BSI publishes amendment to British Standard BS 5839-6

BS 5839-6 outlines recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises designed to accommodate a single family, in houses of multiple occupation that comprise a number of self-contained units (each designed to accommodate a single family) and in sheltered housing (including both the dwelling units and the common areas).

The recommendations refer to fire detection and fire alarm systems installed for the purpose of life safety and property protection.

In essence, the amendment addresses new knowledge that some children may be unable to hear fire alarm tones while asleep. It recommends warnings for the householder which signpost that children could sleep through the alarm and advice on how to plan for the occurrence of a fire.

The amendment also includes certificate updates encompassing a model acceptance certificate for Grade A and a model design, installation and commissioning certificate for Grade C, Grade D and Grade F systems.

These changes were discussed by a Technical Committee of experts and comments were reviewed before the updates were finalised and published.

The changes to BS 5839-6 will be of interest to architects and other building professionals, enforcing authorities, system installers and those responsible for implementing fire precautions in domestic premises.

*Further information about this British Standard is available online at https://shop.bsigroup.com/bs5839-6-2020