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What you need to know & what we'll be covering:
What is a zone map?
Do I need a zone map?
Why are they so important?
How can I get one & stay compliant?
Fire alarms are clever bits of equipment. There are many different systems now available on the market; ranging from simple manual alarms (Category M) to all singing and dancing addressable, multi-zone, audio & visual systems.
What is a fire alarm zone map?
A zone map is a plan drawing of the building with the locations of the different zones programmed into the system displayed in relation to the property layout. These zones are often outlined in different colours on property plans for easy identification. Different types of hatching are known to be used as an alternative to colours.
For the zone map to comply with BS5839-1:2017, the map should display the following:
The building levels/storeys
Escape routes & final exits
Circulation spaces
"You are here" pin
Do I need a zone map?
To meet the criteria of BS5839-1:2017, you will need a zone map regardless of the size and complexity of the premises. A zone map should be provided with all new fire alarm installations as part of the set-up and commissioning of the system.
For older premises, you may have seen or still use a labelling system. These do not conform to the British standard criteria and will be marked as a major non-conformance in the fire alarm service.
Stop! You may need more than one zone map! Zone maps are required at every CIE (Control & Indicating Equipment) location. This means for a larger or more complex property where there are multiple panels or repeater panels, a zone map must be displayed at each location.
Why are zone maps important?
Imagine you're a firefighter approaching a burning building in the middle of the night. Firstly you need to establish the location of the fire, then the location of any potential occupants - all within a property you have never been to before.
A zone map allows the emergency services to accurately trace the source of a fire within seconds by using the information displayed on the panel and cross-reference it with the layout plans provided. The fact the locations of the escape routes, circulations spaces and final exits are also displayed means they can immediately start to ascertain where any occupants are likely to be. All of which can be vital in a high-pressure emergency.
Zone maps also play a crucial role in premises that have adopted a phased-evacuation strategy. They allow staff to move occupants out of harm's way by planning according to the location of the fire/alarm.
How can I get a zone map and stay compliant?
If you're feeling productive, nothing is stopping you from making your own map. However, if you have a more complex property and want a professional company to take care of it then there are many to choose from, us being one of them! Your fire alarm maintenance company or risk assessor is always a good place to start.
Here are some things you'll need to know to make sure you're map is compliant:
A zone map should be displayed at each CIE location (panel or repeater panel).
Update the map accordingly when changes are made to the property or the fire alarm system.
Make sure the map is orientated up the correct way in relation to the building and the "You are here" pin. For example; if the final exit is to the left of the panel and map, the map should be orientated in such a way that this is reflected on the plans.
Induct new staff and visitors with the map for larger sites.
Though not required, it can be helpful to identify the location of manual call points as well as any fire fighting equipment. If there's a monitoring system in place, the number for the call centre is also useful to have displayed, either on the panel itself or the map.
While there aren't any restrictions on what else you can display on the map, ultimately, the priority is that the map is clear to whoever the user may be and excessive amounts of information can make it harder to read so it's worth bearing in mind to keep it clear and simple!
Thanks for reading and if you're looking to enquire, please feel free to contact us directly or use the "request-a-quote" feature on our website:
Stay Safe
Athena Fire Team
info@athenafireconsultancy.com