Automatic fire alarm systems are one of the most critical safety systems for protecting buildings, enabling early fire detection and prompt evacuation. However, due to complex installation standards and the need to address false alarms, proper knowledge is essential.
This article explains the system mechanics, installation standards, detector selection, installation and replacement costs, causes of and solutions to false alarms, and comprehensive fire safety measures for apartments.
What is an Automatic Fire Alarm System?
A system where detectors automatically sense smoke, heat, or flames during a fire and sound an alarm to alert people in the building. Detection to alarm takes only seconds, enabling early evacuation and initial fire suppression.
4 Devices That Make Up the System
| Device | Function | Installation Location |
|---|---|---|
| Control Panel | Receives fire signals from detectors and sounds alarms. Identifies and displays fire location | Manager's office, disaster prevention center |
| Detector | Automatically detects smoke, heat, or flames and sends signals to the control panel | Ceilings in each room, hallways |
| Manual Call Point | Manually transmits fire signal by pressing emergency button | Near hallways and stairs |
| Audible Alarm Device | Notifies of fire with sirens, buzzers, and alarm sounds | Each floor |
Comparison and Selection of 3 Detector Types
| Type | Detection Target | Suitable Installation Location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Detector | Temperature rise | Kitchen, washroom, smoking room | Does not react to smoke. Few false alarms |
| Smoke Detector | Smoke | Bedroom, living room, hallway | Can detect early stages of fire. Effective in preventing carbon monoxide poisoning |
| Flame Detector | Ultraviolet/infrared rays | Large spaces, warehouses | Suitable for wide spaces where smoke and heat disperse |
Selecting Operation Type
- Stand-alone Type — Only the alarm in the room where the fire occurs activates. For single occupancy or small units
- Interconnected Type — When one unit activates, all alarms in all rooms activate. For properties with many rooms or families
Installation Standards for Automatic Fire Alarm Systems
Installation standards are determined by "building use" × "floor area" × "number of floors".
Cases Where Installation is Mandatory
- Floors on the 11th floor or higher
- Hospitals, clinics with beds, care facilities
- Karaoke boxes
- Cultural properties
- Specified single-staircase fire prevention objects (specific uses in basement or 3rd floor and above with only one evacuation staircase)
Cases Where Standards Become Stricter
For basement floors, windowless floors, and 3rd floor and above, the standard area is reduced from normal. For example, restaurants under 300㎡ normally do not require installation, but if located on the 3rd floor or above, windowless floor, or basement, installation is mandatory for 100㎡ or more.
Installation and Replacement Costs
| Item | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| New Installation (Standard Detached House) | Approx. ¥300,000 |
| New Installation (500㎡ Two-Story Store) | Approx. ¥600,000 |
| Complete Replacement | Approx. ¥1,000,000-¥1,500,000 |
| Control Panel Only | ¥300,000-¥700,000 per unit |
| Detector Replacement (Heat Detector) | Approx. ¥15,000/unit |
| Detector Replacement (Smoke Detector) | Approx. ¥40,000/unit |
Consult with a maintenance contractor about whether complete replacement is necessary, as costs can be reduced if partial replacement is sufficient.
8 Causes of False Alarms and Solutions
| Cause | Symptom | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Aging Deterioration | Overly sensitive response or reduced sensitivity | Replace during renovation work |
| Dust | Leak hole blockage eliminates air escape route, causing false alarms | Regular cleaning |
| Air Pressure Changes | Internal air in differential heat detectors expands during typhoons | Clean leak holes or change detector type |
| Physical Impact | Damage to heat sensing component triggers activation | Replace detector (cannot be restored) |
| Rain/Water Leakage | Electronic component short circuit transmits fire signal | Wait until dry. Implement fundamental waterproofing measures |
| Air Conditioner Airflow | False detection when less than 1.5m from detector | Change airflow direction, ensure adequate distance |
| Rodents | Gnawed wiring causes circuit short | Check wiring and exterminate pests |
| Control Panel/Circuit Board Failure | Deterioration and condensation from humidity and dust | Improve installation environment and replace equipment |
Comprehensive Fire Safety Measures for Apartments
Fire Suppression Equipment
- Fire Extinguishers — Installed every 20m in common areas. Effective for initial fire suppression
- Indoor Fire Hydrants — Mandatory for buildings above a certain size. Higher fire suppression capability than extinguishers
- Foam Fire Suppression Systems — For basements and self-propelled parking facilities. Effective for gasoline fires
Evacuation Equipment
- Two-Way Evacuation — Securing evacuation routes in two or more directions is a basic requirement
- Fire Doors — Confine flames to a specific area and prevent fire spread
- Escape Hatches — Auxiliary equipment for evacuating from balconies to lower floors
- Emergency Lighting — Illuminates even during power outages and indicates evacuation direction through smoke
Owner Response in Case of Fire | Key Points of the Fire Liability Act
- Fire Liability Act: Cannot hold tenants liable for damages unless intentional or grossly negligent
- Restoration Obligation Exists: Can charge tenants for repair costs of the room where fire occurred
- Examples of Gross Negligence: Falling asleep while leaving tempura pot unattended, smoking in bed, leaving gasoline containers near heaters
Conclusion
Automatic fire alarm systems are the most critical equipment for protecting the lives of apartment residents and the building itself. Understand installation standards correctly and select detectors suited to the property's use and environment. After installation, regular inspections are essential, and it's important to properly address causes of false alarms.
INA&Associates Inc. provides comprehensive property management services including referrals to fire equipment management providers. Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding fire safety measures.
