Alarms & Sprinklers

Question 1

What are the 4 types of smoke detectors?

Answer 1

• Point type (Ionisation & Photoelectric)
• Beam type
• Air sampling
• Household type (also Ionisation & Photoelectric)

(photoelectric is the main recommended type in households)

Question 2

What are the advantages of photoelectric smoke alarms?

Answer 2

• Low cost.
• Low maintenance.
• Provide early fire warning.
• Sensitive to slow burning, smouldering fires.
• Not affected by moving air.

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of photoelectric smoke alarms?

Answer 3

• If powered by batteries are used, must be checked regularly.
• Less sensitive to flaming fires than ionisation detectors.
• Higher current consumption than ionisation detectors.
• Subject to false alarms if incorrectly positioned.

Question 4

What is the function of an FIP?

Answer 4

It contains the controls and indicators for the various fire detection and suppression systems in a building.

Question 5

What does FIP stand for?

Answer 5

Fire Indicator Panel

Question 6

What are some common causes of false alarms?

Answer 6

• Welding, cutting, grinding
• Rainwater in detector
• Improper installation or maintenance
• Battery failure
• Broken sprinkler head