VdS support for visual alarm devices
Since 31 December 2013, visual alarm devices for alerting persons in case of fire shall only be applied in line with EN 54-23. // However, European standards do not cover visual indicators that are not used for alarm purposes. // VdS, Europe´s No. 1 institute for fire protection, offers an approval procedure for these products, thus ensuring their continued installation in fire detection and fire alarm systems.
Visual alarm devices complement acoustic signals, for instance, in production halls with high noise levels or in areas where ear protection is required. Pursuant to the Construction Products Regulation, components are subject to the requirements of the harmonised EN standard EN 54-23 which became mandatory at the end of 2013 for all EU countries.
However, this standard does not cover visual indicators that are not designed to alert persons. For instance, indicators that lead the fire brigade the right way to the first information service are not covered by the EN. “As a former station officer of the volunteer fire brigade, I know that every second counts in case of a fire“, stresses Horst Berger, responsible for fire detection and fire alarm systems at VdS, Europe`s No.1 institute for safety. “Unfortunately, many visual indicators available on the market rarely survive the first frost period. VdS wants to contribute to optimum fire protection for our partners – this is why we make it possible to obtain approval for visual indicators not covered by EN 54-23. This way, these components can still be included in VdS-approved systems“.
Functional compatibility must be ensured for all components connected to fire detection and fire alarm systems. This is validated by a VdS test and confirmed by a system approval. Visual indicators would then appear as “optical indication devices“ under the heading of “accessories“ in VdS` directories. Manufacturers may prolong their products` approval up to now on the basis provided, often with reference to EN 54-3.
and visual indicators lead the fire brigade to the first information service.
VdS supports manufacturers of visual indicators that are not covered by EN 54-23.
About VdS
VdS is one of the world`s leading inspection and certification companies in the field of fire protection and security. With its decades of experience, VdS is the partner of choice for the testing of on-site fire protection systems and for the certification of products, service providers and management systems. It also sets international standards with the publication of a comprehensive set of rules and guidelines for fire prevention and safety equipment. VdS also enjoys an excellent reputation as a training institution, offering courses and seminars for employees from companies of all sizes and industries.
Its customers include risk-conscious industrial and commercial enterprises, leading manufacturers and system houses, specialist companies and skilled trades. The VdS quality seal certifies that products and services on the civil safety market are of optimum quality, and gives commercial and private consumers an important orientation aid. VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH is a fully owned subsidiary of the German Insurance Association (GDV).
Further information: www.vds.de/en
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