This European Standard, a part of the BS EN 54 series, specifies:
- requirements, test methods and performance criteria against which the effectiveness and reliability of the component parts of fire detection and fire alarm systems can be assessed
- requirements and test methods against which the ability of components to be combined into an effective system can be assessed
- guidelines for the incorporation and use of fire detection and fire alarm systems into buildings or other construction works.
This standard applies to fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. It may also be used as a basis for the assessment of components of systems for other purposes, e.g. mines, ships; however, additional testing may be required. It does not preclude the manufacture or use of systems having special characteristics suitable for the protection of specified risks.
The performance of components is assessed from the results obtained in the specified tests and from their ability to perform the required functions. This standard is not intended to place restrictions on the design or construction of components other than those necessary for the performance of desired functions.
The compliance of a component with the relevant Part of EN 54 does not ensure that this component will necessarily function correctly when connected with another component also complying with the relevant Part of EN 54 (e.g. control and indicating equipment with a fire detector), unless both components have been assessed together as satisfying the requirements for a system.
This standard does not cover the requirements for self-contained smoke alarms.