BS 5446-3

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5446-3:2005
Fire detection and fire

alarm devices for
dwellings —
Part 3: Specification for smoke alarm
kits for deaf and hard of hearing people
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ICS 13.220; 17.140.50
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Copyright British Standards Institution
Reproduced by IHS under license with BSI - Uncontrolled Copy
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
BS 5446-3:2005
Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by Technical
Committee FSH/12, Fire detection and alarm systems, to Subcommittee
FSH/12/2, Fire detectors, upon which the following bodies were represented:
British Fire Protection Systems Association

BRE/LPC Laboratories
BSI Testing — Product Certification
Building Research Establishment
Consumer Policy Committee of BSI
Department of Health — NHS Estates
Energy Industries Council
London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Ministry of Defence — UK Defence Standardization
National Caravan Council Limited
National Inspection Council for Electrical Equipment
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
Royal National Institute for Deaf People
Co-opted members
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This British Standard was

published under the authority
of the Standards Policy and
Strategy Committee on
29 April 2005
© BSI 29 April 2005 Amendments issued since publication
Amd. No. Date Comments
The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
British Standard:
Committee reference FSH/12/2
Draft for comment 04/103895 DC
ISBN 0 580 45647 1

BS 5446-3:2005
Contents
Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
Introduction 1
1 Scope 2
2 Normative references 2
3 Terms and definitions 3
4 General requirements for smoke alarm kits 3
5 Requirements for components 4
6 Constructional and electrical requirements 12
7 Marking 13
8 Provision of information 14
Annex A (normative) General procedures for tests 15
Annex B (normative) Tests for control units 16
Annex C (normative) Additional test for smoke alarm kits suitable for use in
leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs) 19
Annex D (normative) Tests for visual alarm devices 20
Annex E (normative) Tests for vibrating pads 25
Annex F (normative) Tests for vibrating pagers 29
Annex G (normative) Tests for radio-linked systems 32
Bibliography 35
Figure D.1 — Plan view of the test apparatus for measuring the
light intensity and dispersion pattern of visual alarm devices 21
Figure D.2 — Side elevation view of the test apparatus for measuring
the light intensity and dispersion pattern of visual alarm devices 21
Figure E.1 — Test apparatus for measuring vibration intensity of
vibrating pads 26
Figure G.1 — 50 m range test site 33
Table 1 — Minimum effective intensities 7
Table B.1 — Test schedule for control units 16
Table D.1 — Test schedule for visual alarm devices 20
Table E.1 — Test schedule for vibrating pads 25
Table E.2 — Plastic foam materials 26
Table F.1 — Test schedule for vibrating pagers 29
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© BSI 29 April 2005

i
BS 5446-3:2005
Foreword
This part of BS 5446 has been prepared by Subcommittee FSH/12/2.

It is an addition to the BS 5446 series and specifies requirements and test
methods for smoke alarm kits for deaf and hard of hearing people.
Guidance on the siting, installation and maintenance of smoke alarms for deaf
and hard of hearing people in dwellings, and on user actions, is given
in BS 5839-6.
Product certification/inspection/testing. Users of this British Standard are
advised to consider the desirability of third-party certification of product
conformity with this British Standard. Appropriate conformity attestation
arrangements are described in the appropriate part of the BS EN ISO 9000
series. Users seeking assistance in identifying appropriate conformity
assessment bodies or schemes may ask BSI to forward their enquiries to the
relevant association.
Attention is drawn to the Consumer Protection Act 1987 [1], the Batteries and
Accumulators (Containing Dangerous Substances) Regulations 1994 [2] and the
Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 [3].
It has been assumed in the preparation of this British Standard that the
execution of its provisions will be entrusted to appropriately qualified and
experienced people, for whose use it has been produced.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
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Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 35 and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.
ii
Copyright British Standards Institution © BSI 29 April 2005
BS 5446-3:2005
Introduction
Smoke alarms for use in dwellings have been available for many years, and are specified in BS 5446-1.
These devices are intended to warn of the presence of a potential fire condition by emitting a loud piercing
sound. However, people with hearing loss can be unaware of such an alarm sound.
There are recognized methods of alerting deaf and hard of hearing people, including the use of vibro-tactile
and visual alarm devices. To provide a fire warning for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, it has become
common practice for such devices to be coupled to domestic smoke alarms. For example, vibrating pads can
be used to awaken deaf or hard of hearing people, and visual alarms to alert those already awake, in the
event of the associated smoke alarm(s) detecting smoke. There has therefore been an increasing need for
standardization of such smoke alarm systems. This part of BS 5446 addresses that need by specifying
requirements for smoke alarm kits that include smoke alarms and associated warning devices used in
dwellings to warn deaf and hard of hearing people in the event of fire. This standard does not claim to
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provide an exclusive or definitive solution to the problem of providing reliable fire safety protection to
people with impaired hearing. It is recognized that other techniques or products might be developed which
would currently fall outside the scope of this standard.
This standard includes tests and requirements for vibro-tactile and visual alarm devices, for smoke alarms
by reference to BS 5446-1, and for the interconnections of these components. The tests specified in this
standard are type tests and are not intended as manufacturers’ tests to maintain uniformity of quality in
production, which is dealt with in the BS EN ISO 9000 series. While the tests are intended to assess the
most important features of the design and construction of the components of smoke alarm systems for deaf
and hard of hearing people, they cannot remove the necessity for regular inspection and maintenance,
which is essential for reliable operation.
The kits specified in this part of BS 5446 are specifically intended to give warning in the event of fire.
However, it is recognized that smoke alarm systems might also be designed to alert deaf and hard of
hearing people to events other than fire, such as door bell, telephone, alarm clock, baby alarm, carbon
monoxide, etc. These are often referred to as multi-alerting systems. In such cases, it is essential to ensure
that any additional signals given by the system or by any component of the kit are not confused with that
of the smoke alarm.
The sound from a smoke alarm conforming to BS 5446-1 is intended to be audible during both day and
night, but for a person with significant hearing loss, a combination of vibration and flashing light and
sound is generally required in order to provide an equivalent level of protection. Some medical conditions
might require specialist medical advice as to appropriate alarm equipment.
Since any smoke alarm that forms part of a kit for deaf and hard of hearing people is required to conform
to BS 5446-1, it will incorporate a functioning sounder. BS 5446-3 therefore specifies requirements for the
additional vibration and flashing light functions.

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BS 5446-3:2005
1 Scope
This part of BS 5446 specifies requirements and test methods for kits and their components intended to be
assembled to create smoke alarm systems for deaf and hard of hearing people, for the purpose of life safety
in dwellings. It also specifies requirements and test methods for such smoke alarm kits intended for use in
leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs).
NOTE 1 Although this part of BS 5446 provides the specification for smoke alarm kits for dwellings, it is recognized that these kits,
or components thereof, might be used in other situations, where similar requirements could be anticipated.
This part of BS 5446 does not cover:
— the use of stand-alone smoke alarms;
— extensions or modifications to existing installations;
— outdoor use of any component of a kit.
NOTE 2 Equipment conforming to this part of BS 5446 might not be suitable for use in boats, due to the corrosive atmosphere.
This part of BS 5446 does not cover medical vibrating devices as defined in BS EN ISO 9999; these
are covered by BS EN 12182.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 5446-1:2000, Fire detection and fire alarm devices for dwellings — Part 1: Specification for smoke
alarms.
BS 5839-6, Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings — Code of practice for the design, installation
and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in dwellings.
BS 7671, Requirements for electrical installations — IEE Wiring Regulations — Sixteenth edition.
BS EN 60068-2-1, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-1: Tests A — Cold.
BS EN 60068-2-6, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-6: Test Fc —
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Vibration (sinusoidal).
BS EN 60068-2-32:1993, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-32: Test Ed —
Free fall.
BS EN 60068-2-42, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-42: Test Kc —
Sulphur dioxide test for contacts and connections.
BS EN 60068-2-75, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-75: Test Eh —
Hammer tests.
BS EN 60068-2-78, Environmental testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 2-78: Test Cab —
Damp heat, steady state.
BS EN 60529:1992, Specification for degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code).
BS EN 60950-1, Information technology equipment — Safety — Part 1: General requirements.
BS EN ISO 2439:2001, Flexible cellular polymeric materials — Determination of hardness
(indentation technique).
BS EN ISO 13943, Fire safety — Vocabulary.
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BS 5446-3:2005
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this part of BS 5446, the terms and definitions in BS 5446-1, BS 5839-6 and
BS EN ISO 13943 and the following apply.
3.1
control unit
unit housing components for such functions as supply of power and monitoring of circuits
3.2
deaf or hard of hearing person
person who, as a result of a significant degree of hearing loss (including total hearing loss), is unable to rely
on hearing audible alarm signals under typical conditions of use from smoke alarms conforming to
BS 5446-1 without the use of a hearing aid
3.3
smoke alarm kit for deaf and hard of hearing people
number of components, including at least one smoke alarm, which, when the components are correctly
interconnected and installed, constitutes a system for warning deaf and hard of hearing people in the event
of fire
NOTE 1 This is referred to throughout the text as a “kit”.
NOTE 2 Components include any interconnecting cable needed.
NOTE 3 Further components might be necessary to extend the system.
3.4
system
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interconnected and installed components of a kit
3.5
vibrating pad
device intended for installation underneath a mattress or pillow to rouse a deaf or hard of hearing person
from sleep by subjecting the person to vibrations
3.6
vibrating pager
radio-linked device intended to alert a deaf or hard of hearing person, while awake, by subjecting the
person to vibrations
NOTE If a separate charging unit is supplied for this component, it is considered to be part of the component.
4 General requirements for smoke alarm kits

A smoke alarm kit shall comprise at least one of each of the following items:
a) smoke alarm (5.1);
b) control unit (5.2), which may be one self-contained unit or may be made up of several parts, each of
which may be integrated with another component of the system;
c) visual alarm device (5.3);
d) vibrating pad (5.4);
e) power supply, which may be self-contained or may form a part or parts of other system components,
e.g. control unit and smoke alarm;
NOTE 1 Specific requirements for power supplies for control units are given in 5.2.3.
f) appropriate interconnnecting cables (Clause 6);
g) set of instructions for creating a system from the kit, and for operation of the system (Clause 8).

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BS 5446-3:2005
When a vibrating pager is included in the kit, the associated radio transmission equipment (5.5 and 5.6)
shall be supplied.
For any other radio-linked components, radio transmitter and receiver units shall be supplied as
required (5.6).
NOTE 2 Vibrating pagers and radio-linked components are optional.
NOTE 3 Specific requirements for power supplies for radio-linked systems are given in 5.6.6.
NOTE 4 For those who are unable to hear audible alarm signals from smoke alarms conforming to BS 5446-1 even with the use of
a hearing aid, it might be necessary to provide additional visual alarm devices (5.3) and/or vibrating pads (5.4).
5 Requirements for components

NOTE The components of a kit should be suitable for use indoors in a domestic environment.
5.1 Smoke alarm

Every smoke alarm forming part of a kit shall conform to BS 5446-1 and to any additional requirements
specified in this part of BS 5446.
NOTE Additional requirements given in this part of BS 5446 include requirements for connections and monitoring that are not
needed for standard smoke alarms.
If the manufacturer claims that the smoke alarm kit is suitable for use in leisure accommodation
vehicles (LAVs), then any smoke alarm(s) forming part of the kit shall meet the requirements
of BS 5446-1:2000, Clause 30.
Every smoke alarm forming part of a kit shall be provided with the information specified in Clause 8.
5.2 Control unit
5.2.1 General
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NOTE The control unit may be a separate self-contained component of the system, may be combined with another component, or
may have its functions spread over more than one component of the system. It is usual for a kit to include a mains-operated control
unit, incorporating a standby power supply, with a flashing warning beacon.
When tested in accordance with the general procedures specified in Annex A and the appropriate method
specified in Annex B, in accordance with the test schedule given in B.1, control units shall meet the
requirements specified in 5.2.2 to 5.2.9. If the manufacturer claims that the smoke alarm kit is suitable for
use in leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs), then control units shall also meet the requirements specified
in 5.2.10.
Control units shall be marked in accordance with Clause 7 and shall be provided with the information
specified in Clause 8.
5.2.2 Indicators
5.2.2.1 General
Indications from light-emitting indicators shall be visible in an ambient light intensity up to 500 lux, at
any angle up to 22.5° from a line through the indicator perpendicular to its mounting surface, at a distance
of 3 m.
Fire and fault warning indications shall be either steady or pulsing. If the indication is pulsing, the “on”
and “off” periods shall be not less than 0.25 s, and the pulsing frequencies shall be not less than:
— 1 Hz for fire alarm indications;
— 0.2 Hz for fault indications.
5.2.2.2 Indication of power supply
When the control unit is connected in accordance with B.2.1, a visual indication shall be given by means of
a steady green light-emitting indicator conforming to 5.2.2.1 to show that the system is supplied with
power.
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BS 5446-3:2005
5.2.2.3 Indication of a fire alarm condition

When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.2.1 and B.2.2, a visual indication shall be given upon
the triggering of the alarm condition. This indication shall comprise a dedicated red light-emitting
indicator conforming to 5.2.2.1.
NOTE A dedicated red light-emitting indicator is not the same as an alarm device such as a visual alarm device or vibrating pad.
5.2.2.4 Indication of a fault in the system

When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.2.1 and B.2.3, a visual indication shall be given at the
control unit (see Note 1) within 100 s of the occurrence of each of the fault conditions listed in the test
method. This indication shall comprise an amber light-emitting indicator conforming to 5.2.2.1.
NOTE 1 The low battery condition of the smoke alarm [see B.2.3e)] may be indicated at either the control unit or the smoke alarm.
NOTE 2 A visual alarm device conforming to 5.3 may be used to provide additional indication of a fault condition.
5.2.2.5 Test facility

Where a test button is provided on the control unit, upon operation of the test button:
a) the fire alarm outputs shall be given within 3 s, and shall continue until the test button is released; or
b) an automated test sequence of these alarm outputs shall be visibly initiated within 3 s, and its
duration shall not exceed 20 s.
5.2.3 Power supplies
5.2.3.1 General
NOTE 1 Control units normally feed power to vibrating pads, visual alarm devices, and smoke alarms (except where smoke alarms
have primary battery power supplies).
The primary power supply for the control unit shall comprise a 230 V mains supply (see Note 2). A standby
supply shall be provided in the form of a rechargeable secondary battery with an automatic charger.
NOTE 2 The mains voltage may be transformed and rectified as appropriate either within the control unit or within an external
mains adaptor.
The mains connecting cable supplying power to the control unit shall be either permanently wired into the
control unit or provided with a means of securing the cable to the control unit.
NOTE 3 This is to minimize the possibility of the cable becoming accidentally disconnected at the control unit. Examples of suitable
means of securing the cable include locking rings and cable ties.
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The marking of the power supplies for control units shall be in accordance with Clause 7.
5.2.3.2 Mains power supply
The connection to the mains power supply shall comprise a red plug [or a mains adaptor (see Note) if the
supply to the system is at a lower voltage than mains voltage] marked with the text “Smoke alarm –
DO NOT REMOVE PLUG OR SWITCH OFF” in white lettering on a red background, suitable for
connection to a standard domestic 13 A socket.
NOTE A mains adaptor does not need to be red but it does need to be marked with white text on a red background.
When tested in accordance with B.3.2, the mains power supply shall be capable of supplying all the power
for the kit, with the standby power supply (battery) disconnected.
5.2.3.3 Standby power supply
NOTE 1 The standby battery should be of a type that has an expected life of at least 4 years under the conditions of use likely to be
experienced in the smoke alarm system. Where rechargeable batteries are used, information should be provided to indicate the period
beyond which they should be replaced.
NOTE 2 The battery charger should be compatible with the batteries used.
When tested in accordance with B.3, the standby power supply shall be capable of supplying all the power
for the kit with the mains supply disconnected for the period of 72 h, followed by 15 min in alarm condition.
When tested in accordance with B.3, the battery voltage at the end of the 15 min in alarm condition shall
be greater than or equal to the minimum specified battery voltage [see A.4.2d)].

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BS 5446-3:2005
5.2.4 Operation
When a fire alarm condition is simulated:
a) the fire alarm outputs shall be given within 3 s;
b) the fire alarm outputs shall continue until the fire alarm condition ceases.
5.2.5 Resistance to damp heat
When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.4:
a) when the functional testing is carried out during the last 30 min of conditioning (B.4.3), a visual
indication of power supply shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.2 upon connection of the control unit, and
a visual indication of alarm shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.3 upon triggering of the alarm condition;
b) when the functional testing is carried out after the recovery period (B.4.4):
1) a visual indication of power supply shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.2 upon connection of the
control unit;
2) a visual indication of alarm shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.3 upon triggering of the alarm
condition;
3) a visual indication of fault condition shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.4 upon generation of each of
the faults listed.
5.2.6 Resistance to corrosion
When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.5, when the functional testing is carried out after the
recovery period (B.5.2), visual indications of power supply, alarm and fault condition shall be given as
specified in 5.2.5b).
5.2.7 Resistance to cold
When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.6:
a) when the functional testing is carried out during the last 30 min of conditioning (B.6.3), a visual
indication of power supply shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.2 upon connection of the control unit, and
a visual indication of alarm shall be given as specified in 5.2.2.3 upon triggering of the alarm condition;
b) when the functional testing is carried out after the recovery period (B.6.4), visual indications of power
supply, alarm and fault condition shall be given as specified in 5.2.5b).
5.2.8 Resistance to impact
NOTE This requirement is applicable only to control units that are intended for mounting on walls.
When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.7, visual indications of power supply, alarm and fault
condition shall be given as specified in 5.2.5b).
5.2.9 Resistance to dropping
NOTE This requirement is applicable only to control units that are intended for free-standing use (e.g. on a bedside table).
When the control unit is tested in accordance with B.8, visual indications of power supply, alarm and fault
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condition shall be given as specified in 5.2.5b).

5.2.10 Smoke alarm kits suitable for use in leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs)
vehicles (LAVs), then visual indications of power supply, alarm and fault condition shall be given as
specified in 5.2.5b), when the control unit is tested in accordance with Annex C.
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BS 5446-3:2005
5.3 Visual alarm device

5.3.1 General
NOTE Examples of typical visual alarm devices include:
— flashing xenon beacon;
— continuously powered incandescent lamp with a rotating reflector;
— incandescent lamp powered to flash on and off;
— ultra-bright LED array.
specified in Annex D, in accordance with the test schedule given in D.1, visual alarm devices shall meet the
use in leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs), then visual alarm devices shall also meet the requirements
specified in 5.3.9.
Visual alarm devices shall be marked in accordance with Clause 7 and shall be provided with the
information specified in Clause 8.
If the visual alarm device includes a radio-linked system, the system shall conform to the additional
requirements specified in 5.6.
5.3.2 Colour and intensity of emitted light
The light from a visual alarm device shall be white and of an effective light intensity of not less than 15 cd.
When the visual alarm device is tested in accordance with D.2:
a) when the alarm condition is triggered in the minimum voltage condition (D.2.2.2 and D.2.2.3), the
effective intensities measured for both the horizontal and the vertical dispersion shall be not less than
the values given in Table 1, and the flash rate measured in the 0° position shall fall within the range
of 30 to 130 flashes per minute after a delay of not more than 3 s;
b) when the alarm condition is triggered in the maximum voltage condition (D.2.2.4), the effective
intensity measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the value given in Table 1 and the flash rate
shall meet the requirement specified in 5.3.2a);
c) if a further measurement is carried out in accordance with D.2.2.5, the effective intensity shall be not
less than the value given in Table 1.
Table 1 — Minimum effective intensities
Dispersion angle Effective intensity
degrees (°) candela (cd)
0 15.0
±5 to ±25 13.5
±30 to ±45 11.25
±50 8.25
±55 6.75
±60 6.0
±65 and ±70 5.25
±75 and ±80 4.5
±85 and ±90 3.75
5.3.3 Durability
When the visual alarm device is tested in accordance with D.3, when the alarm condition is
triggered (D.3.3), the effective intensity measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the value given
in Table 1 and the flash rate shall meet the requirement specified in 5.3.2a).
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BS 5446-3:2005

a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (D.4.3), the flash rate
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (D.4.4), the effective intensity
measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the value given in Table 1 and the flash rate shall meet
the requirement specified in 5.3.2a).
When the visual alarm device is tested in accordance with D.5, when the alarm condition is triggered after
the recovery period (D.5.2), the effective intensity measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the
value given in Table 1 and the flash rate shall meet the requirement specified in 5.3.2a).
a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (D.6.3), the flash rate
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (D.6.4), the effective intensity
measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the value given in Table 1 and the flash rate shall meet
the requirement specified in 5.3.2a).
5.3.7 Resistance to impact
NOTE This requirement is applicable only to visual alarm devices that are intended for mounting on walls or ceilings.
NOTE This requirement is applicable only to visual alarm devices that are intended for free-standing use (e.g. on a bedside table).
vehicles (LAVs), then the effective intensity measured for the 0° position shall be not less than the value
given in Table 1 and the flash rate shall meet the requirement specified in 5.3.2a), when the visual alarm
device is tested in accordance with Annex C.
5.4 Vibrating pad
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5.4.1 General
NOTE 1 Vibrating pads should be designed to be located under the mattress or pillow of a bed. The purpose of a vibrating pad is
that, when energized, it vibrates with sufficient intensity to wake a sleeping deaf or hard of hearing person. It is desirable that a
means be provided to prevent the vibrating pad from slipping out of position, particularly if it is located under the pillow.
NOTE 2 Examples of typical principles of operation for a vibrating pad include:
— electric motor and mechanical cam/eccentric;
— solenoid or other coil/armature arrangement.
NOTE 3 The connecting lead carrying the alarm signal should be retained at the point of entry to the pad, such that it is not possible
for that lead to be pushed into or pulled out of the pad.
specified in Annex E, in accordance with the test schedule given in E.1, vibrating pads shall meet the
use in leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs), then vibrating pads shall also meet the requirements
specified in 5.4.8.
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BS 5446-3:2005
The operating voltage of vibrating pads shall be at ELV level in accordance with BS 7671.
Vibrating pads shall be marked in accordance with Clause 7 and shall be provided with the information
If the vibrating pad forms part of a radio-linked system, the system shall conform to the additional
requirements specified in 5.6.
5.4.2 Vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity
When tested in accordance with E.2:
a) the pad shall vibrate at a frequency within the range 25 Hz to 150 Hz;
b) the pad shall operate with a pulse pattern having an “on” period of (2 ± 1) s, and an “off”
period of (2 ± 1.5) s after a delay of not more than 3 s;
c) the pad shall produce a vertical r.m.s. displacement of:
1) not less than 0.05 mm throughout a continuous period of not less than 0.5 s during each “on” cycle
at the measuring point (accelerometer location) specified in Annex E; and
2) not more than 2.5 4m throughout a continuous period of not less than 0.5 s during each “off” cycle
at the measuring point specified in Annex E.
5.4.3 Durability
When the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with E.3, when the alarm condition is triggered after the
last hour of conditioning (E.3.2.4), the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity shall meet
the requirements specified in 5.4.2.
When the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with E.4:
a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (E.4.3), the vibration
frequency and pulse pattern shall meet the requirements specified in 5.4.2a) and 5.4.2b);
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (E.4.4), the vibration frequency, pulse
pattern and vibration intensity shall meet the requirements specified in 5.4.2.
When the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with E.5, when the alarm condition is triggered after the
recovery period (E.5.2), the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity shall meet the
requirements specified in 5.4.2.
When the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with E.6:
a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (E.6.3), the vibration
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (E.6.4), the vibration frequency, pulse
pattern and vibration intensity shall meet the requirements specified in 5.4.2.
When the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with E.7, when the alarm condition is triggered (E.7.2), the
vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity shall meet the requirements specified in 5.4.2.
vehicles (LAVs), then the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity shall meet the
requirements specified in 5.4.2, when the vibrating pad is tested in accordance with Annex C.
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BS 5446-3:2005
5.5 Vibrating pager

NOTE Vibrating pagers may also act as vibrating pads when not being worn, provided that they meet the vibration requirements
for pads (5.4) as well as those for pagers.
5.5.1 General
NOTE 1 Examples of typical principles of operation for a vibrating pager include:
— electric motor and mechanical cam/eccentric;
— solenoid or other coil/armature arrangement.
NOTE 2 This part of BS 5446 does not specify any level of vibration intensity for vibrating pagers. The level of vibration intensity
should be sufficient to attract the attention of the wearer, without being unduly uncomfortable. It might be possible to specify a
requirement for the level of vibration intensity in a future revision to this part of BS 5446.
Vibrating pagers shall include both a vibrating function and a light-emitting indicator.
specified in Annex F, in accordance with the test schedule given in F.1, vibrating pagers shall meet the
requirements specified in 5.5.2 to 5.5.10. Vibrating pagers shall also meet the requirements specified
in 5.5.11 and 5.5.12.
Vibrating pagers shall be marked in accordance with Clause 7 and shall be provided with the information
The radio-linked system for vibrating pagers shall conform to the additional requirements specified in 5.6.
5.5.2 Vibration frequency and pulse pattern
When tested in accordance with F.2:
a) the pager shall vibrate at a frequency within the range 25 Hz to 150 Hz;
b) the pager shall operate with a pulse pattern having an “on” period of (2 ± 1) s, and an “off”
period of (2 ± 1.5) s after a delay of not more than 3 s.
5.5.3 Light-emitting indicator
During the period when an alarm radio signal is received by the pager, the visual indicator shall operate
continuously or shall pulse on and off in synchronism with the pulse pattern of the vibrating mechanism,
to indicate a fire condition.
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The light-emitting indicator shall be red in colour, and shall be visible in an ambient light intensity up
to 500 lux, at any angle up to 22.5º from a line through the indicator perpendicular to its mounting surface,
at 0.8 m distance.
The red light-emitting indicator shall not illuminate to indicate any condition other than fire. No further
light-emitting indicator on the pager shall be red in colour.
5.5.4 Integrity
If the pager is fitted with an off switch, or a switch disabling the alarm signal, the design of the switch shall
be such as to avoid inadvertent operation. To achieve this, the switch shall be covered or shrouded such
that two separate operations are necessary to operate the switch, or the switch shall be of a type and
location such that it cannot be operated with a standard finger only.
5.5.5 Operation
When a fire alarm condition is simulated:
a) the fire alarm shall be given at the pager within 3 s, without the need to acknowledge or reset any
other signal;
b) the fire alarm given at the pager shall continue while the fire signal is transmitted by the control unit,
and for at least a further 60 s after cessation of the fire signal;
NOTE This will ensure that the fire alarm at the pager is continuous even if the control unit transmits the fire signal repeatedly
at intervals up to 10 s (see Note to 5.6.5).
c) if the pager has an “acknowledge” (alarm cancel) control that can cancel the pager fire alarm, and that
control is operated during a fire alarm situation, the pager fire alarm shall be automatically reinstated
within 15 s of that operation unless the control unit has ceased to transmit a fire signal (see 5.6.5).
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BS 5446-3:2005
5.5.6 Durability
When the vibrating pager is tested in accordance with F.3, when the alarm condition is triggered after the
last hour of conditioning (F.3.2.5), the vibration frequency and pulse pattern shall meet the requirements
specified in 5.5.2.
When the vibrating pager is tested in accordance with F.4:
a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (F.4.5), the vibration
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (F.4.6), the vibration frequency and
pulse pattern shall meet the requirements specified in 5.5.2.
When the vibrating pager is tested in accordance with F.5, when the alarm condition is triggered after the
recovery period (F.5.2), the vibration frequency and pulse pattern and shall meet the requirements
specified in 5.5.2.
When the vibrating pager is tested in accordance with F.6:
a) when the alarm condition is triggered during the last 30 min of conditioning (F.6.5), the vibration
b) when the alarm condition is triggered after the recovery period (F.6.6), the vibration frequency and
pulse pattern shall meet the requirements specified in 5.5.2.
When the vibrating pager is tested in accordance with F.7, when the alarm condition is triggered, the
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vibration frequency and pulse pattern shall meet the requirements specified in 5.5.2.
5.5.11 Resistance to liquid ingress
The vibrating pager shall meet at least classification IP3X in accordance with BS EN 60529:1992.
Vibrating pagers using batteries as the primary power source shall provide visual or tactile information to
indicate low battery status.
5.6 Radio-linked system
5.6.1 General
NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the Radio and Telecommunication Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC [4].
NOTE 2 Attention is drawn to the requirements of Ofcom1) in respect of operating frequency and maximum radio signal strength.
It is essential to ensure that the operating frequency of the radio-linked system is not the same as that used by another service, such
as one involving remote control car keys or mobile phones, that would be likely to interfere with the fire alarm signals. Frequencies
in the 868 MHz band are generally deemed to be appropriate and can be used without a licence.
specified in Annex G, radio-linked systems shall meet the requirements specified in 5.6.2 to 5.6.5.
Power supplies for radio-linked systems shall conform to 5.6.6.
Radio-linked systems shall be marked in accordance with Clause 7 and shall be provided with the
information specified in Clause 8.
1) This was formerly the responsibility of the Radiocommunications Agency.

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BS 5446-3:2005
5.6.2 Environmental requirements

When the radio components are tested in accordance with G.1:
a) each component shall conform to the appropriate requirements when subjected to the environmental
test(s) for the equipment in which it is installed or with which it is closely associated (see G.1.1)
(e.g. a transmitter unit mounted in or intended to be mounted adjacent to a smoke alarm shall conform
to the environmental requirements specified in BS 5446-1, and a receiver unit mounted within a control
and monitoring unit shall conform to the environmental requirements specified in 5.2);
b) each component shall operate correctly (i.e. an alarm signal shall be received by the receiver unit)
when tested in accordance with G.1.2 and G.1.3.
5.6.3 Operating range
When the radio components are tested in accordance with G.2, an alarm signal shall be received by the
receiver unit.
5.6.4 Fault monitoring
When the control unit and smoke alarm are tested in accordance with G.3, a fault indication, as specified
in 5.2.2.4, shall be given if no transmission is received from the radio-linked smoke alarm within 100 s
after removal of its power supply.
NOTE The fault indication may be indicated at either the control unit or the smoke alarm.
When the relevant components are tested in accordance with G.4, a failure of the radio transmission
between the control unit and any radio-linked alarm device (e.g. a vibrating pad or vibrating pager) shall
result in an alarm signal at the radio-linked alarm device within 100 s of the failure.
5.6.5 Vibrating pager operation
When a radio-linked vibrating pager is tested in accordance with G.5, when the alarm signal is
acknowledged/reset (G.5.2/G.5.3), the pager shall respond again within 15 s for each of the ten repetitions
of the test.
NOTE In a fire condition, the control unit should continue transmitting the alarm signal to a pager until the alarm is cancelled at
the control unit. If the control unit does not transmit the fire signal continuously, it is acceptable for the control unit to transmit the
alarm signal repeatedly at intervals not exceeding 10 s.

All radio-linked components, other than smoke alarms (see 5.1) and vibrating pagers (see 5.5), shall be
supplied from at least two independent power supplies. These shall be a primary mains supply and a
reserve battery (continuously charged secondary battery).
NOTE Capacitors with an appropriate specification may be used as an alternative to a secondary battery.
6 Constructional and electrical requirements

NOTE Attention is drawn to the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 89/336/EEC [5] in respect of emissions and
susceptibility to radio and electrical interference. Attention is also drawn to the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC [6] as amended by
Directive 93/68/EEC [7], and to the Radio and Telecommunication Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC [4].
6.1 General
All components of a kit, including flexible mains supply cord/cable, shall conform to the appropriate
requirements of BS EN 60950-1.
NOTE 1 Fixing holes in a component should be positioned where they are easily accessible and such that damage will not be caused
to internal parts when tightening/loosening fixing screws.
NOTE 2 No part of the system should be held in position by, or rely on support from, any attached interconnecting wiring.
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BS 5446-3:2005
6.2 Component interconnections

When tested in accordance with the appropriate cable product standard, cables for interconnecting
components shall meet the minimum requirements specified in the appropriate cable product standard for
the relevant currents and voltages.
Connecting arrangements for smoke alarms shall be in accordance with BS 5446-1. Mains connections to
control units shall be in accordance with 5.2.3. Every other connection between an interconnecting cable
and a system component shall be via a mechanically latching connector. It shall not be possible to make
these connections incorrectly.
NOTE Wired components may be powered via other components. All components should require clear and deliberate action by users
to disable them.
6.3 Connecting terminals

Terminals shall hold conductors by means of screws, nuts or other equally effective means.
Terminals shall allow the connection of conductors having a nominal cross-sectional area of
between 0.4 mm and 1.5 mm.
NOTE 1 Terminals for connection of external cables and wires should be easily accessible and clearly marked.
NOTE 2 Each terminal should be so designed that it clamps the conductor between metal surfaces without rotation of those surfaces,
but with sufficient contact pressure, and without damage to the conductor.
6.4 Battery connectors

Battery connectors for flexible leads shall be protected by strain-relieving devices conforming
to BS 5446-1:2000, Clause 31.
7 Marking
NOTE Attention is drawn to EC Directive 91/157/EEC [8].
7.1 Marking of kits

The instructions for, and the packaging of, smoke alarm kits shall be indelibly marked with the following:
a) the number and date of this British Standard, i.e. BS 5446-3:20052);
b) the name or trademark of the manufacturer or supplier;
c) a list of the components of the kit (see Clause 4);
d) the name and/or type number of the kit;
e) the serial number or batch number of the kit;
f) the address of an organization capable of being responsible for servicing or repair.
7.2 Marking of individual components
Where practicable, each component [see 7.1c) and Clause 4] shall be indelibly marked or labelled with the
following information:
a) the number and date of this British Standard, i.e. BS 5446-3:20052);
b) the name or trademark of the manufacturer or supplier;
c) the name and/or type number of the component;
d) the serial number or batch number of the component;
e) the address of an organization capable of being responsible for servicing or repair;
f) for a visual alarm device or vibrating pad, the operating voltage of the component and the average
current consumed during operation;
g) for a vibrating pager, the nominal voltage(s) of the internal batteries.
2) Marking BS 5446-3:2005 on or in relation to a product represents a manufacturer’s declaration of conformity, i.e. a claim by or
on behalf of the manufacturer that the product meets the requirements of the standard. The accuracy of the claim is solely the
claimant’s responsibility. Such a declaration is not to be confused with third-party certification of conformity.
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13
BS 5446-3:2005
Where it is not practicable to include this information on the component, the component shall be clearly
identified, e.g. by use of a reference number, and the information shall be referenced to this number in the
instructions [see 8.1e)].
NOTE Where a visual alarm device forms part of another component of the kit, e.g. a control unit, it is not necessary to provide
separate marking/labelling of the integrated visual alarm device.
System components incorporating user-replaceable batteries shall be marked with the battery types and
reference numbers recommended by the manufacturer together with an appropriate instruction to the
user: e.g. for a smoke alarm “Test the alarm for correct operation using the test facility whenever the batteries
are replaced”. These markings shall be visible to the user during the battery-changing operation.
Battery compartments shall also have clear markings showing the correct battery polarity.
8 Provision of information
8.1 Information to be provided with smoke alarm kits
NOTE Attention is drawn to EC Directive 91/157/EEC [8].
The following information shall be provided on or with smoke alarm kits:
a) guidance as to the circumstances under which the kit is to be used. In particular, it shall be explained
that under-mattress or under-pillow vibrators are intended for the purpose of waking sleeping persons
while visual alerting signals are of most potential value during times when occupants are awake;
b) instructions for siting, installation, maintenance and use of each individual component, in accordance
with BS 5839-6;
c) a diagram identifying the components and their interconnections;
d) a warning that kit components should not be interchanged with those of different manufacture, nor
should additional components be added, unless these conform to the exact types and allowable numbers
specified elsewhere in the kit instructions. The instructions shall also state that failure to comply with
this requirement might render the system unsafe;
e) for components where is not practicable to include the marking specified in 7.2, a key referring to the
component reference numbers and giving the relevant information;
f) whether or not the kit is suitable for use in leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs);
g) instructions for mounting the visual alarm device, including cautionary guidance on any unsuitable or
unsafe locations;
h) instructions for locating the vibrating pad correctly in a bed, in the correct orientation, including
cautionary guidance on any unsuitable or unsafe positions;
i) for kits that include a vibrating pager, instructions for wearing the device correctly, and cautionary
guidance on the operating range of the radio system;
j) where a component (e.g. a smoke alarm) contains user-replaceable batteries:
1) specific guidance on changing the batteries, including the types and reference numbers of the
recommended batteries;
2) any advice that is necessary to ensure that the batteries are properly connected;
3) a recommendation that the operation of the kit be tested with the test facility of the smoke alarm
whenever the batteries are replaced;
k) where two or more smoke alarms can be connected together as part of the system (created from the
kit), an indication of the maximum number of smoke alarms that can be interconnected;
l) where a system assembled from a kit uses radio communication between components, an instruction
to the effect that, at the installation stage, the system is to be tested for normal operation throughout all
the required areas of the building concerned.
NOTE This warning to the user is particularly important where portable radio devices such as vibrating pagers are to be used.
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14
BS 5446-3:2005
8.2 Information to be provided with individual components

Where a component is supplied as a discrete item (i.e. not forming part of a kit), the following instructions
shall be provided with the component:
a) instructions for siting and mounting in accordance with 8.1g) or 8.1h) as appropriate;
b) details of the application(s) for which the component is intended to be used, and a list of compatible
equipment with which it can be used;
c) how to connect to compatible equipment, how to test, and how the component should respond;
d) for visual alarm devices, the average light intensity or intensity range, in candela (cd).
Annex A (normative)
General procedures for tests
A.1 Test specimens
The specimens used in the tests shall be representative of the manufacturer’s normal production with
regard to their construction and calibration.
A minimum of five specimens of the smoke alarm kits, including all of the necessary components and data,
shall be provided for the tests. Each of these shall be numbered arbitrarily with a different number in the
range 1 to 5.
A.2 Atmospheric conditions for tests
Unless otherwise specified in the test procedure, testing shall be carried out after the test specimen has
been allowed to stabilize in the following standard atmospheric conditions:
— temperature: (15 to 35) °C;
— relative humidity: (25 to 75) %;
— air pressure: (86 to 106) kPa.
NOTE If variations in these parameters have a significant effect on a measurement, then such variations should be kept to a
minimum during a series of measurements carried out as part of one test on one specimen.
A.3 Tolerances
Unless otherwise specified in the test procedure, the tolerances for the environmental test parameters shall
be as given in the basic reference standards for the tests (e.g. the relevant part of BS EN 60068).
If a requirement or test procedure does not specify a tolerance or deviation limits, then deviation limits
of ±5 % shall be applied, i.e. the parameter shall not deviate from the specified value by more than ±5 %.
A.4 Operating conditions for tests
A.4.1 Normal operation
Where a test calls for a component to be operational then, unless otherwise specified in the test procedure,
the components of the kit shall be connected and configured in an appropriate arrangement in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions and the power supply parameters shall be within the manufacturer’s
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specified ranges for normal operation.

15
BS 5446-3:2005
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A.4.2 Operation under maximum or minimum supply voltage conditions

NOTE 1 In some test procedures it is necessary to operate components of the kit under the conditions that result in the maximum
or minimum supply voltage. In order to perform these tests, it is necessary to make an initial assessment of the supply and loading
conditions for the smoke alarm kit that lead to the maximum and minimum supply voltages to the component (e.g. visual alarm
device, vibrating pad, radio transmitter or receiver, etc.).
Where a test calls for a component to be operated under maximum or minimum supply voltage conditions,
the voltage supplied to the component shall be measured in the alarm condition for the various worst case
combinations of the following, to determine the combinations giving the highest and lowest supply voltages
to the component:
a) largest kit configuration specified by the manufacturer (i.e. kit with the maximum number of visual
alarm devices, vibrating pads and smoke alarms connected);
NOTE 2 Where the manufacturer specifies that a kit can have more than one of any type of component then the test configuration
should have at least one of that type and the others may be simulated by appropriate dummy loads.
b) smallest kit configuration specified by the manufacturer (i.e. kit with a minimum of one smoke alarm,
one visual alarm device and one vibrating pad connected);
+10
c) maximum and minimum mains supply voltages (i.e. 230 V a.c. – 15
% unless a wider range is specified
by the manufacturer);
d) maximum and minimum battery voltages (i.e. the voltage of a new or fully charged battery and the
specified final voltage of a discharged battery, unless a wider range is specified by the manufacturer);
e) disconnection of either the mains supply or the battery supply.
NOTE 3 Disconnection of both the mains supply and the battery supply at the same time is not used for the purpose of these tests.
Annex B (normative)
Tests for control units
B.1 Test schedule for control units
Testing shall be carried out in accordance with the schedule of tests given in Table B.1.
The tests for control units shall be conducted in accordance with the general procedures given in Annex A
and the specific procedures given in B.2 to B.8.
If the control unit is completely or partially combined with another component (e.g. a visual alarm device),
the environmental conditioning specified for that component shall be applied to the combined unit.
Table B.1 — Test schedule for control units
Test Subclause Designated specimen
number (see A.1)
Functional tests B.2 1
Power supplies tests B.3 1
Damp heat test B.4 3
Corrosion test B.5 4
Cold test B.6 3
Impact test (for wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted units) B.7 5
Drop test (for free-standing units) B.8 5
Additional test for LAVs Annex C 3
16
BS 5446-3:2005
B.2 Functional test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit functions correctly under normal conditions,
i.e. starting with no fire or fault conditions and set up in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
B.2.1 Connect a specimen of the control unit in a kit configured as described in A.4.1.
B.2.2 Trigger an alarm condition by the operation of the test button on the smoke alarm.
B.2.3 Generate the following fault conditions one at a time:
a) short circuit in a connection between the control unit and each externally connected alarm device;
b) open circuit in a connection between the control unit and each externally connected alarm device;
c) short circuit in a connection between the control unit and the smoke alarm;
d) open circuit in a connection between the control unit and the smoke alarm;
e) low battery condition of the smoke alarm;
f) failure or disconnection of the primary power supply to any part of the system, other than a
vibrating pager;
g) failure or disconnection of a standby power supply to any part of the system, other than a
vibrating pager;
h) where the system is radio-linked, and uses one or more primary batteries as a power supply, the low
power condition of any such supply.
B.3 Power supplies tests
B.3.1 Connect together a kit with the largest configuration specified by the manufacturer (see A.4.2).
Supply the kit with the nominal mains voltage (i.e. 230 V a.c.) and allow it to stabilize for 48 h or until the
standby battery in the control and monitoring unit is fully charged.
B.3.2 Disconnect the standby battery, supply the kit with the largest configuration from the nominal mains
voltage and operate the kit in a quiescent condition for a period of 72 h, followed by the kit in an alarm
condition for a period of 15 min.
B.3.3 Disconnect the standby battery and discharge it to its final voltage at a discharge current of C/20 A,
where C is the battery manufacturer’s rated capacity of the battery in ampere hours (A·h).
B.3.4 Set the mains voltage to the kit at nominal mains voltage –15 % (i.e. 195.5 V a.c.), reconnect the
standby battery and allow it to charge for 24 h with the kit operating in its quiescent condition.
B.3.5 Immediately after the 24 h charging period, disconnect the mains supply and allow the kit to remain
supplied by the standby battery for 72 h. Immediately after this 72 h standby period, trigger an alarm and
allow the kit to remain in the alarm condition for 15 min. Measure and record the voltage at the battery
terminals at the end of this 15 min period while the kit is still in the alarm condition. --`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
B.4 Damp heat test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit is unduly affected by high temperatures and humidities
that can occur in the service environment.
B.4.1 Place a specimen of the control unit in an environmental chamber so that it can be observed
(e.g. through a window) while being exposed to the environmental conditioning.
B.4.2 Apply the following damp heat, steady state conditioning to the specimen in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-78. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning, except
during the last 30 min (see B.4.3):
— temperature: (40 ± 2) °C;
— relative humidity: (93 ± 3) %;
— duration: 10 days.

17
BS 5446-3:2005
B.4.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the control unit in accordance with B.2.1 and
trigger an alarm condition in accordance with B.2.2.
B.4.4 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, perform the functional test
described in B.2.
B.5 Corrosion test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit is sufficiently protected against corrosion that can occur in
the service environment.
B.5.1 Apply the following corrosion conditioning to a specimen of the control unit in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-42. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning:
— SO2 concentration: a volume fraction of (0.002 5 ± 0.000 5) %;
described in B.2.
B.6 Cold test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit is unduly affected by low temperatures that can occur in
B.6.1 Place a specimen of the control unit in an environmental chamber so that it can be observed
B.6.2 Apply the following cold conditioning to the specimen in accordance with BS EN 60068-2-1.
The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning, except during the last 30 min
(see B.6.3):
— temperature: (p10 ± 3) °C;
— duration: 16 h.
B.6.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the control unit in accordance with B.2.1
and trigger an alarm condition in accordance with B.2.2.
described in B.2.
B.7 Impact test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks that can occur
in the service environment.
B.7.1 Mount a specimen of the control unit to a flat rigid structure (e.g. a masonry wall) with its normal
fixings.
B.7.2 Apply the following impact conditioning with a spring impact hammer in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-75 to any accessible points that could impair the correct operation of the control unit
(e.g. to the front and side of the unit). Care shall be taken to ensure that the results from one series of three
blows do not influence subsequent series. In case of doubt with regard to the influence of preceding blows,
the defect shall be disregarded and a further three blows shall be applied to the same position on a new
specimen. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning:
— impact energy: (0.5 ± 0.04) J;
— number of impacts per point: 3.
B.7.3 Perform the functional test described in B.2.
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BS 5446-3:2005
B.8 Drop test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the control unit is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks and drops
B.8.1 Drop a specimen of the control unit from a height of 0.5 m onto a concrete floor once in each of six
attitudes (i.e. two directions in each of three mutually perpendicular axes) in accordance with
BS EN 60068-2-32.
B.8.2 Perform the functional test described in B.2.
Annex C (normative)
Additional test for smoke alarm kits suitable for use in leisure accommodation
vehicles (LAVs)
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the components of the smoke alarm kit are sufficiently robust to withstand
the levels of vibration and the variations in temperature likely to be experienced in LAVs.
C.1 Apply the following vibration conditioning, in accordance with BS EN 60068-2-6, to specimen(s) of the
control unit, visual alarm device and/or vibrating pad, as appropriate. The specimen(s) shall not be
supplied with power during the conditioning:
— frequency range: 10 Hz to 150 Hz;
— acceleration amplitude: 9.81 m·sp1;
— number of axes: 3;
— number of sweep cycles: 20.
C.2 After the vibration conditioning, install the specimens of the control unit, visual alarm device and/or
vibrating pad in an environmental chamber, stabilize the specimens at (25 ± 2) °C for (2 ± 0.5) h and then
apply the following temperature cycle ten times. The specimen(s) shall not be supplied with power during
the conditioning.
a) Raise the temperature to (65 ± 2) °C in (2 ± 0.5) h.
b) Hold the temperature at (65 ± 2) °C until 8.5 h after the beginning of the cycle.
c) Reduce the temperature to (–10 ± 2) °C in (4 ± 1) h.
d) Hold the temperature at (–10 ± 2) °C until 19.5 h after the beginning of the cycle.
e) Increase the temperature to (25 ± 2) °C in (2 ± 0.5) h.
f) Hold the temperature at (25 ± 2) °C until 24 h after the beginning of the cycle.
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C.3 After the temperature cycle conditioning has been applied, make the following checks and
measurements, as appropriate.
a) Perform the functional test described in B.2 on the control unit.
b) Measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie of the visual alarm device at the 0° position as
described in D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3 but with measurements in
the 0° position only).
c) Measure the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity of the vibrating pad, as
described in E.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. E.2.2.1 to E.2.2.4).

19
BS 5446-3:2005
Annex D (normative)
Tests for visual alarm devices
NOTE A European Standard giving test methods for visual alarm devices, prEN 54-23, is currently in preparation and its
publication might lead to the revision of this annex.
D.1 Test schedule for visual alarm devices

Testing shall be carried out in accordance with the schedule of tests given in Table D.1.
The tests for visual alarm devices shall be conducted in accordance with the general procedures given
in Annex A and the specific procedures given in D.2 to D.8.
Table D.1 — Test schedule for visual alarm devices
number (see A.1)
Light intensity, flash rate and dispersion pattern test D.2 1
Durability test D.3 2
Damp heat test D.4 3
Corrosion test D.5 4
Cold test D.6 3
Impact test (for wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted beacons) D.7 5
Drop test (for free-standing beacons) D.8 5
D.2 Flash rate, light intensity and dispersion pattern test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device gives the required light intensity, flash rate and
dispersion pattern within the specified range of supply voltage conditions.
D.2.1 Apparatus
The test apparatus shall comprise a flash photometer and a rotating mounting bracket for the unit under
test, arranged at least 3 m apart in a darkened room/chamber as shown in Figure D.1 and Figure D.2.
The rotating bracket R shall be arranged so that it can be rotated about the axis BB, at intervals of 5°, up
to 90° either side of the position where the photometer sensor P is directly in front of the unit under test
(i.e. the 0° position, as shown in Figure D.1). The mounting plate M shall be adjustable within the bracket
so that the effective centre of the light-producing element can be positioned at the point of intersection of
axes AA and BB.
The field of view of the photometer sensor shall be restricted by appropriately placed screens S (or other
suitable means), such that it views the whole of the unit under test, but not the side walls, floor or ceiling
of the room/chamber. All exposed surfaces within the room/chamber shall be matt black to reduce
reflections. The time constant and dynamic range of the photometer shall be such that it can correctly
record the pulse wave shape of the flash without saturation.
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BS 5446-3:2005
Dimensions in metres
B
R 3
A A
M
S
B
NOTE In this plan view the unit under test is shown in the 0° position. For clarity, the supports for the rotating bracket are not
shown.
Figure D.1 — Plan view of the test apparatus for measuring the light intensity and dispersion
pattern of visual alarm devices
A A
R
S
NOTE In this side elevation view the unit under test is shown in the +45° position. For clarity, the sides and supports for the
rotating bracket are not shown.
Figure D.2 — Side elevation view of the test apparatus for measuring the light intensity and
dispersion pattern of visual alarm devices
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

21
BS 5446-3:2005
D.2.2 Procedure
D.2.2.1 Mount a specimen of the visual alarm device on the rotating bracket of the test apparatus (D.2.1),
so that the effective centre of the light-producing element is positioned at the point of intersection of
axes AA and BB. Fix the rotating bracket at the angle required for the measurement.
NOTE The exact position of the effective centre of the light-producing element might not be obvious due to the construction of the
element (e.g. asymmetric flash tube, complex reflector design or multiple light-emitting elements). The position of this point may
therefore be specified by the manufacturer, providing it is within the enclosure of the device.
D.2.2.2 Connect the visual alarm device to the rest of a smoke alarm kit configured for the minimum
voltage condition (see A.4.2), trigger an alarm and allow the beacon to flash for at least 15 s.
D.2.2.3 Measure and record the instantaneous luminous intensity (I) in candela (cd) against time for
ten flashes, at 5° intervals for the horizontal and vertical dispersion angles from p90° to +90°. For each
dispersion angle, calculate I10, the instantaneous luminous intensity, as the mean of the ten recorded
values of I. Measure also the flash rate of the visual alarm device at the 0° position. Calculate the effective
luminous intensity Ie at each dispersion angle using the Blondel–Rey formula, as follows:
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
t2
∫ t1 I10 dt
Ie =
0.2 + (t2 − t1 )
where
Ie is the effective luminous intensity, in candela (cd);

I10 is the instantaneous luminous intensity, in candela (cd);
t1 is the time at the start of the flash, in seconds (s);
t2 is the time at the end of the flash, in seconds (s)
NOTE 1 t1 and t2 are taken as the times when I10 reaches 10 % of its peak amplitude in the leading and trailing edges of the averaged
flash wave envelope, respectively.
NOTE 2 The visual alarm device may be rotated by 90° about axis AA to allow measurements to be made in both the horizontal and
vertical planes. The 0° position is the same for both the horizontal and vertical planes.
D.2.2.4 Connect the visual alarm device to a smoke alarm kit configured for the maximum voltage
condition (see A.4.2), trigger an alarm and allow the beacon to flash for at least 15 s. Measure the flash rate
and effective intensity Ie as described in D.2.2.3 at the 0° position.
D.2.2.5 If the effective intensity measured for the 0° position in the maximum voltage condition (D.2.2.4)
is less than the value obtained for the same position in the minimum voltage condition (D.2.2.2
and D.2.2.3), then the effective intensity shall be measured at 5° intervals for the horizontal and vertical
dispersion angles from p90° to +90° in the maximum voltage condition.
D.3 Durability test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is sufficiently robust and continues to give the
required light intensity and flash rate after prolonged operation (e.g. a reasonable period of normal operation and routine testing).
D.3.1 Mount a specimen of the visual alarm device in its normal operating position and connect it to the
rest of a smoke alarm kit configured for the maximum voltage condition (see A.4.2).
D.3.2 Subject the specimen to the following durability cycle 100 times:
a) trigger the system into the alarm condition and maintain it for 1 h;
b) reset the system and allow it to remain in the non-alarm condition for 1 h.
D.3.3 After the last hour in the non-alarm condition, trigger the system into the alarm condition and
measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as described in D.2.2, for the minimum
voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in the 0° position only).
22
BS 5446-3:2005
D.4 Damp heat test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is unduly affected by high temperatures and
humidities that can occur in the service environment.
D.4.1 Place a specimen of the visual alarm device in an environmental chamber so that it can be observed
D.4.2 Apply the following damp heat, steady state conditioning to the specimen in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-78. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning, except
during the last 30 min (see D.4.3):
D.4.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the visual alarm device to the rest of a smoke
alarm kit configured for the minimum voltage condition (see A.4.2) and trigger an alarm. Observe the
flashing of the beacon and measure the flash rate.
D.4.4 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as described
in D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in the 0°
position only).
D.5 Corrosion test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is sufficiently protected against corrosion that can
occur in the service environment.
D.5.1 Apply the following corrosion conditioning to a specimen of the visual alarm device, in accordance
— SO2 concentration: volume fraction of (0.002 5 ± 0.000 5) %;
D.5.2 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, connect to the visual alarm
device, in place of its battery, a suitable laboratory power supply, and adjust its output voltage to simulate
a battery discharged to 10 % above the voltage at which a low battery warning would be given. Trigger the
system into the alarm condition and measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as
described in D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
the 0° position only).

D.6 Cold test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is unduly affected by low temperatures that can
occur in the service environment.
D.6.1 Place a specimen of the visual alarm device in an environmental chamber so that it can be observed
D.6.2 Apply the following cold conditioning to the specimen in accordance with BS EN 60068-2-1.
The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning except during the last 30 min
(see D.6.3):
— duration: 16 h.

23
BS 5446-3:2005
D.6.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the visual alarm device to the rest of a smoke
alarm kit configured for the minimum voltage condition (see A.4.2) and trigger an alarm. Observe the
flashing of the beacon and measure the flash rate.
D.6.4 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as described
in D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in the 0°
position only).
D.7 Impact test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks that
can occur in the service environment.
D.7.1 Mount a specimen of the visual alarm device to a flat rigid structure (e.g. a masonry wall) with its
normal fixings.
D.7.2 Apply the following impact conditioning with a spring impact hammer in accordance with
BS EN 60068-2-75 to any accessible points that could impair the correct operation of the visual alarm
device (e.g. to the front and side of the lens). Care shall be taken to ensure that the results from one series
of three blows do not influence subsequent series. In case of doubt with regard to the influence of preceding
blows, the defect shall be disregarded and a further three blows shall be applied to the same position on a
new specimen. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning:
— impact energy: (0.5 ± 0.04) J;
— number of impacts per point: 3.
D.7.3 After the application of the impacts, inspect the specimen for visible damage, and then trigger the
system into the alarm condition and measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as
described in D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in
the 0° position only). If there is significant visible damage or displacement to the lens or light-emitting
element, then the dispersion pattern shall be measured for all of the horizontal and vertical angles as
described in D.2.2.
D.8 Drop test
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the visual alarm device is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks and
drops that can occur in the service environment.
D.8.1 Drop a specimen of the visual alarm device from a height of 0.5 m onto a concrete floor once in
each of six attitudes (i.e. two directions in each of three mutually perpendicular axes) in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-32.
D.8.2 After the six drops, inspect the specimen for visible damage, and then trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the flash rate and effective intensity Ie at the 0° position as described in
D.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. D.2.2.1 to D.2.2.3, but with measurements in the 0° position
only). If there is significant visible damage or displacement to the lens or light-emitting element, then the
dispersion pattern shall be measured for all of the horizontal and vertical angles as described in D.2.2.
24
BS 5446-3:2005
Annex E (normative)
Tests for vibrating pads
E.1 Test schedule for vibrating pads
Testing shall be carried out in accordance with the schedule of tests given in Table E.1.
The tests for vibrating pads shall be conducted in accordance with the general procedures given
in Annex A and the specific procedures given in E.2 to E.7.
Table E.1 — Test schedule for vibrating pads
number (see A.1)
Vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration
intensity test E.2 1
Durability test E.3 2
Damp heat test E.4 3
Corrosion test E.5 4
Cold test E.6 3
Drop test E.7 5
E.2 Vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad gives the required vibration frequency, pulse pattern and
vibration intensity within the specified range of supply voltage conditions.
E.2.1 Apparatus
E.2.1.1 Stack of plastic foam layers, conforming to Table E.2 and arranged in accordance with Figure E.1,
enclosing the vibrating pad or pager under test. The footprint of the stack, including the load and integrator
plates, shall be square with (600 ± 2) mm sides.
NOTE The foam layers should deform to enclose the vibrating pad or pager under test.
E.2.1.2 Load plate to compress the stack, which shall comprise a flat aluminium plate with dimensions of
(600 ± 2) mm × (600 ± 2) mm × (3 ± 0.1) mm and a mass of (2 750 ± 100) g. The maximum deviation from a
level surface at any point on the plate shall not exceed 1.0 mm.
E.2.1.3 Integrator plate, which shall comprise a flat aluminium plate with dimensions of (600 ± 2) mm ×
(600 ± 2) mm × (0.5 ± 0.02) mm and a mass of (458 ± 10) g.
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
E.2.1.4 Accelerometer, which shall have a mass of less than 5 g and shall be fixed rigidly to the centre of
the integrator plate, with its axis of measurement vertical when the plate is fitted in the stack. The output
from the accelerometer shall be suitably amplified and integrated so that the displacement induced in the
centre of the integrator plate by the vibrator pad can be measured.

25
BS 5446-3:2005
Table E.2 — Plastic foam materials

Layer Thickness a Material Density Hardness b
mm kg·m p3 N
1 50 ± 3 Closed-cell cross-linkedpolyethylene c 18 ± 2 —
2 50 ± 3 Closed-cell cross-linked polyethylene c 18 ± 2 —
3 60 ± 3 Open-cell polyurethane d 32 ± 2 90 to 120
4 50 ± 3 Open-cell polyurethane e 24 ± 2 40 to 60
5 60 ± 3 Open-cell polyurethane d 32 ± 2 70 to 120
6 50 ± 3 Closed-cell cross-linked polyethylene c 18 ± 2 —
a Thickness measured before the layers are placed in the stack and compressed.
b When measured in accordance with BS EN ISO 2439:2001, Method A.
c A suitable foam has been found to be Plasterzote LD18TM 3) from Zotefoams plc.
d A suitable foam has been found to be V33HTM 4) from Vitafoam Limited.
e A suitable foam has been found to be V24SSTM 4) from Vitafoam Limited.
7
8
1
2 9
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
3
4
10
5 11
6
Key
1 Layer 1 7 Load plate
2 Layer 2 8 Accelerometer
3 Layer 3 9 Integrator plate
4 Layer 4 10 Vibrating pad under test
5 Layer 5 11 Base
6 Layer 6
Figure E.1 — Test apparatus for measuring vibration intensity of vibrating pads
3)4)
3) Plasterzote LD18TM is a trade mark owned by Zotefoams plc, 675 Mitcham Road, Croydon, Surrey CR9 3AL, and is an example
of a suitable product available commercially. This information is given for the convenience of users of this standard and does not
constitute an endorsement by BSI of this product.
4) V33HTM and V24SSTM are trade marks owned by Vitafoam Limited, Oldham Road, Middleton, Manchester M24 2DB, and are
examples of suitable products available commercially. This information is given for the convenience of users of this standard and
does not constitute an endorsement by BSI of these products.
26
BS 5446-3:2005
E.2.2 Procedure
E.2.2.1 Place the test apparatus on a flat base surface (e.g. a concrete floor).
E.2.2.2 Place a specimen of the vibrating pad in the test apparatus (E.2.1) so that it is in the centre of the
square cross-section of the apparatus between the foam layers 3 and 4 in the orientation specified in the
manufacturer’s instructions.
E.2.2.3 Connect the vibrating pad to the rest of a smoke alarm kit configured for the minimum voltage
condition (see A.4.2) and trigger an alarm.
E.2.2.4 Monitor the output of the accelerometer amplifier/integrator to determine the fundamental
frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity produced on the integrator plate.
E.2.2.5 Repeat E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4 but with the smoke alarm kit configured for the maximum voltage
condition (see A.4.2).
E.3 Durability test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad is sufficiently robust and continues to give the required
vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity after prolonged operation (e.g. a reasonable period of normal operation and
routine testing).
E.3.1 Apparatus
The apparatus specified in E.2.1 shall be used.
E.3.2 Procedure
E.3.2.1 Place a specimen of the vibrating pad in the test apparatus (E.2.1) so that it is in the centre of the
square cross-section of the apparatus between the foam layers 3 and 4 in the orientation specified in the
manufacturer’s instructions.
E.3.2.2 Connect the specimen to the rest of a smoke alarm kit configured for the maximum voltage
condition (see A.4.2).
E.3.2.3 Subject the specimen to the following durability cycle 100 times:
a) trigger the system into the alarm condition and maintain it for 1 h;
b) reset the system and allow it to remain in the non-alarm condition for 1 h.
E.3.2.4 After the last hour in the non-alarm condition, trigger the system into the alarm condition and
measure the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity, as described in E.2.2, for the
minimum voltage condition (i.e. E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4).
E.4 Damp heat test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad is unduly affected by high temperatures and humidities
E.4.1 Attach an accelerometer with a mass of less than 5 g to a specimen of the vibrating pad and place the
specimen in an environmental chamber on a layer of polyurethane foam as specified in E.2.1 for layer 4.
E.4.2 Apply the following damp heat, steady state conditioning to the specimen in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-78. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning except
during the last 30 min (see E.4.3):
E.4.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the vibrating pad to the rest of a smoke alarm kit
configured for the minimum voltage condition (see A.4.2) and trigger an alarm. Monitor the output from
the accelerometer (suitably amplified as required) and measure the frequency and pulse pattern of the
vibration.
E.4.4 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity, as described
in E.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4).
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

27
BS 5446-3:2005
E.5 Corrosion test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad is sufficiently protected against corrosion that can occur
E.5.1 Apply the following corrosion conditioning to a specimen of the vibrating pad in accordance
— SO2 concentration: volume fraction of (0.002 5 ± 0.000 5) %;
E.5.2 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, connect to the vibrating pad,
in place of its battery, a suitable laboratory power supply, and adjust its output voltage to simulate a
battery discharged to 10 % above the voltage at which a low battery warning would be given. Trigger the
system into the alarm condition and measure the vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration
intensity, as described in E.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition (i.e. E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4).
E.6 Cold test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad is unduly affected by low temperatures that can occur in
E.6.1 Attach an accelerometer with a mass of less than 5 g to a specimen of the vibrating pad and place the
specimen in an environmental chamber on a layer of polyurethane foam as specified in E.2.1 for layer 4.
E.6.2 Apply the following cold conditioning to the specimen in accordance with BS EN 60068-2-1.
(see E.6.3):
— duration: 16 h.
E.6.3 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, connect the vibrating pad to the rest of a smoke alarm kit
configured for the minimum voltage condition (see A.4.2) and trigger an alarm. Monitor the output from
the accelerometer (suitably amplified as required) and measure the frequency and pulse pattern of the
vibration.
E.6.4 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, measure the vibration
frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity, as described in E.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition
(i.e. E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4).
E.7 Drop test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pad is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks and drops
E.7.1 Drop a specimen of the vibrating pad from a height of 0.5 m onto a concrete floor once in each
of six attitudes (i.e. two directions in each of three mutually perpendicular axes) in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-32.
E.7.2 After completing the six drops, trigger the system into the alarm condition and measure the vibration
frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity, as described in E.2.2, for the minimum voltage condition
(i.e. E.2.2.2 to E.2.2.4).
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
28
BS 5446-3:2005
Annex F (normative)
Tests for vibrating pagers
F.1 Test schedule for vibrating pagers
Testing shall be carried out in accordance with the schedule of tests given in Table F.1.
The tests for vibrating pagers shall be conducted in accordance with the general procedures given
in Annex A and the specific procedures given in F.2 to F.7.
Table F.1 — Test schedule for vibrating pagers
number (see A.1)
Vibration frequency and pulse pattern test F.2 1
Durability test F.3 2
Damp heat test F.4 3
Corrosion test F.5 4
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Cold test F.6 3
Drop test F.7 5
F.2 Vibration frequency and pulse pattern test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager gives the required vibration frequency and pulse pattern
within the specified range of supply voltage conditions.
F.2.1 Apparatus
F.2.2 Procedure
F.2.2.1 Fit a specimen of the vibrating pager with a battery discharged to a voltage 10 % above the voltage
at which a low battery warning would be given. Switch on the vibrating pager and place it in the test
apparatus (F.2.1) so that it is in the centre of the square cross-section of the apparatus, between the foam
layers 3 and 4, in the orientation giving vibration with vertical displacement.
F.2.2.2 Place an operating smoke alarm kit that incorporates a transmitter, such that the transmitter can
trigger the pager into an alarm state during a fire alarm condition.
F.2.2.3 Monitor the output of the accelerometer amplifier/integrator to determine the fundamental
frequency and pulse pattern produced on the integrator plate.
F.2.2.4 Repeat steps F.2.2.1 to F.2.2.3 but with the vibrating pager fitted with a new battery.
F.3 Durability test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager is sufficiently robust and continues to give the required
vibration frequency and pulse pattern after prolonged operation (e.g. a reasonable period of normal operation and routine testing).
F.3.1 Apparatus
F.3.2 Procedure
F.3.2.1 Replace the battery of a specimen of the vibrating pager with a connection to a suitable laboratory
power supply, having its output voltage adjusted to simulate a new battery
F.3.2.2 Place the specimen in the test apparatus (F.3.1) so that it is in the centre of the square cross-section
of the apparatus, between the foam layers 3 and 4, in the orientation giving vibration with vertical
displacement.
F.3.2.3 Place an operating smoke alarm kit, which incorporates a transmitter, close to the apparatus, such
that the transmitter can trigger the pager into an alarm state during a fire alarm condition.

29
BS 5446-3:2005
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
F.3.2.4 Trigger and remove the alarm condition so that the vibrating pager is subjected to the following
durability cycle 100 times:
a) trigger the vibrating pager into the fire alarm condition and maintain it for 1 h;
b) remove the alarm condition and allow the vibrating pager to remain in the non-alarm condition for 1 h.
F.3.2.5 After the last hour in the non-alarm condition, trigger the system into the alarm condition and
measure the vibration frequency and pulse pattern, as described in F.2.2, for the discharged battery
condition (i.e. F.2.2.1 to F.2.2.3).
F.4 Damp heat test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager is unduly affected by high temperatures and humidities
F.4.1 Replace the battery of a specimen of the vibrating pager with a connection to a suitable laboratory
power supply, the output voltage of which can be adjusted to simulate a battery discharged to 10 % above
the voltage at which a low battery warning would be given. Initially the power supply shall be switched off.
F.4.2 Attach an accelerometer with a mass of less than 5 g to the specimen and place the specimen in an
environmental chamber on a layer of polyurethane foam as specified in E.2.1 for layer 4.
F.4.3 Place an operating smoke alarm kit, which incorporates a transmitter, close to the chamber
(if necessary with the part that incorporates the transmitter within the chamber), such that it is capable
of triggering the pager into its fire alarm condition.
F.4.4 Apply the following damp heat, steady state conditioning to the specimen in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-78. The specimen shall not be supplied with power during the conditioning except
during the last 30 min (see F.4.5):
F.4.5 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, switch on the power supply connected to the vibrating
pager and adjust the voltage to simulate that of a battery discharged to 10 % above the voltage at which a
low battery warning would be given. Trigger an alarm in the smoke alarm kit so that the pager operates in
its fire alarm mode. Monitor the output from the accelerometer (suitably amplified as required) and
measure the frequency and pulse pattern of the vibration.
F.4.6 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the vibration frequency and pulse pattern, as described in F.2.2, for the
discharged battery condition (i.e. F.2.2.1 to F.2.2.3).
F.5 Corrosion test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager is sufficiently protected against corrosion that can occur
F.5.1 Apply the following corrosion conditioning to a specimen of the vibrating pager in accordance
— SO2 concentration: a volume fraction of (0.002 5 ± 0.000 5) %;
F.5.2 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, connect to the pager, in place
of its battery, a suitable laboratory power supply, and adjust its output voltage to simulate a battery
discharged to 10 % above the voltage at which a low battery warning would be given. Trigger the system
into the alarm condition and measure the vibration frequency and pulse pattern, as described in F.2.2, for
the discharged battery condition (i.e. F.2.2.1 to F.2.2.3).
30
BS 5446-3:2005
F.6 Cold test

NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager is unduly affected by low temperatures that can occur
F.6.1 Replace the battery of a specimen of the vibrating pager with a connection to a suitable laboratory
power supply, the output voltage of which can be adjusted to simulate a battery discharged to 10 % above
the voltage at which a low battery warning would be given. Initially the power supply shall be switched off.
F.6.2 Attach an accelerometer with a mass of less than 5 g to the specimen and place the specimen in an
environmental chamber on a layer of polyurethane foam as specified in E.2.1 for layer 4.
F.6.3 Place an operating smoke alarm kit, which incorporates a transmitter, close to the chamber
(if necessary with the part that incorporates the transmitter within the chamber), such that it is capable
of triggering the pager into its fire alarm condition.
F.6.4 Apply the following cold conditioning to the specimen in accordance with BS EN 60068-2-1.
(see F.6.5):
— duration: 16 h.
F.6.5 During the last 30 min of the conditioning, switch on the power supply connected to the vibrating
pager and adjust the voltage to simulate that of a battery discharged to 10 % above the voltage at which a
low battery warning would be given. Trigger an alarm in the smoke alarm kit so that the pager operates in
its fire alarm condition. Monitor the output from the accelerometer (suitably amplified as required) and
measure the frequency and pulse pattern of the vibration.
F.6.6 After a recovery period of at least 1 h at standard laboratory conditions, trigger the system into the
alarm condition and measure the vibration frequency and pulse pattern, as described in F.2.2, for the
discharged battery condition (i.e. F.2.2.1 to F.2.2.3).
F.7 Drop test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the vibrating pager is sufficiently robust to withstand the knocks and drops
F.7.1 Fit a specimen of the vibrating pager with a new battery and switch it on.
F.7.2 Subject the specimen to 50 drops from a height of 0.5 m onto a hard surface in accordance
with BS EN 60068-2-32:1993, Procedure 2.
F.7.3 After completing the 50 drops, trigger the system into the alarm condition and measure the vibration
frequency and pulse pattern, as described in F.2.2, for the discharged battery condition (i.e. F.2.2.1
to F.2.2.3).
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

31
BS 5446-3:2005
Annex G (normative)
Tests for radio-linked systems
G.1 Environmental tests
G.1.1 The radio components (transmitters and/or receivers) shall be subjected to the environmental test(s)
specified for the equipment in which they are installed or with which they are closely associated
(e.g. a transmitter unit mounted in or intended to be mounted adjacent to a smoke alarm shall be
submitted to the environmental tests specified in BS 5446-1, and a receiver unit mounted within a control
and monitoring unit shall be submitted to the environmental tests in Annex B).
G.1.2 Where the environmental tests (G.1.1) require operation or a functional test during conditioning,
locate the other part of the radio link in close proximity to the component under test and trigger an alarm
condition.
G.1.3 Where the environmental tests (G.1.1) require functional testing after the conditioning, carry
out a 50 m range test (see G.2).
G.2 Range test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether the radio components achieve the required range of 50 m through free space
within the specified range of supply voltage conditions.
G.2.1 Mount the radio component under test in a 50 m range test site, 50 m from the other part of the radio
link (see Figure G.1), and arrange their antennae in the least favourable alignment. Supply both parts of
the radio link with their minimum operating voltages. For purely battery-supplied components this shall
be the voltage at which the low battery fault indication is given, and for components supplied by the control
unit it shall be the minimum voltage condition (see A.4.2).
G.2.2 Trigger an alarm condition at the transmitter unit and monitor the receiver unit.
--`,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
32
BS 5446-3:2005
Dimensions in metres
25 50 25
1
25
25
2 4
3
3
5
Key
1 Boundary
2 Receiver
3 Plan view of test site
4 Transmitter
5 Side elevation view of test site
NOTE The volume within the boundary above the ground should be free of any significant reflecting objects.
Figure G.1 — 50 m range test site
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33
BS 5446-3:2005
G.3 Integrity of radio link between control unit and smoke alarm test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine the integrity of the radio link between the control unit and the smoke alarm.
G.3.1 With the smoke alarm as the radio component under test, carry out the procedure given in G.2.
G.3.2 When the alarm signal is received by the receiver unit (see 5.6.3), remove the alarm condition trigger,
reset the control unit, remove all power from the smoke alarm, and start a 100 s timer.
G.3.3 Monitor the condition of the control unit.
G.4 Integrity of radio link between control unit and any radio-linked alarm device test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether there is a continuously open radio communication path between the control
unit and any alarm device.
G.4.1 Connect to the system all radio-linked alarm devices specified for the kit under test, and carry out
the procedure given in G.2.
G.4.2 When the alarm signal is received by the receiver unit (see 5.6.3), remove the alarm condition trigger,
reset the control unit, remove all power from the control unit (leaving power connected to all radio-linked
alarm devices), and start a 100 s timer.
G.4.3 Monitor the condition of the control unit.
G.5 Control unit alarm transmission continuity test
NOTE The objective of this test is to determine whether there is a continuous alarm transmission from the control unit during a fire
condition.
G.5.1 With the pager as the radio component under test, carry out the procedure given in G.2.
G.5.2 When the alarm signal is received by the receiver unit (see 5.6.3), leave the control unit transmitting
its alarm signal to the pager, but acknowledge/reset the pager.
G.5.3 After 3 s, reactivate the operation at the pager, start a 15 s timer and monitor the state of the pager.
G.5.4 Repeat G.5.1 to G.5.3 ten times.
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34
BS 5446-3:2005
Bibliography
Standards publications
BS EN 12182:1999, Technical aids for disabled persons — General requirements and test methods.
BS EN ISO 9000:2000, Quality management systems — Fundamentals and vocabulary.
BS EN ISO 9001:2000, Quality management systems — Requirements.
BS EN ISO 9004:2000, Quality management systems — Guidelines for performance improvements.
BS EN ISO 9999:2002, Technical aids for persons with disabilities — Classification and terminology.
prEN 54-23:2004, Fire detection and fire alarm systems — Part 23: Fire alarm devices — Visual alarms.5)
Other publications
[1] GREAT BRITAIN. Consumer Protection Act 1987. London: HMSO.
[2] GREAT BRITAIN. Batteries and Accumulators (Containing Dangerous Substances) Regulations 1994.
London: HMSO.
[3] GREAT BRITAIN. Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994. London: HMSO.
[4] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 1999/5/EC. Directive 1999/5/EC of the European Parliament and of the
Council of 9 March 1999 on radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment and the mutual
recognition of their conformity. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities,
1999.
[5] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 89/336/EEC. Council Directive 89/336/EEC of 3 May 1989 on the
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. Luxembourg:
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 1999.
[6] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. Council Directive 73/23/EEC of 19 February 1973 on the harmonization
of the laws of Member States relating to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits.
Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 1993.
[7] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. Council Directive 93/68/EEC of 22 July 1993 amending
Directives 87/404/EEC (simple pressure vessels), 88/378/EEC (safety of toys), 89/106/EEC (construction
products), 89/336/EEC (electromagnetic compatibility), 89/392/EEC (machinery), 89/686/EEC (personal
protective equipment), 90/384/EEC (non-automatic weighing instruments), 90/385/EEC (active
implantable medicinal devices), 90/396/EEC (appliances burning gaseous fuels), 91/263/EEC
(telecommunications terminal equipment), 92/42/EEC (new hot-water boilers fired with liquid or gaseous
fuels) and 73/23/EEC (electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits). Luxembourg:
[8] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. EC Directive 91/157/EEC. Council Directive 91/157/EEC
of 18 March 1991 on batteries and accumulators containing certain dangerous substances. Luxembourg:
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5) In preparation.

35
BS 5446-3:2005
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What is the purpose and scope of this British Standard?

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BRITISH STANDARD BS 5446-3:2005

Fire detection and fire

ICS 13.220; 17.140.50

Committees responsible for this

British Fire Protection Systems Association

This British Standard was

© BSI 29 April 2005 Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

The following BSI references

ISBN 0 580 45647 1

Copyright British Standards Institution

© BSI 29 April 2005

This part of BS 5446 has been prepared by Subcommittee FSH/12/2.

© BSI 29 April 2005

3 Terms and definitions

4 General requirements for smoke alarm kits

© BSI 29 April 2005

5 Requirements for components

5.1 Smoke alarm

5.2.2.3 Indication of a fire alarm condition

5.2.2.4 Indication of a fault in the system

5.2.2.5 Test facility

© BSI 29 April 2005

condition shall be given as specified in 5.2.5b).

5.3 Visual alarm device

© BSI 29 April 2005

5.3.4 Resistance to damp heat

© BSI 29 April 2005

5.5 Vibrating pager

1) This was formerly the responsibility of the Radiocommunications Agency.

© BSI 29 April 2005

5.6.2 Environmental requirements

5.6.6 Power supplies

6 Constructional and electrical requirements

6.2 Component interconnections

6.3 Connecting terminals

6.4 Battery connectors

7.1 Marking of kits

© BSI 29 April 2005

8.2 Information to be provided with individual components

specified ranges for normal operation.

© BSI 29 April 2005

A.4.2 Operation under maximum or minimum supply voltage conditions

B.2 Functional test

B.4 Damp heat test

© BSI 29 April 2005

B.8 Drop test

© BSI 29 April 2005

D.1 Test schedule for visual alarm devices

D.2 Flash rate, light intensity and dispersion pattern test

© BSI 29 April 2005

Ie is the effective luminous intensity, in candela (cd);

D.4 Damp heat test

the 0° position only).

© BSI 29 April 2005

E.2 Vibration frequency, pulse pattern and vibration intensity test