Definition
Smoke Detector
A 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.
Terms mentioned in this definition
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- BS 5839-1:2017Governs selection, positioning, and maintenance of smoke detectors in non-domestic premises
- BS EN 54-7Point-type smoke detectors — product performance standard
- BS 5839-6:2019Governs smoke alarms in domestic premises
Related Terms
- Heat DetectorFire Alarm SystemsA heat detector is an automatic fire detection device that triggers an alarm when ambient temperature exceeds a fixed threshold (fixed-temperature type) or rises faster than a set rate (rate-of-rise type). Heat detectors are used in environments unsuitable for smoke detectors — such as kitchens, garages, and dusty plant rooms — and must be selected and maintained in accordance with BS 5839.View definition
- Manual Call PointFire Alarm SystemsA manual call point (MCP) is a fire alarm device that enables a person to raise the alarm manually by breaking a frangible element or pressing a button. Under BS 5839, call points must be sited at a maximum travel distance of 45 metres on every escape route, and each installed call point must be included in a regular weekly test rotation to confirm operability.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
- Conventional Fire Alarm SystemFire Alarm SystemsA conventional fire alarm system groups detectors and manual call points into fixed zones, each wired to the fire alarm control panel. When a device activates, the panel indicates the zone rather than the individual device. Conventional systems suit smaller, simpler buildings; larger or multi-zone premises typically require an addressable fire alarm system to meet the zone-size guidance in BS 5839.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
A 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.
Requirements for smoke detector 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.
Smoke Detector and Heat 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 smoke detector. 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.