VDS - 2095en - Planning and Installation

VdS Guidelines for automatic fire detection and
fire alarm systems
Planning and Installation
VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06)

Fire detection/alarm systems – Planning and Installation VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06)
Covers DIN VDE 0833-2 (VDE 0833 Part 2): 2004-02

Alarm systems for fire, intrusion and hold-up;
Part 2: Specifications for fire alarm and fire detection systems
Reproduced by permission of
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V.
and
VDE VERBAND DER ELEKTROTECHNIK ELEKTRONIK INFORMATIONSTECHNIK e.V.
This standard corresponds to the present state of the set of guidelines.
Publisher and publishing house: VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH
Amsterdamer Str. 172-174

50735 Köln, Germany
Phone:+49 221 77 66 0; Fax:+49 221 77 66 341
Copyright by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH. All rights reserved.

VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06) Fire detection/alarm systems – Planning and Installation
Guidelines for automatic fire detection and

fire alarm systems
Planning and Installation

VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06)
Covers DIN VDE 0833-2 (VDE 0833 Part 2): 2004-02
Alarm systems for fire, intrusion and hold-up;
Part 2: Specifications for fire alarm and fire detection systems
Reproduced by permission of
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V.
and
VDE VERBAND DER ELEKTROTECHNIK ELEKTRONIK INFORMATIONSTECHNIK e.V.
This standard corresponds to the present state of the set of guidelines.
Reproduction – also for internal use – prohibited.
Contents
Preface .................................................................................................................... 5
General .................................................................................................................... 5
Validity .................................................................................................................... 5
1 Field of application ................................................................................... 6
2 Normative references ............................................................................... 6
3 Terms and definitions .............................................................................. 8
4 Basic requirements for the components of fire
detection and fire alarm systems.......................................................... 12
4.1 General ..................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Fire detectors............................................................................................ 12
4.3 Monitored transmission paths (primary lines)........................................... 12
4.4 Power supply ............................................................................................ 13
4.5 Control and indicating equipment (CIE) ................................................... 13
5 Requirements for the triggering of fire protection
systems.................................................................................................... 13
6 Rules for the planning and installation of fire
detection and fire alarm systems.......................................................... 14
6.1 Fundamental rules .................................................................................... 14
3
Fire detection systems – Planning and Installation VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06)
6.2 Planning .................................................................................................... 21

6.3 Alarming.................................................................................................... 37
6.4 Configuration ............................................................................................ 38
6.5 Design documentation .............................................................................. 49
6.6 Installation................................................................................................. 51
7 Acceptance test ...................................................................................... 54
8 Hand-over to the operator ..................................................................... 54
9 Operation of fire detection systems ..................................................... 55
9.1 Repairs ..................................................................................................... 55
9.2 Clear space around detectors .................................................................. 55
9.3 Exceptions from monitoring ...................................................................... 55
9.4 Disconnection ........................................................................................... 56
9.5 False alarm avoidance ............................................................................. 56
9.6 Alterations and extensions ....................................................................... 56
Appendix A (normative)
Fire detection systems for high rack warehouses ............................................ 57
A.1 General ..................................................................................................... 57
A.2 Choice of fire detectors............................................................................. 57
A.3 Arrangement of smoke detectors ............................................................. 57
A.4 Detection zones ........................................................................................ 60
Appendix B (normative)
Fire detection systems for rooms with electric and
electronic equipment ............................................................................................ 61
B.1 General ..................................................................................................... 61
B.2 Room monitoring ...................................................................................... 61
B.3 Local application monitoring ..................................................................... 61
Appendix C (normative)
Fire detection systems for EDP - and similar systems ..................................... 64
C.1 General ..................................................................................................... 64
C.2 Areas to be monitored .............................................................................. 64
C.3 Detection zones ........................................................................................ 65
C.4 Choice of detector type............................................................................. 65
C.5 Number and arrangement of point smoke detectors................................ 65
Fire detection systems subject to enhanced requirements ............................. 67
Appendix D (informative)
Literature................................................................................................................ 68
4
Preface
General
The provisions of the insurance contract are to be observed where claims are
brought forward for the approval of an automatic fire detection/alarm system
(hereinafter referred to as BMA) by the insurer in the framework of a risk
assessment. The installation of a VdS approved BMA, e.g. according to clause
3610, may be contractually agreed. The BMA, in order to be eligible for VdS
approval, shall have been planned by a VdS approved installer according to these
rules and shall consist of VdS approved components – harmonised in terms of
functional interaction – and shall have been installed in compliance with the
generally accepted rules of the art.
Hence from the technical point of view, the BMA in order to be approved by VdS
shall be planned and installed according to these guidelines. The same applies to
alterations or extensions of existing systems.
These guidelines are based on the fully adopted DIN VDE 0833 standard, Part 2:
2004-02. Moreover, the current versions of DIN 14675, DIN VDE 0833 Part 1, DIN
VDE 0100, DIN VDE 0800 and EN 54 as well as in general the standards to which
reference is made in the text shall be observed for the planning and installation of
VdS approved fire detection systems. To be considered for fire detection systems
used for the triggering of fire extinguishing systems are also the Rules for Fire
Extinguishing Systems.
Validity
These Rules will become operative on February 1st, 2005 superseding Issue VdS
2095 : 2001-03 (05).
5
1 Field of application
This standard along with DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1) and DIN 14675 is
applicable to the planning, installation, extension, modification and operation of fire
detection and fire alarm systems. It provides specifications for fire detection and
fire alarm systems for the protection of life and property in buildings.
This standard does not contain any specifications for the interaction of fire
detection and fire alarm systems with other systems not fulfilling any functions in
terms of fire protection. A proper interaction of all parts of a fire detection and fire
alarm system with other systems – insofar as required for an unrestricted function
of the fire detection and fire alarm system – shall be warranted, however, in any
case.
NOTE For more information please see DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1): 2003-05,
explanatory notes to 1.2.
Smoke warning detectors according to DIN EN 14604 (draft version presently) and
their interaction and/or networking are no fire detection and fire alarm systems in
the proper sense of this standard, even if planned, installed, operated and serviced
according to DIN 14676.
2 Normative references
This draft standard by dated or undated references includes specifications from
other standards. These normative references are quoted at the corresponding
parts of the text and the standards are listed up below. Undated references
(reference to a standard without indication of the date of issue and without
indication of the number of a section, a table, a figure etc.) refer always to the
latest applicable issue of the standard to which reference is made. Dated
references always refer to the issue of the standard to which reference is made:
EN 54-1:1996/ Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 1: Introduction;
EN 54-2:1997/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 2: Control and

indicating equipment;
EN 54-4:1997/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 4: Power supply

equipment;
EN 54-5:2000/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 5: Heat detector - Point
detectors
EN 54-7:2000/Fire detection and fire alarms systems – Part 7: Point detectors

using scattered light, transmitted light or ionisation;
EN 54-10:2002/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 10: Flame detectors –
Point detectors;
EN 54-11:2001/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 11: Manual call points,
6
IEC 61312-1:1995, Protection against electromagnetic lightning pulses – Part 1:

General principles (IEC 61312-1:1995, modified)
DIN VDE 0800-1 (VDE 0800 Teil/Part 1):1989-05, Fernmeldetechnik – Allgemeine

Begriffe, Anforderungen und Prüfungen für die Sicherheit der Anlagen und Geräte/
Telecommunication – General terms and definitions, Requirements and tests for
system and device safety
DIN VDE 0815 (VDE 0815), Installationskabel und -leitungen für Fernmelde- und
Informationsanlagen/Installation cables and lines for telecommunication and IT
systems
DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Teil/Part 1):2003-05, Gefahrenmeldeanlagen für

Brand, Einbruch und Überfall – Allgemeine Festlegungen - Alarm signalling
systems for fire, intrusion and holdup – General specifications
DIN VDE 0845-1 (VDE 0845 Teil/Part 1), Schutz von Fernmeldeanlagen gegen
Blitzeinwirkungen, statische Aufladungen und Überspannungen aus
Starkstromanlagen – Maßnahmen gegen Überspannungen/Protection of
telecommunication systems against lightning, static charging and overvoltage from
power systems
DIN 4066, Hinweisschilder für die Feuerwehr/signposts for the fire brigade
DIN 4102-1, Brandverhalten von Baustoffen und Bauteilen – Teil 1: Baustoffe; Be-
griffe, Anforderungen und Prüfungen/fire behaviour of construction material and
components
DIN EN 14604, Rauchwarnmelder; Deutsche Fassung prEN 14604:2002/Smoke

warning detectors, German version prEN 14604:2002
DIN 14623, Orientierungsschilder für automatische Brandmelder/Signposts for

automatic fire detectors
DIN 14661, Feuerwehrwesen – Feuerwehr-Bedienfeld für Brandmeldeanlagen/Fire

brigade – Fire brigade control panel for fire detection and fire alarm systems
DIN 14662, Feuerwehrwesen – Feuerwehr-Anzeigetableau für

Brandmeldeanlagen/Fire brigade – fire brigade display panel for fire detection and
fire alarm systems
DIN 14675, Brandmeldeanlagen – Aufbau und Betrieb/fire detection and fire alarm
systems – design and operation
DIN 14676, Rauchwarnmelder für Wohnhäuser, Wohnungen und Räume mit

wohnungsähnlicher Nutzung – Einbau, Betrieb und Instandhaltung/Smoke warning
detectors for residential houses, apartments and rooms with residential character
DIN 14678, Nichtautomatischer Brandmelder (Feuermelder) K zur Anwendung in

explosionsgefährdeten Betriebsstätten/Manual call points (fire detectors) K for use
in explosive workplace environments
DIN EN 50086-1 (VDE 0605 Teil 1), Elektroinstallationsrohrsysteme für elektrische

Installationen – Teil 1: Allgemeine Anforderungen; Deutsche Fassung EN 50086-
1:1993/Electric wiring conduits – Part 1: General requirements, German version
EN 50086-1:1993
7
DIN V ENV 61024-1 (VDE 0185 Teil 100):1996-08 *), Blitzschutz baulicher Anlagen
– Teil 1: Allgemeine Grundsätze (IEC 61024-1:1990, modifiziert); Deutsche
Fassung ENV 61024-1:1995/Lightning protection of buildings – Part 1: General
principles (IEC 61024-1: 1990, modified); Geman version ENV 61024-1:1995
VdS 2350, VdS-Richtlinien für mechanische Sicherungseinrichtungen

Schlüsseldepots (SD) - Planung, Einbau und Instandhaltung/VdS Rules for
mechanical security devices – key boxes – Planning, installation and servicing
VdS 2304, Einrichtungsschutz für elektrische und elektronische Systeme

Richtlinien für Planung und Einbau/ Local application protection for electric and
electronic systems, Rules for planning and installation
VdS 2496, Guidelines for the triggering of fire extinguishing systems
VdS 2833, Schutzmaßnahmen gegen Überspannung bei Gefahrenmeldeanlagen

und Löschanlagenansteuerungen / Protective measures against overvoltage of
alarm signalling device- and extinguishing system controls
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of the application of this standard the terms defined in
DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1) and DIN EN 54-1 as well as the following
terms shall apply.
3.1
Alarm
Warning against an existing hazard for life and property and call for support for
avoiding the danger
3.2
Alarming zone
Section of a property with assigned to internal alarm
3.3
Alarm organisation
All measures serving for warning, rescue, prevention of fire spreading, fire fighting
and orientation
3.4
Alarm state
State of a fire detection and fire alarm system or part of the system as a response
to an existing danger
3.5
Aspirating fire detectors
An aspirating detector is a system that uses an aspirating fan to draw air from the
protected area via a network of sampling pipes and holes. The aspirated air is
monitored for smoke and for heat if applicable
*)
withdrawn
8
3.6
Comparison of patterns of fire characteristics
Measure for verifying the alarm state. The fire alarm state is achieved not before
agreement of detected with preset patterns is reached
3.7
Deceptive alarm
False alarm raised by a pretended fire parameter
3.8
External alarm
On-site alarm addressed to the general public for calling support for avoiding the
danger
3.9
External signalling device
audible or visual signalling device for raising an external alarm
3.10
False alarm
Alarm not based on any danger
3.11
Fault state
State of a fire detection or signal transmission system that may prevent the proper
function of the system
3.12
Fault warning
Warning signalling a variation of the specified state of the fire detection system
3.13
Fire alarm
Warning against a hazard for life and property caused by fire and call for support
for taking appropriate action for avoiding the danger
3.14
Fire alarm state
State adopted by a fire detection and fire alarm system or part of it as a response
to the detection of a fire
3.15
Fire characteristic
physical and/or chemical parameter such as smoke, increase in temperature,
flame radiation in the vicinity of a fire, the measurable changes of which can be
evaluated
3.16
Fire compartment
Part of a structural unit which vis-à-vis this unit or another structural unit is en-
closed by fire resistant walls and the corresponding type of ceiling
3.17
Fire detection system (FDS):
Aggregate of all devices and components of a fire detection system – harmonised
in terms of a proper interaction
9
3.18
Fire protection equipment
Facility designed for fighting a fire or preventing spreading of a fire
3.19
Interface
theoretical or actual point of transition on the boundary between two functional
units based on agreed rules for the transmission of data and signals
3.20
Intermediate alarm storage
Measure designed to verify the alarm state. A response of the automatic fire detec-
tors is analysed to be a fire alarm not before the fire parameter continues to be
present over a preset period of time
3.21
Internal alarm
On-site alarm meant as a warning against a hazard for persons present on site
3.22
Internal signalling device
audible or visual signalling device for raising an internal alarm
3.23
Local application monitoring system
Fire detection system designed for the detection of incipient fires in equipment
3.24
Local application protection
Protection of individual pieces of equipment by extinguishing systems triggered by
fire detection systems
3.25
Networked fire detection and fire alarm system
System comprising more than one control and indicating equipment, where at least
one control and indicating equipment or part of a control and indicating equipment
performs higher level functions within the system
3.26
Maximum service temperature
Maximum temperature to which an installed detector – even though for a short time
– may be exposed without that a fire occurred
3.27
Optical beam smoke detector
line optical smoke detector using transmitted light
3.28
Power source at risk of failure
Power source available with restrictions
NOTE This includes power sources able to cover the specified power demand, which,
however, may fail for certain periods, e.g. the public low voltage network
3.29
Remote alarm
Alarm addressed to a response authority not present on-site, e.g. the fire brigade
10
3.30
renewable power source
power source with self-restoring capacity capable of repeatedly storing energy af-
ter consumption
NOTE Included are power sources which – as soon as the power source at risk of failure
is in a position again to be re-charged and/or maintained at its present charging level (e.g.
accumulator batteries in standby-parallel operation) or which are regularly recharged manu-
ally after discharge of part of their energy or that are automatically re-charged from a power
source at risk of failure (e.g. accumulator batteries in cycle operation).
3.31
Room height
Distance between lower and upper boundary of a room
3.32
Signal processing unit
self-contained unit within which the signals of several input channels arriving from
other signal sources are processed
– to be collected and transmitted via minimum one output channel
– to be sounded and/or displayed visually
3.33
Static response temperature
Temperature at which a detector would raise an alarm when exposed to a negligi-
bly small rate of rise in temperature
3.34
Two-detector dependency
Measure designed for verifying the alarm state. The fire alarm state is reached not
before two-detectors of one detector zone have responded
3.35
Two zone dependency
Measure designed for verifying the alarm state. The alarm state is reached not be-
fore always one detector of two mutually assigned detector zones has responded
3.36
Typical service temperature
Temperature to which an installed detector may be exposed over a longer period
of time without that a fire occurred
11
4 Basic requirements for the components of

fire detection and fire alarm systems
4.1 General
In addition to the requirements of DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1) the following
shall apply:
4.2 Fire detectors
4.2.1 General
Automatic fire detectors shall conform to the series of standards DIN EN 54 and
manual call points (non-automatic fire detectors) to DIN EN 54-11 or DIN 14678.
Ionisation smoke detectors installed in generally easily accessible places, see

6.4.1.3, shall be secured against removal.
Manual call points shall have a facility for marking the "out of operation mode".
4.2.2 Restrictions for use of detectors

The restrictions for use of detectors specified in the approval certificate shall be
observed.
Note: Flame detectors, VdS tested and approved prior to May 1st, 1995, are
classified as Response Class 3 detectors of EN 54-10:2002-05.
4.3 Monitored transmission paths (primary lines)
The transmission paths between detectors and control panel, between control
panel and specific control devices and/or specific signalling devices and the
transmission paths between the triggering devices and the transmission devices
and/or the control and alarming devices and in between the control panels shall be
available and be monitored as intended.
NOTE 1 The specific control devices and the specific signalling devices shall be
defined in the planning stage (see 6.1.2 and DIN 14675).
In cases where the function as intended of transmission paths that are not
exclusively used for alarming purposes may be impaired by external signals,
provision shall be made for a second option for transmission.
The continuous actuation of a manual call point or the continuous release of a fire
detector shall not result in an automatic repetition of the alarm.
Faults such as open or short circuits on a transmission path or a fault on a section

of the transmission path between the individual control and indicating equipments
(CIE) and faults on the transmission paths to the higher level CIE(s) or indication
and actuation devices shall not compromise the proper function of the system.
12
A section of a transmission path is that part of the transmission path that in the
case of a fault may be affected e.g. by short circuit isolators or otherwise.
NOTE 2 The function of the system may be compromised in the case of faults
on more than one transmission path or on several sections of a transmission path by which
one or several CIEs are linked to a higher level CIE or a higher-level indication and control
place.
4.4 Power supply
The power supply equipment shall meet the requirements of the DIN EN 54-4
standard.
The power supply equipment shall be able to ensure the proper operation of the
fire detection system. Failure of each single power source of a system component
shall be indicated as a fault.
4.5 Control and indicating equipment (CIE)
The CIEs shall meet the requirements of the DIN EN 54-2 standard.
Exclusively system internal signals and information shall be processed.
NOTE System internal signals and information are to be understood as signals and in-
formation related to a fire alarm or another function of the fire detection system. Signals and
information of other systems, transmitted on the transmission paths of the fire detection sys-
tem shall not compromise the proper function of the fire detection system.
5 Requirements for the triggering of fire

protection systems
Triggering of the electric control device of a fire protection system by the triggering
device of a CIE shall be via an interface as a rule.
Fault warnings of the fire protection system to the CIE shall be transmitted via
monitored transmission paths.
NOTE 1 The transmission path for the triggering of the electric control device of
fire protection systems is monitored by the control device of the fire protection system.
Direct triggering of a fire protection system by a CIE shall be via monitored

transmission paths according to 4.3.
Warnings and information such as extinction and release signals of triggering

devices of the fire detection system to the fire extinguishing system shall be
transmitted separately for each single extinguishing area. Fault warnings from the
fire extinguishing system to the fire detection system (control and indicating
equipment) shall be transmitted at least as a general fault.
When triggering fire extinguishing systems it is important to ensure that due to a

defective component of the triggering device of the CIE not more than one
extinguishing area fails or a false release occurs in maximum one extinguishing
area.
13
NOTE 2 For fire extinguishing systems designed for life protection it is important
to ensure that the measures for the protection of life are observed both in the case of a re-
lease under fire conditions and in the case of a false release.
The following applies to hold-open systems of fire resisting closures (FSA):
Detectors and other parts of the fire detection and alarm system may be used in
FSAs. The following shall apply in this case:
– The guidelines of DIBt shall be observed.
– Triggering of FSAs by other fire detectors or detector zones is allowable.
– Fire detectors of FSAs may not trigger any transmission devices.
– The release device shall release (de-energise) the connected hold-open system
reliably and without delay in the case of an alarm (fire alarm), fault (interruption,
short circuit, power failure) or a manual release.
– A disconnection of the assigned detector zone or of a detector of this zone shall

result in the release of the hold-open system. The disconnection of other fire
detectors or detector zones resulting in an additional release, need not cause a
release of the restrainer.
– The hold-open system need not be released in the case of faults of the fire
detection system that do not result in any functional loss.
NOTE 3 Restrainers are subject to a general approval by the supervisory build-

ing authorities (DIBt).
6 Rules for the planning and installation of

fire detection and fire alarm systems
6.1 Fundamental rules
6.1.1 General
A fire detection and fire alarm system in the sense of this standard shall be
designed by use of components meeting the requirements of the DIN EN 54 series
of standards – as far as available – and shall be planned and installed by skilled
staff. Proper functional interaction of the components shall be warranted.
Devices for use in critical environments such as cold stores, galvanising plants or
places exposed to corrosive atmospheres shall be specifically adapted to meet
these extraordinary factors of influence and ambient conditions.
Limits of application of fire detection and fire alarm systems
The installation of an additional automatic fire extinguishing system for support

shall be considered for places where extremely fast spreading of fires is expected.
14
6.1.2 Alarm organisation

The alarm organisation and management specifying the necessary action to be
taken shall be defined in form of a safety concept by the operator in cooperation
with the appropriate bodies such as response authorities, the planner and possibly
the installer of the fire detection and fire alarm system. This concept is also
expected to define in how far fire protection equipment or other technical devices
of the fire detection or transmission systems are to be wholly or partly controlled
automatically and which devices are to be manually operated.
It is essential to provide in particular for the following:
– Fire alarm transmitted to the responsible fire brigade and/or to the fire fighting
and rescue forces on site;
– Warning of persons exposed to danger and guidance as regards escape

routes;
– Opening of the access routes for the fire brigade;
– Prevention of a fast propagation of the fire by actuation of fire protection

devices such as FSAs.
Fire alarms and fault warnings shall be displayed and transmitted as appropriate
so as to ensure that the people responsible are informed earliest possible.
Fault warnings shall be transmitted to the servicing company without delay.
6.1.3 Extent of monitoring

6.1.3.1 General
The extent of monitoring shall be agreed in form of a safety concept according to

occupancy with the operator and as the case may be with the responsible
authorities and the insurer. This concept shall clearly reflect the sections of the
building exposed hazards to life and property and shall clearly outline the
measures to be taken for avoiding dangers and for alerting the staff. Traffic and
rescue routes shall be included in the monitoring system.
If a life hazard is involved, all rooms permanently or occasionally used by external

persons or persons having to rely on help as well as all adjoining rooms shall be
included in the monitoring system. Potential spreading of fire smoke shall be
prevented as far as possible e.g. by triggering of hold-open systems of fire
protection closures, heat and smoke vents etc.
If a hazard to property is involved, the areas to be protected shall be fully

monitored except for partial areas exposed to low fire loads only and/or areas
where a propagation of the fire is not possible.
NOTE Low fire loads ≤ 25 MJ (7 kWh) per m2 are e.g. 15 NYM-lines of 3 x 1.5 mm2, 1 m
in length, distributed as uniformly as possible over an area of 1 m x 1 m or a PVC-sewage
pipe DN 100 acc. to DIN 19531, 1 m in length, again related to an area of 1 m x 1 m.
Also local application monitoring according to B.3 is feasible as a support to room

monitoring.
15
Monitoring shall extend to at least one complete fire compartment or one room
segregated by fire resistant elements; i.e. the monitored areas shall be
– spatially or structurally separated from unmonitored areas by fire resistant walls

or
– in form of rooms that are segregated by fire resistant elements
The protected premises shall be completely monitored except in cases mentioned

under 6.1.3.2. Also the following partial areas for instance shall be included in the
monitoring system:
– Elevator motor rooms,
– Transport- and transmission shafts,
– Cable ducts and shafts, if accessible or equipped with manholes,
– Air conditioning, ventilation systems (air conditioning and ventilation control

rooms as well as air inlet and outlet ducts),
– Tunnels and shafts for material as well as shafts for waste and the
corresponding collecting bins,
– Chambers and components of any type,
– Suspended ceilings and false floors,
– Partial areas of rooms formed by racks or similar equipment raised to less than
0.5 m to ceiling level.
6.1.3.2 Areas excepted from monitoring
The following exceptions from monitoring are allowable:
– Sanitary rooms e.g. lavatories and toilets, provided no combustible stocks or

waste is kept in these rooms; not, however, common vestibules for sanitary
rooms.
– Inaccessible cable ducts and shafts that are segregated from other areas by fire
resistant closures (F90-A);
– Shelters not used for any other purpose;
– Outdoor loading ramps;
– Rooms protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system with alarms

transmitted to a response authority; unless the fire detection system is required
for the triggering of a fire extinguishing system or for other purposes.
– Spaces in suspended ceilings and false floors provided all of the following
conditions are met:
• The spaces shall be less than 0.8 m in height.
16
• These spaces shall not be used for the routing of any safety devices e.g.
emergency lighting, electro-acoustical systems for voice transmitted
information in the case of alarms etc., unless installed specifically protected.
• The fire load shall be less than 25 MJ, related to an area of 1 m x 1 m.
• The enclosing components (ceiling, floor, wall) shall be non-combustible

(building material category A according to DIN 4102-1) and
• The intermediate spaces shall be subdivided by non-combustible material so

as to form compartments of maximum 10 m in width and 10 m in length.
– Other small areas that are negligible in terms of fire load.

Note: These areas are to be specified in the installation certificate.
6.1.4 Detection zones

The area to be protected shall be subdivided into detection zones. The detection
zones shall be determined so as to allow immediate and unambiguous
identification of the place where the alarm was raised and/or of the location of the
fire. This can be accomplished by combining the fire detectors of a detection zone
to form detector zones.
6.1.5 Choice of automatic fire detectors

6.1.5.1 General
The choice of automatic fire detectors shall be based on the occupancy of the
room, the potential development of the incipient fire, the room height, the ambient
conditions and the potential sources of false alarms in the area to be monitored.
Fire detectors for the triggering of fire extinguishing systems
As regards the choice and configuration of fire detectors used to trigger fire-
extinguishing systems, the guidelines for the corresponding fire extinguishing
system shall also be considered.
6.1.5.2 Fire development
Smoke detectors shall be the first choice where the development of a smouldering
fire is expected in the incipient phase of a fire (smoke development, little heat and
no visible radiation of flames). If a life hazard or damage caused by fire smoke is
expected, preference should also be given to smoke detectors.
Smoke, heat and flame detectors or a combination of various types of fire detectors
may be used where an open, rapidly developing fire is expected in the incipient
phase (strong development of heat, radiation of flames and/or heavy development
of smoke).
NOTE UV detectors should not be used in environments exposed to dust, UV absorbing

vapours and condensation on the detector. IR flame detectors operating in the CO2-emission
band of the hot flame may not be used for the detection of fires involving inorganic sub-
stances and metals.
Where an outbreak of a fire associated with a strong development of smoke is

expected, UV detectors should not be used or if at all in combination with smoke
detectors only.
17
6.1.5.3 Room height
The higher a room or the greater the distance between the seat of the fire and the
ceiling, the larger is the zone of uniform yet low concentration of smoke.
The relationship between the suitability of the individual types of detectors and the
room height is reflected in Table 1.
Higher parts of the ceiling, covering an area of less than 10% of the aggregate
ceiling surfaces remain unconsidered, provided these parts of the ceiling do not
exceed 0.6 times the maximum monitoring area of a detector in size. Otherwise the
areas at higher ceiling heights shall be considered separate rooms.
6.1.5.3.1 Limitations of room height for use of point smoke detectors
The application of point smoke detectors is generally limited to a room height of 12 m.
Table 1 – Suitability of automatic point detectors for various room heights

Room height Smoke detector Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:1989-09 Flame de-
tector
DIN EN 54-7
E DIN EN
54-10
Class 1 Class 2 Class 3
Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:2001-03
*)
Class A1 Classes A2, ________
B, C, D, E, F
*)
and G
up to 45 m **)
up to 12 m **)
up to 7.5 m **)
up to 6.0 m **)
up to 4.5 m **)
suitable
unsuitable
*)
also class index R or S detectors
**)
detectors of classes 1, 2 or 3, depending on room height and arrangement
18
6.1.5.4 Ambient temperature
Automatic fire detectors according to specifications of the manufacturer may be

operated in general at ambient temperatures of -20 °C to +50 °C. Without a
manufacturer specified service temperature, automatic fire detectors shall be
operated exclusively in the temperature range specified in the corresponding DIN
EN 54 series of standards.
Where detectors are operated at ambient temperatures below 0°C, provision shall
be taken to ensure that these detectors are not being exposed to icing.
NOTE Heat detectors are less suitable in environments subject to strongly varying ambi-
ent temperatures.
6.1.5.5 Air movement
Smoke detectors may be used up to airflow rates of 5 m/s, unless expressly

otherwise indicated in the approval certificate.
Heat and flame detectors are not subject to any restrictions as regards airflow
rates.
Use of smoke detectors under high air exchange rate conditions
Special measures shall be taken where fire detection systems are used in areas in
which the fire parameter due to a high air exchange rate varies to an extent that
the concentration of smoke required for fire detection does no longer build-up in
due time. Particularly high sensitivity detectors may be used in the ventilation
systems for stopping the air circulating system. Fire detection should then be
feasible again via the ceiling monitoring system etc. Smoke tests by VdS
Schadenverhütung shall be conducted for verifying the appropriateness of the
configuration in critical environments.
Note: A shut-off of the ventilation system is often not possible. The functional
sequence of operations prior to a fire alarm /or as a result of a fire alarm shall be
clarified with the user.
6.1.5.6 Vibration
There are no restrictions in terms of potential vibration where fire detectors are
installed on walls and ceilings. This does not apply to flame and optical beam
smoke detectors, however.
Where fire detectors are mounted on mechanical equipment, vibration levels shall
be measured in the case of doubt and proof of the suitability of the detectors
furnished in the individual case.
6.1.5.7 Humidity
Smoke detectors and flame detectors may be applied up to a relative humidity of

95%, provided the formation of fog and/or condensate is excluded.
19
6.1.5.8 Smoke, dust and aerosols of similar type
Operationally conditioned occurrence of smoke, dust or similar aerosols may result

in deceptive alarms of smoke detectors. Smoke detectors shall therefore be used
in places only, where deceptive alarms due to the occurrence of such aerosols are
largely excluded and where deposits caused by aerosols are compensated for by
additional servicing. No restrictions are to be observed for heat detectors – except
for in extreme cases (e.g. wet dusts).
6.1.5.9 Effect of light
Heat detectors and point smoke detectors are not influenced by optical radiation.
Infrared flame detectors may be influenced by modulated IR radiation, e.g. moving

parts of machines, flickering lamps etc.
UV-flame detectors may be influenced by UV sources of radiation, e.g. lighting

fixtures with emissions in the UV-C range (approx. 200 nm), electric arcs etc.
6.1.5.10 Radioactive radiation
Radioactive radiation may have an influence on the function and the service life of
fire detectors. Proof of the suitability of the fire detectors will have to be furnished in
the individual case.
6.1.5.11 Fire detection in critical areas
6.1.5.11.1 General
Critical are all areas where deceptive alarms are to be expected due to operational
conditions. This holds true particularly in cases subject to the following conditions:
− dust and lint

− operationally conditioned smoke
− exhaust gases of combustion engines
− vapours
− other sources of false alarms (e.g. formation of steam etc.)
When smoke detectors are used in critical areas, these detectors shall be switched
in a two zone or two-detector dependency. Preference should be given to multi-
sensor smoke detectors. A combination of smoke detectors and flame detectors is
feasible in individual cases as specified in these guidelines or as specifically
coordinated with VdS.
Also heat detectors may be used. In these cases a two-zone or two-detector

dependency need not be provided.
Also other techniques (approved by VdS) may be used instead of a two-zone or

two-detector dependency.
20
6.1.5.11.2 Examples for critical areas
The following sources of false alarms as well as the following materials may
contribute to compromising the correct function of smoke detectors:
– Dust, in particular e.g. dust producing storage goods such as bulk material
– Lint, e.g. in the textile industry
– Machining of material such as combustible material, wood, plastics etc.
– Residual oil and dirt getting into touch with machine components
– Oil mist, vapours of cutting oils
– Exhaust gases of combustion engines, in particular diesel engines
– Tobacco smoke
– Vapours and aerosols of alcohols and solvents in production, processing and
storage areas
6.1.6 Electrical power supply

In cases where the requirements according to DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1):
2003-05, 3.9.5.2 for an operating time of the fire detection system of 4 h and/or 30
h are not fulfilled, the fire detection system shall be designed so as to warrant a
operation time of minimum 72 h.
In the case of a stored energy time (operation time) of 4 h according to

DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1): 2003-05, 3.9.5.2, the standby generating unit
shall be able to maintain the operation of the fire detection and fire alarm system
for at least 30 h.
6.2 Planning
6.2.1 Fire control and indicating equipment

A fault of the signal-processing unit may as a rule affect detection zones of a total
size of maximum 12,000 m2, however, not more than 512 detectors.
The detector zones shall remain functional in the case of a fault of a signal-
processing unit affecting detection zones of more than 12,000 m2 in total size or of
more than 512 detectors.
The fire alarm state shall be indicated by a general visual alarm indication and by
an audible signal at a permanently manned location.
In the case of a fire alarm, both the alarming devices and the transmission device
(if available) shall be capable of being triggered. The release of the transmission
device shall also be indicated at a permanently manned location.
A fault of the indicating device as a rule shall affect detection zones of a total area
of maximum 12,000 m2 in size, however, not more than 512 detectors. If the total
area is larger than 12,000 m2 or is the number of detectors assigned to an
indicating device higher than 512, provision shall be made either for
21
– an additional indicating device (including decoding device) as a passive

reserve1 or
– a recording device run in parallel
The area to be protected may be up to 48,000 m2 in size, provided the above

conditions are observed.
In cases where the control and indicating equipment is equipped with redundant
signal processing and indicating devices, the size of the protected area may be
larger than 48,000 m2.
6.2.2 Detection zone

A detection zone may as a rule extend through one storey only; exempt are
stairwells, light and elevator shafts and/or structures in form of towers, which are to
be combined to separate detection zones.
A detection zone shall not exceed a fire compartment and shall not be larger than
1,600 m2 in size.
Several rooms may be combined to form a detection zone only if
– these rooms are adjacent to each other, the number of these rooms does not
exceed five rooms and the total area of these rooms is not larger than 400 m2 or
– these rooms are adjacent to each other, accesses can be surveyed easily, the
total area does not exceed 1,000 m2 and well visible optical alarm indications
identifying the room affected by the fire are in place close to the entrances. The
optical alarm indicator shall be mounted – where structurally possible- above
the access door to the wall. Marking shall be in accordance with DIN 14623. As
an alternative the room affected by the fire may be indicated on the control and
indicating equipment.
6.2.3 Detector zones

A detector zone shall exclusively include detectors of one detector area.
Provision shall be made for separate detector zones for automatic fire detectors
and manual call points. These detector zones shall comprise not more than 10
manual call points or 32 automatic fire detectors.
Automatic fire detectors arranged in areas of intermediate floors, false ceilings or

cable ducts, shall be combined to separate detector zones. Otherwise provision
shall be made for a simple way - e.g. by ancillary detector displays- to show in
which partial area detectors responded.
Detectors in ventilation system shall be combined to form separate detector zones.
1
a VdS approved fire brigade display panel according to DIN 14662 may be uses
for these purposes.
22
Manual call points in stairwells with more than two basements shall be combined to
form separate detector zones, starting from the access for the fire brigade both in
downward direction to the floors in the basement and in upward direction to the
upper floors, whereby the fire brigade access is assigned to the floor area located
above.
Provision shall be made for the possibility of a mutually independent disconnection

of the detector zones.
6.2.4 Alarming areas

The area to be protected shall be subdivided into alarming areas, escape and
rescue routes are to be considered. The specified and – if necessary – also the
additional warning devices shall be defined.
The size of the alarming areas depends on the local conditions. The internal alarm
shall alert everybody present in the alarming area.
6.2.5 Transmission paths

A maximum of 128 detectors or devices may be connected to a transmission path;
indirectly connected devices such as detector displays remain unconsidered.
The size of the detection zones assigned to a transmission path that is suitable for
connection of up to 128 detectors shall not exceed 6,000 m2. This transmission
path may exceed several fire compartments. However, care shall be taken to
ensure that a fault (interruption, short circuit or a fault of a similar effect on a
transmission path, e.g. faulty signal transmission) does not cause a major failure
than either
– failure of a detection zone of maximum 1,600 m2 in size or
– failure of 32 automatic fire detectors or 10 manual call points of a detection

zone with the functions assigned to these detectors or
– failure of a functional group assigned to this transmission path.
Functional groups assigned to transmission paths are for instance:
– alarming of always one alarming area;
– control of hold-open systems;

– control of heat and smoke vents for always one fire compartment;
– control of always one extinguishing area;
– control of other fire protection devices per fire compartment;
– recording and output of messages and information.
23
6.2.6 Arrangement and distribution of manual call points

Manual call points
– shall be installed at readily visible places;
– shall be freely accessible;

– shall be provided – as necessary – with an additional signpost according to
DIN 4066;
– shall be mounted so as to ensure that the pushbutton is located 1.4 m ± 0.2 m
above floor level;
– shall be sufficiently illuminated by daylight or other light sources; if emergency

lighting is in place, the manual call point shall be included;
– shall be installed in escape and rescue routes.
Each manual call point put out of operation shall be marked accordingly. In
hazardous workplaces, manual call points shall be spaced maximum 100 m apart
from each other.
Depending on the occupancy and condition of a building and in particularly

hazardous areas, manual call points shall be spaced maximum 40 m apart from
each other. In terms of numbers and places of installation, manual call points shall
be arranged so as to make sure that a person need not cover a distance of more
than maximum 30 m to reach the next manual call point.
6.2.7 Arrangement and number of automatic fire detectors

Automatic fire detectors shall be installed so as to ensure that they can be reached
by the fire characteristics without a problem.
The number and the arrangement of automatic fire detectors depend on the type of
detector used, the geometry of the room (area, height, shape of ceiling and roof
etc.), application and ambient conditions of the rooms to be monitored. They shall
be selected and arranged so as to warrant that fires in the incipient phase are
reliably detected and that deceptive alarms are avoided.
One automatic fire detector as a minimum shall be provided in each room of the
area to be protected, except for rooms exposed to low fire loads or rooms not
offering any chance for the fire to spread. Also parts of a room to which fire smoke
may extend are considered as rooms if a hazard to life is expected.
Ceilings provided with perforations for the purposes of ventilation in force-

ventilated rooms shall be closed within a radius of 0.5 m around the detector (see
also 6.1.1)
Where the area of the false ceiling is segregated by a uniformly perforated ceiling
with an open cross sectional area of more than 75%, the detectors installed in the
space of the false ceiling may monitor the room. As regards the arrangement of the
detectors, the requirements of Section 6.2.7.1 shall apply in this case to the total
room height, consisting of the height of the room plus the height of the space of the
false ceiling.
24
In the case of a stair well of a clear width of minimum 0.5 m in staircases, one
detector (up to a room height given in Table 2) mounted above the stair well will be
sufficient for detection. In the case of larger room heights than indicated in Table 2,
detectors shall be installed at intermediate levels. Where no stair well of the
specified clear width is in place, detectors shall be installed for each single floor.
6.2.7.1 Monitoring area and distribution of point smoke and heat detectors
The number of point smoke and heat detectors shall be chosen so as to ensure
that the maximum monitoring areas A indicated in Table 2 are not exceeded.
Where point smoke detectors are arranged in a two zone or two-detector

dependency, the maximum monitoring areas A for smoke detectors indicated in
Table 2 shall be reduced by minimum 30%.
When two zone or two-detector dependency is intended for instance for triggering
of fire extinguishing systems, the maximum monitoring areas A per detector shall
be reduced by 50%.
When point heat detectors are arranged in a two-zone or two-detector dependency

the maximum monitoring areas A for heat detectors shall be reduced by 50%.
In a two-zone or two-detector dependency the space between two-detectors

operated in dependency shall not be less than 2.5 m.
A dependency of more than 2 detectors or more than 2 detector zones for

achieving the fire alarm state is not allowable - except for well substantiated cases.
As regards multi-sensor detectors, i.e. detectors able to detect different fire

parameters (e.g. smoke, heat), the maximum monitoring areas A indicated in Table
2 shall apply as a function of VdS-approval, room height and area of the room to
be monitored. Multi-sensor detectors – if correspondingly approved by VdS – may
be equipped with a facility for switching-off individual sensors; for the remaining not
disabled part of the detector the maximum monitoring areas A (as a function of
room height and surface of the room to be protected) indicated in Table 2 continue
to apply. This very part of the detector, moreover, shall comply with the
corresponding standard, e.g. DIN EN 54-5 or DIN EN 54-7. Multi-sensor detectors
are not considered to be an integrated two-detector dependency configuration,
since the sensors are not spatially separated from each other.
NOTE When detectors detecting different fire parameters are used, the time up to indica-
tion of the fire alarm state may become longer.
For the largest distance (horizontal distance) between an automatic point detector
and a randomly selected point at ceiling level – deviating from the ideal division
into squares and considering the pitch of the room and the maximum monitoring
area A – please refer to Fig. 1 for smoke detectors and to Fig. 2 for heat detectors.
The detectors shall be arranged so as to ensure that the largest distances to

randomly selected points at ceiling level are almost the same for all detectors in the
room.
Other solutions may be required in special cases for avoiding false alarms.
25
Table 2 – Monitoring areas of point smoke and heat detectors

Surface of Type of automatic fire detector Room height Roof pitch α
room to be
monitored up to over 20°
20°
A A
2 2 2
up to 80 m Smoke detector DIN EN 54-7 up to 12.0 m 80 m 80 m
2 2 2
over 80 m Smoke detector DIN EN 54-7 up to 6.0 m 60 m 90 m
2 2
over 6.0 m 80 m 110 m
up to 12.0 m
2 2 2
up to 30 m Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:1989-09 Cl. 1 up to 7.5 m 30 m 30 m
*)
Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:2001-03 Cl. A1
Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:1989-09 Cl. 2 up to 6.0 m

Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:2001-03 Cl. A2,
*)
B, C, D, E, F und G

2 2 2
over 30 m Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:1989-09 Cl. 1 up to 7.5 m 20 m 40 m
*)
Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:2001-03 Cl. A1

Heat detector DIN EN 54-5:2001-03 Cl. A2,
*)
B, C, D, E, F und G
A maximum monitoring area per detector
α Angle of roof/ceiling pitch to the horizontal plane; where a roof or a ceiling has various angles of
inclination, e.g. shed roofs, it is the smallest existing angle of inclination that counts
*)
also class index R or S detectors
26
Legend
A maximum monitoring area per detector
DH largest horizontal distance of a randomly selected point at ceiling level to the
next detector
α angle of the roof/ceiling pitch to the horizontal plane; where a roof or ceiling has
various angles of inclination, e.g. shed roofs, it is the smallest existing angle of
inclination that counts
Fig. 1a – Horizontal distances for point smoke detectors acc. to DIN EN
54-7
Legend:
A Maximum monitoring area per detector

DH Largest horizontal distance of a randomly selected point at ceiling level to the
next detector
α Angle of roof/ceiling pitch to the horizontal plane; where a roof or a ceiling has
various angles of inclination, e.g. shed roofs, it is the smallest existing angle of
inclination that counts
Fig. 2a – Horizontal distances for point heat detectors acc. to DIN EN
54-5
27
In the absence of the ideal monitoring area of square shape, the following
relationship of side lengths a and b shall be observed:
b/[m]
12
11
10
9 42 m², D H=4,8 80 m², D H=6,6
60 m², D H=5,7 m
6
5 40 m², D H=4,7 m
30 m², D H=4,1 m
4
a/[m]
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Fig. 1b – Smoke detectors – Roof pitch α up to 20°

b/[m]
18
77 m², D H = 8 m 80 m², D H = 8,2 m
16
90 m², D H = 8,7 m
14
110 m², D H = 9,6 m
12
10
4 63 m², D H = 7,2 m
45 m², D H = 6,1
55 m², D H = 6,8 m
2
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 a/[m]
Fig. 1c – Smoke detectors – Roof pitch α over 20°
28
b/[m]
8
6 30 m², D H = 4,4 m
21 m², D H = 3,6 m
3 20 m², D H = 3,5 m
15 m², D H = 3,1 m
10 m², D H = 2,5 m 14 m², D H = 3 m
2
a/[m]
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Fig. 2 b – Heat detectors – Roof pitch α up to 20°

b/[m]
13
11
40 m², D H = 8 m
7 30 m², D H = 5,7 m
28 m², D H =
5 21 m², D H = 4,7 m
15 m², D H = 4 m
20 m², D H = 4,6 m
1 a/[m]
1 3 5 7 9 11 13
Fig. 2 c – Heat detectors – Roof pitch α over 20°
29
6.2.7.2 Arrangement of point smoke and heat detectors on ceilings with

ceiling joists
Ceiling joists, ventilation ducts and other elements subdividing the ceiling of a
height of more than 3% of the room height, however, from a minimum height of
higher than 0.2 m only, shall be considered if they are directly attached to the
ceiling. Height D of these subdividing elements is determined perpendicular to the
surface of the roof.
Point smoke detectors may be mounted to the subdividing elements where such
subdividing elements directly attached to the ceiling need not be considered.
Fig. 3 – Distance D
Where provision is made for spacers between the subdividing elements and the
ceiling and height D of these spacers exceeds 3% of the room height (however,
minimum height of spacers 0.25 m) and where the free area is larger than 75% of
the total area between the subdividing elements and the ceiling, these subdividing
elements regardless of their height, need not be considered unless the spacers in
turn have the effect of subdividing the ceiling. These are to be treated in such a
case as described above.
If ceiling bays formed by subdividing elements that need be considered are less
than or equal to 0.6 times the maximum monitoring area A indicated in Table 2 for
point automatic smoke and heat detectors, one detector may be used for
monitoring several ceiling bays of not more than 1.2 times the size of the maximum
monitoring area A indicated in Table 2, provided the corresponding horizontal
distance DH shown in Fig. 1 for smoke detectors and in Fig. 2 for heat detectors is
not exceeded. In cases where the individual ceiling bay formed by subdividing
elements to be considered is larger than 0.6 A, each ceiling bay shall be equipped
with detectors.
NOTE Where 1.2 times the maximum monitoring area A indicated in Table 2 is applied,
the corresponding maximum horizontal distance DH for smoke detectors according to Fig. 1
and for heat detectors according to Fig. 2 shall be determined as a function of this increased
monitoring area.
Provision shall be made for point smoke or heat detectors for the individual ceiling
bays in cases where the height of the subdividing elements is greater than 0.8 m.
Where a ceiling bay is larger than 1.2 times the monitoring area A indicated in
Table 2, this ceiling bay shall be deemed to be a separate room.
30
6.2.7.3 Arrangement of point smoke and heat detectors in narrow aisles and
narrow ceiling case-bays
Detectors may be spaced in aisles and ceiling bays up to a width of 3 m as follows:
– Heat detectors up to 10 m apart from each other, in the case of a two-detector

or two-zone dependency up to 5 m apart from each other,
– Smoke detectors up to 15 m apart from each other, in the case of a two-

detector or two-zone dependency up to 11 m and/or 7.5 m apart from each
other when triggered by fire protection systems such as e.g. fire extinguishing
systems.
In cases where the distance between subdividing elements to be considered is

less than 1 m, detectors may be mounted to the subdividing elements.
The maximum allowable monitoring areas of point smoke and heat detectors shall
not be exceeded. The distance of the detector to the front end of the aisle or of the
ceiling bay shall not be greater than half of the distances specified above.
Provision shall be made for always one detector in areas of crossings, junctions
and corners of aisles. The area of junctions also includes recesses of more than 1
m in depth and maximum 3 m in width.
6.2.7.4 Distance of point smoke and heat detectors to walls
The distance of detectors to walls shall not be less than 0.5 m, except for aisles,
tunnels and similar structures of less than 1 m in width. Where subdividing
elements, beams or air conditioning ducts are mounted below the ceiling reaching
not closer than 0.25 to the ceiling, the lateral distance to these elements shall also
be 0.5 m at a minimum.
6.2.7.5 Distance of point smoke and heat detectors to stored goods,

equipment and integral elements
The horizontal and vertical distance of the detectors to stored material or

equipment shall not be less than 0.5 m at any point. In the case of larger distances
to be observed for instance in the area of air outlet openings or in cases were
distances of less than 0.5 m of detectors to components such as ducts, pipework
or lighting fixtures are kept, provision shall be made to ensure that the fire
characteristics can reach the detectors without a problem.
6.2.7.6 Distance and position of point smoke and heat detectors to ceilings
and roofs
Detectors as a rule shall be installed in horizontal position. Where roof pitches α up

to 20 ° need be considered the detector – if not installed in suspended position –
may be fixed directly to the ceiling considering the same angle of inclination.
Heat detectors shall be mounted directly to the ceiling as a rule.
The required distances DL of smoke detectors to the ceiling and/or roof result from
the height of rooms to be monitored, roof pitch and the expected formation of a
thermal cushion considering the shape of the ceiling and/or roof; for standard
values for distances please refer to Table 3.
31
Table 3 – Distance of point smoke detectors to ceilings and roofs

Room height RH Roof pitch α
up to 20° over 20°
DL DL
up to 6 m up to 0.25 m 0.2 m up to 0.5 m
over 6 m up to 12 m up to 0.4 m 0.35 up to 1,0 m
DL Distance of the smoke sensitive element to the ceiling and/or roof

α Angle of the roof/ceiling pitch to the horizontal plane; in cases where a roof or a ceiling has
various angles of inclination, e.g. shed roofs, it is the smallest existing angle of inclination
that counts
6.2.7.7 Arrangement and spacing of smoke detectors on various shapes of

roofs and ceilings
In the case of rooms with roofs of a roof pitch α greater than 20°, e.g. pitched,
gable or hip roofs, and rooms with vault shaped ceilings of an angle of inclination
α greater than 20°, provision shall be made for a row of point detectors and/or one
or, if required, several line smoke detectors arranged perpendicular (right by the
plummet) below the roof ridge and/or below the highest point of the room at a
suspension length of DL.
In the case of rooms with shed roofs of a shed height HS greater than 0.6 m, each
shed – as illustrated in Fig. 4 – shall be equipped with a row of detectors. The
detectors shall be mounted to the roof surface with the smaller pitch spaced at a
distance DV from the ridge at a suspension length of DL, whereby a distance DV of
minimum 0.5 m shall be kept. In the case of shed widths WS greater than 7.5 m,
additional detectors shall be provided as outlined under 6.2.7.1 (see Fig. 4).
In cases where additional rows of detectors are required, distance DL from the roof
as for roof pitches α up to 20° shall be provided for all shapes of roofs.
NOTE The average inclination α of a vault-shaped ceiling results from the angle formed
by the horizontal plane with a straight line connecting the incipient point of the vault at the
vertical plane with the crown of the vault, see Fig. 4.
The following simplified assumption is made for the calculation of inclination α of

vault-shaped ceilings:
The average pitch of a roof is less or equal to 20°, if GH/GB ≤ 0.182.
The average pitch of a roof is greater than 20°, if GH/GB > 0.182.
Where Height of vault GH = RH − VH
Width of vault GB
see Fig. 4.
32
Fig. 4 – Arrangement and spacing of smoke detector for different shapes of

roofs and ceilings
6.2.7.8 Arrangement of point smoke and heat detectors below platforms,

grating or similar facilities
Where the height of a room is subdivided by solid platforms or platforms in form of

grating, additional smoke and heat detectors shall be installed below these
facilities, provided all three factors of influence (length, width and surface of
platform) exceed the limit values of l, b and F indicated in Fig. 5 – as a function of
detector mounting height h.
Grating because of potential occupancies shall be treated on equal terms to solid

platforms. For detectors mounted below platforms made of grating, the areas of the
grating around the detector shall be closed within a radius of minimum 0.5 m (see
also 6.2.7).
In the case of several platforms one above the other, no more than the lowest level
shall be equipped with point smoke or heat detectors, provided the platform levels
above are exposed to only low fire loads.
33
Type of Height h Platform Platform Platform

automatic fire length l width b area F
detector
2
Heat detector up to 7.5 m from 2 m from 2 m from 9 m
DIN EN 54-5
2
up to 6 m from 2 m from 2 m from 16 m
Smoke detec-
tor over 6 m from 3.5 m from 3.5 m from
2
DIN EN 54-7 up to 12 m 31.5 m
Fig. 5 – Arrangement of point smoke and heat detectors
6.2.7.9 Arrangement and spacing of optical beam smoke detectors
The number of optical beam smoke detectors shall be chosen so as to ensure that
the maximum monitoring areas A indicated in Table 4 are not exceeded. The
detectors shall be distributed so as to ensure that no point on the ceiling is farther
away from the centre line of the beam (horizontal distance) than indicated in
Column DH and that the distance between two beams run in parallel is not greater
than double the horizontal distance DH.
The centre line of the monitoring beam shall not be closer to walls, equipment or
stored goods than 0.5 m.
A maximum distance of 100 m between transmitter and receiver and/or between

transmitter/receiver unit and a reflector is allowable for optical beam smoke
detectors.
Heat cushions below roof surface may contribute to preventing rising smoke from
reaching the ceiling. The detector shall therefore be mounted below a potential
heat cushion, which in turn may result in that the guide values for D indicated in
Table 4 need be exceeded. As a supplement to optical beam smoke detectors
mounted below the ceiling, additional optical beam smoke detector may be
mounted in an additional level below.
Where optical beam smoke detectors are arranged in a two-zone or two-detector

dependency configuration, the monitoring areas specified in Table 4 need not be
reduced.
Optical beam smoke detectors installed on ceilings with subdividing elements shall
be arranged as outlined under 6.2.7.2.
34
Table 4 – Spacing and monitoring areas of optical beam smoke detectors

Room height RH DH A Roof pitch α
up to 20° over 20°
DL
2
up to 6 m 6m 1,200 m 0.3 m to 0,5 m 0.3 m to 0.5 m
2
over 6 m to 12 m 6.5 m 1,300 m 0.4 m to 0.7 m 0.4 m to 0.9 m
*) 2
over 12 m to 16 m 7m 1,400 m 0.6 m to 0.9 m 0.8 m to 1.2 m
DH largest allowable horizontal distance of any point on ceiling level to the next beam
A maximum monitoring area per detector as twice the product of the largest allowable horizon-
tal distance DH with the largest allowable distance between transmitter and receiver and/or
transmitter/receiver unit and reflector
DL Distance of detector to ceiling and/or roof
α Angle formed by the roof/ceiling pitch with the horizontal plane: where a roof or a ceiling has
various angles of inclination e.g. shed roofs, it is the smallest existing inclination that counts
*)
as a function of occupancy and ambient conditions (e.g. rapid fire development and spread-
ing of smoke)
Provision of a second monitoring level is recommended at room heights exceeding 12 m.
Detectors on the lower monitoring level shall be arranged in a staggered configuration in re-
lation to those on the upper monitoring level.
6.2.7.10 Arrangement of flame detectors
Number, installation and orientation of flame detectors shall be chosen so as to

warrant a sufficiently effective and as uniform as possible monitoring of the room.
The required number of flame detectors depends on the room volume to be
monitored and the local conditions.
Since the rays of flames – same as light – spread in linear direction, efforts should
be made to reach a direct visual communication between a potential scene of fire
and the flame detector. Components of the building or other obstacles likely to
produce shadows shall be considered.
When mounting flame detectors in room corners or on walls, the optical axis of the
detector shall be aligned at an angle of 45° in relation to the floor and to a wall, to
provide for a rotationally symmetric opening angle of minimum 90° for monitoring of
a square shaped room volume. The assignment of the maximum allowable edge
lengths of the square to the flame detector class is given in Fig. 6.
The detectors with different viewing angles in the case of a two-zone or two-
detector dependency shall be oriented towards the same area to be monitored.
35
Flame detector Edge length

DIN EN 54-10 a, b, h
Class 1 up to 26 m
Class 2 up to 20 m
Class 3 up to 13 m
α, β = 45°
c=h
Fig. 6 – Arrangement and monitoring area of flame detectors mounted in

room corners and on walls
The monitoring areas of flame detectors installed in rooms of heights of more than
26 m shall be determined separately for each case.
6.2.7.11 Arrangement of aspirating smoke detectors
Planning of suction holes of aspirating fire detectors shall be carried out on the
same basis as for point smoke detectors DIN EN 54-7.
The number and arrangement of the suction holes shall be chosen so as to ensure
that the maximum monitoring areas A for smoke detectors DIN EN 54-7 indicated
in Table 2 are not exceeded for the individual suction hole.
The total monitoring area of an aspirating fire detector shall not exceed one
detection zone and shall not be larger than 1,600 m2.
6.2.8 Power supply

For rating purposes of a renewable power source, the highest power demand
recorded for a status change over a period of operation of 0.5 h (alarming time)
after expiry of the operating time (stored energy time) shall be considered
according to Item 6.1.6 in addition to DIN VDE 0833-1(VDE 0833 Part 1):2003-05,
3.9.5.2.
NOTE The determination of this power demand shall be based on the fire compartment
with the highest power demand. The mean value is vital for rating purposes. Single time
peak values lasting for not longer than 1.5 minute need not be considered.
The required capacity K (in Ah) of the renewable power source is computed as
follows:
K = 1.25 (I1 × t1 + I2 × t2)
where
t1 = stored energy time, in hours;
t2 = alarming time, in hours;
36
I1 = total current absorbed by the fire detection an fire alarm system upon failure of
the power source at risk of failure, in Ampere;
I2 = total current absorbed by the fire detection and fire alarm system during
alarming, in Ampere.
In cases where the warning for a failure of the power source at risk of failure is
delayed, the delay time shall be added to the stored energy time. The factor 1.25 of
this equation need be considered for stored energy times of less than 24 h.
The required power for the individual control operations of fire protection devices
shall be considered in an energy budget to be prepared for the entire system. The
energy budget is a component part of the documentation of the system.
Exclusively VdS approved accumulator batteries may be used in the power supply
equipment. Unless otherwise indicated in the approval certificate, these batteries
shall be replaced at least every four years to the date of manufacture.
No system-external consumers shall be connected to the batteries.
A standby power generator for the supply of the control and indicating equipment
shall be provided with the necessary facilities for an automatic connection.
6.3 Alarming
The alarming devices shall be triggered according to the specifications of the alarm
organisation.
6.3.1 Remote alarm

If the responsible location on site is not permanently manned by a trained person,
alarming of a response authority at a permanently manned place shall take place
through a transmission system according to DIN 14675.
Transmission devices for fire alarms and fault warnings shall be connected to one
or several control lines exclusively dedicated to these purposes.
Fire alarms raised by fire detection and fire alarm systems that are not required by
the supervisory building authorities may also be transmitted to a VdS approved
security company (see VdS 2136, VdS-approved security companies – Directory).
The responsible fire brigade, however, shall at least be informed of the existence
of a fire detection and fire alarm system.
6.3.2 External alarm

For exclusive external alarming, provision shall be made for at least two audible
and one visual external alarming device.
6.3.3 Internal alarm

Type and scope of internal alarming depends on the alarm organisation and shall
be defined in cooperation with the operator as a function of the occupancy of the
building.
37
Care shall be taken to ensure that each alarming area is alarmed by an audible
and/or optical alarm.
The signals of the alarming devices shall be clearly distinct form operational
signals and shall – in the case of an audible alarm – exceed the general level of
noise (threshold of discomfort) by 10 dB (A) at any time. The signal of the sounders
shall comply with DIN 33404-3. At noise levels of over 110 dB (A) provision shall
be made for additional optical internal alarming devices.
The alarming devices shall be marked with the inscription "Fire alarm".
Voice alarming shall be clear and understandable. Voice alarming shall be

preceded by the signal according to DIN 33404-3 lasting for 4 to 10 seconds,
followed by a pause of 1 to 2 seconds unless the alarm is a silent alarm according
to DIN 14675.
The specific warning devices, see 4.3, Note 1, shall be triggered by monitored
transmission paths.
Where audible and/or visual warnings are given additionally in the alarming area
for the purposes of an early warning and are the warning devices used for these
purposes not triggered by monitored transmission paths, these devices which are
no component parts of the fire detection and fire alarm system shall not have any
influence on the function of the fire detection and fire alarm system.
6.3.4 Triggering of transmission devices in the case of fault

warnings
Fault warnings shall be transmitted to a VdS approved security company or any
other permanently manned location.
At a stored energy time of 30 hours in the case of a power failure, the automatic
transmission of fault warnings may be designed in form of a demand-controlled
connection of the following quality according to DIN EN 50136-1-1:
Time required for transmission D0 = 240 s

Max. time required for transmission M1 = 480 s
Monitoring interval T2 = 25 h
Monthly availability A3 = 95 %
6.4 Configuration
6.4.1 Automatic fire detectors

6.4.1.1
Smoke and heat detectors for room monitoring shall not be exposed to the direct
intake airflow of air conditioning and ventilation systems.
6.4.1.2 Heat detectors
Heat detectors shall not be installed at points where due to natural or operational
heat sources the ambient temperature may rise to levels at which an unwanted
response of the detector is likely to occur. Exposure to direct sun radiation shall be
avoided and all equipment likely to produce heat radiation, hot air or hot vapours
need be considered.
38
Table 5 exhibits the service and response temperatures of the individual classes of
heat detectors according to DIN EN 54-5:1989-09 and Table 6 according to
DIN EN 54-5:2001-03.
Heat detectors according to DIN EN 54-5:2001-03 with class indices R are

particularly suitable for application in unheated buildings characterised by strong
variations in temperature, however, high rates of rise not lasting for long. Heat
detectors of class index S are particularly suitable for applications characterised by
higher rates of rise in temperatures over longer periods of time, e.g. in boiler rooms
or kitchens.
Table 5 – Classification of heat detectors according to DIN EN 54-5:1989-09

Detector class Typical service Maximum Minimum static Maximum static
temperature service response response
*)
temperature temperature temperature
°C °C °C °C
1 25 50 54 62
2 25 50 54 70
3 25 50 54 78
*)
This temperature is 4 °C below the minimum static response temperature.
Table 6 – Classification of heat detectors according to DIN EN 54-5:2001-03

Detector class Typical service Maximum Minimum static Maximum static
*)
temperature service response response
**)
temperature temperature temperature
°C °C °C °C
A1 25 50 54 65
A2 25 50 54 70
B 40 65 69 85
C 55 80 84 100
D 70 95 99 115
E 85 110 114 130
F 100 125 129 145
G 115 140 144 160
*)
**)
39
6.4.1.3 Smoke detectors
Ionisation smoke detectors are suitable for the detection of smoke producing fires,
however, in particular for the detection of small particle size aerosols as released
by open fires. The colour of the particles is of no influence. Exclusively detectors
equipped with a mechanical protection against removal may be installed at easily
accessible places of installation.
NOTE Easily accessible places of installation are places where the detector can be
reached by use of easily available ways and means such as a chair, table or ladder.
Optical smoke detectors using scattered light are suitable for the detection of
smoke producing fires releasing particles of large size and bright colour – hence all
types of fires characterised by a bright and visible smoke.
Optical smoke detectors using transmitted light are suitable for the detection of
smoke producing fires releasing particles of bright and dark colour.
Optical beam smoke detectors are suitable for the monitoring of large size halls,
high rooms, cable and utility ducts or rooms with ceilings where no other type of
detector may be used due to special requirements (e.g. works of art of high value).
Optical beam smoke detectors shall be arranged so as to provide for a permanent

visual communication between transmitter and receiver respectively
transmitter/receiver unit and the reflector. The optical beam shall not be interrupted
by moving objects (e.g. a travelling crane) since this would result in fault warnings
or false alarms. The detectors shall be mounted on a stable support that is free
from vibrations. Account shall be taken of temperature variations that may cause
an expansion of metal structures (e.g. steel girders) and may result in that the
focussed beam moves away form the receiver – which in turn would result again in
a fault warning or in false alarms.
When smoke detectors are installed in rooms of low height (room heights up to 3
m), measures will have to be taken to make sure that a response of the detectors
to cigarette smoking is avoided.
Measures to achieve this are for instance:
– Arrangement of detectors outside the ceiling areas located directly above fixed
workplaces,
– Replacement of smoke detectors by heat detectors,
– Use of response delayed detectors,
– No smoking regulations.
6.4.1.4 Flame detectors
Flame detectors are particularly suitable for areas where the development of an
open flame is expected right from the outset of a fire (e.g. storage facilities for
flammable liquids or gases). Due to the relatively large area that can be monitored
by flame detectors, their specific field of application are large and high halls
considering the expected development of the fire and the potential sources for
false alarms.
40
As regards flame detectors (responding to one wavelength range only), the alarm
state of one detector may not result in a fire alarm. These flame detectors shall
therefore be configured in a two-zone or two-detector dependency. Thereby,
different viewing angles are required. Flame detectors equipped with two or more
sensors and responding to minimum two or more wavelength ranges, may raise a
fire alarm in AND operation of the signals.
The propagation of the flame radiation depends on the ratio of radiation

wavelength and the particle size (smoke particles) in the room monitored. If also
fires in the monitored area are feasible, characterised by an incipient smouldering
phase, which results in smoke logging of the room, preference shall be given to
infrared detectors. Smoke can be penetrated by infrared radiation, whereas
ultraviolet radiation may be absorbed by smoke.
Flame detectors may raise false alarms due to external factors of influence. Flame
detectors may eventually be protected against sources of false alarms by special
measures e.g. membranes and covers.
6.4.2 False alarm avoidance

As regards the avoidance of false alarms, fire detection systems comprising
automatic fire detectors may be designed and operated in three different modes as
described below.
NOTE The measures described under 6.4.2.2 and 6.4.2.3 are not allowable for manual call
points.
6.4.2.1 Mode OM, fire detection and fire alarm systems without any specific
measures for the avoidance of false alarms.
6.4.2.2 Mode TM, fire detection and fire alarm systems provided with technical
measures for the avoidance of false alarms.
These measures may consist in:
– Verification of the alarm state in form of
• a temporary alarm storage: the fire alarm state is reached once the fire
parameter continues to be present after expiry of a maximum delay time of
10 seconds,
• a two-detector dependency,
• a two-zone dependency.
– Complex evaluation of the fire parameter such as
• comparison of fire parameter patterns,
• use of multi-sensor detectors.
41
6.4.2.3 Mode PM, attended fire detection and fire alarm systems for the avoidance
of false alarms.
Checking of the alarm state by persons will contribute to delaying the transmission
of alarms to a response authority. Hence the following conditions will have to be
observed:
– The delay may be effective during the time of presence of persons only.
– Acknowledgment of incoming signals shall take place within 30 seconds.
– Without acknowledgment the signal shall be transmitted after 30 seconds at the

latest.
– The maximum investigation time after acknowledgment shall be 3 minutes.
– Upon receipt of a further signal during the investigation time the transmission
device shall be triggered without delay.
– Enablement of the transmission delay shall be possible manually only;

disablement shall be automatic, however, manual disablement shall be possible
in addition.
6.4.3 Electric lines

6.4.3.1 General
Installation cables and lines according to DIN VDE 0815 (VDE 0815) shall be used
with preference for the electric lines. The cross sectional area shall be determined
considering the length of lines, the current consumption and the operating voltage
range of the system components connected. The conductor cross section shall be
minimum 0.6 mm per core.
The number of line connection shall be as low as possible. Each connection shall
be made by use of a reliable procedure, e.g. secured screw, soldered or terminal
connection.
The insulation resistance of the individual line to earth shall be minimum 500 kΩ at
500 V measuring DC voltage unless indicated otherwise by the manufacturer.
6.4.3.2 Fire detection/alarm systems required by the supervisory building

authorities
All types of lines for a fire detection and fire alarm system required by the
supervisory building authorities shall remain functional also under fire condition,
unless suitable measures for compensation are taken. The corresponding
requirements are defined in the guidelines on requirements for the fire protection of
line systems.
NOTE The requirement of the supervisory building authorities for installation of a fire de-
tection and fire alarm system may be based on a generally applicable regulation or in the in-
dividual case on the building permit. Information on the above mentioned guideline can be
provided by the supervisory building authorities in the case of doubt.
42
6.4.3.3 Fire detection systems not required by the supervisory building

authorities
In the case of lines of a fire detection and fire alarm system not required by the
supervisory building authorities, the above-required functional endurance of
minimum 30 minutes need not be furnished, provided these lines
– are routed through rooms monitored by automatic fire detectors or
– are routed through rooms with only a low fire load or
– are protected by other equivalent measures of fire protection or
– are configured as a ring line system where
– feed and return wire are routed in separate cables and
– these cables are layed in buildings separately from the point of view of fire
protection and
– a single fault does not compromise the proper function of the transmission
path.
6.4.3.4 Alarming devices not required by the supervisory building

authorities
For lines of alarming devices not required by the supervisory building authorities,
that are, however, part of the fire detection and fire alarm system, a functional
endurance of minimum 30 minutes need not be observed exclusively in cases
where these lines are configured in form of a loop line system and provided
– feed and return lines are routed in separate cables and
– these cables are installed in buildings separately from the point of view of fire
protection and
– a single fault does not compromise the proper function of the transmission path.
6.4.4 Power supply

For the purposes of power supply from the electrical network system, provision
shall be made for a separate circuit protected by a separate specially marked fuse.
The possibility of an interruption of the circuit feeding the fire detection and fire
alarm system by disconnection of other equipment shall be excluded.
6.4.5 Networked control and indicating equipment

In the case of networked fire detection and fire alarm systems, the control and
indicating equipment or the indication and actuation devices are able to perform
higher-level system functions.
Control and indicating equipment may be networked only if
− they are a component part of one single fire detection and fire alarm system
and the networking function has been VdS approved or
43
− connection takes place via an I/O interface that is a component part of the
corresponding fire detection and fire alarm system or
− they are designed according to technical data sheet VdS 2878.
Upon failure of a signal processing unit of a higher level control and indicating
equipment to which a total of more than 512 detectors are connected, provision
shall be made in addition to the requirements of 6.2.1 to at least see by which CIE
the signal has been raised.
The processing times for the indication and transmission of information specified in
the relevant standards shall be kept. The maximum allowable interval from the
detection of an alarm to the triggering of the outputs to the transmission device,
alarming device or to the fire protection equipment shall not be more than 30
seconds.
All operating states shall at least be visually indicated in form of a general

indication on the higher-level CIE(s) or the indication and actuation devices and
provision shall be made to see from which CIE the information comes.
The alarm and fault states shall be indicated audibly in addition.
Faults in a control and indicating equipment, a slave control unit or in an ancillary

indicating and control device shall not result in impairing another control and
indicating equipment, slave control unit or ancillary indicating and control device.
Faults on the transmission paths between the individual CIEs and the higher-level
CIE or the indicating and control devices shall be indicated on the higher-level
devices.
In cases where one and the same operating states are indicated on several CIEs
or indicating and actuating devices, provision shall be made for a clear assignment
of the indication.
The responsibilities for the operation of the system shall be clearly assigned.
Where in addition to the operation of a higher level CIE or control and indicating
devices, provision is made for the operation of individual CIEs or further control
and indicating devices of the system, the control processes shall be clearly
coordinated. This may imply that operation of lower level equipment is possible not
before release by the higher-level equipment is given.
6.4.6 Transmission device

The transmission device shall be installed close to the CIE or may be an integral
part of the CIE. Provision shall be made for testing for a separate detector zone
comprising at least one manual call point as appropriate. The release of this
detector zone shall not result in a triggering of the fire protection devices.
6.4.7 Warning devices
6.4.7.1 External warning device

External warning devices shall be mounted to the outside of buildings. They shall
be heard from outside the area to be protected.
Visual warning devices shall be readily visible to the response authorities and shall
clearly identify the monitored object.
44
External warning devices shall be arranged so as to be as far as possible out of

reach of unauthorised persons.
For external alarming, minimum one external sounder shall be supplied from the
power supply of the CIE.
6.4.7.2 Internal warning device
Internal warning devices are installed indoors or within the area to be protected.
They shall be marked with the inscription "fire alarm".
6.4.8 Fire brigade control panel

Details on the use of a fire brigade control panel are provided in DIN 14675.
6.4.8.1 Fire brigade key depose boxes and release elements
Installation, operation and maintenance of the fire brigade key depose boxes and
of the release elements shall comply with VdS 2350 Key Depose Boxes –
Planning, installation and maintenance and DIN 14675.
6.4.9 Triggering of extinguishing systems

See also VdS 2496, Guidelines for the triggering of fire extinguishing systems.
Connection of the control and indicating equipment to the control device of an

extinguishing system may be performed as follows.
6.4.9.1 Connection without a standard I/O interface for extinguishing

systems
A connection is feasible only if the interaction of all system components including

the concept for the control of the system and hence type and design of the
extinguishing system have been tested and approved as a joint system. A
verification from the project-specific point of view should take place for finding out
whether or not the project requirements based on the scope of services to be
rendered correspond to the approved object.
Provision shall be made for a joint connection.
The overall responsibility for the concept of the extinguishing system and for that
part of the fire detection and alarm system specific for the extinguishing system lies
with the installer of the extinguishing system, see VdS 2496, Rules for the
triggering of fire extinguishing systems.
Account shall be taken in the energy budget for the amount of energy required for
control purposes. The energy budget (in writing) shall be kept close to the control
and indicating equipment.
6.4.9.2 Connection via standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems
Connection shall take place in coordination between the installer of the fire
detection and fire alarm system and the installer of the extinguishing system.
The installer and/or manufacturer of the extinguishing system shall install the
connecting points of the standard I/O interface (see Fig. 0-1) – component parts of
the control device – in a distribution board housing that shall be mounted closest
45
possible to the control device. The distribution board housing shall be clearly
marked on the outside (for details on the designation of connecting points see
Section "Standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems").
6.4.9.3 Standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems
6.4.9.3.1 Connecting points
The connecting points of the standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems
installed in the above mentioned distribution board housing shall be marked with
"Fire detection and fire alarm system". Where several extinguishing areas are
connected, the designation of the connecting points shall provide information also
on the corresponding extinguishing area.
The connecting points of the standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems
serving for the release of an extinguishing system in or on the control and
indicating equipment shall be marked with "Extinguishing system". Where several
detector zones are provided for the triggering of several extinguishing areas, the
designation of the connections shall provide information on the corresponding
detector zones and/or detection zones.
Fig. 0-1: Standard I/O interface for extinguishing systems (see also note 2 at the
end of the section 6.4.9.3.4)
46
6.4.9.3.2 Transmission of alarms, faults and additional information
Since in addition to the transmission of a release signal to the control device and
the transmission of "extinguishing system fault" and "extinguishing system
released" to the control and indicating equipment, further additional information
may have to be transmitted from the control and indicating equipment to the
extinguishing system or vice-versa (normally a prealarm to the extinguishing
system for on-time disconnection of e.g. ventilator motors or closing of room
closures or a desired transmission of detailed fault warnings such as e.g. leakage
of the extinguishing system to the control and indicating equipment) the individual
connecting points shall be marked uniformly as follows.
6.4.9.3.3 Transmission of alarms from the fire detection and fire alarm
system to the extinguishing system
Transmission of the extinguishing signal
L1+ L = extinguishing signal; 1 = No. of extinguishing area; + / - = Polarity of

connection
L1-
For extinguishing systems comprising more than one extinguishing area, the
number must be changed, namely:
L2+ extinguishing area 2

L2-
etc.
6.4.9.3.4 Transmission of additional warnings relevant for the function of the

extinguishing system
Transmission of a prealarm
V1+ V = prealarm; 1 = No. of extinguishing area

V1-
Transmission of a fault warning from the control and indicating equipment to the
control device of the extinguishing system (required for the connection of pre-
action alarm valve stations in sprinkler systems)
SB 4 + S = fault warning; B = (of) fire detection and fire alarm system; 4 = (in)
extinguishing area 4
SB 4 -
For extinguishing systems with selective fault warnings from more than one
extinguishing area, the number must be changed (see above); where a joint
(general) fault warning is transmitted, this number is not required.
Note: In the case of a fault of the monitored paths for the transmission of a release
signal or a fault warning from the fire detection and fire alarm system to the control
device and in the case of a fault on a path for the transmission of a fault warning
from the control and indicating equipment to the control device, the function mode
of the alarm valve station shall be switched-over by the control device from "pre-
action" to "dry system". The fault warning of the fire detection system shall include
47
all functional impairments for the extinguishing signal, e.g. zone disconnection,
service test switching etc.
Transmission of warnings form the extinguishing system to the control and

indicating equipment
Release of extinguishing system, i.e. acknowledgement
AL + A = release; L = (of) extinguishing system

AL -
Transmission of fault warnings
SL+ S = fault; L = (of) extinguishing system

SL-
or in the case of a differentiated transmission from the individual extinguishing

areas (if required; minimum requirement is the transmission of a general fault
warning):
S L1 + S = fault; L1 = (in) extinguishing area 1

S L1 -
S L2 + S = fault; L2 = (in) extinguishing area 2
S L2 -
etc.
Additionally wanted transmission of fault warnings from the extinguishing system to

the control and indicating equipment
SZ+ S = fault; Z = additional warning signal (e.g. leakage)

SZ-
A further subdivision into several extinguishing areas may be required under

certain conditions. In these cases the number of the extinguishing area shall be
indicated in the 3rd position, namely:
S Z1 + S = fault; Z1 = additional warning signal from extinguishing area 1

S Z1 -
Additionally wanted transmission of alarms from the extinguishing system to the

control and indicating equipment
A further subdivision into several extinguishing systems may be wanted under

certain conditions:
AL 3 + A = release; L3 = (of ) extinguishing area 3

AL 3 -
Note 1: Faults that are not directly related to the function of the extinguishing
system shall not be transmitted to the control and indicating equipment as an
"extinguishing system fault". Faults of this type such as an impaired extinguishing
effect due to a room closure that has not been closed, shall be transmitted to the
control and indicating equipment as an extra/additional warning.
Note 2: Processing of the "extinguishing system released" warning is a
requirement of prEN 54-2/A1. As long as this standard has not yet entered into
48
effect and as long as the control and indicating equipment is not required to be
able to process this warning, the "extinguishing system released" warning on the
fire brigade control panel shall be triggered in another suitable way by the release
signal of the extinguishing system.
Note 3: Further optional signals of the electrical control device – not described in
detail at this point – shall be connected to suitable inputs on the control and
indicating equipment (e.g. blocking, manual control). It must be decided for each
single signal whether or not and where to the warning is to be transmitted, e.g.
warning of leakage to the service company of the extinguishing system. The
display colour for conditions deviating from normal operating condition, shall be
yellow.
Note 4: The installation of control elements for room closures and for other
systems required for warranting a proper function and the efficiency of the
extinguishing system including alarming devices, is a component part of the
services to be rendered for the installation of the control device of the extinguishing
system. Such control elements shall be provided in addition to the control and
indicating equipment only.
6.4.10 Heat and smoke vents

The assignment of smoke venting sections to detectors and detector zones shall
be clearly specified in the design documentation of the fire detection system.
6.4.11 Hold-open systems for fire resistant closures

Fire detectors assigned to a fire resisting closure system shall be combined to form
a separate detector zone.
A manual release pushbutton, if necessary, shall be provided in the immediate

proximity of the closure.
6.4.12 Two-detector and two-zone dependency

An indication on the CIE, an internal alarm and/or a control function may be
initiated upon response of the first detector or of the first detector zone.
Where raising of an alarm has priority over avoidance of false alarms, the fire
alarm state may also be reached if just one alarm and fault state instead of two
alarm states arrive at the assigned detectors or detector zones.
6.5 Design documentation
Planning and configuration of a fire detection and fire alarm system shall be
documented as follows; the documents shall be made available for the installation
of the fire detection and fire alarm system. The documents specified below are a
component part of the system documentation. They shall be made available to
people instructed accordingly and to the electric engineers of the servicing
company and shall be kept accessible to authorised staff.
49
6.5.1 Installation diagram

To be entered in the diagram showing installation by floor levels:
– Boundaries of protected area, alarming area, occupancy of detection zones as

well as designation of assigned detector zones;
– all system components of the fire detection and fire alarm system to be
mounted at the place of installation, with adequate specification of the type of
system component involved;
– distribution board showing the connections of all system components;
– dimensions (or plan made to scale with indication of the scaling factor);
– detector positions with detector and zone numbers;
– position, if applicable, of elements of the overvoltage and explosion protection.
– position, if applicable, of elements limiting the effects of a failure (e.g. by "T")

on monitored transmission paths with more than 32 automatic fire detectors or
10 manual call points in the case of a line fault, unless this function is already
integrated in each device, detector and/or base (to be noted).
6.5.2 Directory of detector zones

A directory of detector zones shall be prepared containing information on the
pertinent types of detectors, number of detectors and places of installation.
6.5.3 List of system components

A list of all system components of the fire detection and fire alarm system shall be
prepared itemised according to type and numbers.
6.5.4 Block diagram

A block diagram of the fire detection and fire alarm system shall be prepared
showing the assignment for the purposes of a denomination and numbering of the
detector areas, detector zones and detectors.
6.5.5 System description

Comprising:
– the directory of detector zones according to 6.5.2,
– the list of system components according to 6.5.3,
– hints for special detectors, e.g. ionisation smoke detectors,
– the logic operation (illustrated in suitable form) of the alarm states of the
detector zones - such as multiple query- and the function of the control signals
for the transmission, alarming and control devices as well as for other
equipment to be controlled in the fire alarm state,
– information on the structure of networked systems.
50
6.5.6 Certificates
If required, results of tests already run (e.g. in the case of fire detection and fire
alarm systems installed in hazardous areas, heat and smoke vent triggering etc.)
and/or certificate of a specialised company for the installation of an overvoltage
protection in the area of the power distribution panel according to VdS 2833
(Protection against overvoltage of alarm system and extinguishing system
triggering devices).
6.5.6 System identification

Each system shall be clearly identifiable.
6.5.7 Inspection schedule for recurrent inspections

Each inspection schedule shall provide information on the inspections performed
according to DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1): 2003-05, 5.3.
6.6 Installation
The installation of the fire detection and fire alarm system system components
shall take place in accordance with the installation schedule. DIN VDE 0845-1
(VDE 0845 Part 1) shall be observed where fire detection and fire alarm system
must be protected against lightning, static charges and overvoltage from electrical
power installations. The regulations of DIN VDE 0185-103 (VDE 0185 Part 103):
Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP) are to be observed
for installation in buildings equipped with lightning protection according to
DIN V ENV 61024-1 (VDE 0185 Part 100).
6.6.1 Detectors
The manufacturer's instructions for installation shall be observed for the installation
of detectors. Detectors shall be mounted exclusively on structurally sound, solid
mounting planes. The detectors shall be fitted so as to minimise the risk of
mechanical damage.
Fire detectors shall be serially numbered in each detector zone (Example: 3/7
means transmission path or detector zone 3, detector 7).
6.6.2 Cable installation, connections

The cables shall be layed and fixed so as to be sufficiently mechanically protected
and so as to cope with the ambient conditions, the same applies to the connection
between fire detection and fire alarm system and transmission device.
For loop lines where more than 32 automatic fire detectors and/or 10 manual call
points or automatic fire detectors and manual call points are operated, feed and
return line shall be routed in separate cables, unless these lines are installed in
specifically protected ducts such as cables in electrical installation conduits
according to DIN EN 50086-1 (VDE 0605 Part 1) of minimum heavy design or in
buried cables for the connection of individual sections of buildings.
The same shall apply correspondingly to non-closed circuit transmission paths.
51
Where fire detection and fire alarm system lines are routed through distribution
boards of other telecommunication equipment, the terminals shall be marked
correspondingly. If colour coded, the colour shall be red.
6.6.3 Power supply

More than two batteries may be connected in parallel to a recharging unit only if
their individual capacities are minimum 36 Ah or if the batteries are monitored
separately and are mutually decoupled. A maximum of three gas-tight sealed
batteries with defined electrolyte may be switched in parallel, however.
Where batteries are series connected, a maximum of two series connected

batteries may be switched in parallel. Batteries up to a total number of maximum
twelve cells may be series-connected. Series-connection of more than twelve cells
is allowable, provided a uniform distribution of voltage is warranted by suitable
measures.
Exclusively type-identical gas tight sealed batteries (same manufacturer, same

capacity and voltage, same date of manufacturer) may be series-connected or
switched in parallel.
6.6.4 Control and indicating equipment

Access for the fire brigade in the alarm case shall be warranted at any time.
The route from the point of arrival of the fire brigade up to the CIE shall be
signposted D1 and D2 according to DIN 4066.
The CIE shall be installed so as to be readily accessible; displays shall be readily

visible and potential damage of the CIE shall be kept lowest possible.
The CIE shall be installed in rooms that are dry and sufficiently illuminated. If
provision is made for an emergency lighting, a maintained emergency lighting
according to DIN VDE 0108-1 (VDE 0108 Part 1) shall also be installed in the CIE
room.
The CIE together with its equipment and the transmission device shall be installed
so was to be readily accessible at any time (accesses at least 0.75 m in width).
Control elements and visual indicators of the CIE shall not be arranged at a level
lower than 0.5 m and higher than 1.8 m – for wall cabinets in the range of 0.8 m
and 1.8 m- above foot level of a person wishing to operate these control elements
or reading the visual indicators.
The operating instructions and the operating manual of the system as well as the
instructions describing how to respond in the case of a fire alarm or fault warning
shall be kept at the place of installation of the system.
The CIE room shall be permanently manned by a person trained accordingly. The
requirements under 6.3 shall be observed, should this not be possible for
operational reasons; DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1):2003-05, 3.8.7 shall
apply.
52
6.6.5 Transmission device

The transmission device shall be installed in the same room in direct proximity to
the CIE.
Lines from the transmission device to the transmission network shall be installed
with protection.
Junction boxes and plug-and-socket connections of the transmission network shall

be covered by mechanically stable enclosures or may be incorporated in the
transmission device.
6.6.6 Fire brigade control panel

The fire brigade control panel according to DIN 14661 (FBF) shall be installed in
the direct proximity of the CIE or of the indication equipment.
6.6.7 Fire brigade display panel

The fire brigade display panel according to DIN 14662 (FAT) shall be installed in
the direct proximity of the area of access to the object, preferably close the fire
brigade control panel and the fire brigade routing maps.
6.6.8 Protection against overvoltage

Measures against overvoltage shall be designed according to VdS 2833
(Protection against overvoltage of alarming systems).
These requirements shall be fulfilled if one of the following questions is answered

in the affirmative:
– Is a protection against lightning in place?

– Is part of the system located in the 0/A area (area in which direct lightning
strokes are feasible, see VdS 2833)?
– Is the building located on a hill/mountain?1)
– Is the building located in a region exposed to the hazard of lightning? 1)
– Is an overhead transmission line used for power supply? 1)
– Is an overhead line used as a telephone feeder? 1)
– Is the building the "last house" of an underground voltage supply? 1)
– Have losses due to overvoltage been reported so far?
– Is an extinguishing system triggered by the fire detection and fire alarm
system?
– Are warning devices or other components of the fire detection and fire alarm
system installed in form of ancillary devices outside of a building (e.g. key box
column)
– Are detection/signal lines layed in between buildings?
1)
Notes regarding requirements:
Buildings located on a hill: A building is considered to be located on a hill when

the baseline of the building is located above the ridge and/or roof level of the other
buildings around.
53
Region exposed to the hazard of lightning: Information on hazards involved in

lightning is provided for example in DIN V ENV 61024-1 (VDE V 0185 Part 100) in
Fig. NC.1. Depending on the location of the object, regions with an average
number of >35 days/year with thunderstorm are considered to be exposed to the
hazard of lightning strokes. The responsible insurer in the case of doubt provides
information.
Mains power supply through overhead cables: Mains power systems supplied
by overhead cables can mostly be identified as such by an overground mains
voltage feeder, connected to a transformer on the premises. The public utility
company in the case of doubt provides information.
Last house: Information on the location of the mains power supply network is also
furnished by the public utility company. The assumed feed point into the last house
can mostly be derived form the location of the object within the housing area.
7 Acceptance test
Fire detection and fire alarm systems shall be tested in terms of function and
design for compliance with the requirements of this standard.
An acceptance test following installation shall ascertain compliance of the fire

detection and fire alarm system with the design documentation and with the
specifications of this standard; for scope and tests please see DIN VDE 0833-1
(VDE 0833 Part 1): 2003-05, 3.3 and 4.
Whether or not the rated capacity of the power source not subject to the risk of
failure corresponds at least to the computed capacity and whether or not a failure
of the power source subject to the risk of failure is taken account of, shall be
checked additionally. The power consumption of the sounder of the CIE need not
be considered at an operating time of 4 h or 30 h.
8 Hand-over to the operator

Prior to handing the system over to the operator, the fire detection and fire alarm
system shall be subjected to a test run over a period of time which corresponds to
the risk involved without alarming the response authorities mentioned under 6.3.1
(remote alarm). This test run is to ensure that alarms raised in potentially critical
areas can be detected without producing false alarms.
A certificate of acceptance according to DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1):
2003-05, 4.1 shall be submitted to the operator. The operator or other persons
appointed by him shall be instructed by the installer in the operation and control of
the fire detection and fire alarm system.
Installation certificate
After completion of the automatic fire detection and fire alarm system, the installer
shall issue the installation certificate according to VdS 2309 'Installation certificate
for fire detection and fire alarm systems', which shall be submitted to the operator.
The corresponding copy of this certificate shall be sent to VdS Schadenverhütung.
54
Operating manual
An operating manual according to VdS 2182 shall be kept and shall be available
for recording regular service and maintenance, alterations and extensions, ON and
OFF intervals as well as fault warnings and fire alarms, always with indication of
date and hour.
Provisions shall be made for a place/device in the direct proximity of the control
and indicating equipment for taking up the operating manual.
9 Operation of fire detection systems

In addition to the specifications according to DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Part 1):
2003-05, Section 5, the following applies:
9.1 Repairs
Service and maintenance work need be carried out for warranting a proper
operation of the fire detection and fire alarm system. An installer, VdS approved for
the corresponding system, shall perform Service and maintenance work. Other
than indicated in DIN VDE 0833-1 Section 5.2.2, an inspection of the alteration
according to 4.3 with documentation in the operating manual is required, also after
a remote repair.
Performance of these activities - on-schedule and in a skilled manner – shall be

agreed between the user and the installer.
The installer is obliged to start trouble shooting within 24 h to the notification.
The service and maintenance work shall be performed so as to keep the functional
interruption of devices and system components shortest possible.
A functional test of the devices and system components that had failed shall be
conducted and documented after completion of the repair work.
9.2 Clear space around detectors
The operator shall make sure in regular intervals that the area around the
detectors is kept clear. Neither equipment nor material may be kept in general
within a radius of less than 0.5 m from the detector.
9.3 Exceptions from monitoring
The operator shall ensure also that rooms not included in the monitoring concept,
continue to be negligible in terms of fire loads.
55
9.4 Disconnection
Where a system or parts of a system are disconnected, the operator shall provide
for surveillance of the rooms affected until the system or parts of the system are
activated again.
Action shall be taken to keep the time of de-activation of the system – hence the
time of absence of monitoring – shortest possible.
9.5 False alarm avoidance
The number of false alarms shall be lowest possible. In the case of extraordinary
situations such as for example welding, the operator shall for the time in which
these activities are carried out disconnect the affected detection zone in order to
avoid false alarms.
Adequate remedies shall be found in cases where false alarms are raised due to
operational processes.
9.6 Alterations and extensions
Alterations and extensions of installed fire detection and fire alarm systems shall
be performed exclusively by an installer, VdS –approved for the corresponding
system. The system components required for these purposes shall comply with the
currently applicable guidelines.
56
Appendix A
(normative)
Fire detection systems for high rack

warehouses
A.1 General
High rack warehouses in the sense of this standard are rack storages where the
stacking height (foot level to upper edge of stored material) exceeds 7.5 m.
Manual fire fighting in high rack warehouses is conducive to success as long as

the fire did not spread across several cubic metres of material. Spreading of the
fire is obstructed by stacking heights, narrow aisles and concentration of the
material stored.
An automatic fire extinguishing system is hence generally the only effective form of
a defensive fire protection. An automatic fire extinguishing system can be backed-
up by an automatic fire detection and fire alarm system if intervention is required as
early as in the smouldering phase of a fire to save the material stored from damage
by smoke. A concept of fire protection in form of a fire detection and fire alarm
system combined with manual fire fighting can be promising only, if the stored
material, the packaging material and the packing aids represent a low fire load
involving a low rate of fire spread.
A.2 Choice of fire detectors
Smoke detectors shall be used with preference. Additional use of flame detectors
may be reasonable. Other types of detectors may also be used for special risks.
A.3 Arrangement of smoke detectors
A.3.1 Detectors at ceiling level

Other than specified under 6.2.7, Table 2, point smoke detectors or the aspirating
holes of aspirating fire detectors shall be mounted above the rack aisles and along
the external racks of the high rack storage facility, spaced max. 6 m apart from
each other. The first and the last detector shall not be spaced more than 3 m
(horizontal distance) from the beginning and/or end of the rack aisle; the detectors
to be mounted along the outer rack sides shall not be mounted more than half the
width of a rack aisle outside of the high rack facility. Each aisle shall be monitored.
The specifications according to 6.2.7 shall apply to detectors mounted outside of

the rack area.
The maximum number of detectors per detector zone shall not exceed 20.
57
Fig. A.1 – Arrangement of point detectors in high rack warehouses

(Figure showing double racks with centre flues)
A.3.2 Detectors for rack monitoring

Point smoke detectors for fire detection shall be arranged at several levels in the
rack. The top most level of detectors for rack monitoring shall not be spaced more
than 6 m away from the ceiling. The arrangement of detectors is largely determined
by the design of the high rack system and by the mechanical warehouse aids.
Regardless of the type of construction of the racks, smoke detectors shall be
spaced maximum 6 m apart from each other both in horizontal and vertical
direction. The first and the last vertical row of detectors shall not be farther away
than 3 m from the front sides of the rack. Smoke detectors as a rule shall be
installed on the external sides of the rack.
The detectors shall be arranged or protected so as to exclude the hazard of a

mechanical damage by conveyor equipment and stored material and so as to
ensure that operations of the warehouse are not unduly impaired by service and
maintenance.
58
Where smoke detectors are installed in shelves, provision shall be made for an
individual indicator of the corresponding state of alarm of the detector at a readily
visible point.
Fig. A.2 – Arrangement of aspirating fire detectors in high rack ware-

houses (figure showing double racks with centre flues)
The aspirating pipes of aspirating fire detectors used for fire detection shall be
arranged on the external sides of the rack and/or in the case of double racks
preferably in the centre flue. The top-most level of aspirating holes for rack
monitoring shall not be spaced more than 6 m away from ceiling level. Within a
vertical distance of maximum 6 m provision shall be made for one aspirating hole
in always one detection level. The maximum horizontal distances between the
aspirating pipes shall not exceed 6 m. The first and the last vertical row of
aspirating holes shall not be farther than 3 m away from the front sides of a rack.
The maximum distance between detector and/or smoke aspirating hole and the
external side of the rack shall not exceed 3 m.
The corresponding instructions of the manufacturer and restrictions, if any,

indicated in the approval certificate shall be observed.
59
For a configuration in a two-detector and two-zone dependency, the horizontal

distances shall be reduced by always 30% and/or 50% (where fire extinguishing
systems are triggered).
A.4 Detection zones
The entire high bay warehouse including the areas of incoming goods and the
identification area of goods (I-point) shall be subdivided into detection zones.
The detection zones shall be defined in vertical direction and aisle-related to allow
immediate and unambiguous locating of the place of the fire.
The horizontal extension of a detection zone for rack monitoring shall not exceed
24 m. The horizontal extension of the detector zones shall not exceed 12 m.
Point detectors and/or aspirating detectors for ceiling monitoring shall be combined
to form separate detector zones. As regards the horizontal extension, the limitation
of 12 m for the detector zone and/or the limitation of 24 m for the detection zone
shall not apply to the detection zones formed by these ceiling detectors.
A detector zone – if point detectors are used – may not comprise more than 20
detectors – if aspirating fire detectors are used – not more than 20 aspirating
holes.
60
Appendix B
(normative)
Fire detection systems for rooms with electric

and electronic equipment
B.1 General
Rooms with electric and electronic equipment also include rooms plus ancillary
rooms for
− Data processing equipment (EDP),

− Power supply and power distribution systems including uninterruptible power
supply (UPS),
− Measuring and control equipment,
− Network service and private branch exchange systems,
− Air conditioning systems and cabinets,
− CNC-controlled equipment,
− CAD/CAM-systems.
B.2 Room monitoring
The design of a fire detection and fire alarm system is determined by the type and
occupancy of the rooms.
A distinction is made between
– Rooms with electric equipment and systems – to be planned according to 6.2,

however, with additional local application monitoring,
– Rooms with electronic data processing equipment (EDP rooms), - to be planned

according to 6.2, however, with additional requirements (see Appendix C) and
additional local application monitoring.
B.3 Local application monitoring
B.3.1 General
Local application monitoring – to be provided in combination with room monitoring
only – is limited to direct monitoring of the equipment and permits early detection
and early alarming in the case of incipient fires developing in the equipment.
Planning, design and maintenance of the local application monitoring and local
application protection system shall be coordinated between the manufacturer of
the device, operator, planner and fire detection and fire alarm system installer and
the installer of the extinguishing system, if any.
61
VdS 2304, Local application protection for electric and electronic systems shall be
observed.
The complete concept of fire protection including local application protection

depends essentially on the following factors of influence, which are to be
determined by risk analysis:
− Internal and external fire hazards;

− Life protection;
− Ranking from the operational point of view;
− Business interruption;
− Replacement time;
− Size and location of building, structural separations and technical equipment;
− System size and arrangement;
− Attended or unattended operation;
− Existing measures of protection.
All equipment force-ventilated by the air conditioning system shall be included in

the scope of monitoring for warranting an all-comprehensive fire protection.
Considering the individual requirements for safety and protection, the scope of
protection can be defined on the basis of the above factors of influence.
B.3.2 Planning
The local application monitoring system shall be selected and tailored considering
the operating conditions of the equipment to be protected. The following criteria
shall be observed:
– Operational and environmental factors of influence (e.g. temperature, humidity,

dust, aerosols, vapours, radiation);
– Mode of operation (e.g. attended and unattended areas, clear arrangement and
accessibility of devices, short term or continuous operation);
– Type of cooling (natural, forced ventilated and liquid cooled devices);
– electromagnetic factors of influence.
As regards local application protection systems, a maximum of five functionally

related pieces of equipment sitting side by side may be assigned to one
extinguishing area. At a distance of the equipment of more than 5 m or not
functionally related equipment, separate extinguishing areas shall be assigned.
Since in most cases smoke as a fire parameter will be produced in the course of a
developing fire, preferably smoke detectors shall be used.
Depending on the type of construction of the device, special measures of

adaptation may be required for the detector systems if cooling by liquid media is
involved.
62
B.3.3 Arrangement of detectors

Where aspirating fire detectors are used, these detectors are required to also
cover the main flows of the cooling air. This is generally achieved by mounting the
aspirating pipes closely possible to the air outlets of the equipment to be
monitored. The aspirating fire detectors shall not compromise the cooling airflow of
the corresponding equipment, however. A decrease in operating safety of the
equipment protected shall be avoided. Service and maintenance shall involve as
little problem as possible. The arrangement of the aspirating fire detectors shall be
coordinated with the manufacturer of the device.
Where point fire detectors, preferably smoke detectors, are used in the equipment,
the volume to be monitored shall not exceed 2.5 m3 per detector. One detector per
piece of equipment shall be used. If the response of the detector is impeded by
integrated components in the equipment to be monitored, provision shall be made
for additional detectors.
Also point fire detectors installed outside of the equipment may be used as a local
application protection system for individual pieces of equipment, considering,
however, the airflow conditions in the room, provided
– the detector can be arranged so as to be exposed to the airflow,
– the distance between the detector and the air outlet of the device is less than 1
m,
– the air change rates and airflow rates in the room are negligible.
B.3.4 Detector zones

The detectors for room and local application monitoring shall be connected to
separate detector zones of a control and indicating equipment. Several detectors
on one device unit or functionally related group of devices may be combined to
form a joint detector zone.
Where point fire detectors are used, a detector zone shall be limited to detectors of
maximum five functionally related pieces of equipment.
An aspirating fire detector to warrant an earliest possible, reliable and selective

detection of a fire, shall monitor a maximum of five functionally related pieces of
equipment. Further reduction may be necessary
– due to the number and type of air outlets on the equipment,
– in the case of pieces of equipment not sitting side by side.
Separate aspirating fire detectors shall be installed if functionally not related pieces
of equipment sitting at a distance of more than 5 m.
63
Appendix C
(normative)
Fire detection systems for EDP - and similar

systems
C.1 General
Monitoring of electronic data processing systems (EDP) implies consideration of

special additional requirements to be observed for the planning and installation of
fire detection and fire alarm systems.
C.2 Areas to be monitored
For reasons of different value concentrations in the EDP areas and ancillary rooms
to be monitored, the fire detection system must be configured so as to fit the local
conditions. Structural separations are of special importance.
Fig. C.1 – Monitoring zones
The structural separation between the monitoring zones is the determining factor
for the layout of the fire detection system.
The monitoring zones Üwz 1 to Üwz 3 shown in Fig. C.1 determine the surface to
be monitored per detector as well as the size of the detection zones.
Üwz 1: EDP room, data carrier archive including false floor and false ceiling area
(on similar lines also telephone switchboard, switchgear and control panels as well
as central control rooms).
Üwz 2: Rooms adjacent to Üwz 1 and ancillary to the EDP area from the point of
view of occupancy (including false floor and false ceiling area) for work scheduling,
peripheral devices and similar. Where the above-mentioned occupancies are
64
segregated from Üwz 1 by partition walls of a fire resistance duration of less than
30 min., the fire detection and fire alarm system shall be designed as explained
under Üwz 1.
Üwz 3: Additional rooms adjacent to Üwz 2, however, not part of the EDP area.
C.3 Detection zones
The monitoring zones shall be configured to form separate detection zones.

Rooms, false ceilings, false floor and false ceiling areas shall always form separate
detection zones. Detection zones in the individual monitoring zones shall not
exceed 500 m2 in Üwz 1, 800 m2 in Üwz 2 and 1 600 m2 in Üwz 3 in size.
C.4 Choice of detector type
Since mostly the development of a smouldering fire is expected in Üwz 1,

exclusively smoke detectors shall be used. Smoke detectors shall also be used
with preference in Üwz 2 and Üwz 3.
C.5 Number and arrangement of point smoke detectors
The number of fire detectors shall be chosen so as not to exceed the maximum
monitoring zones A indicated in Table C.1. The detectors shall be distributed so as
to ensure that no point on ceiling level is farther located from a detector (horizontal
distance) than DH (roof pitch up to 20°) determined from Fig. 1.
A due time response of the smoke detectors may not be ensured in any case and
need by checked by VdS Schadenverhütung (see also Section 6.1.5.5 Section 3)
even for reduced monitoring zones e.g. at high air change rates and admixture of
fresh air.
65
Table C.1 – Monitoring zones of point smoke detectors
Maximum monitoring zone A per detector

1) 2)
Üwz 1 Üwz 2 Üwz 3
Area of false 40 m2 60 m2 Monitoring according to

ceiling 6.2.7.1
Room 25 m2 40 m2
Area of false floor 40 m2 60 m2
Üwz Monitoring zone

1)
structural separation between Üwz 1 and Üwz 2 minimum F 30-A, otherwise A as Üwz 1
2)
structural separation between Üwz 2 and Üwz 3 minimum F 90
In the case of a two-zone or two-detector dependency, the monitoring zones for

smoke detectors indicated in Table C.1 shall be reduced by minimum 30%.
If two-zone or two-detector dependency is intended for the triggering of fire

protection equipment, e.g. fixed extinguishing systems, the monitoring zones
indicated in Table C.1 shall be reduced by 50% per detector.
A ventilation system shall be considered in the monitoring system so as to ensure

that both the inlet and the outlet air are monitored. Provision shall be made for a
separate detector zone for the ventilation system.
The response of detectors installed in concealed places e.g. ventilation ducts, shall
be visually indicated at the entrance to the monitoring zone.
66
Fire detection systems subject to enhanced

requirements
In addition to all requirements mentioned above, the following shall apply:
The probability of false alarms raised by fire detection and fire alarm systems
subject to enhanced requirements shall be drastically reduced by means of specific
measures.
The following prerequisites shall be met:
Special technical devices according to Section 'Fire detection engineering in critical

areas' and 'Examples for critical areas' shall monitor critical areas where deceptive
alarms are expected.
According to findings of the last revision certificate, no more than one false alarm
per 100 fire detectors may have occurred within a period of three years,
As regards the operation of the system, the fire detection and alarm system
− shall have been accepted by VdS
and
− shall be subjected to revisions by VdS in intervals of 3 years.
For risks of special type with special focus on life protection, e.g. hotels, hospitals
and institutions, the concept for a fire detection and fire alarm system subject to
enhanced requirements shall be coordinated with VdS.
67
Appendix D
(informative)
Literature
DIN EN 54-3:2001-10 Brandmeldeanlagen – Teil 3: Feueralarmeinrichtungen –
Akustische Signalgeber; Deutsche Fassung EN 54-
3:2001/ Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 3:
Fire alarm devices – Sounders; German version EN 54-
3:2001
DIN EN 54-12:2003-03 Brandmeldeanlagen – Teil 12: Rauchmelder –

Linienförmiger Melder nach dem Durchlichtprinzip;
Deutsche Fassung EN 54-12:2002 /Fire detection and
fire alarm systems – Part 12: Smoke detectors – Line
detectors using transmitted light; German version EN 54-
12:2002
DIN 4102-2 Brandverhalten von Baustoffen und Bauteilen; Bauteile;

Begriffe, Anforderungen und Prüfungen/Fire behaviour of
construction material and components; Components;
Terms and definitions, Requirements and tests
DIN 19531 Rohre und Formstücke aus weichmacherfreiem

Polyvinylchlorid (PVC-U), mit Steckmuffe für
Abwasserleitungen innerhalb von Gebäuden; Maße,
Technische Lieferbedingungen/Pipes and fittings made of
plastiziser-free polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) with clip-on
sleeve for sewage pipes within buildings; dimensions,
technical terms of delivery
DIN EN 50081-1 Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit (EMV)

(VDE 0839 Teil 81- Fachgrundnorm Störaussendung – Teil 1: Wohnbereich,
1):1993-03 Geschäfts- und Gewerbebereich sowie Kleinbetriebe;
Deutsche Fassung EN 50081-1:1992/Electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC), Basic specification Emitted
interference – Part 1: Residential area, commercial and
trade area as well as small scale businesses; German
version EN 50081-1:1992
DIN EN 50082-2 Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit (EMV)

(VDE 0839 Teil 82- Fachgrundnorm Störfestigkeit – Teil 2: Industriebereich;
2):1996-02 Deutsche Fassung EN 50082-2:1995/Electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC), Basic specification, Interference
immunity – Part 2: Industrial area, German version EN
50082-2:1995
DIN EN 50130-4 Alarmanlagen – Teil 4: Elektromagnetische

(VDE 0830 Teil 1- Verträglichkeit – Produktfamiliennorm: Anforderungen an
4):1996-11 die Störfestigkeit von Anlageteilen für Brand- und
Einbruchmeldeanlagen sowie Personen-Hilferufanlagen;
Deutsche Fassung EN 50130-4:1995/ Alarm systems –
Part 4: Electromagnetic compatibility – Product family
68
standard: Requirements for interference immunity of

system components for fire and intruder alarm systems
as well as for personal call for aid systems; German
version EN 50130-4:1995
DIN EN 60651:1994- Schallpegelmesser (IEC 651:1979 + A1:1993);

05 Deutsche Fassung EN 60651:1994 + A1:1994/Sound
level meters
DIN EN 60849 Elektroakustische Notfallwarnsysteme

(VDE 0828 Teil 1): (IEC 60849:1998); Deutsche Fassung EN
1999-05 60849:1998/Electro-acoustical emergency warning
sstems (IEC 60849:1998); German version EN
60849:1998
DIN EN 60950 Sicherheit von Einrichtungen der Informationstechnik

(VDE 805):1997-1 (IEC 60950:1991 + A1:1992 + A2:1993 + A3:1995 +
A4:1996, modifiziert); Deutsche Fassung EN 60950:1992
+ A1:1993 + A2:1993 + A3:1995 + A4:1997 / Übergangs-
frist für DIN EN 60950 (1993-11) und DIN EN 60950/A2
(1994-09) bis 1998-08-01 beachten. Daneben gilt DIN
EN 60950 (1993-11) und DIN EN 60950/A2 (1994-09)
noch bis 2002-01-01 bzw. bis 2003-08-01/ Safety of IT
equipment (IEC IEC 60950:1991 + A1:1992 + A2:1993 +
A3:1995 + A4:1996, modified); German version EN
60950:1992 + A1:1993 + A2:1993 + A3:1995 + A4:1997 /
Transitional period up to 1998-08-01 to be observed for
DIN EN 60950 (1993-11) and DIN EN 60950/A2 (1994-
09). DIN EN 60950 (1993-11) and DIN EN 60950/A2
(1994-09) also applicable up to 2002-01-01 resp. up to
2003-08-01/
DIBt2) IfBt Richtlinie für Feststellanlagen; Fassung Oktober

1988;
Teil 1: Anwendungsbereiche, Begriffe, Montage.
Teil 2: Bauartüberprüfung und Überwachung
lfBt Rules for restrainers; Version October 1988
Part 1: Fields of application, terms and definitions,

mounting
Part 2: Type testing and monitoring
VdS CEA 4001 VdS-CEA-Richtlinien für Sprinkleranlagen

Planung und Einbau/ VdS-CEA Rules for sprinkler
systems, Planning and installation
VdS 2093 VdS-Richtlinien für CO2-Feuerlöschanlagen

Planung und Einbau/ VdS Rules for CO2 fire
extinguishing systems, Planning and installation
2)
Obtainable from: Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik, Kolonnenstraße 30, 10829 Berlin.
69
VdS 2109 VdS-Richtlinien für Sprühwasser-Löschanlagen

Planung und Einbau/ VdS Rules for deluge extinguishing
systems, Planning and installation
VdS 2105 VdS-Richtlinien für mechanische

Sicherungseinrichtungen Schlüsseldepots (SD),
Anforderungen an Anlageteile/ VdS Rules for mechanical
security devices, key boxes, Requirements for system
components
70

VDS - 2095en - Planning and Installation

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VdS Guidelines for automatic fire detection and

fire alarm systems

Planning and Installation

VdS 2095en : 2005-02 (06)

Covers DIN VDE 0833-2 (VDE 0833 Part 2): 2004-02

Publisher and publishing house: VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH

Amsterdamer Str. 172-174

Copyright by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH. All rights reserved.

Guidelines for automatic fire detection and

Planning and Installation

This standard corresponds to the present state of the set of guidelines.

Reproduction – also for internal use – prohibited.

6.2 Planning .................................................................................................... 21

EN 54-1:1996/ Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 1: Introduction;

EN 54-2:1997/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 2: Control and

EN 54-4:1997/Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 4: Power supply

EN 54-7:2000/Fire detection and fire alarms systems – Part 7: Point detectors

IEC 61312-1:1995, Protection against electromagnetic lightning pulses – Part 1:

DIN VDE 0800-1 (VDE 0800 Teil/Part 1):1989-05, Fernmeldetechnik – Allgemeine

DIN VDE 0833-1 (VDE 0833 Teil/Part 1):2003-05, Gefahrenmeldeanlagen für

DIN EN 14604, Rauchwarnmelder; Deutsche Fassung prEN 14604:2002/Smoke

DIN 14623, Orientierungsschilder für automatische Brandmelder/Signposts for

DIN 14661, Feuerwehrwesen – Feuerwehr-Bedienfeld für Brandmeldeanlagen/Fire

DIN 14662, Feuerwehrwesen – Feuerwehr-Anzeigetableau für

DIN 14676, Rauchwarnmelder für Wohnhäuser, Wohnungen und Räume mit

DIN 14678, Nichtautomatischer Brandmelder (Feuermelder) K zur Anwendung in

DIN EN 50086-1 (VDE 0605 Teil 1), Elektroinstallationsrohrsysteme für elektrische

VdS 2350, VdS-Richtlinien für mechanische Sicherungseinrichtungen

VdS 2304, Einrichtungsschutz für elektrische und elektronische Systeme

VdS 2496, Guidelines for the triggering of fire extinguishing systems

VdS 2833, Schutzmaßnahmen gegen Überspannung bei Gefahrenmeldeanlagen

3 Terms and definitions

– to be collected and transmitted via minimum one output channel

– to be sounded and/or displayed visually

4 Basic requirements for the components of

4.2 Fire detectors

Ionisation smoke detectors installed in generally easily accessible places, see

4.2.2 Restrictions for use of detectors

4.3 Monitored transmission paths (primary lines)

Faults such as open or short circuits on a transmission path or a fault on a section

4.4 Power supply

4.5 Control and indicating equipment (CIE)

Exclusively system internal signals and information shall be processed.

5 Requirements for the triggering of fire

Direct triggering of a fire protection system by a CIE shall be via monitored

Warnings and information such as extinction and release signals of triggering

When triggering fire extinguishing systems it is important to ensure that due to a

The following applies to hold-open systems of fire resisting closures (FSA):

– The guidelines of DIBt shall be observed.

– Triggering of FSAs by other fire detectors or detector zones is allowable.

– Fire detectors of FSAs may not trigger any transmission devices.

– A disconnection of the assigned detector zone or of a detector of this zone shall

NOTE 3 Restrainers are subject to a general approval by the supervisory build-

6 Rules for the planning and installation of

6.1 Fundamental rules

Limits of application of fire detection and fire alarm systems

The installation of an additional automatic fire extinguishing system for support

6.1.2 Alarm organisation

It is essential to provide in particular for the following:

– Warning of persons exposed to danger and guidance as regards escape

– Opening of the access routes for the fire brigade;

– Prevention of a fast propagation of the fire by actuation of fire protection

Fault warnings shall be transmitted to the servicing company without delay.