BRE seeks feedback on draft video flame detectors standard

Specifically, LPS 1976 specifies the requirements, test methods and performance criteria for video flame detectors and video flame detection systems. These detectors detect changes in video images characterised by the properties of flames generated during the combustion of carbon-based materials.

Such detectors are installed in and around buildings as well as in broader applications, but are intended to be used as part of fire detection systems.

LPS 1976 is based on the well-established requirements and test methodology of EN 54-10 to set out the requirements specific to the capture and analysis of video images of potential flaming fires, assesses the immunity to false alarm sources relevant to the new technology and provides the basis for regulatory approval of these new types of flame detectors/systems.

These types of detectors are suited to large open spaces at greater distances from the fire in environments in which there may be sources of contamination or causes of false alarms. Examples include challenging environments such as departure lounges, aircraft hangars, oil rigs, waste processing facilities, tunnels and factories.

False alarm rejection

This type of detector offers robust false alarm rejection as they can be programmed to reject common false alarm sources.

LPS 1976 approaches this technology with performance requirements for video flame detectors and video flame detection systems intended to operate as primary systems, offering comparable levels of protection to other fire detectors that operation to EN 54 standards.

The Loss Prevention Standard allows manufacturers to specify the range of the video flame detector and video flame detection system over which it can detect a flaming fire. The range is tested by measuring the response of detectors to test fires at minimum and maximum distances as declared by the manufacturer.

Any questions concerning the consultation should be directed to Raman Chagger MSc FIET, principal consultant within the Fire Detection Group at the BRE.

*The consultation process for LPS 1976 closes on 1 May. Access the draft of LPS 1976 and its supporting form