I have been trying to re-read the study books I had for the NEBOSH Diploma (some years ago), and I’m currently on the section covering detection and alarm. It discusses the different types of detection- Smoke, Heat, Flame, Laser beam / infra-red and carbon monoxide detectors and was wondering about a particular scenario. In say a metal fabrication workshop or garage type working area, where there is likely smoke and fumes even naked flames (oxy acetylene) during the day, what system should you have. Do you just have a manual system, where the employees raise the alarm (so not automatic in any way). Do you have a system that is only turned on out of work hours. My thoughts were if you have say welding activities taking place bits of hot dross could easily end up under work benches, toolbox’s etc. These then smoulder away, which only turn into a fire after everyone has gone home. However if you have an automatic system then it will be triggered all day long. Has anyone dealt with this scenario, have knowledge of how it is dealt with or even pointers to the guidance that would cover this. Thanks Chris

Chris PM with your email and I will send you some guidance on system configurations for workshops / garage as I assessed one (qualified fire risk assessor) in a quarry garage & maintenance shop 2 weeks ago. Jonty

Chris You have an email. Jonty