Characterising the smoke produced from modern materials and evaluating smoke detectors
The purpose of this research project was to measure the smoke characteristics for a number of test fires in smouldering and flaming modes and compare them with the existing four test fires specified in EN 54-7 and EN 14604 currently used to assess smoke detectors.
Visual alarm devices – their effectiveness in warning of fire
The purpose of this research project was to compare the responses of a group of participants to flashing Xenon and LED devices of varying pulse durations.
Live investigations of false fire alarms
Estimated losses of around £1 billion a year have been attributed to false alarms, due largely to the disruption and loss of productivity in businesses. False alarms also reduce the confidence of the general public in fire alarms.
Causes of false fire alarms in buildings
The purpose of this project was to collate information about the causes of false alarms observed in buildings and to identify approaches that could be developed and used to reduce their occurrence.