A fire alarm system has four parts: detectors that sense smoke or heat, manual call points that people press, sounders and strobes that warn everyone, and a control panel that ties them together and shows where the alarm started. It is planned around the building so that a fire anywhere is detected early and everyone can get out.
Which detectors go where?
Smoke detectors suit offices, classrooms, corridors and dormitories. Heat detectors suit kitchens, generator rooms and dusty areas where smoke detectors would raise false alarms. Every escape route and every room where people sleep needs detection.
What is the difference between conventional and addressable systems?
A conventional system groups detectors into zones, so the panel shows which area the alarm came from. An addressable system identifies the exact detector. Small buildings often use conventional systems; larger offices, hotels, hospitals and schools benefit from addressable ones.
What else does a fire alarm system need?
Manual call points at exits, sounders loud enough to be heard in every room, visual strobes where noise is high or for people with hearing loss, and a backup battery so the system works during a power cut.
How is it maintained?
Detectors need regular testing and cleaning, batteries need replacing, and the whole system should be tested on a schedule with a written record. We can set up a maintenance plan after installation.
Can a fire alarm work with other systems?
Yes. It can release access controlled doors, alert guards and connect to the intruder alarm.
See ICT, fire alarm and system installation, pages for Nairobi and Nakuru, or browse the areas we serve.
