What is BS EN 54-31 – Point-type multi-sensor fire detectors about?
BS EN 54 is a European Standard that deals with fire detection and fire alarm systems. It aims to establish operationally efficient safety equipment and systems that play a positive role during a fire emergency.
BS EN 54-31 specifies requirements, test methods, and performance criteria for point-type multi-sensor fire detectors for use in fire detection and fire alarm systems installed in and around buildings incorporating in one mechanical enclosure at least one optical or ionization smoke sensor and at least one carbon monoxide (CO) sensor and optionally one or more heat
sensors, utilizing the combination of the detected phenomena.
BS EN 54-31 covers only modes of operation, where at least the signals of both smoke and carbon monoxide sensors are continuously evaluated.
Who is BS EN 54-31- Point-type multi-sensor fire detectors for?
BS EN 54-31 on point-type multi-sensor fire detectors is relevant to:
- Manufacturers of fire detection and fire alarm system
- Manufacturers of point detectors
- Fire safety engineers
- Fire safety department
- Alarm receiving centres
- Insurers
- Local authorities
Why should you use BS EN 50582 - Point-type multi-sensor fire detectors?
Multi-sensor fire detectors using a combination of smoke, carbon monoxide and optionally heat sensors complying with BS EN 54-31 are general purpose fire detectors. Multi-sensor detectors can be used to achieve:
- A high stability against deceptive phenomena
- A response to a broad range of fires
Compared to the standards for single phenomenon detectors, additional environmental requirements are included in BS EN 54-31 to demonstrate a higher stability.
Different categories are introduced in BS EN 54-31 to distinguish between different detector behaviour and to identify detectors or detector settings including the signal of an optional heat sensor.
For detectors or detector settings of the categories M (without heat sensor) and MT (with heat sensor) BS EN 54-31 requirements apply to demonstrate that the detector is capable of withstanding the presence of a high level of a single fire phenomenon alone without giving a fire alarm.
Overall, BS EN 54-31 can help demonstrate the reliability and performance of multi-sensor fire detectors, such that they can positively contribute to a successful fire response.
