tested, cleaned and maintained on a periodic basis to ensure its proper functioning. A procedure should be set up to inform the works and public fire brigade, company management and the company safety manager in the event of malfunctions in the system.

6.

The detectors should be grouped in a logical way to improve tracability of the origin of the fire.

7.

Guidelines for fire detection systems in rooms with computers or electronic equipment are given in the SHEACO document SHE 31 "Guidelines for Loss Prevention in Rooms with Computer and Electrical Installations".

8.

Generally, traditional smoke detectors at ceiling level are not effective in highrise coldstores, because the smoke will cool down and not reach the detectors. In this situation aspirating (air-sampling) systems may be an alternative.

Risk Control Handbook

Risk Control Handbook