British Standard 5839 Part 6 is a code of practice relating to the design, installation and maintenance of fire detection systems in domestic premises. The standard also grades fire detection systems which reflects their functionality and capability. The below table details the up-to-date grades for fire detection systems.
| BS 5839-6: 2019 Grade | Alarm Power Type | Grade Description |
|---|---|---|
| Grade F1 | Battery Operated (Lithium) | System of one or more battery-powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required). The battery must be tamper-proof and last the full life of the alarm. |
| Grade F2 | Battery Operated (Alkaline) | System of one or more battery-powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required). The battery is user-replaceable and will not last the full life of the alarm. |
| Grade D1 | Mains Powered (Lithium Back-up) | System incorporating one or more interlinked mains-powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required), each with an integral stand-by supply. They can be hardwire-interlinked or radio-interlinked. The stand-by supply must be tamper-proof and last the full life of the alarm. |
| Grade D2 | Mains Powered (Alkaline Back-up) | System incorporating one or more interlinked mains-powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required), each with an integral stand-by supply. They can be hardwire-interlinked or radio-interlinked. The stand-by supply is user-replaceable and will not last the full life of the alarm. |
| Grade C | Mains Powered (Dedicated Circuit + Back-up) | System consisting of fire detectors and alarm sounders (which may be domestic smoke alarms) connected to a common power supply, comprising normal mains and stand-by supply, with central control equipment. |
| Grade A | Mains Powered (Panel - Built-in PSU + Back-up) | Fire detection system incorporating control and indicating equipment to BS EN 54-2, power supply to BS EN 54-4, and installed to BS 5839 Part 1, with some very minor exceptions. |
For a full summary of BS 5839 Part 6, please visit 'Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for Buildings'.