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Fire Alarm Sounder Decibel Level Poser!!
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spud  
#1 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:02:49(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
spud
Hi All just a quick one I think that there is a set minumum decibel level a Fire Alarm sounder should be measured against under BS5839 to make it compliant, does anyone know it and if it should be checked during service.

Alan
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Geoffwilz  
#2 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:16:16(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
Geoffwilz
As I recall a Fire Alarm sounder has to be 5dB above background noise levels, but generally seek advice from the installer
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chas  
#3 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:36:50(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chas
In most workplaces it is usually a minimum of 65db or 5db above background. (Sounders often operate at 100db). In care home and similar senarios where people may be dependent on carers who are awake at all times then this can be reduced to 45db to avoid distress, although in other sleeping accommodation 75db should be provided at the bed head. I think that makes sense!
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spud  
#4 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:39:53(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
spud
Thanks for that guys and yes it does make sense, but what i am also asking is, who actually tests that they are at that level and when? Should it be part of the 6 monthly alarm servicing?

Thanks in advance
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kevbell  
#5 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:46:17(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
kevbell
We have our alarm checked by the servicing company every year as well as the nurse call etc etc
we have been audited several times and all was found to be ok so I hope this helps

Kev
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chas  
#6 Posted : 17 February 2011 15:49:30(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chas
Not normally. As long as the soound levels are sufficient to raise the alarm and alert people then it shouldn't be necessary to take regular readings. If however you are concerned that an alert/alarm sound may go unheared in a particular area then it may be necessary to take measurements. So if you are in a room and, say, the sounder is down a corridor then you may want to check that at least 45db can be heard in the room. If it cannot then you may need to add another sounder nearer to or in the room in question.
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