Definition
Aspirating Smoke Detection
Aspirating smoke detection (ASD) is a high-sensitivity fire detection technology that actively draws air through a pipe network to a central detector, identifying smoke at concentrations far below the threshold of conventional point detectors. Also known as VESDA (Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus), ASD is used in data centres, heritage buildings, and clean rooms, and must be designed to BS 5839-1.
Terms mentioned in this definition
BFC Training
Get qualified in this area
EAL Level 3 accredited training — the only nationally recognised qualification across all fire disciplines.
View training courseRelated Terms
- Smoke DetectorFire Alarm SystemsA smoke detector is an automatic fire detection device that senses airborne combustion particles and transmits an alarm signal to the fire alarm control panel. The two principal types are optical (photoelectric) detectors, suited to slow-smouldering fires, and ionisation detectors, suited to fast-flaming fires. Both types must be selected, positioned, and maintained in accordance with BS 5839.View definition
- Fire Alarm Control PanelFire Alarm SystemsA fire alarm control panel (FACP) is the central processing unit of a fire alarm system, receiving signals from detectors and manual call points, triggering sounders, and indicating the zone or device address of an alarm or fault. It must be installed, commissioned, and maintained by a competent engineer in accordance with BS 5839-1:2017, and must be accessible to the fire and rescue service on arrival.View definition
- Addressable Fire Alarm SystemFire Alarm SystemsAn addressable fire alarm system is a type of fire detection network in which every device — including detectors, call points, and sounders — is assigned a unique electronic address, enabling the fire alarm control panel to identify the exact location of an alarm or fault within a building.View definition
- BS 5839Fire Regulations & StandardsBS 5839 is the British Standard covering the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems in the UK. It is published by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and is divided into multiple parts, each covering specific building types or system components.View definition
Frequently Asked Questions
Aspirating smoke detection (ASD) is a high-sensitivity fire detection technology that actively draws air through a pipe network to a central detector, identifying smoke at concentrations far below the threshold of conventional point detectors. Also known as VESDA (Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus), ASD is used in data centres, heritage buildings, and clean rooms, and must be designed to BS 5839-1.
Requirements for aspirating smoke detection in the UK depend on the type of premises and applicable legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and relevant British Standards. The responsible person for a premises must ensure adequate fire safety provisions are in place. The British Fire Consortium can provide guidance — contact our team or search our member directory to find a qualified specialist.
Aspirating Smoke Detection and Smoke Detector are related fire safety concepts but serve different purposes. See our individual glossary entries for detailed definitions. For expert guidance on which applies to your premises, consult a BFC member company.
The British Fire Consortium offers EAL Level 3 accredited training covering fire safety systems including topics related to aspirating smoke detection. Our courses are the only nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications across all fire disciplines. View our training courses or use the member directory to find a qualified trainer near you.