Fire safety is one of the most critical life safety aspects of buildings. An effective fire alarm system design not only meets legal requirements but also minimizes loss of life and property.
In this article, we will discuss the basic principles and good practice examples that should be taken into account when designing fire alarm systems.
1. Purpose of Fire Alarm System Design
Fire alarm systems detect fire at its earliest stage:
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To ensure the safe evacuation of people,
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To quickly inform firefighters,
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To prevent the fire from spreading,
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It is designed to reduce material losses.
Therefore, the design process is based on the trio of correct planning + correct product selection + correct assembly .
2. Pre-Design Preparation
Before moving on to the design phase, the following analyses should be made:
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Building Type and Purpose of Use: Different building types such as residences, offices, factories, warehouses or shopping malls require different detection scenarios.
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Risk Analysis: The density of flammable materials, hazardous processes, and high-risk areas should be determined.
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Legislation and Standards: The Regulation on Fire Protection of Buildings in Turkey and EN54 standards should be taken as basis.
3. Basic Elements of Design
a) Detector Placement
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Smoke Detectors: Usually placed in the center of the ceiling and at the highest point of the room.
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Heat Detectors: Used in areas where smoke does not form and temperature changes are decisive.
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Flame Detectors: Suitable for industrial facilities or open areas.
b) Fire Alarm Panel Selection
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Addressable Systems: Shows the fault and alarm point precisely, preferred in large structures.
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Conventional Systems: Used in small and medium-sized structures.
c) Alarm and Warning Elements
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Sirens, flashing lights, announcement systems and emergency directional signs should be included in the design.
d) Integration
Fire alarm system;
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Emergency lighting,
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Ventilation control,
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Elevator parking,
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It should work integrated with other security systems such as door and turnstile release.
4. Things to Consider for Good Design
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Coverage Area: There should be no blind spots.
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False Alarm Prevention: In dusty, steamy or smoky environments, the appropriate detector type should be used.
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Backup Power Source: Battery capacity that can operate for at least 24 hours in the event of a power outage must be provided.
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Ease of Maintenance: Detectors and devices should be installed in easily accessible locations.
5. Steps of the Design Process
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Risk and Needs Analysis
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Plan Drawing and Detector Layout Sketch
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Device and System Selection
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Creating a Fire Scenario
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Project Approval and Implementation
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Testing and Commissioning
6. Conclusion
Designing fire alarm systems requires not only technical knowledge but also experience, regulatory awareness, and risk management . A well-designed system can save lives in seconds in the event of a fire.
Remember: Fire safety begins with design and continues with maintenance and inspection.
