Canadian Fire Alarm Association. Fire Alarm System Activation. Fire Alarm with malfunction history

Transcription

1 Canadian Fire Alarm Association Discussion topics False alarms Shut off notices Owner s responsibilities Documents required by AHJ Fire Alarm System Activation Fire detection (early warning at insipient stage of fire) Occupant evacuation (occupants respond, get out, stay out) Emergency responders arrive (Check fire panel for location of activation, assess situation, mitigate incident) Occupants permitted to return to building Incident closed Fire Alarm with malfunction history Fire detection not reliable Building operator may shut off alarm Occupants become complacent Fire Department may not be contacted Emergency responders arrive, incident prolonged, investigate zone/area (Occupants still in building may be at risk) 1

2 Emergency Vehicles on Scene 1 st level response by Edmonton Fire Rescue Services may involve 3 or 4 different stations. 3 Pumps 2 Ladders 1 Rescue Vehicles weigh to pounds, Risk of accidents for public and responders Unavailable for other emergency calls False Alarm means: DEFINITION: any malfunction in a fire safety installation or other safety monitoring device whereby the alarm activation was not caused by heat, smoke or fire; or a Response initiated by equipment or human negligence in circumstances where the caller is aware that no actual danger or possible danger to safety, health and welfare of people, property or the environment existed at the time the call was placed; Edmonton 2009, January- December 1757 False Alarms Edmonton 2010, January to date False Alarm Statistics 1958 False Alarms Confirmed (538) 2 nd call to same (38) 3 rd call to same (4) 2

3 Shut Off Notices Edmonton 2009, January - December 771 shut off notices Edmonton 2010, January July 272 shut off notices False Alarm Reports Documentation of responses to repeated false alarm events to identify the person(s) involved. To discourage repeat incidents which are costly and an unnecessary risk to the department, fire personnel, and the public. Alarm technicians could offer solutions to mitigate alarms, such as tamper devices for nuisance pull stations, etc. 3

4 Fire Alarm Shut off or False Alarms AHJ follow-up Using the information available, contact the building owner or designate to determine the progress made to restore the system or utility. If necessary, arrange a meeting on site to verify: work is completed work is in progress and will be completed in a timely manner if necessary, a fire watch patrol is being conducted in conformance with the Alberta Fire Code Fire Alarm Shut off or False Alarms AHJ follow-up Document all information as required on the Remedial Action Report outlining the eventual system restoration to proper working order. Contractors name and action taken. Require audit of system if recurring problem not resolved Owner or representative to contact fire department when alarm is reinstated Fee for Service Bylaw Fire Rescue Response to False Alarms: a) For the first response related to malfunctioning fire safety installations or other safety monitoring devices, at the same premises responded to during each calendar year. Letter is sent to owner with fee schedule (no charge) b) 2 nd response to a false alarm ($72.00) c) 3 rd response to a false alarm ($362.00) d) 4 th and each subsequent response to a false alarm ($723.00) 4

5 Monitoring of Private Security System If Fire Rescues Services (EFRS) is dispatched to a building/security alarm system activation and determined to be false: Owner is billed $ If EFRS is dispatched to similar building due to CO device activation: owner receives one warning letter, fee for service schedule is applied for recurring alarms. Required Document Fire alarm annual inspection Detailed report accessible to AHJ within a reasonable time Report should include details for ancillary devices such as electromagnetic locks, etc. Sticker on/inside panel with Inspection date If minor deficiencies write see report to queue AHJ AFC Notification: Contact the Fire Prevention Branch if the owner or agent is unwilling or unable to correct the deficiency. New Fire Alarm System Recurring issues with new systems Inaccurate addressing of devices Supervision required on all sprinkler control valves including main water valve. Ensure protective caps left on smoke detectors prior to building occupancy Prefer to see date of verification inside panel Buildings with FDC located in an unusual place may require a strobe or indicator above. Detector located considering ambient conditions 5

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