ASD Code of Practice 2026 published by Fire Industry Association

Developed by the FIA’s Aspirating Task Group under the direction of the Fire Detection and Alarms Council, the new edition brings together the latest industry knowledge, FIA-sponsored research, evolving technologies and developments in fire detection standards. The end result is a substantially updated technical resource specifically designed to support professionals in the specification, design, installation, commissioning and application of ASD systems.

A major focus of the 2026 edition is the application of ASD within challenging and complex environments. In particular, and reflecting on the findings of an FIA-sponsored research project, recommendations for the protection of warehouses with high-rack storage have been expanded with the introduction of a new warehouse design and risk assessment spreadsheet/template. This provides designers with an additional tool to support the assessment and development of ASD solutions in warehouse applications.

Revision of BS 5839-1

The Code of Practice also brings ASD guidance into alignment with the latest revision of BS 5839-1, published back in April 2025, while incorporating the FIA’s guidance on Fire Detection in High Airflow Environments. Recommendations for the use of ASD within lifts have been reviewed in consideration of European Codes, with particular attention given to multilevel detection and accessibility.

The areas of testing and system verification have also received significant attention. Site testing methods have been reviewed, including the extension of the paper bin test to make it suitable for Class B and Class A testing in high areas, thereby providing further guidance for demonstrating system performance in demanding applications.

Beyond these major revisions, the 2026 edition expands its technical coverage across a range of important areas. It provides additional advice on in-cabinet detection and the flammability of sampling pipework, introduces a new section examining options for multi-sensors within ASD, updates information on product standards and CE and UKCA marking requirements and provides greater clarification around concepts such as coincidence and redundancy.

Significant technical update

Taken together, these changes make the FIA’s ASD Code of Practice 2026 a significant technical update for the ASD sector. For designers, consultants, specifiers, manufacturers, installers, commissioning technicians and other fire safety professionals, the Code of Practice provides an up-to-date reference for understanding and applying ASD technology across both established and increasingly complex applications.

Informed by industry expertise and experience, and building on recent research and the latest standards, the FIA’s ASD Code of Practice 2026 provides a unique and well-respected repository of information and guidance on Best Practice and important considerations when deploying ASD systems.

*Further information is available online at www.cic.org.uk