by Honeywell

the gent enhanced pocket

design & Installation Guide

FIRE detection systems

Introduction
This guide, due to its size, provides a basic overview to anyone involved in the design or
action of a fire detection system. It will identify the current legislative requirements as well as
clarify the responsibilities placed on the three key roles involved with the provision of a new
system, namely the Designer, Installer and Commissioning Engineer, as well as remind the
End User or Owner/Occupier what part they play in ensuring that the best possible system
is supplied to protect life and property from fire.
It is important that everyone involved is conversant with the current British Standard Codes
of Practice BS 5839-1:2013 for general buildings and should also be conversant with the
British Standard relating to general wiring BS 7671.
The guide, which has been prepared by Gent, one of the UKs largest manufacturers of fire
detection systems, is intended to offer practical advice and is not a substitute for any of the
standards or legislation referred to.

Legal elements
4

Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005

The Equality Act 2010
(formerly the Disability Discrimination Act 1995)
4 Building Regulation Approved Document Part B
4

Building Regulation Approved Document Part M

All these documents in some way affect what is included

in the system. However the Owner/Occupier is ultimately
responsible for the level of protection provided.
It is recommended that the Owner/Occupier carries out a Fire
Risk Assessment to identify the level of protection required i.e.
one of the categories detailed within BS 5839-1:2013
( L1,L2,L3,L4,L5,M,P1 or P2 )
The full responsibilities of the Owner/Occupier are detailed
within the new Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order (RRO)
that replaced the majority of existing laws within the UK from
October 2006.

by Honeywell

System Design
Any design should be prepared by a competent individual/organisation, who has consulted
all interested parties and created a set of drawings, a specification, a cause & effect or fire
plan, a list of Variations and completed a Design certificate, detailed within BS 5839-1:2013.
If designs are undertaken without this research being carried out, the fire detection system is
unlikely to comply with the legal requirements. This could result in prosecution of the parties
involved, particularly those within the supply chain as well as the Owner/Occupier.
WARNING: Anyone who takes on the responsibility for design will do so at their own risk
and design liability insurance is advisable.

The Designers responsibilities:

4

Agree the level of protection or category with Owner/Occupier

Justify any Variations and document reasons
4 Detail the detection & alarm zones
4 Prepare specification and drawings including;
4 Siting of manual call points
4 Siting of point type heat and smoke detectors
4 Siting of beam detectors
4 Siting of any other forms of detection
4 Specify type of cable for each circuit
4 Specify type of system and equipment
4 Include detail for on/off site links with other equipment
4 Take into account the risk of false alarms use the Gent pull out application guide at
the back of this booklet
4 Allow for correct level of sounders and visual alarms
4 Prepare a fire plan or cause and effect chart
4 Sign a design certificate
4

Note BS 5839-1:2013 recommends that a fire detection system is designed by a competent

person, who takes responsibility for completing the design and signing off a Design
certificate. This should not be confused with other certificates relating to Installation
and Commissioning, that are completed by the parties responsible for those parts.
Also if the contract allows, it is suggested that the Designer witness tests the
completed system to ensure the original design is still appropriate the Design
certificate can then be completed after any amendments are included.

FIRE detection systems

Design Stage 1
Talk to the interested parties to decide on the level of protection or category
and agree Variations
The importance of pre-design planning cannot be overstated. Many parties are likely to
have an interest in what the fire detection system is expected to do. Ultimately it is up to
the Owner/Occupier, who is responsible by law, to make the final decision on the level of
protection provided for a particular building.
In most circumstances the Owner/Occupier will appoint a competent Designer to carry out
this work and take liability for the design as a whole.
The nominated Designer is expected to consult the following organisations:
4 The User or Facilities Manager
4 The Building Control Officer
4 The Health and Safety Executive
4 The Insurer
4 The local Fire and Rescue Service
4 A specialist fire alarm system supplier

Issues to be covered by the Designer should include:

4
4

4
4

The Fire Risk Assessment demands

The requirements necessary to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
(RRO) 2005, the Equality Act 2010 (formerly the Disability Discrimination Act 1995) and
Building Regulations Approved Documents Part B and Part M
The prime purpose of the system (Property or life protection or both)
The level of protection suggested by the interested parties.
(Category P1 or P2, M or L1 L2 L3 L4 or L5)
The list of Variations identified by the interested parties

by Honeywell

Determine the System

Category or level of
protection
Systems designed for Protection
of Property only, fall into two
classifications P1 or P2.
The objective of a Category P1
is to provide the earliest possible
warning of a fire to minimise the
time between ignition and the
arrival of the fire fighters.
P1 is designed to protect the whole
building whilst P2 is installed in
defined parts of the building only,
which may have an extraordinary
high risk or hazard.

L5

Life protection on the other hand

will often depend on the number
of people accessing a particular
building and depending on the
variations, the systems can
range from simple Type M to L1
categories, these being detailed in
the following diagrams.
These diagrams show a typical
building with a number of escape
routes, side rooms and open plan
areas used for escape.
A Category M system requires
manual call points on all
exits as well as corridors
where persons are not
expected to walk more
than 30/45m (see design
note 3) to operate one.

L4

FIRE detection systems

L3
Category L5, designed for buildings
that have a particular risk identified
which warrants some special
attention. For example if there
is an area of high risk which is
considered worthy of having some
automatic detection but a manual
system is also needed, then this
will be termed as L5/M.
Category L4 provides detection
within the escape routes only,
whereas L3 not only covers these
areas but all rooms leading onto
the escape route. The reasoning
behind this is to alert people of
the danger prior to the corridor
becoming Smoke logged so
people can escape safely.

L2

L2 is a further enhancement
of protection with all the areas
covered by an L3 category as
well as all high risk areas such as
boiler rooms etc.
L1 provides protection throughout
the building.
L1

by Honeywell

Design Stage 2
Detection and Alarm Zones
Generally a building is broken down into smaller compartments to enable the fire fighters to
locate the fire as quickly as possible.
Even if the system is addressable it is still considered beneficial to have a separate at a
glance indication of the location of the fire.
These compartments of a building are called detection zones, which need to comply with
the following criteria.

Detection Zones
4 A detection zone should cover no more than 1 storey, unless total floor area is less than
300m2. Voids in the same fire compartment should be included in the same floor zone.
The maximum floor area of a zone should not be greater than 2,000m2, except for some
large open plan areas that incorporate manual call points only, which can be extended
to 10,000m2. The maximum search distance for the fire fighters to see the seat of the fire
within a zone should not exceed 60m assuming the route taken is the worst possible option.
Vertical structures like stairwells, liftwells etc should be considered as separate zones
4 A manual call point within a
staircase should be connected
to the zone associated with that
floor and ideally be mounted on
the accommodation side of the
corridor exit. Automatic sensors
on the stairwell remain as part of
the stairwell detection zone

ZONE 1

ZONE 5

ZONE 2

ZONE 3

ZONE 4

FIRE detection systems

DETECTION
ZONE 2

DETECTION
ZONE 3

The only other criteria is that an alarm

zone may consist of a number of detection
zones but not visa versa.

DETECTION
ZONE 4

DETECTION
ZONE 5

DETECTION
ZONE 6

Alarm zones are only required when

phased or staged evacuation is required. It
is therefore important that care should be
taken to ensure only one message is heard
at any one time particularly where two
alarm zones are attached.

DETECTION
ZONE 7

DETECTION
ZONE 8

DETECTION
ZONE 9

ALARM
ZONE 3

DETECTION
ZONE 10

DETECTION
ZONE 11

DETECTION
ZONE 12

ALARM
ZONE 2

DETECTION
ZONE 1

ALARM
ZONE 4

An alarm zone is clearly defined within

the standard but generally is an area
of the building coinciding with the fire
compartment boundaries. There must be a
clear break between these alarm zones to
ensure alert and evacuation messages are
not overheard from adjacent areas.

ALARM
ZONE 1

Alarm Zones

Design Stage 3
Siting of Manual Call Points
All manual call points, whatever the system, should comply to BS EN54-11 single action
Type A version only and should be located as follows:


On all storey exits and all exits to open air irrespective of whether they are designated fire

exits
4 Nobody should travel more than 45 metres to reach one, except if the exit routes are
undefined in which case the direct line distance should not exceed 30 metres


The above distances to be reduced to 25 and 16 metres respectively, if there are persons

with limited mobility or there is a likelihood of rapid fire development

In all areas with potential high fire risk such as kitchens etc

1.4 metres + or 300mm above the floor

Where phased evacuation is planned, call points will need to be sited on all exits from
a particular zone
4

Call points fitted with protective hinged covers for whatever reason should be listed as
a variation

B
S

by Honeywell

FIRE

DETECTION

SYSTEMS

Manual Call Point

Route of travel 45m max

Route of travel 30m max

(defined)

(undefined)
H

Manual call points should be fixed at a height of 1.4m above

finished floor level, at easily accessible, well-illuminated and
conspicuous positions free from potential obstruction. They
should be sited against a contrasting background to assist
in easy recognition. A lower mounting height is acceptable in
circumstances where there is a high likelihood that the first
person to raise an alarm of fire will be a wheelchair user.

Note: The measurement

ought to be made between
the finished floor level and
the centre point of the
frangible element.
Note: The figure of 1.4 m is
arbitrary, but reflects long
established custom and
practice. A minor difference
(e.g. less than 300 mm)
in mounting height (e.g.
to align with the mounting
height of light switches)
need not be regarded as
significant, nor need it be
recorded as a variation.

Design Stage 4
Selection and siting of sensors
For further advice please refer to clauses 21 & 22 of BS 5839-1:2013
The objective is to select the correct sensor for the appropriate application, to provide the
earliest warning of fire without the risk of a false alarm.
It is therefore worth trying to visualise the type of fire that is likely to occur in a
particular room or area and also to familiarise oneself with the application and the risks
that could give rise to a false alarm.
It should also be remembered that a Vigilon system can incorporate a whole range
of different sensors using S-Quad multi-sensors. These can be set up for different
applications and can be switched from state to state should particular risks be present
for short periods of time. This is achieved by an internal programmable timer, key
switch or external input source. At the end of this booklet, a pull out section is attached
showing a full application guide for all sensors including the latest S-Quad multi-sensor
with a range of selectable states for every application and risk.

FIRE detection systems

FIRE

DETECTION

SYSTEMS

Heat sensors complying to BS EN54-5

Vigilon with the S-Quad heat sensor has a number of pre-programmed states that are
detailed within BSEN54-5.
Each state has its preferred use as described in the Application guide and incorporates two
types of heat sensing element. One can be described as fixed temperature whilst the other is
known as a rate of rise element. These elements have a broad range of application specific
operating states that will respond quickly in the event of fire without risking a false alarm.
See guide attached for specific advice on which state is recommended for a particular
application.
For example;
The default state for the S-Quad heat sensor is Grade A1 (state 0) which has a fixed
temperature operating point of 59.5 + or 5.5 C with a normal rate of rise element, the
current full list of states provided by S-Quad and Vigilon are;
S-quad Heat Sensor

Grade

Fixed Temp Range

Rate of Fire

State 0

A1

59.5 +/ 5.5C

Normal sensitivity*

State 13

A2

62 +/ 8C

Less sensitivity

State 5

77 +/ 8C

Less sensitivity*

State 6

BS

77 +/ 8C

Disabled

OFF

Disabled

State 15

HEAT detector spacing (Under flat horizontal ceiling)

5.3m

HEAT

5.3m
5.3m

7.5m

5.3m

10

by Honeywell

FIRE

DETECTION

SYSTEMS

Smoke sensors complying to BS EN54-7

Traditionally, point type smoke sensors have fallen into two main categories, optical or ionisation.
Due to new European Directives for the storage and transport of radioactive sources, ionisation
sensors are becoming less favourable and are being replaced by multi-sensors that utilise single
or dual optical chambers that are also combined with heat and/or carbon monoxide sensing
elements.
This creates a whole range of sensors that are suitable for detecting different types of fires and
yet ignore signals that previously have led to false alarms such as white dust or steam.
The table below shows the various states of these smoke sensor options. This should be
read in conjunction with the attached application/risk charts to ensure the correct sensor is
used for a particular location.

S-QUAD AND DUAL OPTICAL HEAT MULTI-SENSOR RANGE

SENSOR

STATE

DESCRIPTION OF STATE SET UP

OHeat & O2Heat

Medium Optical + A1 Heat*

OHeat & O2Heat

Low Optical + A1 Heat

OHeat & O Heat

High Optical + A1 Heat

OHeat & O2Heat

Medium Optical + A1 Heat + (no spike rejection on smoke)*

OHeat & O2Heat

Medium Optical + B Heat*

OHeat & O2Heat

Low Optical + BS Heat

OHeat & O Heat

Delayed Medium Optical + A1 Heat*

OHeat & O2Heat

11

Low Optical + B Heat

OHeat & O2Heat

12

A1 Heat Only*

OHeat & O2Heat

15

All channels set to off

S-Quad dual optical heat carbon monoxide multi-sensor range

SENSOR

STATE

DESCRIPTION OF STATE SET UP

O2Heat & CO

Medium Optical + A1 Heat + Medium CO*

O2Heat & CO

High Optical + A1 Heat + High CO

O Heat & CO

Medium Optical + A1 Heat + Low sensitivity CO

O2Heat & CO

Medium Optical + A1 Heat + (no spike rejection on smoke)*

O2Heat & CO

A1 Heat + Medium CO*

O2Heat & CO

11

B Heat + Medium Optical

O Heat & CO

12

A1 Heat only*

O2Heat & CO

15

ALL Channels set to OFF

11

* Certified by LPCB.

FIRE detection systems

SMOKE detector spacing (Under flat horizontal ceiling)

7.5m

7.5m
7.5m

SMOKE

10.6m

7.5m

HEAT detector spacing in corridors (category P only)

UP TO 2m WIDTH

SMOKE detector spacing in corridors (category L & P)

7.5m

SMOKE
15m

5.3m

10.6m
HEAT

12

by Honeywell

SMOKE detector under pitched roofs

UP TO
600mm
FOR LESS THAN 600mm TREAT AS
FLAT CEILING
DEEPER
THAN
600mm

FOR GREATER THAN 600mm AT LEAST

ONE ROW OF DETECTORS SHOULD BE IN
THE TOP 600mm

Mounting detectors in voids

LINE OF CEILING SLAB OR FLOORTILE
TOP 10%

OR TOP
125mm

OF VOID

OF VOID

LINE OF CEILING TILE OR FLOOR SLAB

Applies to floor and ceiling void.
Any of the above detector positions are acceptable.

13

FIRE detection systems

Limits of siting sensors near obstacles or walls

OBSTACLE

500mm

500mm

MIN

MIN

OBSTACLE

D>250mm

D>250mm

2xD
MIN

OBSTACLE

IF>10%
OF CEILING
HEIGHT
CONSIDER
AS A WALL

14

by Honeywell

Ceilings with multiple joists

PERMITTED SPACING
DETAILED IN TABLE
BELOW
RATIO BETWEEN
CEILING HEIGHTS
vs BEAM DEPTH &
MAXIMUM SPACING
M

HALF M
L

CEILINGS WITH MULTIPLE JOISTS

15

CEILING HEIGHT
(H)

BEAM DEPTH (D)

SMOKE SENSOR
SPACING (M)

HEAT SENSOR
SPACING (M)

6m or less

Less than 10% H

5m

3.8m

More than 6m

Less than 10% H

and 600mm or less

5m

3.8m

More than 6m

Less than 10% H and

more than 600mm

5m

3.8m

3m or less

More than 10% H

2.3m

1.5m

4m

More than 10% H

2.8m

2.0m

5m

More than 10% H

3.0m

2.3m

6m or more

More than 10% H

3.3m

2.5m

FIRE detection systems

Obstructions

IF < 300mm
CONSIDER
AS
REACHING
THE CEILING

RACKING

Ceilings above racking
IF GAP BETWEEN
TOP OF RACK AND
CEILING IS LESS
THAN 300mm THEN
TREAT AS WALL
AND PROVIDE
DETECTION IN
EACH AISLE

16

by Honeywell

Ceilings with other obstructions or Air Handling units etc

AT LEAST
1m FROM
AN AIR
HANDLING
UNIT

FREE 500mm
SPACE BELOW
DETECTOR

STORAGE
RACKS

ACCEPTABLE

NOT
ACCEPTABLE

One of the most common mistakes is to mount a smoke sensor adjacent to the air
conditioning intake or outlet grill. The minimum distance between the two should be at
least 1 metre and further if possible. This is due to the fact that smoke may have difficulty
penetrating the sensor when the air conditioning is switched on. Also there is a greater risk
of the sensor becoming contaminated and giving rise to false alarms.

17

FIRE detection systems

Ceilings with perforated ceilings

DETECTORS ABOVE
CEILINGS WITH
PERFORATIONS CAN
PROTECT THE AREA
BELOW SUBJECT
TO THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS
4 The Perforations Are

Uniform
4 The Minimum

Perforation Is > 10mm

4 The Thickness Is

< Than 3 Times The

Minimum Dimension
Of The Perforation

Ceilings with perforated ceilings

WHERE AIR IS
FORCED THROUGH A
PERFORATED CEILING,
THE DETECTOR
SHOULD BE MOUNTED
ON A SOLID BAFFLE
WITH A MINIMUM
DIAMETER OF 1200mm

18

by Honeywell

Siting of BEAM detectors

25

600mm

ONE BEAM DETECTOR COVERS 17.5m

USING EXTRA % ALLOWED DUE TO
ANGLE OF ROOF

20m

1.25m

2.5m

GAP BETWEEN DETECTORS 12.5%

AND 25% OF 10m MOUNTING HEIGHT
= 1.25m AND 2.5m

17.5m

General rules apply as for point detectors

For apex ceilings extend coverage by 1% for each degree of angle
4 600mm from the highest point
4 
Avoid beams close to walls (500mm) or where temporary obstructions may occur
4 M
 ount transmitter & receivers on a solid surface not affected by wind or
4
4

natural temperature changes


Additional units may be included in atria to detect at lower levels, to counter stratification

effect

Limits of ceiling heights (General)

Detector Type

Maximum (m)

Up to 10% (m)

Heat detector Class A

9.0

10.5

Heat detector Other Classes

7.5

10.5

Point smoke detectors

10.5

12.5

Carbon monoxide detectors

10.5

12.5

Optical beam smoke detectors - Normal sensitivity

25.0

28.0

Optical beam smoke detectors - Enhanced sensitivity

40.0 (see Note 1)

43.0 (see Note 1)

Aspirating smoke detection - General limit

10.5

12.5

Aspirating smoke detection - Class C with at least 5 holes

15.0

18.0

Aspirating smoke detection - Class C with at least 15 holes

25.0

28.0

Class B with at least 15 holes

40.0 (see Note 2)

43.0 (see Note 2)

(alarm at 35% attenuation or less)

NOTE 1 The use of supplemental detection is recommended [see 22.5d)] unless the risk (i.e. probability consequence) of
stratification is minimal.
NOTE 2 The use of multilevel sampling is recommended [see 22.7c)] unless the risk (i.e. probability consequence) of stratification is
minimal

19

FIRE detection systems

Design Stage 5
Choice and siting of alarm sounders and visual alarms
Sounders and strobes are generally provided for systems designed to protect life. However,
on the rare occasion when only the property is being protected it is still essential to mount a
sounder adjacent to the fire control panel as well as immediately outside the main entrance
for the fire fighters.
Before deciding on the number and location of sounder/visual alarms, it is important to
establish what the Fire Plan or cause and effect will be.
If the building is not going to have a one out all out arrangement, the evacuation
procedures must be established. Once this is known, you can then establish the alarm zone
areas where different alarm messages may be given, for example an alert or an evacuation
tone.

Design Tip 1 - Research* over the last

twenty years has proven that a voice
enhanced sounder is preferred to a bell
or electronic sounder as people pay more
attention to a spoken message. The Gent
S-Cubed and S-Quad offer sounders that
include recorded speech messages delivered
in a synchronised manner to create a clear
instruction to persons at risk within a building.

* Sources: Brian Piggott (The Fire Research

Station) and David Canter (Surrey University)

20

by Honeywell

Audible alarm levels within buildings are generally accepted as 65dB(A) throughout.
However, the new standard does accept that in certain locations this can be as low as
60dB(A). This allows some degree of flexibility, although in general the majority of a site
must achieve 65dB(A) or greater to be compliant.
The drawing below illustrates the areas where 60dB(A) is permitted

ENCLOSURE OF
LESS THAN 60sqm
MINIMUM OF
60dB(A)

SPECIFIC POINT OF
LIMITED EXTENT
MAY BE 60dB(A)

65

60

65
65
65

AREAS OF LESS
THAN 1m2 OF
HABITABLE SPACE
NO MINIMUM

65

65

60

65
65

65

65

60

60

60

65

60

SHADED AREA 500mm

FROM BOUNDARY
NO MEASUREMENTS
REQUIRED

65

60

It is maintained that to rouse sleeping persons you need to achieve a minimum of 75dB(A)
at the bedhead.

LED
Position
79dB(A)
45

2m

79dB(A)
45
80dB(A)
80dB(A)
30
30
84dB(A)
84dB(A)
15 84d B(A) 15
0

75dB(A)
45
75dB(A)
15

75dB(A)
30
75dB(A)
30

75dB(A)
15
75dB(A)
0

0.6m

75dB(A)
45

21

1m

NOTE: THE S-QUAD OPTICAL

HEAT SENSOR SOUNDER MUST
BE SURFACE MOUNTED TO
ATTAIN THESE OUTPUT LEVELS

FIRE detection systems

For areas with high ambient background noise levels, the Standard recommends a sound
level of 5dB(A) above the norm although it now goes on to say the maximum sound levels
should not exceed 120dB(A) for health & safety reasons. Finally it is essential that at least
one sounder is placed within each fire compartment and the sounder choice should be
common throughout the building. You should not mix bells and electronic sounders within
the same building although the Gent S-Cubed & S-Quad, both offer bell and electronic
sounders allowing a system upgrade or switch over from a bell tone to an electronic tone
when required.
Sound attenuation is affected by numerous physical structures within a room, including the
door, furniture, people and materials used for floor, walls etc.
General internal doors will attenuate at least 20dB(A), whilst heavier fire doors may well
attenuate by up 30dB(A). To ensure 75dB(A) is achieved within a bedroom it is accepted
that the sounder is mounted within the room rather than the corridor outside. Use of sensor
sounders ensures an even spread of sound throughout the building without the need for
separate louder sounders. Visual alarms are generally considered as supplementary rather
than the only means of providing an alarm, and are used in areas where the dB(A) level
exceeds 90dB(A) or where persons within the area have impaired hearing. The exception
could be where sound of any description is undesirable, for example operating theatres, TV
studios and places of entertainment where a discreet staff alarm system is the best option to
avoid panic.
Visual alarms are also included as a requirement of the Equality Act 2010 (formerly
the Disability Discrimination Act 1995) and Approved Document Part M of the Building
Regulations and should be included in all sleeping accommodation where people with a
hearing disability may be present.

Design Tip 2 - The

S-Quad combines a
sounder and strobe within
a sensor which not only
reduces the number
of individual devices
you have to install, but
also provides an even
cover of sound and light
throughout a building.

22

by Honeywell

Design Stage 6
Control equipment & power supplies
The Control panel itself should comply to EN54-2 and any power supply used should comply
to EN54-4. Today all of the Gent fire control panels incorporate their own battery and charger
and as long as the guidelines for loading these systems are complied with, the batteries
should be sufficient to maintain the system for a period of at least 24 hours with half an hour
alarm load thereafter.
It is however recommended that a battery load calculation is carried out to verify the standby
period provided by the capacity of the battery supplied.
Irrespective of the size or type of system the control panel should be sited with the following
points in mind;
4

In an area of relatively low fire risk

On the ground floor entrance which the fire fighters will use
In buildings of multiple occupancy, the panel should be sited within a communal area or if
this does not exist, a location which is accessible at all times

4
4

Where ambient light levels, ensure visibility at all times

4 Fire

zonal indication should be clearly displayed by LEDs or an illuminated

mimic diagram it is not acceptable to simply accept the information from an LCD or
VDU display

If there are several entrances to the building, consideration should be given to the provision
of repeat indicators.

23

FIRE detection systems

The Installers responsibilities:

4

To install all equipment in accordance with the standards

To use the correct types of cable

To test the cables, continuity and earth, and provide certificates

To flag up any Variations that affect the Design

To produce a set of as fitted drawings

To sign off the Installation certificate

Types of cable and where to use them

There are two basic grades of cable permitted for use on fire alarm systems. These are
known as Standard grade and Enhanced grade designed to meet the new standards BS
8434-1 & BS 8434-2 respectively.
The choice of cable needed is dependent on how long the cable is expected to continue to
operate whilst a fire is occurring.
The integrity of the system is paramount and all interconnections between devices must be
considered especially those that affect the signals critical path.
Firstly the Standard insists that the mains supplies to the system, the manual call points, the
sounders and the automatic sensor circuits are wired in fire resistant cables.

What cable? - Standard or Enhanced fire resistant cables?

The Standard fire resistant cable will satisfy most applications particularly with one out,
all out fire plans. Enhanced fire resistant cables are required for applications that need
communications to continue during a fire incident when the building fabric may be destroyed.
Examples of where Enhanced fire resistant cable should be used include:
4 In

un-sprinklered buildings where the Fire Plan involves the evacuation of occupants in
four or more phases

In un-sprinklered buildings greater than 30 metres in height

4 In

un-sprinklered buildings or large networked sites where a fire could affect the cables
critical path, particularly where people will remain in occupation during a fire elsewhere
on the site

4 Where

in part, a delayed evacuation may exist and the critical signal path may pass
through an area of high risk

Where a Risk Assessment has identified a particular need for Enhanced cable

24

by Honeywell

SIXTH
FLOOR
FIFTH
FLOOR
FOURTH
FLOOR
THIRD
FLOOR
SECOND
FLOOR
FIRST
FLOOR
GROUND
FLOOR

Example of a networked
fire alarm in a multistorey building, showing
standard cable grade
throughout provided that
there is diverse routing of
the network cable loop.

STANDARD FIRE
RESISTING CABLE

STANDARD FIRE
RESISTING CABLE

ENHANCED FIRE
RESISTING CABLE

Example of a
networked fire alarm
in a multi-storey
building, showing
standard cable grade
for local wiring and
enhanced grade for
network cable.

Other aspects in regard to Installation practice

The electrical characteristics of the cable such as impedance, capacitance etc should be
capable of handling the data and power of the system
4

For the Vigilon system, Gent regularly updates the list of approved standard and enhanced
cables used for loops or networks. We would suggest you obtain the latest copy of our
installation manuals or contact your local System Integrator to obtain the latest approved
product.
4

Cable requirements
4

Core size not less than 1mm (for Gent products 1.5mm loop cables are required)

4 
Where

exposed cables are below 2m, additional mechanical protection should be

considered, except for cables complying to BS 7629

4 
The

colour of the outer sheath should preferably

be RED although other colours are permitted as
long as it is common throughout the building
and does not clash with any other electrical
services

25

FIRE detection systems

Fire cables should:

4

be segregated from all other services

not share the same conduit

use a separate compartment if common trunking is used

avoid running alongside high current power lines

avoid running adjacent to lightning conductors

avoid electro magnetic interference from extra low voltage (240v) circuits

4 The

Standard precludes the use of multicore cable where a single fault will cause
more than one circuit to fail. This is particularly true with loop wired systems where
communication from either end is required and the failure of a 4-core cable will mean that
all communication is lost

Cable joints should be avoided, other than the components themselves

4 Cable

support should withstand the same temperature as the cable, which method
the use of plastic cable clips, cable ties or trunking, where this is the main means of
supporting the cable, should NOT be used

Cables should not rely on suspended ceilings for their support

4 Mains

power supplies should also be wired back to the main circuit breaker in Standard
grade 3 fire resistant cable

Recommendations for the Mains Power supplies

For reasons of electrical safety, the mains supply to the system should be via a separate
circuit breaker taken from the load side of the buildings main isolating device.
To facilitate local isolation during maintenance, suitable means should be provided for
double pole isolation of the low voltage supply circuit that serves the power supply and
control equipment.
This circuit breaker can incorporate a switch if necessary but in either event should be
labelled FIRE ALARMS DO NOT SWITCH OFF this supply should be used for the sole
purpose of the fire alarm system.
In large multiple occupancy buildings it may be necessary to obtain a mains supply via a
mains distribution board. However the same arrangements as above apply. The isolation of
this local distribution board and the fire isolating device is a minimal requirement and should
be inaccessible to unauthorised persons.
Ideally the supply should not be protected by a residual current device unless necessary
to comply with requirements of BS 7671. If this is the case then it should not be capable of
isolating the mains supply to the fire alarm system.

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by Honeywell

Inspection and testing of wiring

Prior to any equipment being connected, all installed cables should be subject to a 500V DC
insulation test.
These tests should show an insulation value of at least 2M Ohms between conductors and
between each conductor and screen or earth.
Earth continuity tests should be carried out on all mains supply circuits as well as an earth
loop impedance in accordance with BS 7671. It is important with the Vigilon system that all
earth leads or screen cables are terminated and connected through each device.
The maximum impedance of each loop or radial circuit should be recorded to ensure it
meets the manufacturers recommendations. In the case of Vigilon this is determined by not
exceeding the recommended maximum cable lengths. Loop circuits, should not be greater
than 1Km and a maximum of 100 metres for any radial circuit connected on a loop
powered interface.

System Commissioning
Commissioning Engineers responsibilities:
4

Functional testing of all equipment

Confirm fire plan or cause & effect is correct as per design

Look for any incorrect positioning of sensors or other devices snag them
or list them as Variations

Record sound level meter readings

Provide a log book and product manuals

Carry out staff training

Collate all documents including

Design Certificate

Installation Certificate

Commissioning Certificate (also sign it!)

Cable test and wiring certificate

Specification and drawings

List of agreed Variations

Fire Plan or Cause and Effect

Acceptance Certificate signed by clients representative

27

FIRE detection systems

It is important that the system is commissioned by a competent person who has attended
recognised training courses on the equipment as well as the British Standard.
At this stage the entire system should be inspected and tested, in particular;
4

Every manual call point, sensor, sounder, interface and indicator

4 Check

that all devices are correctly sited to cover the area they are intended to protect
see previous notes on siting of devices

Check that all devices are correctly labelled and display the correct information on the
control panels
4

All sound pressure levels should be measured and recorded

Any transmission of signals to remote centres or equipment should be proven

The fire plan or cause and effect should be checked from every device

All alarm panels and printers display the correct information and are sited correctly

A suitable zone plan is mounted adjacent to the control panel

No changes to the building have affected the siting of equipment or effectiveness of the
system for example an additional partition requiring additional sensors
4 Mains

and standby power supplies are adequate and designed to support the system for
a specified period, for example 24, 48 or 72 hours

4 As

far as reasonable, ascertain that the installation complies with the standard and
certificates are provided by the installer

4 If

radio equipment is used, ensure all radio signals are of sufficient strength to ensure
reliability

4 Ensure

there are no obvious shortcomings with the system as a whole and that all the
documentation is correct

It is also recommended that the system is soak tested for up to a week, dependent on the
system size, so that any teething problems are identified without giving rise to any false
alarms.

28

by Honeywell

Installation Guide
The purpose of this section of the guide to fire detection and alarm systems is to look at the
simple guidelines an installer should follow when installing a Gent by Honeywell Vigilon or
Nano Analogue Addressable system.

Vigilon Basic Loop Architecture

Manual
Call Point

A3 Mimic
Panel

S-Quad
Sensor

S-Quad Sensor
Sounder Strobe

Mains Powered Interface

Up to 200 Devices
per Loop

Loop
Length 1Km
S-Quad Sensor

Honeywell
Voice Alarm
Node

Secure
Fibre
Network
Mains Switching
Interface

Node

6 Loop
Vigilon Panel

72 hour standby with

external enclosure

Secure
Copper
Network

2 Loop
Vigilon Compact

Beam
Receiver

Beam
Transmitter

Sprinkler Activated
S-Quad Sensor
Sounder Strobe

Node

Secure
Fibre Optic
Domain

Mains Powered DAU

S-Quad
Sensor

Manual
Call Point

Interface
Unit

Please note that a Vigilon loop can accept upto 200 devices, the Nano single loop panel

29

Manual
S-Quad Sensor Call Point

Sounder
Strobe
4 Loop Vigilon Panel

supports 127 devices.

T-breaker

WINMAG PC Based
Management System
Manned
Centre Link to
Fire Station

Manual
Call Point

Repeat
Panel

FIRE detection systems

Loop Loadings
The Vigilon loop will support up to 200 devices (127 with the Nano panel) per loop. In
addition to the maximum number of devices each loop has a loading capacity of 1000 units
which associates to a load per device. The unit rate per device is detailed in the list below.
Whilst some items have low loop loadings there is a maximum constraint on the number that
can be connected to a detection loop.
If you have any concerns regarding loop loadings please contact the Gent by Honeywell
Sales Support Team.
Description

Loop load
Factor

Maximum
per loop

S-Quad Heat Sensor

S-Quad Heat Sensor Sounder
S-Quad Heat Sensor Sounder (Turbo)
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor & Strobe
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Sounder
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech (Turbo)
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor & CO
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech & CO
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech (Turbo)
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor & CO
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech & CO
S-Quad Dual Optical Heat Sensor Strobe & Speech (Turbo) & CO
Manual Call point
S-Quad single input / output interface
S-Quad 4 channel Interface
Duct Sensor
Beam Sensor (Pair
Electronic Sounder (S3)
Electronic Sounder - Bell tone (S3)
Sounder / Strobe - Red & Amber Lens (S3)
Sounder / Strobe - Clear Lens (S3)
Sounder / Strobe (Red & Amber Lens) - Bell Tone (S3)
Sounder / Strobe (Clear Lens) - Bell Tone (S3)
Strobe - Red & Amber Lens (S3)
Strobe - Clear Lens (S3)
T - Breaker
Mains Powered Interface
Loop Powered Interface (Single Channel)
Repeat Panel
Mimic Panel

1
8
16
1
10
8
18
26
1
18
26
1
18
26
1
1
1
1
5
5
13
15
28
23
33
10
23
1
8
1
3
3

200
125
62
200
100
125
55
38
200
55
38
200
55
38
200
200
200
200
16*
200
70
60
30
40
30
100
40
200
8
200**
8***
8***

*Maximum number of beam sensors on a Nano loop is 8.

**Maximum number of interface units on a Nano loop is 16.
***Repeat and mimic panels cannot be connected to a Nano Loop. Note the Nano loop supports a maximum of 127 devices.
Note: Depending on interface usage these values can change

30

by Honeywell

Loop Connections
All devices that connect to a Gent Analogue Addressable fire detection system follow the
same loop connection methodology; please refer to the diagram below.

Each loop circuit can accept connection of up to a maximum of 200* addressable

devices per loop. To maintain earth continuity on a loop it is important for the loop
cable screen to be continued through each system device, whether the earth is
connected to a device or not.
As every loop device has an isolator fitted, it is not necessary to apply special
attention where there are more than 32 devices. However no more than a
maximum of 512 input devices shall be installed on one control panel.
* Note: Nano single loop panel supports 127 devices only.

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FIRE detection systems

Loop Length
Using 1.5mm cable, the resistance equating to 1km in length is 13ohms. In practice there
will be additional resistance due to terminations at devices. It would not be unusual to
measure a resistance of 15 ohms for a 1km loop. However if a resistance higher than this is
measured this would indicate the loop may be longer than 1km or that there may be some
terminations that need attention. If the resistance is higher than 18 ohms there is potential
for performance issues during the life of the system. Loops with a resistance greater than
18 ohms will not be guaranteed to work without problems and actions should be taken to
reduce the loop length.
In summary, the resistance for loops should be a range up to 15 ohms. If the value is
between 15 and 18 ohms the loop integrity should be investigated, but provided the system
functions satisfactorily, no further action is necessary. If the loop resistance is greater than
18 ohms the loop length should be reduced, probably by the addition of an extra loop or an
additional panel.

32

by Honeywell

Vigilon Network Basic Architecture

A standard Vigilon network comprises of up to 31 panels in a single secure loop.

Larger networks up to 200 panels are possible with a multi-ring architecture.
Contact Gent by Honeywell for further support and details.
Please note that the Nano panel cannot be connected to a Vigilon network.
Network wire must be the same type i.e. copper or fibre per domain. The domain bridge can
be fibre and local network can be copper or other way around.

33

FIRE detection systems

Vigilon Network Connections

Mixing different types of cables on the same network is not supported, it will create
impedance imbalance and disruption to data communication.

34

by Honeywell

INFORMATION Required Prior to Commissioning

The following information is required prior to commissioning being carried out to ensure
that the system is set up and tested in accordance with the customers requirements and
specification:
4 As

fitted drawings detailing all devices installed and the sequence they are connected on
each loop

Copy of design specification with variations

4 Label

schedule per loop detailing address details for each device that have been agreed
with the building user and cross referenced to as fitted drawings

4 Cause

and effect schedule. The system will need to be set up to a predetermined cause
and effect, this needs to be confirmed in writing or in the form of cause and effect matrix

37

FIRE detection systems

Device label schedule - Example

Page

Project

Anywhere

Location

No Town

Device

Type of Device label (Description to be displayed on panel) N.B MCP automatically display
device
MCP using four characters

reference on
drawing

1
Panel
No

Panel
No
1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
1/1
1/2
1/3
1/4
1/5

MCP M A I N

E N T R A N C E

SD

M A I N

HD

G R O U N D

F L O O R

P L A N T

R O O M

SND G R O U N D

F L O O R

P L A N T

R O O M

S N D

F L O O R

P L A N T

R O O M

I / F

I/F

E N T R A N C E

G R O U N D

1/5

CH - 1 L I F T

L O B B Y

C O N T R O L

1/5

CH - 2 A C C E S S

1/5

CH - 3 G A S

1/5

CH - 4 S P A R E

1/6

L I F T

C O N T R O L

V A L V E

MCP K I T C H E N

1/7

HD

1/8

HD

K I T C H E N

1/9

SD

K I T C H E N

E X I T

K I T C H E N

S T O R E

Labels can be up to 64 characters using token labels. A list of tokenaised labels can be found in the generic commissioning manual.

38

Device label schedule

Page

Project

x
or x

Panel
No

Location

Device
reference
on drawing

Type of
device

Device label (Description to be displayed on panel) N.B MCP automatically

display MCP using four characters

Panel
No

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 3031 32

Labels can be up to 64 characters using token labels. A list of tokenaised labels can be found in the generic commissioning manual.

39

FIRE detection systems

Cause and Effect Matrix Example

Alarm
in zone

Detection
in zone

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

Evacuate

Alert

Zoning
Second floor

First floor

Ground floor

40

by Honeywell

Best Practice Tips for Installation

Dos
4

Make sure the installation wiring complies with the requirements of BS 5839-1:2013
and the latest edition of the IET Electrical Regulations
4

Make sure that the loop length is within the manufacturers recommendations

4 Check

loop resistance is with in the manufacturers recommendations at installation. Using

1.5mm cable, the resistance equating to 1km in length is 13 ohms. In practice there will
be additional resistance due to terminations at devices

Make sure that all field devices are connected as per installation manual

Make sure that all monitored input/output (interface) devices have the required end of line
units fitted.
4

If an insulation resistance test is carried out it must be done so without the field devices
being connected, make sure that the loop cables are grounded before field devices
connected
4

Once a detector is fitted please ensure the dust cap stays on until the system has been
commissioned
Donts
4

Do not power up the control panel

Do not connect the loop wiring in the control panel

Do not carry out an insulation resistance test with the field devices connected

Do not exceed the manufacturers recommendations for loop length or loop resistance

Do not power up any mains powered field devices until starting the commissioning
process
4

Do not remove dust caps on detectors until the environment is clean

41

FIRE detection systems

Documentation
On completion of commissioning and user
training all documentation will have to be
collected and handed to the client or their
representative. This will include;
4

Design, Installation and Commissioning

certificates*
4 Cable

and insulation resistance test

records

4 As

fitted drawings of the final installation,

including cable run details

Product manuals and user instructions

System log book

A copy of the fire plan documentation

against which the commissioning engineer
programmed the system
4 The

designers specification and a written

list of agreed Variations

* For existing systems the Verification Certificate

could replace Design, Installation and
commissioning

42

by Honeywell

Notes

45

by Honeywell

42

L i t e r a t u r e r e f: GEN 0 31