Earlier this year, the tragic incident on Russell Island that claimed the lives of five boys and their father due to a fire has led to legal consequences for a 61-year-old woman in Tweed Heads. She has been served a notice to appear in court on one count related to the failure to install smoke alarms, highlighting the seriousness of ensuring fire safety measures are in place. The incident underscores the critical importance of fire detection and prevention systems, which are designed to protect lives and property from such devastating events.
Fire alarm and detection systems are vital components of modern building safety infrastructure, designed to protect lives and property by providing early warning of fire. These systems are especially crucial due to unique environmental and regulatory factors.
Types of Fire Alarm & Detection Systems
- Conventional Fire Alarm Systems: These systems are widely used in smaller buildings. They operate by dividing the premises into zones, each with its own set of detectors. When a detector in a zone is triggered, the control panel indicates which zone the fire is in.
- Addressable Fire Alarm Systems: More suitable for larger buildings, these systems allow each device to have an address. The control panel can identify the exact location of the triggered device, facilitating faster response.
- Wireless Fire Alarm Systems: Ideal for buildings where wiring is impractical, these systems use radio communication between devices and the control panel. They are quick to install and can be easily expanded.
- Hybrid Fire Alarm Systems: Combining wired and wireless technology, these systems offer flexibility and can be tailored to specific building requirements.
Components of Fire Alarm & Detection Systems
1. Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
The brain of the system, receiving signals from detectors and initiating alarms.
2. Initiating Devices
- Smoke Detectors: Detect smoke particles, common in both ionization and photoelectric types.
- Heat Detectors: Trigger alarms based on temperature changes.
- Flame Detectors: Identify fire by sensing light in the infrared or ultraviolet spectrum.
- Multi-Criteria Detectors: Combination of smoke, heat Co2 sensing elements to help mitigate unwanted alarms.
- Aspirating Systems: Air sensing/monitoring equipment that operates similar to a smoke detector. However, these systems have a very fast response to the smallest of early stages of a fire.
- Manual Call Points: Allow occupants to manually raise an alarm.
3. Notification Devices
- Alarms: Audible alerts to notify occupants.
- Strobes: Visual alerts, especially important for hearing-impaired individuals.
- Speakers: For voice evacuation messages.
4. Power Supplies
Ensure the system remains operational during power outages.
5. Communication Devices
Enable remote monitoring and control of the system.
What is the current law for Smoke Alarms?
As of 2017, the smoke alarm legislation in Queensland required all dwellings, including houses, townhouses, and units, to comply with updated smoke alarm laws. These laws are part of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) legislation aimed at enhancing fire safety across the state.
Mandatory Requirements:
- All Dwellings – Every dwelling (including existing and new homes) must be fitted with interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways that connect bedrooms with the rest of the dwelling, and on every level.
- New Dwellings and Renovations – All new builds and substantial renovations must comply with the legislation immediately.
- Existing Dwellings – Existing homes will need to comply with the new laws when sold, leased, or when a lease is renewed.
Interconnection
Smoke alarms must be interconnected, either by wiring or by a wireless technology that meets the Australian Standard (AS 3786-2014).
Placement of Smoke Alarms
- In Bedrooms: In every bedroom and in hallways servicing bedrooms.
- On Each Level: On every storey of the dwelling, including connected undercrofts, cellars and attics, whether they are storeys or not.
- Not Near Bathrooms and Kitchens: Not near bathrooms or kitchens, as cooking or shower steam can set off alarms.
Types of Smoke Alarms
- Photoelectric Smoke Alarms: These are required under the legislation as they are more effective at detecting smoke from smoldering fires, which are more common in home fires than flames.
- Interconnected Smoke Alarms: This means that when one alarm sounds, they all sound.
Specific Requirements for Existing Dwellings
- Dwellings being sold, leased, or renewed: From 1 January 2022, smoke alarms in existing dwellings being sold, leased, or renewed will need to meet the requirements that apply to new dwellings.
- Existing dwellings not sold, leased or renewed: From 1 January 2027, all Queensland dwellings will need to meet the smoke alarm requirements that apply to new dwellings.
Responsibilities and Penalties
- Homeowners: It is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that the smoke alarms are installed correctly and maintained.
- Landlords: Landlords must ensure that the smoke alarms are tested and cleaned and have fresh batteries at the start of a tenancy.
Penalties apply for non-compliance with the new legislation, including fines and legal action.
Compliance and Testing
- Smoke alarms must be tested and cleaned every year.
- It is recommended that a licensed electrical contractor be engaged to undertake these checks.
There is a transition period for existing dwellings to comply with the legislation, with different deadlines depending on the circumstances of sale, lease, or renewal. Specific requirements exist for different types of buildings, such as rental properties, holiday accommodation, and multi-storey dwellings.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) provide detailed guidelines and information on their website to help homeowners, landlords, and tenants understand and comply with the new legislation.
SAFE: Your Expert in Fire Alarm & Detection Systems
The reliability and effectiveness of fire alarm and detection systems are important. As a recognized leader in the field, SAFE brings decades of experience and expertise to ensure the safety of homes, businesses, and communities across Brisbane and Queensland.
Our team consists of highly trained and certified fire safety experts who understand the nuances of fire alarm and detection systems. With years of experience, we have tackled diverse challenges in various environments, from residential buildings, industrial complexes and specialist engineered solutions..
We design fire alarm systems customized to the unique needs of your property, ensuring comprehensive coverage while adhering to QLD regulations. We have an in-depth understanding of the smoke alarm legislation and ensure that all systems comply with the latest standards and regulations.
Ensure the safety of your property and the well-being of your occupants with SAFE’s expert fire alarm and detection systems services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can enhance your fire safety measures.
