fire alarm system
An automated or user-activated system to detect fire and to alert occupants of a building.
A fire alarm system is an automated network of sensors and/or user-activated signals which set off a general alarm throughout a building space, alerting all occupants in the event of smoke or fire. The system must be integrated throughout the building space, and cannot consist of a collection of independent smoke detectors. It is different from a sprinkler system, whose role is to extinguish flames; the main purpose of an alarm system is to alert and evacuate occupants.
This feature is similar in many ways to a security alarm, except in its purpose and its methods of detection.
The alarm must be integrated across the building space. Independent smoke detectors alone are excluded; automatic sensors and manual signals can both activate the integrated warning.
fire alarm system Photos
Related definitions
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access control system
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aircraft warning lights
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automatic fire doors
Doors which automatically keep an area sealed in order to prevent the spread of smoke or fire. -
baggage inspection at entry
Entrance checkpoints requiring inspection of incoming bags, with a possible minimum bag-size threshold. -
defibrillator
A defibrillator available to anyone at a place, capable of delivering an electrical shock for certain cardiac-arrest rhythms. -
emergency exits
At least one supplementary exit beyond regular entrances and exits, available for emergencies. -
external fire escape
A fixed external stairway, ladder, or slide providing an escape route from each occupiable floor to ground level. -
hand scanners at entry
Biometric entrance devices identifying people from stored hand measurements, used for security or attendance records. -
internal safety rooms
Rooms designed and designated as refuges for building occupants during an attack or other disaster. -
lightning protection
Special rods and pathways to channel lightning and protect a structure from a strike. -
metal detectors at entry
Apparatuses at the entrance which screen persons for metal objects being carried in. -
pressurized stairwells
Interior stairways with an air pressure higher than the surroundings for fire safety. -
security alarm
An automated or user-activated system to warn off intruders or criminals and to alert police. -
security guard service
On-site security personnel available 24 hours a day, or at least during all hours of usage. -
sprinkler system
An automated system which emits water or other extinguishing agents in case of fire. -
vehicle warning lights
Lights fixed to an object to warn passing or approaching vehicles of its presence and reduce collision risk. -
video camera surveillance
One or more security cameras watching or recording activity at important points in or around a structure.