Our Guide To Radio Fire Alarm Systems
As a business or property owner, protecting your premises and occupants against the threat of fire is vital. Fire alarm systems are one of the first instances in which smoke or heat is detected in the event of a fire, and promptly alerts people to begin evacuating the building. Radio fire alarm systems are fast becoming a popular choice for many organisations looking for effective, efficient, and non-invasive fire safety solutions.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about radio fire alarm systems including what they are, how they work, their benefits, and where they are typically installed.
What is a wireless fire alarm system?
A radio fire alarm system – also referred to as a wireless fire alarm system – is a type of fire detection and alert system that uses radio frequencies to transmit signals between devices. They are a great alternative to a fully wired system as they eliminate the need for cables, making them particularly useful in buildings where wiring may be disruptive and impractical.
Installation is non-invasive too as they can be installed without the need to lift floors or chase cables into walls, meaning much less disruption and inconvenience to your business. They also allow for zone-specific programming and integration with other building management systems or emergency lighting.
With a complete system, they will typically include:
- Smoke and heat detectors
- Manual call points
- Alarm sounders or beacons
- A central control panel
- Radio signal boosters or translators (if required)
Radio fire alarm systems should be designed in accordance with BS EN54-25, as this specifies the requirements, test methods, and performance criteria for components used in wireless fire alarms.
When installed by a competent provider, like Pyrotec Fire Protection, you can have peace of mind that your wireless fire alarm meets the requirements set by these standards. Get in touch with us to learn more about our work and the wireless fire alarms we supply for businesses like yours.
How do wireless fire alarms work?
Wireless fire alarms work by transmitting radio signals between a range of devices to monitor for fire-related activity, such as smoke or a rise in temperature, and alert occupants in the event of an emergency. As all of the devices communicate wirelessly, it creates a secure and synchronised network that performs the same way as a wired system would.
Here’s a typical example of how a radio fire alarm system would operate:
- Detection – the smoke or heat detector within the system identifies the presence of fire or a rapid rise in temperature.
- Signal transmission – when a device is triggered, it will send a signal to the control panel to set the whole system into alarm.
- Alarm activation – the control panel will trigger sounders, visual alarms, and alerts across the system to warn building occupants and begin evacuating.
The control panel is the central processing unit of a radio fire alarm system. It’s where signals are transmitted and received, and where device status, battery levels, and signal strength are constantly monitored for seamless functioning of the entire system.
What are the benefits of wireless fire alarms?
There are many benefits of wireless fire alarms, especially for buildings where traditional fire alarm systems are not feasible. Some key benefits include:
- No cabling required – as we’ve mentioned, installation is faster and less disruptive as there’s no cabling needed, meaning there’s no need to run cables in walls and ceilings.
- Flexibility – with wireless systems, they can be configured and reconfigured when needed, and devices can be repositioned easily during renovations and layout changes.
- Quick installation – when you choose Pyrotec for installation, we can programme your wireless system at our workshop, meaning they’re ready to fit on arrival at your premises, reducing downtime and ensuring compliance in tight timeframes.
- They’re aesthetically pleasing – with no visible trunking or conduits, wireless systems are much more aesthetically pleasing, helping to maintain the visual integrity of certain spaces such as historic or design-sensitive buildings.
- Scalability – these systems can be scaled up or down as your premises evolves, and they can also be reused in new locations if required.
Where would you typically find radio fire alarm systems?
The beauty of radio fire alarm systems is that they are suited to a broad range of sectors and environments due to the fact that they can be tailored to specific challenges and adapted to future changes in use or layout. Some of the most common places you’d find them include:
- Heritage and listed buildings – wiring through stone walls or decorative plasterwork can be damaging and often prohibited, but wireless systems offer a non-invasive solution that protects both life and property without compromising on the building’s integrity.
- Construction sites and temporary buildings – whether it’s a building under refurbishment or a temporary setup, radio fire alarms provide fast, flexible coverage that can move with the project.
- Commercial and office premises – in commercial buildings where disruption needs to be kept to a minimum, wireless systems allow for installations to be carried out quickly, with minimal downtime and disruption to operations.
- Healthcare and education settings – in hospitals, care homes, schools, and universities, combining fire safety, calm, and reduced building works is crucial, and wireless systems allow for a discreet fire protection solution.
- HMOs and residential developments – radio fire alarm systems provide comprehensive fire detection in properties that have shared access and complex fire compartmentation needs.
Find out more about our commercial wireless fire alarms
At Pyrotec, we specialise in the design, supply, installation, and ongoing maintenance of commercial wireless fire alarms that deliver high performance and long-term reliability. All of our work is completed in accordance with BS EN54-25 and we utilise more than one manufacturer, meaning we can offer you a range of options to suit your needs.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to book a free survey, where we can assess your property, recommend a tailored solution, and answer any questions you may have. We’re backed by the LS Fire Group, meaning not only can we service areas local to us including Brighton, Eastbourne, and Crawley, but we can also offer our products and services to businesses nationwide with the help of our partner brands.
Radio fire alarm systems FAQs
What is the difference between a radio fire alarm system and a traditional wired system?
A radio fire alarm system uses wireless radio signals to connect key components such as detectors, sounders, and control panels, whereas traditional systems rely on physical cabling to operate.
How far can radio fire alarm signals reach?
The range of a radio fire alarm system depends on the building layout and materials, but modern systems are designed to operate effectively across large premises. Signal boosters or radio translators can be used to extend the range and maintain reliable communication in particularly complex environments.
Are wireless fire alarms compliant with UK fire safety regulations?
Radio fire alarm systems should be professionally designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with British Standard BS 5839-1, which sets the standards for fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic buildings.
