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Fire Detection Equipment

Protect your premises with our range of fire detection equipment. From FireAngel Thermoptek alarms to Window Master AOV call points and vibrating pillow units. Fast UK delivery.

Fire Detection Systems & Smoke Ventilation Controls

Ensuring your building is equipped with reliable fire detection equipment is not just a regulatory requirement—it is the first line of defence for protecting lives and property. At Barbon Fire Protection, we supply specialist fire detection and control devices designed to meet the rigorous demands of UK commercial and residential safety standards.

Whether you are upgrading a fire detection system or maintaining a complex commercial smoke ventilation strategy, our range covers essential components for early detection and accessibility, as well as reducing false alarms.

Why Invest in Quality Fire Detection & Alarm Systems?

A robust early sign fire detection system does more than just sound an alarm; it minimises risk and buys critical seconds for evacuation and property damage limitation. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, UK "Responsible Persons" must ensure that premises have appropriate fire-fighting and detection equipment.

  • Early Warning: Advanced smoke and heat detectors can detect smouldering fires long before they become out of control blazing fires.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meeting British Standards (such as BS 5839) helps satisfy insurance requirements and avoids legal penalties.
  • Accessibility: Modern systems ensure safety for all occupants, including those with hearing impairments, fulfilling duties under the Equality Act.

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Types of Fire Alarm & Notification Equipment

Our collection features specialised devices suitable for varied applications, from standard smoke detectors to intricate Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) systems.

1. Advanced Smoke Alarms

Modern smoke alarms have moved beyond basic detection. We stock Thermoptek technology, such as the FireAngel Smart RF Ready units. These devices combine the latest optical sensing with thermal enhancement, allowing them to react rapidly to smoke particles from both slow-burning "smouldering" fires that do not produce visible flames right away and fast-flaming fires.

2. AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) Controls

For larger residential blocks and commercial buildings, managing smoke in communal areas is vital. Our range includes Optical Smoke Sensors (SSR-D) specifically designed for AOV systems. These sensors trigger vents to open automatically, clearing smoke from stairwells and corridors to aid safe evacuation.

3. Manual Call Points for Smoke Vents

Automatic systems are often supported by manual overrides. The Window Master WSK 320 Break Glass Unit is a primary example of a manual call point for smoke control panels. Often housed in distinct orange casing to differentiate from standard red fire alarms, these units allow emergency services or occupants to manually trigger smoke ventilation systems during an incident.

4. Notification for the Hearing Impaired

Standard audible alarms are not effective for everyone. Devices like the C-Tec BF320 Vibrating Pillow Unitare essential for sleeping risks (e.g., hotels, care homes, and student accommodation). Placed under a pillow, the unit vibrates and pulses when the fire alarm system is triggered, ensuring hearing-impaired residents are woken immediately. This equipment is a key component in complying with BS 5446-3.

Choosing the Right Detection Equipment for Your Premises

Selecting the correct equipment depends on your specific fire risk assessment.

  • For Landlords: Focus on reliable, tamper-proof smoke alarms like the FireAngel series to meet Grade F1/F2 requirements.
  • For Facility Managers: Ensure your AOV systems are maintained with compatible sensors and call points like the Window Master series to keep escape routes viable.
  • For Care Providers: Don't overlook auxiliary devices like vibrating pads to ensure total coverage for vulnerable occupants.

Need advice on compatibility or bulk orders? Contact our UK-based team today to discuss your fire safety requirements.

Fire Detection Equipment FAQs

What is the difference between a standard fire alarm or smoke detector and an AOV system?

A standard fire alarm is designed primarily to alert occupants to evacuation with audible alarms. An AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) system—like the Window Master controls we stock—is designed to control smoke in the event of a fire. When the optical smoke sensor triggers, it automatically opens roof or window vents to clear smoke from escape routes (like stairwells), making it safer for residents to escape and for emergency services to enter.

How often should I test my fire detection equipment?

  • Weekly: Test manual call points and standard alarms to ensure the sounders work.
  • Annually/Bi-Annually: A competent person should perform a full service on systems like AOV controls and smoke detectors to ensure compliance with BS 5839.
  • Batteries: For units like the FireAngel Smart RF, check the expiration date, though many modern units have sealed 10-year batteries.

Who needs a Vibrating Pillow Unit?

These units, such as the C-Tec BF320, are essential for buildings with sleeping risks that accommodate people with hearing impairments. This includes hotels, student accommodation, care homes, and residential blocks. They ensure that if the fire alarm sounds while the person is asleep, the vibration and pulsing light will wake them immediately.

What is Thermoptek technology?

Thermoptek is a technology found in our FireAngel alarms. It combines optical sensing (which is good for smouldering fires) with thermal enhancement (heat sensitivity). This means the alarm reacts much faster to fire but is less likely to trigger false alarms caused by cooking fumes compared to older ionisation alarms.

Can I replace a smoke sensor head myself?

While simple domestic alarms can be replaced by a homeowner, component parts of a larger system (like the AOV SSR-D Optical Smoke Sensor) should ideally be installed and commissioned by a qualified fire safety engineer to ensure they communicate correctly with the main control panel.