Regulatory Compliance and Responsibility

Whether you choose a conventional, addressable, or wireless fire alarm system, you must maintain it to ensure compliance with the Irish Fire Standard IS:3218-2013. You must test these systems on-site up to four times per year.

IS:3218-2013 states that the Responsible Person has control of the building or premises. This includes the occupier or anyone they delegate to manage the fire alarm system and procedures.

We design, install, and commission all our fire alarm systems to meet IS:3218-2013.

Conventional Fire Alarm Systems

Small retailers and medium-sized buildings typically use a conventional fire alarm system. These systems have traditionally provided an affordable means of detecting fire and smoke.

You can install numerous detectors on zones. When a detector is triggered, the fire alarm control panel indicates the activated zone. This gives you or the fire brigade an indication of the area where activation occurred.

KDS Fire & Security can integrate conventional systems with other fire alarm panels on your site. Alternatively, we install communication devices that G4S monitors, ensuring emergency services respond quickly.

Addressable Fire Alarm Systems

Addressable fire alarm systems offer a more technologically advanced alternative to conventional ones. These systems can operate with precision in large buildings. Examples include apartment blocks and major commercial or industrial premises.

Recent system developments have made addressable systems much more cost-effective. They are now a viable option for many industrial and commercial enterprises.

Ongoing development and a commitment to innovation from leading providers mean addressable systems are now:

• Inexpensive to cable
• Easier to operate
• More accurate in detecting actual fire locations

Each smoke detector or device has its own unique identifying code. If the device activates, the system recognizes this immediately and displays it clearly on the admin interface. Many addressable systems also can have interfaces on pagers. Security and maintenance staff carry and utilize these pagers. This clean, user-friendly functionality makes current addressable systems a great fit for many Irish businesses.

Open Protocol vs. Closed Protocol

Business owners should also consider flexibility in terms of integration, support, maintenance, and future development when choosing a fire alarm system.

In fire alarm manufacturing, we have two protocols—Open and Closed. A ‘protocol’ is simply the language two electronic devices use to communicate with each other.

A manufacturer of devices using closed protocols ensures all related equipment—panels, interfaces, detectors, etc.—works perfectly within their own product range. However, if you try to integrate equipment from another manufacturer, you are likely to experience integration and operational difficulties.

A manufacturer of **open protocol** systems and components **develops products** with a view to seamless integration. This includes integration with systems and components made by other manufacturers.

At KDS Fire & Security, we **strongly recommend** the use of **open protocol** products. This ensures you, as a business owner, **have a flexible choice** of service provider and complementary products.