In virtually all newly-built buildings, a fire alarm system will be required by the UK building regulations. British Standard BS5839 Part 1 splits fire alarm system designs for Public, Commercial and Industrial buildings into different classifications. The three categories are Category P Fire Alarm Systems, Category L Fire Alarm Systems and Category M Fire Alarm Systems.
All the systems are expected to have manual call points on final exits, entrances to stairwells and corridors. People are not expected to walk more than 45 metres to a call point.
Category L Fire Alarm Systems
The main objective of a BS5839 Part 1 Category L Fire Alarm System is to protect life. Such systems separated into five classifications.
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L1
The L1 classification includes automatic fire detection in every room, every escape route and in every void more than 800mm high. Sounders are positioned throughout the building. Where the building contains areas with a high ambient noise level (such as a factory), the fire alarm sound must be five decibels higher than the normal noise level.
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L2
A Classification L2 System includes automatic fire detection on all escape routes and also rooms that lead to escape routes. An L2 system may also include other high-risk areas such as external boiler houses.
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L3 System
Classification L3 system is similar to category L2 in that automatic fire detection has to be positioned on all escape routes and all adjoining rooms, but it does not have to incorporate additional high-risk areas.
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L4 System
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L4 systems include automatic fire detection only on escape routes, and not in adjoining rooms.
BS5839 Part 1 Classification L5 System
Classification L5 Systems are designed to be installed in buildings that are deemed to have a particular fire risk which warrants special attention. An example of this is where there is one or more areas that have high fire risk and need automatic detection but other areas only need a manual system.
For more advice about our Category L Fire Alarm Systems contact our specialist on a local number below:-
Clitheroe Fire Safety Advisors:- 01200 439333
Preston Fire Safety Advisors:- 01772 970411
Manchester Fire Safety Advisors:- 0161 8260480
Blackburn Fire Safety Advisors:- 01254 367611
Blackpool Fire Safety Advisors:- 01253 804199
