Quality Mechanical Ventilation Systems

Quality Mechanical Ventilation Systems = Quality Air for All 

Breathing comes so naturally to us that we are sometimes barely conscious of it. But, bad air quality can affect us in many ways—from mere discomfort to loss of life. Since a lot of us spend time indoors nowadays, how do we ensure that the air we breathe is safe?

This is where the Mechanical Ventilation System comes in; it plays a major part in our daily lives by

• circulating the air in buildings so that all occupants are able to enjoy good air quality
• continuously replacing the air from the space with fresh, outdoor air
• removing heat from the space and also possible contaminants, such as products of respiration, bacteria, odours, products of combustion, building materials and furnishings, etc.

The role of the Mechanical Ventilation System in Fire Protection

The Mechanical Ventilation System is also a key component of fire safety. In the event of a fire, smoke and polluted air can spread rapidly throughout the building and in most incidents, death and injuries usually result from smoke inhalation rather than the heat from the flames.

This system reduces the risk factors by ensuring that the evacuation routes are safe and secure for people to leave the building.

Who is responsible for the Mechanical Ventilation System?

Thus, according to the requirements from 1) the Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Building 2018 (Fire Code 2018) - Chapter 7 and 2) the Code of Practice for air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation in building (SS 553: 2016+A1: 2017), Building Owners and Council Members are responsible for installing the Mechanical Ventilation System to

• Provide air ventilation in the building where natural ventilation is not a suitable or effective smoke control measure
• To purge or prevent smoke build-up in certain key aspects of the building, especially where means of escape are critical in the event of fire i.e. staircases

Additional Requirements:

• The common frequency of inspection, testing and maintenance of the Mechanical Ventilation System in buildings, as per regulations, is monthly
• In any building of which habitable height exceeds 24m, any internal exit staircases without provision for natural ventilation shall be pressurized to comply with the requirements
• In a building comprising more than 4 basement storeys, any exit staircase connected to fire fighting lobby in basement storeys shall be pressurized to comply with the requirements

Basic features of the Mechanical Ventilation System

The system is made up primarily of 4 types of mechanical ventilation system that you will usually hear or see in use:

Jet Fan (High and Low speed)

• Also known as impulse or induction fans
• Usually used at underground carparks and multi-storey carparks where due to exhaust gases, the air is severely contaminated with carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and LPG. The Jet Fan is use to quickly extract the polluted air from the area.
• Supports the natural flow between the supply air and extract air zones, without ducts

Fresh Air Fan

• Supports the inflow of fresh air from the external environment into the building

Exhaust Fan

• Supports the extraction of polluted air or smoke out of the area and/ or building, usually installed with ducts

Pressurization Fan

• Supports the pressurization of staircases that does not allow for natural ventilation of purging smoke out of the stairway that is the emergency escape route for the building

Where is the Mechanical Ventilation System found?

• Car parks
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms, toilets and locker rooms
• Exit facilities
• Fire Command Centre
• Engine driven pump room
• Generator room
• Spaces involving the use of flammable and explosive substances

How BSE Can Help?

Fire Protection Specialists like BSE, MCST Managing agencies, and/ or technicians are engaged to assist Building Owners and Council Members. We provide the

• Inspection of the Mechanical Ventilation System and equipment
• Testing of Mechanical Ventilation System and equipment under fire and fault conditions
• Identification of defects for recommendation and rectification in a timely manner

Ventilation is important, and many factors can influence how well it works or if the building has the proper balance of air flow throughout especially in the event of a fire incident. Contact us today to find out how we can value-add to your existing Fire Protection Maintenance Services.

Tips On an Optimum Mechanical Ventilation System

• Ensure that TESTS are conducted based on Pressurization Systems (Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings)
• Ensure that SIGNALS from the Fire Alarm Panel can AUTOMATICALLY ACTIVATE the Fan Controller Panel to trigger the system in the event of fire
• Ensure there are NO OBSTRUCTIONS or blockages at the start and end of the duct-work or fan grille to ensure that the proper airflow path is being observed

 For consulting regarding subject matter, please contuct with us.

Flow Switch integration with Fire alarm panel

Flow Switch integration with Fire alarm panel 

A water flow switch or water flow switch in an automatic fire sprinkler system or less often a fire hydrant system is an electro-mechanical alarm initiating device that has been designed to detect the flow of water through a pipe.

Flow refers to the velocity or physical movement of gas, steam, or liquid within a pipe that triggers the actuation of the flow switch. When there is no flow present, the velocity either drops or completely stops; in either case, the switch will revert to its original position. A complete stoppage or decrease in velocity gets indicated when there is no flow. Also, the stoppage allows the switch to return to its original position.

A water flow switch is typically installed in the water supply (above an alarm valve) or in a branch of an automatic fire sprinkler system or fire hydrant system and is used to detect the flow of water indicating an alarm condition. When water moves past the flow switch in the pipe the pressure of the water moves an integrated paddle (a component of the flow switch) in the direction of water flow. This movement activates a switch that triggers an alarm signal at a fire detection and alarm system.

More modern flow switches may also feature a retard mechanism that helps reduce the incidence of false alarms. Flow switches can serve numerous functions and also get used in a variety of applications. If one needs to monitor the flow rate or to protect the pump, then the flow switch can serve your purpose. The flow sensor will send an electrical signal to PLC or any other electronic controller.

Airflow switches are used to cleanroom filter systems, exhaust ventilation, and air treatment systems.

Flow switches are used in many other applications, such as:

·        Water treatment systems

·        Additive or blending systems

·        Air supply systems

·        Duct type heating

·        The flow switch triggers an alarm when the supply gets off.

·        When there is insufficient flow, the electric motor will shut down.

·        The flow switch also gets used in air conditioning and ventilator units.

·        In the central heating systems, the flow switch gets used.

·        In the chlorination systems fitted in swimming pools, flow switches can be used.

The primary purpose of an addressable fire indicator panel is to monitor each circuit, zone or point for any condition (alarm signal or other abnormal condition); display the status of that condition and to operate any required output or outputs according to the approved design of the system. These outputs are typically for the purpose of warning occupants on a fire alarm signal, notify the fire brigade, control the spread of heat, smoke or fire; or used for a wide variety of other purposes. There are many advantages of addressable systems including the ability to more effectively handle contamination over time that leads to nuisance (false) alarms, improved detection of fires and the ability to identify the precise location of a detector and its current condition or state. Do remember all input connection are potential free or dry contact.

To get Flow switch state through addressable fire alam control panel (FACP), you need input module or monitor module. Input module is one of the input devices of a fire alarm signal line. Input modules are used to get signal from 3rd party devices or other electrical or mechanical systems, like: Flow switch, probe type heat detector, LHS Cable, earthquake sensors, temperature sensors, push-buttons, magnetic contact etc. to fire alarm systems in the building. Based on programming FACP instruct Output module to create alam or notification for the same.

If you are a system integrator or Safety item installer or even a distributor, it is important to know how to integrate or application for Fire Detection Systems on behalf of the customer. Majority of the datasheets and catalogues are not really useful unless you already know what you are getting into. If need any further information contact us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com.

How Fire Panel Know my Detectors are OK?

How Fire Panel Know my Detectors are OK?

Wishing you a very Happy New Year 2022.

The exact design of a commercial fire alarm system is determined by the commercial space’s occupancy classification and the local codes mandated by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for that specific occupancy classification. But regardless of the system design, all commercial fire alarm systems must have a Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).

An FACP is the “brain” of the fire alarm system to which all other devices are connected. When an initiating device (such as a smoke detector or a manual pull station) transmits an alarm signal to the FACP, it activates the notification devices to alert the occupants via audible and visual alarm devices.

An FACP also has a digital display that provides the current status of the fire alarm system. In modern “addressable” fire alarm systems, every device connected to the FACP has a unique address (for example: “57 - smoke detector basement electrical room”) which allows the FACP to display the specific device that initiated the signal. This level of detail allows the authorized personnel to quickly locate the source of the alarm. The building’s authorized personnel also use the FACP’s functional switches to acknowledge signals, silence alarms and reset the system once the alarm condition has been cleared by fire department personnel.

It's assumed that fire alarm systems have to work all the time because fires happen anytime... but, then again, this is the real world. Problems with the fire alarm system do occur, and that's when it may not go into alarm. To know when it needs to be fixed, the whole fire alarm system needs to be supervised. 

Smoke detectors look for the presence of smoke. The most common type used today are photoelectric smoke detectors. A photoelectric smoke detector operates by projecting a small beam of light across an internal chamber. If that beam of light becomes obscured beyond a preset threshold (a percentage of light obscuration) by smoke, dirt or other small particles, the detector will transmit an alarm signal to the

If there's trouble inside the fire alarm panel, the panel does its self-diagnostics and indicates trouble. However, when there's a problem in the wiring or devices outside the panel, that's another story. 

Addressable Supervision is the Fire Alarm Control Panel polling or asking a device "Are You OK?", and the device answers "I'm OK!"

Polling is an I'm OK Check

Conventional Class A and Class B wiring directly supervises only the wires; it does not really supervise the devices. The Signaling Line Circuit (SLC), on the other hand, is different; it supervises the devices. 

Unlike the conventional methods, the SLC is a kind of two way street. To supervise, the SLC uses Polling of the Devices. Polling is similar to an I'm OK survey of the entire fire alarm system outside the panel. 

To Poll the devices, the panel uses a signal to say 'device 27 report', and device 27 reports back with a signal that says essentially, 'I'm OK.' If device 27 doesn't report back, or if it does report back but says it isn't working correctly, the message on the fire alarm panel indicates trouble on device 27. 

Failure of the device to report back could be trouble with the device, or trouble with the wiring. However, because the panel specifies the device in trouble, the troubleshooting process of the fire alarm system is sped up. 

Supervising the Wire

With conventional Class A or Class B wiring methods, in order to directly supervise the wire, a current is passed through the entire wire loop. 

The devices connected to the loop aren't supervised; the panel never checks the devices to see if they work. Unless a detector in the field opens the loop, or a horn or strobe shorts (almost never happens), the fire alarm panel won't indicate trouble. 

On the other hand, with the exception of Styles 6 and 7 (equivalent to the conventional Class A), the wires in an addressable loop aren't directly supervised. 

Instead of passing a current through the wire, the SLC wiring is indirectly supervised. If, during the polling process, the returning I'm OK signal is received at the panel, the panel assumes that the wiring is complete. That's the indirect supervision of the wire in the loop. 

Alarm Signals -- Input and Output Device

For input devices, of course, if smoke detector 27 goes into alarm, the panel gets the signal from device 27, and using words on the display, identifies smoke detector 27 as the source of the alarm.

Then again, to turn on the horns or strobes is a specific area, the panel can also send signals along the same SLC to the specific output modules it needs to turn on. 

Addressable I'm OK Supervision -- It's All About Confidence

Using the "I'm OK" signals of the polling process, the addressable fire alarm system directly supervises the devices on the SLC. With this direct supervision of the devices, the fire alarm system has confidence the building wiring is intact.

According to NFPA 72, fire alarm initiating devices are defined as devices used to manually or automatically signal a fire alarm system to initiate responses from equipment and people. These devices connect to the alarm system’s control panel and are under the control panel’s surveillance. When triggered, the control panel identifies the location and then goes into the alarm stage, sounding alerts throughout the building and sending commands to emergency responders.

SSA Integrate offers NFPA inspection programs to our customers. Regular fire equipment inspections will ensure the ongoing reliability and safety of your fire protection systems. As part of the fire protection inspection process, detailed reports will be provided identifying any system deficiencies and recommended action to bring the system back up to applicable fire codes.
We provide a comprehensive selection of fire protection inspection services through our Preventive Maintenance Agreement (PMA). Your company can save valuable time and money by having your fire safety needs addressed with one PMA.

Fire Alarm Log Books

Fire Alarm Log Books

Fire Log Books are a great way to ensure that managers of buildings meet the requirements of Health & Safety and Fire Safety regulation.

The new Fire Log Books which are on the market offer a basic guide for company management and in conjunction with guidelines laid down in the Fire management Plan are aimed at reducing the risk of fire in the workplace.

Within the Fire Log Book are various sections detailing measures which should be taken reduce the fire risk in a workplace.  These sections are as follows:-

·       Frequency of Tests required for Fire Alarm & Detection Systems, Emergency Lighting, Fire Equipment, Hose Reels, Fire Exit Doors, Sprinklers, Fire Training and Means of Escape, Fire Signage & Notices.

·       The requirements for Portable Fire Equipment including Fire Extinguishers & Hose Reels. The fire log book includes a section to list the locations of the equipment and a log the weekly checks of the equipment and any faults found.

·       The requirements for the Fire Alarm & Detection System Equipment including a section for recording the location of call points to be tested on the weekly test and a log section for recording the Fire Alarm & Detection equipment test records.

·       The requirements for the Means of Escape from the building including fire signage and notices.  Including a monthly inspection log of the escape routes, fire doors and fire exit doors.

·       A log for Fire Safety Training where the fire training record carried out can be recorded and dated.

·       A section for recording Fire Safety Evacuation Drills including the date of the drill, type of drill, evacuation time, person / department receiving drill and any observations made by the drill instructor.

·       A section detailing the test records for the Emergency Lighting system including a section to record faults and action which is needed to rectify the faults.

·       A section to record electrical installation and equipment inspections.

·       A final section showing a blank company hot work permit to be completed whenever hot work is carried out.

Key point of Fire Alarm / Building Inspection Log Book

·        Fire Alarm Daily Entries

·        Central Station On/Off Line Log

·        Activated Alarm Entries

·        Notification Entries

·        Fire Alarm Events/Tests

·        Elevator Testing Instructions

·        Monthly Elevator Testing Login

·        Exit Lights, Signs & Fire Extinguishers

·        Monthly Generator Log

·        Smoke Control Systems

·        Smoke and Heat Vents

·        Annual Component Inspections

·        Annual Inspections

·        Defect Log

·        NFPA Inspection, Testing & Maintenance

·        Semi-Annual Inspections:

    ·        Manual Pull Stations

    ·        Public Address System

    ·        Alarm/Strobe Signal

    ·        Floor Warden Phones

    ·        Fail-Safe Release

·        Annual Inspections:

    ·        Arm Bands and Vests

    ·        Photoluminescent Signs

Combination Fire Safety / EAP Log Book

·        Daily Fire Safety/EAP Director Log

·        Drills & Training

·        Emergency Action Plan – Related Events

·        Drills & Training Sessions

·        Fire Safety / Emergency Action Plan Onsite Practical

·        Test & Plan Reviews & Amendments

·        Voluntary EAP Full Building Evacuation Drills

·        Fire Protection System Contractors

·        Reference Material

Sprinkler and Standpipe Inspection Record Book

·        Weekly & Monthly Fire Pump Testing

·        Annual Fire Pump Testing

·        Water Storage Tank

·        Monthly Sprinkler Inspection Record

·        Monthly Standpipe Inspection Record

·        Sprinkler and Standpipe Deficiencies Record

·        Standpipe 3 and 5 year Tests

·        National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Inspections, Testing and Maintenance

Fire Safety Plan Log Book

·        Daily Fire Safety Director Log

·        Fire Safety and Evacuation Drills

·        Fire Safety and Evacuation Training

·        Fire Safety Plan Onsite Practical Test

·        Fire Safety Plan Reviews & Amendments

·        Fire Protection System Contractors

·        Reference Materials

After Hours Fire Guard Log Book

·        Log Book Inspection Report and Notification

·        After-Hours Fire Guard Checklist

·        Standpipe, Exits, Trash Accumulation

·        Fire Extinguishers, Ignition Sources

·        Sidewalk Sheds

·        Contraband, Shanty Inspections

·        Fire Alarm Stations, Sprinkler System

Homeless Shelter Drills & Training Record

·        Daily Coordinator Fire Safety / Alarm Systems Log

·        Homeless Shelter Drills – Fire & Emergency

·        Preparedness (FEP) Staff Training – Emergency

·        Preparedness Plan Reviews & Amendments

Smoke Detector Maintenance Record

·        Semi Annual Smoke Detector Cleaning

·        Annual Sensitivity Test Records

·        Smoke Detector Repair or Replacement Records

Without a fire alarm system that has been properly designed, installed, upgraded, and in working order, your occupants may have far less time to evacuate during an emergency and may be at a much higher risk of injury. SSA Integrate is that partner. Whether you’re planning a retrofit, or new construction, our expert engineers can help. We assist engineers, architects, contractors, and building owners in creating design packages that meet regulatory requirements, leverage the latest technology, and are as cost-effective as possible.

Fire Alarm System Design, Installation & Upgrade Programs We Offer:

·        Complete Design Drawings, Including Specifications and Calculations

·        Professional Engineering Review

·        AHJ Filing Services

·        Project Management

·        System Commissioning

·        Witness Acceptance Testing

·        System Upgrades

·        System Monitoring / System Maintenance  

We offer equipment from today’s leading manufacturers, including:

·        Edwards

·        Autronica

·        GST

·        Cooper

·        BOSCH

·        Apollo

·        Ravel

·        ESSER

·        Notifier

·        Morley IAS

·        Cerberus Pyrotronics