Smoke detection in high ceiling spaces

BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries. Smoke detection in high ceiling spaces is a two-part set of information papers written by R Chagger and published by BRE on 18 June 2012.

Specifying smoke detection for high-ceiling spaces is complicated, and the criteria for assessing the performance of aspirating and optical smoke detectors are generally not fully understood. Research by the BRE Trust and the Fire Industry Association (FIA), using computer modelling and full-scale tests, has enabled guidance to be revised. This Information Paper outlines the programme of research and summarises its conclusions.

It is aimed at manufacturers and installers of smoke detectors as well as building designers and regulators, helping them gain a full understanding of the factors influencing smoke detection in such applications.

The 12 page Part 1: Introduction, literature review and modelling, covers:

• Introduction.
• Literature review.
• CFD modelling.
• References.

The 12-page Part 2: Fire tests and conclusions, covers:

• Introduction.
• Equipment details.
• Detector locations and configurations.
• Hangar conditions.
• Test fires.
• Results from the fire tests.
• Discussion.
• Conclusions from the fire tests.
• Conclusions.
• References.

--BRE Group

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