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ICS 13.22.20
SANS 369-1:2004
ISBN 0-626-16109-6 Edition 1

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Code of practice for the operation of fire

protection measures

Part 1: Electrical actuation of gaseous total

flooding extinguishing systems

This national standard is the identical implementation of BS 7273-1:2000

and is adopted with the permission of British Standards Publishing Ltd.

Published by Standards South Africa

1 dr lategan road groenkloof private bag x191 pretoria 0001
tel: 012 428 7911 fax: 012 344 1568 international code + 27 12
www.stansa.co.za
© Standards South Africa

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SANS 369-1:2004
Edition 1

Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope

Abstract
Provides recommendations for the planning, installation and servicing of electrical equipment for the
actuation of gaseous total flooding fire extinguishing systems for use in a temperate climate.

Keywords
actuators, alarm systems in buildings, automatic control systems, control devices, electrical
components, electrical equipment, electrically-operated devices, fire detectors, fire extinguishers
(built-in), fire fighting equipment, fire safety, gases, installation, maintenance, signal devices, visual
signals.

National foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee StanSA SC 5120.06C, Fire
safety – Fixed fire detection and extinguishing systems, in accordance with procedures of
Standards South Africa, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.

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The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
BS 7273-1:2000
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Code of practice for the |
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ICS 13.220.20 |
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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW
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© SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
 © SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
BS 7273-1:2000 copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted to Technical Committee
FSH/12, Fire detection and alarm systems, upon which the following bodies were
represented:

British Cable Makers Confederation

British Entertainments and Discotheque Association
British Fire Consortium
British Fire Protection Systems Association
British Nuclear Fuels plc
British Telecommunications plc
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
Consumer Policy Committee of BSI
Department of Health Ð NHS Estates
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
(Represented by the Building Research Establishment)
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
(Construction Directorate)
Electrical Contractors Association
Health and Safety Executive
Home Office
Institute of Fire Safety
Institute of Petroleum
Institution of Electrical Engineers
Line of Fire
London Fire and Civil Defence Authority
Loss Prevention Council
Ministry of Defence
National Association of Fire Officers
National Caravan Council Limited
National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting
Nuclear Industry Fire Safety Co-ordinating Committee
Trades Union Congress

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Health and
Environment Sector Committee,
was published under the
authority of the Standards
Committee and comes into effect
on 15 April 2000

 BSI 04-2000 Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments
First edition July 1990

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference FSH/12
Draft for comment 96/543309 DC

ISBN 0 580 33062 1

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BS 7273-1:2000
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 1
4 System design 1
5 Fire detection 3
6 Control and indicating equipment 4
7 Controls and indication 5
8 Power supplies and wiring 6
9 Commissioning and handover 7
10 Servicing 7
Annex A (informative) Example of a simple diagrammatic representation of a
typical sequence of actions leading to the release of fire extinguishing medium 8
Annex B (informative) Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing
system (coincidence release in automatic mode) 9
Annex C (informative) Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing
system (manual release in manual mode) 10
Figure A.1 Ð Diagrammatic representation of a typical sequence of actions
leading to the release of fire extinguishing medium 8
Table 1 Ð Control equipment indications of system status 4
Table 2 Ð System status indicators at entrances to the protected space 6
Table B.1 Ð Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system
(coincidence release in automatic mode) 9
Table C.1 Ð Example of sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (manual
release in manual mode) 10

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Foreword

This British Standard code of practice has been prepared by Technical Committee
FSH/12. It supersedes BS 7273-1:1990, which is withdrawn. It covers the interface
between fire detection systems (see BS 5839-1) and fire extinguishing systems
(see BS 5306) and is also applicable to fire protection systems for electronic data
processing installations (see BS 6266).
This code of practice is published in a series of parts.
Part 2 deals with the mechanical actuation of gaseous total flooding extinguishing
systems and part 3 deals with pre-action systems.
Further parts of this standard either planned or in preparation will deal with the
automatic closing (or opening) of fire doors, fire shutters, etc.
Attention is drawn to annex A which gives a simple diagrammatic representation of a
typical sequence of actions leading to the release of fire extinguishing medium and to
annexes B and C which give examples of a sounder sequence for coincidence release
in automatic mode and manual release in manual mode, respectively.
Annexes A, B and C are informative.
As a code of practice, this British Standard takes the form of guidance and
recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification and particular
care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not misleading.
A British Standard does not purport to include all necessary provisions of a contract.
Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii, pages 1
to 10, an inside back cover and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed throughout this document indicates when the
document was last issued.

ii  BSI
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1 Scope 3 Terms and definitions

This part of BS 7273 gives recommendations for the For the purposes of this part of BS 7273 the
planning, installation and servicing of electrical following terms and definitions apply.
equipment for the actuation of gaseous total flooding 3.1
fire extinguishing systems. It covers the interface
between fire detection systems (see BS 5839-1) and automatic and manual/manual only switch
fire extinguishing systems (see BS 5306) and is also means of converting the system from automatic and
applicable to fire protection systems for electronic manual to manual only actuation
data processing installations (see BS 6266). It applies NOTE This may be in the form of a manual switch on the control
only to electrically actuated total flooding gaseous panel or other units, or a personnel door interlock; in all cases,
fire extinguishing systems for use in a temperate this changes the actuation mode of the system from automatic
and manual to manual only or vice versa.
climate such as that of the United Kingdom.
NOTE Whilst the recommendations are applicable mainly to total 3.2
flooding systems they may also be used for local application automatic (of a fire extinguishing system)
systems.
mode of operation in which the system can actuate
without manual intervention
2 Normative references 3.3
The following normative documents contain
coincidence connection
provisions which, through reference in this text,
constitute provisions of this part of this British facility designed so that an output is obtained only
Standard. For dated references, subsequent when at least two independent detection inputs are
amendments to, or revisions of, any of these present at the same time
publications do not apply. For undated references, NOTE 1 For example, an output suitable for triggering a fire
extinguishing system is obtained only after a detector has detected
the latest edition of the publication referred to a fire, and at least one other independent detector covering the
applies. same protected space has confirmed the existence of fire.
BS 1635, Recommendations for graphic symbols and NOTE 2 The term ªdouble knockº should not be used as a
abbreviations for fire protection drawings. synonym for coincidence connection.
BS 5306 (all parts), Fire extinguishing installations 3.4
and equipment on premises. manual (of a fire extinguishing system)
BS 5306-4:1986, Fire extinguishing installations and mode of operation in which the system can actuate
equipment on premises Ð Part 4: Specification for only with manual intervention
carbon dioxide systems.
3.5
BS 5839-1:1988, Fire detection and alarm systems
for buildings Ð Part 1: Code of practice for system protected space
design, installation and servicing. space protected by a fire extinguishing system
BS 6266, Code of practice for fire protection for 3.6
electronic data processing installations. zone
BS 7671, Requirements for electrical installations Ð subdivision of the protected premises such that the
IEE Wiring Regulations Ð Sixteenth edition. occurrence of a fire within it will be indicated by a
BS 7629 (all parts), Specification for 300/500 V fire fire alarm system separately from an indication of
resistant electric cables having low emission of fire in any other subdivision
smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire. NOTE 1 A zone will usually consist of an area protected by
several manual call points and/or detectors, and is separately
BS EN 54-2, Fire detection and fire alarm indicated to assist in location of the fire, evacuation of the
systems Ð Part 2: Control and indicating building and firefighting.
equipment. NOTE 2 The term ªzoneº should not be confused with a ªflooding
BS EN 54-4, Fire detection and fire alarm zoneº (see BS 5306-4).
systems Ð Part 4: Power supply equipment.
DD 233, Code of practice for gaseous fire fighting 4 System design
systems.
4.1 General
The recommendations for the protected space(s)
should be ascertained by consultation between the
client and, as appropriate, the architect, the
consultant, the fire detection and alarm system
contractor, the fire extinguishing contractor(s), the
fire authority, the fire insurer, the Health and Safety
Executive, and any relevant regulatory authority.

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It is essential that, in the event of fire, a pre-planned 4.3 Circuit design

and practised course of action is taken to ensure the
safety of occupants and the effective operation of 4.3.1 Detection systems
the fire extinguishing system. Such necessary actions The system should be designed so that in the event
should be discussed at the design stage and of a single cable fault, a degraded form of detecting
incorporated within the proposed systems. fire within the protected area remains and the
The system design should conform to the system is still capable of at least manual discharge of
appropriate recommendations of: the extinguishing agent.
Ð BS 5839-1, for fire detection and alarm; If the installation is designed so that the maximum
Ð BS 5306 series, for fire extinguishing; area of coverage per detector is generally Xm2, the
degraded level of detection should be such that
Ð DD 233, for gaseous firefighting systems;
those detectors that remain operational provide a
Ð BS 6266, for fire protection for electronic data maximum area of coverage of 2 Xm2 per detector
processing installations. evenly distributed throughout the protected space.
On the basis of this consultation, documents should The purpose of this degraded detection is to enable
be prepared showing the following: warning to be given to persons so that at least
a) details of the proposal including, for example, a manual operation of the extinguishing system is
simple diagrammatic representation of a sequence possible.
of actions leading to the release of fire
4.3.2 Connection to the fire extinguishing
extinguishing medium (see annex A for an
system
example of a diagrammatic representation);
b) the accommodation recommended for the If the means for transmission of signals in either
equipment, if the accommodation should be direction between the detection system and the fire
specified at an early stage. extinguishing system do not comprise an exclusive
circuit, the connections should be protected against
4.2 Operation of the system a single cable fault (i.e. both short-circuit and
4.2.1 General open-circuit) on any part of the circuit, for example,
Operation of the system should follow a sequence by the provision of line isolators.
leading to the release of fire extinguishing medium 4.3.3 Reliability of control equipment and
(for example, see annex A). This sequence should external circuitry
normally encompass coincidence connection in order The circuit should be designed so that the system is
to avoid unwanted discharges when in the automatic highly reliable in respect of its resistance to
mode of operation. accidental discharge due to reasonably foreseeable
Operation of the first detector should result in at events and its ability to function on demand.
least an indication of fire at the fire alarm control
It is important that the reliability of control
equipment and the sounding of an alarm of fire
equipment and external circuitry is considered at the
(see annex A).
system design stage (see 6.1.2 and 6.3).
However, if the parties given in 4.1 agree, a
restricted alarm (e.g. a staff alarm) may be given in 4.3.4 Avoidance of malfunction due to
accordance with the recommendations of BS 5839-1. insufficient immunity to electromagnetic
No indications should occur until coincidence radiation
connection occurs or coincidence connection Certain electromagnetic fields, such as those
confirms the detection. Confirmation of detection of generated by radio transmitters, have been known to
a fire by, for example, the simultaneous operation of trigger electrically activated gas release facilities or
a subsequent detector may result in the discharge of cause gaseous extinguishing systems to malfunction.
fire extinguishing medium (see 6.3). It is commonplace for equipment such as two-way
Confirmation of discharge of fire extinguishing radios and cellular telephones to be used inside
medium should be indicated at the control buildings. In such cases care should be taken to
equipment. The method of deriving the signal should avoid the risk of accidental discharge due to the
be a pressure or flow switch, located so as to electromagnetic field radiated by such apparatus.
indicate that discharge of gas has occurred from any Similar problems may occur if the system is installed
storage container in the system. For example, in the in high field strengths such as at or near airports or
case of a bank of containers the discharge of gas radar transmitter stations.
from any container into the central manifold should
be indicated.
Interruption of the connection between the fire
detection system and any part of the fire
extinguishing medium release system should not
affect the operation of any fire detector and the fire
alarms being sounded.

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5 Fire detection Where the fire hazard or criticality of risk requires

the use of detectors utilizing one or more principles
5.1 General of operation, normally a minimum of two of each
The fire detection system should follow the type should be provided in the protected space, with
recommendations of BS 5839-1, unless other at least one of each type per circuit to ensure that at
standards are more applicable (e.g. BS 6266 for the least one detector of each type can contribute
protection of data processing installations). towards coincidence connection once the first
detector has operated. The two types of detector
5.2 Fire detection within the protected space should be distributed over the protected space in the
5.2.1 General most advantageous positions to detect the required
The detectors used to control the release of an phenomena and over any subdivision of the
automatic fire extinguishing system should be protected space, e.g. a floor void or ceiling void.
installed in coincidence connection (see 5.2.2) Where coincidence connection is used and the
unless: hazard or the criticality of the risk justifies the use
of more than one principle of operation, at least two
a) the hazard is of such a nature that the delayed of each principle should be installed in each division
response of a coincidence connection system or subdivision of the protected area. However, where
could be dangerous, in which case release of the the quantity and types of materials in a protected
extinguishing medium may be automatically area would allow the satisfactory use of one
actuated by the operation of a single detector; and principle of operation, a minimum of two detectors
either of the chosen principle may be used.
b) the probability of a false alarm or failure of a NOTE 2 Point-type heat detectors are not normally considered
detector is low; or suitable for this type of application.
c) the area cannot be occupied (e.g. voids, control In some cases, it may be permitted to fit a single
cabinets). detector in a small enclosed space of the order of up
to 6 m3 in volume, ancillary to the main protected
5.2.2 Coincidence connection space, e.g. a small storage area, if:
5.2.2.1 If it is intended that total flooding fire a) the risk of fire occurring within the small space,
extinguishing systems are to be actuated by the especially a deep seated fire, is small; and
operation of a fire detection system, every care b) the detector is part of the overall coincidence
should be taken to avoid the consequences of connection of detectors to initiate a total flooding
inadvertent discharges, which could be caused by discharge for the main area.
false alarms in the detection system. Coincidence
NOTE 3 This will take into account possible uncontrolled fire
connection of smoke detectors is one method of within the space resulting in discharge due to confirmation by a
minimizing the possibility of false alarm. detector in the main area.
5.2.2.2 Detection systems that cannot individually Any decision to protect such a space by a single
address detectors should provide at least two detector should take into account the nature of the
independent detection circuits to each protected fire hazard created by delay in the release of
space. extinguishing agent in the event of a fire in the small
space.
5.2.2.3 In detection systems that can address
individual detectors, detectors in coincidence 5.2.4 Spacing and siting of detectors
connection may be used on the same circuit, as long Where coincidence connection is used, the minimum
as each of the detectors can be identified and is detector density for normal commercial or industrial
capable of sending an independent signal to the fire purposes should be twice the minimum required
detection system control panel. by BS 5839-1 (i.e. the floor area covered by one
NOTE In conventionally zoned systems, up to 50 % of the detector is halved). For those areas of high intrinsic
detectors could, in effect, be isolated from contributing to the value or high air movement, e.g. electronic data
coincidence connection once the first detector has gone into processing installations or telecommunications
alarm. Addressability offers the potential to maximize the
performance of the detection system by enabling every detector rooms, the level of detection should be in
other than the fire detector in alarm to contribute to the accordance with BS 6266.
coincidence connection. However, it is recognized that there is a Individual detectors should be sited in accordance
risk that faults on loops could cause phantom alarm conditions
that could initiate automatic discharge. with BS 5839-1 and the manufacturer's
recommendations, as appropriate.
5.2.3 Type of detector used
There should be means in the vicinity of the
The type of detectors used is of paramount protected space for rapid identification of the
importance. Detectors should conform to the location of any hidden detector that is in an alarm
recommendations of BS 5839-1. condition, e.g. remote indicator lamps.
NOTE 1 Detectors of differing principles of operation are
permitted on the same detection circuit.

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5.2.5 Circuits containing detectors In particular, stringent precautions should be taken

If detector circuits are common to more than one to ensure that none of the events in a) to c) could
protected space, the signal to initiate release of the result in the release of gas when the system is set to
fire extinguishing medium into a protected space the ªmanual onlyº mode of operation.
where fire has been detected should not contribute It is particularly important that consideration is given
to the release of extinguishing medium in another to the design of both the control equipment and the
protected space whose detection system uses the external circuitry, especially in the case of systems
same circuit(s). in which accidental release of extinguishing agent
Manual call points should not in any way influence could:
the release of fire extinguishing medium (see 7.1.2). Ð result in interruption of a critical process;
5.3 Fire detection in adjacent areas Ð be hazardous to life;
5.3.1 Where the protected space and its access are Ð result in damage to the environment.
within or adjacent to other areas (possibly controlled 6.2 Visual and audible indication at control
by a person or authority other than the client) from equipment
which fire could spread, consideration should be
given to providing these areas with a fire detection The system status visual indications should be as
and alarm system conforming to BS 5839-1. given in Table 1.
5.3.2 Detectors beyond the protected space should Table 1 Ð Control equipment indications of
not control discharge of fire extinguishing medium system status
within the protected space. Indicator colour Indicator legend
Red Discharged
6 Control and indicating equipment
Amber Automatic and manual
6.1 General
Green Manual only
6.1.1 Design
Amber Disabled
In the absence of a specification for control
equipment for fire extinguishing systems, the design If the system is disabled (see 7.1.6), an audible
and manufacture of such equipment should be to a warning signal should be given. This warning may be
standard equivalent to that specified for fire the same as the fault warning but it should not be
detection and alarm system control and indicating possible to silence it until the system is returned to
equipment in BS EN 54-2. operation. If intermittent, this signal should sound
6.1.2 Avoidance of accidental discharge for a minimum of 0.5 s, at least every 15 s.
Stringent precautions should be taken in circuit NOTE Red and amber are used as an indication of fire and fault
respectively in fire detection and alarm system control and
design and equipment construction to ensure that no indicating equipment. Great care should therefore be taken to
reasonably foreseeable failure or accident could distinguish between the indications of the fire detection and fire
result in: extinguishing systems, especially if combined indicating equipment
Ð the release of gas when the system is set to the is used.
manual only mode of operation; 6.3 Output signals from control equipment
Ð the release of gas without any audible warning The control equipment should have outputs to the
of the type described in 7.1.3 (if provided), when following:
the systems is set to the automatic mode of
operation. a) the fire extinguishing medium release system;
Such events include but are not necessarily limited NOTE 1 This part of the fire extinguishing system should be
compatible with the control system.
to the following:
b) audible and visual warning devices;
a) the failure of a single component (e.g. a
transistor that initiates the discharge or a diode c) status indicators;
that prevents the discharge); d) auxiliary relay contacts (to control plant,
NOTE Where a critical component is duplicated in order to ventilation, etc.).
satisfy the recommendation in a), a failure of either into a state NOTE 2 Where coincidence connection is used, such contacts
that would contribute to the initiation of the discharge should may operate on the first or second input as appropriate.
result in a fault warning at the control and indicating
equipment. 6.4 Monitoring
b) the common mode failure of multiple
components as a result of external influences 6.4.1 All monitoring of the fire extinguishing system
(e.g. a power surge); control and indicating equipment should be in
c) the short circuiting of two current paths by the accordance with BS 5839-1 and BS EN 54-2.
introduction of a foreign body such as a nut or
washer.

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6.4.2 All input and output circuitry associated with 7.1.2 Manual release switch
the control system should be monitored, including all The operation of a manual release switch should
connections for both open circuit and short circuit initiate the discharge procedure and should require
conditions, and should include the following: two separate actions to prevent accidental operation.
a) sounder circuit(s); The manual release housing should be predominantly
b) power supplies; yellow in colour and marked with operating
c) release circuits, including any hold switch instructions. Switches that require the breaking of a
circuits; glazed cover in order to reach the operating device
should be avoided because of the potential hazard to
d) initiating inputs, both automatic and manual. the operator.
6.4.3 A single short circuit in connections should Indication of discharge should be as described in 6.2
not cause release of the fire extinguishing medium. and 7.2 with the control panel circuit being latched.
6.4.4 Suitable protection against voltages which Manual release switches should be sited for easy
could cause inadvertent release of fire extinguishing access control and the safety of personnel whilst
medium should be incorporated. avoiding the possibility of malicious operation, and
should be visually differentiated from manual call
6.4.5 Where selector valves are fitted, all electrical points provided for operation of the fire alarm
actuation circuitry should be monitored. system.
6.4.6 If the discharge is dependent on a single NOTE A time delay between operation of the manual release
switch and the discharge of fire extinguishing medium may be
pressurized pilot gas cylinder, the gas pressure in incorporated (see 7.1.3). Where there is a time delay on the
this cylinder should be automatically monitored and automatic discharge sequence (see 7.1.3), this same time delay
low gas pressure should be indicated as a fault at the may also affect the manual discharge sequence.
control panel. 7.1.3 Time delay
6.4.7 If the pressure inside the fire extinguishing A time delay facility may be incorporated into the
medium containers is being automatically monitored, system to allow personnel to evacuate the protected
low pressure should be automatically indicated as a space prior to discharge of the fire extinguishing
fault at the control panel. medium. As the delay period will depend upon the
NOTE The pressure monitoring recommended in 6.4.6 and 6.4.7 potential speed of fire spread and the means of
should not be confused with the pressure or flow switch escape from the protected space, it should be as
recommended in 4.2.1. short as possible and should not exceed 30 s unless a
longer period is specified by the appropriate
7 Controls and indication authority. Operation of the time delay facility should
be indicated by an audible warning signal throughout
7.1 Controls the protected area.
7.1.1 Automatic and manual/manual only NOTE Protracted delays will allow for the further development
switch of the fire and increase the risk of breakdown products from
some extinguishing agents.
A switching device should be provided to enable the
mode of operation of the fire extinguishing system to 7.1.4 Hold switch
be changed, e.g. on entry of persons into an Where a time delay facility is provided, the system
unmanned area. The switch should be operated may also be equipped with a single action biased
manually, e.g. fitted with a key that may be removed hold switch located within the protected space
when the key is in either position, and only by a which can stop the countdown to discharge from
responsible person, and should be sited adjacent to continuing whilst being held. Upon release of the
the main entrance to the protected space. switch, and provided the system remains in the
The mode of operation should follow the alarm state, the timer should restart from the
recommendations of the appropriate part of BS 5306 beginning.
and DD 233. Hold switch(es) should normally be provided if the
NOTE Door interlock switches that operate when the door is system is operated in the automatic mode when the
both closed and locked may be preferred for certain applications, protected area is occupied, unless otherwise agreed
particularly where it is necessary to ensure that the system is in after consultation with the relevant parties (see 4.1).
the manual mode of operation when personnel are present in the
protected space. There should be a change of the audible warning
required in 7.1.3 to indicate that the hold switch is
Indication of the status of automatic and
being operated and there should also be a visual
manual/manual only changeover switches should be
indication at the control equipment. The design and
as described in 7.2.
location of the hold switch and circuit should be
such that the possibility of accidental operation by
falling objects or stacking of equipment against it is
prevented.

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 © SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
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The operation of the hold switch should not affect These two signals may be identical, or, alternatively,
the general fire alarm signal. two distinguishable signals may be given. The signal
Operation of the hold switch in the non-alarm mode given during a) should be silenced while any hold
should result in a fault warning at the control and switch is being operated, but, if required, may be
indicating equipment within 100 s of the occurrence. replaced during this hold period with a signal that is
clearly distinguishable from all other signals. The
7.1.5 Abort switch signal given during b) should persist until manually
An abort switch, i.e. a means of interrupting the fire silenced at the control and indicating equipment.
extinguishing countdown sequence such that the fire
7.2.4 Indication of system inoperative
extinguishing medium cannot be discharged until the
fire extinguishing control equipment has been reset In the event of the system being inoperative,
and the actuation sequence reinitiated, should not additional warning measures should be taken to
normally be provided. ensure that users of the protected area are aware of
that condition, e.g. by placing warning notices of
7.1.6 Discharge prevention during maintenance disablement at all entrances to the protected area.
(disabled mode)
A discharge prevention device as described
in BS 5306-4 should be provided to enable the system
8 Power supplies and wiring
to be rendered inoperative, both electrically and 8.1 General
mechanically, in order to allow maintenance work to The power supplies for the fire detection and alarm
be safely carried out. There should be an appropriate system and the fire extinguishing system should be
audible and visual indication of its operation in accordance with BS EN 54-4 with the isolating
(see 6.2). protective device referred to in BS 5839-1:1988, 16.2
7.2 Indications labelled ªFIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM: DO NOT
SWITCH OFFº.
7.2.1 Visual indication at entrances NOTE A common power supply for the extinguishing system and
Visual indication of system status should be provided the detection and alarm system may be used provided that there
outside the protected space at all entrances such is no adverse interaction between them and that there is sufficient
capacity in the standby supplies to meet simultaneously the
that the system status is clearly and unambiguously maximum load requirements for both systems.
indicated to persons entering the protected space.
The indications should be as given in Table 2. 8.2 Wiring for the fire extinguishing system
With the exception of the detection circuits the
Table 2 Ð System status indicators at wiring for the fire extinguishing system should have
entrances to the protected space a fire resistance equivalent to that recommended
Indicator colour Indicator legend for alarm sounders in BS 5839-1:1988, clause 17 and
should be installed to satisfy the requirements
Red Discharged of BS 5839-1:1988, clause 17 and BS 7671 (IEE Wiring
Amber Automatic and manual Regulations).
Green or amber Manual only For the purpose of interpreting BS 7671, all wiring
that forms part of the fire extinguishing system,
7.2.2 Indication of detection of fire including wiring dedicated to the supply of current
Operation of the fire detection system within the at mains voltage to the system, should be regarded
protected space should be clearly visually indicated as a category 3 circuit and segregated from other
when the first detector operates, e.g. a flashing circuits accordingly.
beacon (in addition to the audible warning Adequate segregation can normally be achieved by
recommended in BS 5839-1) within the protected any of the following arrangements:
space so that the occupants are warned of the a) use of mineral insulated copper sheathed cable
possibility of impending release of fire extinguishing (with or without an overall polymeric sheathing)
medium. The visual alarm signal should follow the for wiring of the fire extinguishing system
recommendations of BS 5839-1:1988, 9.7. circuit(s);
7.2.3 Audible warnings in the protected area b) use of any cable conforming to BS 7629 for
An audible signal, or signals easily distinguishable wiring of the fire extinguishing system circuits;
from the alarm of fire, should be given at the c) installation of the fire extinguishing system
following stages: circuit(s) within a dedicated compartment of a
a) during any time delay period (see 7.1.3); trunking system, separated from other
compartments by a continuous metallic partition;
b) when discharge of the extinguishing medium
d) separation of fire extinguishing system
commences.
circuit(s) from all other circuits by a distance of at
least 300 mm.

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© SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
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BS 7273-1:2000
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.

The purpose of the segregation is to minimize any 10.3 The user of the equipment should carry out a
potential for other circuits to result in malfunction of weekly visual examination of the fire protection
the fire extinguishing system arising from: equipment. This should include an examination of all
Ð breakdown of the cable insulation of the other pressure gauges and a general check that all
circuit(s) and/or the fire extinguishing system operating controls are both properly set and
circuit(s); accessible and that all indicators are functioning. It
is important that pipework and nozzles are visually
Ð a fire caused by a fault on another circuit;
checked to ensure that they are not physically
Ð damage resulting from the need for other damaged or obstructed and remain in the designed
circuits to be installed in, or removed from, position.
conduit ducts or trunking containing the fire
extinguishing system circuit(s); 10.4 The fire detection system should be inspected
and tested in accordance with BS 5839-1:1988,
Ð electromagnetic interference to the fire
clause 29. The fire extinguishing system should be
extinguishing system circuit(s) as a result of the
inspected in accordance with BS 5306-4:1986,
proximity of another circuit.
clause 8, as appropriate. Records of all inspections
and tests, for example, should be maintained.
9 Commissioning and handover 10.5 The fire extinguishing part of the installation
On completion of the installation, adequate should be inspected at least twice a year by a
instructions on its use should be supplied to the competent engineer and an inspection report made.
person responsible for the use of the premises. A regular inspection plan should also be included for
All instructions and operating responsibility should other parts of the premises necessary for the
be in accordance with BS 5839-1, and management effective operation of the system, e.g. motorized
and staff should be instructed in the safe operation dampers.
of the system. 10.6 Any extension or alteration to the installation
The user should be supplied with a logbook, a should be carried out by the manufacturer or his/her
certificate of installation and commissioning, and a agent and the relevant authority notified.
comprehensive check list of tests carried out
specifically on the fire extinguishing equipment. 10.7 A routine maintenance contract for the fire
Drawings should be provided to the user showing detection and alarm element of the installation
the various items of equipment, junction boxes, should include during each quarterly visit, the
pipework and cable runs, for example, as required operation of the time delay sounder, the discharge
by BS 5306-4, BS 5306-5, BS 5839-1 and BS 6266. sounder and the operation of the disabled facility in
order to test the system and familiarize the occupier
These drawings should be prepared in accordance of the protected space.
with BS 1635 and should be updated to include any
modifications or additions made to the system.

10 Servicing
10.1 The user of the installation should ensure that
the system is in good working order at all times.
NOTE This can be achieved by entering into an ªinspection and
serviceº contract whereby the manufacturer, his/her agent or an
accredited servicing organization will carry out this inspection.

10.2 The user should undertake responsibility

for daily and weekly attention in accordance
with BS 5839-1:1988, clause 29 and BS 5306-4:1986,
clause 8 as appropriate. Special care should be
exercised and training should be given by the
manufacturer or his/her agent.

 BSI
© SABS. This 04-2000
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 © SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
BS 7273-1:2000 copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.

Annex A (informative)
Example of a simple diagrammatic representation of a typical sequence of actions
leading to the release of fire extinguishing medium
Figure A.1 shows an example of a simple diagrammatic representation of a typical sequence of actions leading to
the release of fire extinguishing medium.

Figure A.1 Ð Diagrammatic representation of a typical sequence of actions leading to the

release of fire extinguishing medium

8  BSI
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The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.
 BSI 04-2000

Annex B (informative)
Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (coincidence release in automatic mode)
Table B.1 gives an example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (coincidence release in automatic mode).

Table B.1 Ð Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (coincidence release in automatic mode)
System state or Position of Status General fire Extinguishing Clause reference Comment
action automatic and display alarma alarmb
manual/manual
only switch (Bell) (Electronic tone)
Quiescent Automatic Automatic Sient Silent Ð Ð
First detector Automatic Automatic Alarm Silent BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Standard fire alarm
activates 7.2.2 of this code of practice
Coincidence Automatic Automatic Alarm Intermittent sound BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Timer commences and pre-discharge warning is
connection for pre-determined 7.1.3 and 7.2.3 of this code of practice given
detector activates time
Hold switch Automatic Automatic Alarm Silenced BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Electronic tone ceases whilst hold operated.
operated Paragraphs 2 and 3 of 7.1.4 of this code Timer is reset and held off
of practice
Hold switch Automatic Automatic Alarm Intermittent sound BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Timer has restarted from the beginning.
released for pre-determined Paragraph 1 of 7.1.4, and 7.2.3 of this Pre-discharge sounder retarts
time code of practice
Time delay expires Automatic Discharged Alarm Sound becomes BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Discharge commences. Signals from pressure
continuous Paragraph 3 of 6.2, and 7.2.3 of this code switch confirms discharge
of practice

Hold switch Automatic Discharged Alarm Sound remains BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Once discharge is taking place the hold switch
operated continuous 7.2.3 of this code of practice is inoperative
Hold switch Automatic Discharged Alarm Sound remains BS 5839-1:1998, clause 9 Once discharge is taking place the hold switch
released continuous is inoperative.
Silence alarms at Automatic Discharged Alarm Silenced BS 5839-1:1998, clause 9 This should only take place following the
local extinguishing discharge when safe to do so. In this instance
panel only the extinguishing alarm silences
Silence alarms at Automatic Discharged Silenced Silent Ð Control panels still give localized audible and
central fire alarm visual indications of alarm
panel
NOTE The sounder sequence is based upon annex A, whereby a main frame alarm panel (using bells) has a separate local extinguishing control and indicating equipment (using
electronic sounders) signalling into it. The sounder sequence uses only two different types of sounder to conform to the recommendations in this code of practice. In summary, the
sounders are used as follows:
a) the house alarm uses a bell;
b) the pre-discharge warning uses an intermittent electronic sounder;

BS 7273-1:2000
c) when the hold switch is operated the electric sounder is silent;
d) the discharge warning uses a steady electronic sounder.
a In accordance with BS 5839-1:1988.
b In accordance with this code of practice.
9

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10

BS 7273-1:2000
Annex C (informative)
Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (manual release in manual mode)

Table C.1 shows an example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (manual release in manual mode).

Table C.1 Ð Example of a sounder sequence for an extinguishing system (manual release in manual mode)
System state or Position of Status General fire Extinguishing Clause reference Comment
action automatic and display alarma alarmb
manual/manual
only switch (Bell) (Electronic tone)
Quiescent Manual Manual Silent Silent Ð Ð
First detector activates Manual Manual Alarm Silent BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Standard fire alarm
7.2.2 of this code of practice
Coincidence connection Manual Manual Alarm Silent BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Although concident connection has been
detector activates 7.2.2 of this code of practice achieved it will not trigger a discharge in
the manual mode
Manual release switch Manual Manual Alarm Intermittent sound BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Timer commences and pre-discharge
operated for pre-determined 7.1.3 and 7.2.3 of this code of practice warning is given
time
Hold switch operated Manual Manual Alarm Silenced BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Electronic tone ceases whilst hold
Paragraphs 2 and 3 of 7.1.4 of this code of operated
practice
Hold switch released Manual Manual Alarm Intermittent sound BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Timer has restarted from the beginning.
for pre-determined Paragraph 1 of 7.1.4, and 7.2.3 of this code Pre-discharge sounder restarts
time of practice
Time delay expires Manual Discharged Alarm Sound becomes BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 Discharge commences. Signal from
continuous Paragraph 3 of 6.2, and 7.2.3 of this code pressure switch confirms discharge
of practice
Silence alarms at local Manual Discharged Alarm Silenced BS 5839-1:1988, clause 9 This should only take place following the
extinguishing panel discharge when safe to do so. In this
instance only the extinguishing alarm
silences
Silence alarms at Manual Discharged Silenced Silent Ð Control panels still give localized audible
central fire alarm panel and visual indications of alarm
NOTE The sounder sequence is based upon annex A, whereby a main fire alarm panel (using bells) has a separate local extinguishing control and indicating equipment (using electronic
sounders) siganalling into it. The sounder sequence uses only two different types of sounder to conform to the recommendations in this standard. In summary, the sounders are used as
follows:
a) the house alarm uses a bell;
b) the pre-discharge warning uses an intermittent electronic sounder;
c) when the hold switch is operated the eletronic sounder is silent;
d) the discharge warning uses a steady electronic sounder.
a In accordance with BS 5839-1:1988.
b In accordance with this code of practice.
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