Safe Evacuation in Case of Fire
In the event of a fire, every second counts. People must be warned in a timely manner so they can safely exit the building. An evacuation alarm system plays a crucial role in this. The system alerts those present and helps initiate the evacuation quickly. The Building and Living Environment Decree (Bbl) contains regulations regarding the safety of people and animals. Whereas the certification of fire alarm systems used to be the primary focus, certification requirements now also apply to evacuation alarm systems.
There are various types of systems. Examples include a Type A system with voice announcements or a Type B system with acoustic alarm signals. In addition, home automation systems are increasingly being used, whereby people receive an evacuation alert via their smartphone.
Can such a system also be certified? Absolutely. However, this does require a proper baseline document (UPD) that sets out the requirements and objectives.
When is an inspection required?
For certain buildings, the Bbl requires an evacuation alarm system with an inspection certificate. The buildings covered by this requirement are specified in the building codes. If an inspection certificate is legally required for a fire alarm system, that requirement also applies to the associated evacuation alarm system.
The inspection is conducted in accordance with the CCV inspection schedule for fire safety
Is an inspection not required for your building? In that case, you can still have one performed voluntarily. For example, if you have doubts about the installation or the current condition of the system. An independent second opinion can then provide clarity.
How Our Inspection Works
An evacuation alarm must do more than just sound an alarm. It must meet the predefined objectives. During our inspection, we assess whether the system meets these requirements. These objectives must be traceable to the basic design, such as the Statement of Requirements (SOR). Our inspectors check the system and test the associated control mechanisms. We also examine organizational matters, such as system management and the follow-up of alarm notifications.
The exact inspection points are listed in the CCV Fire Protection Inspection Schedule 2023
Afterward, we document our findings in an inspection report.
What are the benefits of an inspection?
- You gain insight into how your evacuation alarm system works
- You’ll know whether the inspected components are functioning according to the established standards
- You’ll gain insight into the management and organizational measures
- You’ll have an expert assessment of your system
- If the assessment is favorable, you can demonstrate that the system complies
A demonstrably safe system
With an inspection certificate, you demonstrate that your evacuation alarm system meets the required standards. In doing so, we look beyond the technical aspects. The organizational measures must also be in order. Are all assessed components in order? If so, you’ll receive an inspection certificate from Normec. Among other things, this allows you to demonstrate to your insurer that your fire safety system meets the relevant requirements.
Why choose Normec?
Our experienced inspectors each have their own area of expertise and possess broad professional knowledge. They carefully assess your system, paying close attention to its practical implementation. Normec is also ISO 17020-accredited. This ensures the quality and independence of our inspections.
Periodic Reinspection
An evacuation alarm system must remain reliable. That is why the initial inspection is followed by a periodic re-inspection. We assess whether the system is being properly maintained and whether it still meets its original objectives. The inspection takes place annually or in accordance with the specific requirements applicable to the building in question.
Would you like to know if your evacuation alarm system meets the requirements?
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Frequently Asked Questions About Evacuation Alarm System Inspections
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For certain buildings, the Bbl requires an inspection certificate. If a fire alarm system is legally required to have an inspection certificate, this also applies to the associated evacuation alarm system.
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A Type A system alerts occupants with voice messages. A Type B system uses audible alarm signals. Both systems help alert people in a timely manner in the event of a fire.
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Yes, that is possible. This requires a well-defined baseline document (UPD) that sets out the system’s requirements and objectives.
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A Scope of Work outlines the requirements that the installation must meet. During the inspection, we use this information to assess whether the system is achieving its intended objective.
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Our inspectors check the installation and test the associated control systems. They also assess how alarm notifications are managed and followed up on. We document the results in an inspection report.
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The initial inspection is followed by periodic re-inspections. The frequency depends on the requirements that apply to the building in question.
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Yes. Even when an inspection isn’t required, you can contact Normec. For example, to verify the condition of your installation or to get an independent second opinion.