BRE study examines factors affecting visual alarm devices

The Building Research Establishment (BRE) has released a briefing paper detailing the outcomes of a three-phase research project on Visual Alarm Devices (VADs).

As reported by the Fire Industry Association (FIA), the project was funded by the FIA with a contribution of £35,000 and further supported by FIA members through sponsorship, advice, VAD products, and expertise.

The research aims to enhance understanding of the factors that influence VAD performance.

This is expected to inform updates to the 2012 Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) Code of Practice CoP 0001, a reference in BS 5839-1 for fire alarm systems.

Key factors in VAD effectiveness

The research identified five factors affecting VAD performance: wall surfaces, direct or indirect presentation to people, VAD colours (red and white), background light levels, and pulse durations.

According to the briefing paper, “white and light surfaces yielded the most effective response for both red and white VADs,” while darker and textured surfaces were less effective.

The study also found that direct viewing of VADs is more effective than indirect viewing.

Additionally, red VADs were about 20% more effective than white ones, although red VADs showed greater variability in effectiveness.

Implications for future fire safety standards

The findings from this research will support revisions to the LPCB CoP 0001 and possibly influence EN 54-23 standards.

BRE’s study provides evidence that could lead to more effective fire alarm systems by optimizing the use of VADs in various environments.