Siting of Manual Call Points

Siting of Manual Call Points

A manual call point is often the most recognisable component of a fire alarm system.  It is usually the most visible part of the system and the look of the call point is iconic and synonomous with fire safety.

All manual call points which make up a fire alarm system, should comply to BS EN54-11 and be single action type A versions.

When carrying out a fire alarm system design the manual call point should be sited as follows:-

• On all storey exits and all exits to opne air irrespective of whether they are designated fire exits or not.
• Nobody should have to travel more than 45 metres within the building to reach a manual call point, except if the exit routes are undefined in which case the direct line distance should not exceed 30 metres.
• The above distances should be reduced to 25 and 16 metres respectively, if there are persons with limited mobility or there is a likelihood of rapid fire development.
• A manual call point should be positioned in all areas of high fire risk, such as kitchens for example.
• Where phased evacuations are planned, manual call points need to be sited on all exits from a particular zone.
• Manual Call Points should be positioned 1.4 metres + or - 200mm above the floor.
• Manual Call Points with protective hinged covers for whatever reason should be listed as a variation from the recommendations of BS5839 on the fire alarm system certification.

Example of where to site manual call points:-

Please Note:- In order to comply with the requirements of building regulations approved document M, which requires electrical switches including manual call points to be mounted at between 1 metre + or - 200mm on wheelchair access routes, these should be listed as a variation on the certificates as BS requires manual call points to be mounted at 1.4 metres high + or - 200mm.

For Examples Of Manual Call Points Please Click The Following Link:- Manual Call Points

Posted: 22nd August 2011

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