Isolations and Managing an Isolated Area
Isolations
Isolations can be useful management tools, however, they are easily misunderstood.
Always use the minimum isolation method that will suit your purpose.
Minimum isolation occurs when zones or circuits of your system are isolated for a minimum of time at a panel (often referred to as a Fire Indicator Panel - FIP).
Isolation of circuits or zones (preferred isolation method)
Individual circuits or zones of an FIP may be temporarily isolated.
Examples are:
- to perform maintenance
- to accommodate works such as building or cleaning that may trigger a false alarm
Isolation of Alarm Signaling Equipment (ASE) - only use when absolutely necessary
There are now two types of ASE isolation possible:
1. Site ASE isolation
Use of the isolation 'key' at the ASE. This isolates the entire ASE for a maximum of 10 or 12 hours, after which time the system will automatically de-isolate. You may also use your key to de-isolate at any time. A typical use would be to perform standard maintenance works or checks on the system.
2. Remote ASE isolation
Your monitoring company may agree to a written request to isolate your ASE for a maximum of 24 hours, given exceptional circumstances. You may also be able to isolate a specific input.
Managing an Isolated Area
Always use minimum isolation methods.
When isolating an alarm or individual inputs or zones or circuits, please consider these actions:
- advise all building occupants, especially chief fire warden and floor wardens, of isolation
- advise all building occupants they should ring 000 for emergencies
- provide 24 hour security or a responsible person from the building to monitor the fire alarm system and area of isolation
- install a notice at entrances
- in the event of an emergency, nominate a representative to meet the fire services on arrival
- inform all building occupants when the fire alarm system is back on line
Depending on the length and purpose of an isolation, an isolation may amount to a disconnection in which case a building permit is required.