1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Fire has been a major threat to life and property throughout history. In modern times, as
buildings and infrastructure become more complex and populated, the potential risk of fire and its
consequences have increased. A fire alarm system is an essential safety feature that helps detect early
signs of fire—such as smoke, heat, or flame—and immediately warns occupants, allowing them to
evacuate safely and for emergency services to respond quickly.

With the development of electronics and automation, fire alarm systems have become more
accurate, efficient, and integrated. These systems are commonly installed in residential, commercial,
and industrial buildings as part of standard safety protocols. Governments and safety organizations
around the world have also mandated strict regulations regarding fire alarm installations.

In this context, the design and implementation of a fire alarm system was selected as a final-
year thesis project. This project provides not only a technical challenge but also a socially relevant
solution. The study involves a complete cycle from researching fire detection technologies, selecting
components, designing circuit diagrams, assembling hardware, and finally testing and evaluating
system performance.

1.2 Purpose of the Study

The main purpose of this thesis is to gain practical and theoretical understanding of fire
detection systems by designing and building a working fire alarm prototype.

The study seeks to:

 Understand the basic principles and operation of fire alarm systems.

 Explore different types of fire detectors and alarm devices.
 Design and implement a functional system that responds reliably to fire-related
signals.
 Evaluate the effectiveness, limitations, and real-world applicability of the system.

This thesis serves both as an academic achievement and as a foundation for future innovations
in fire safety systems.
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1.3 Problem Statement

In many developing regions and smaller buildings, fire alarm systems are either outdated,
improperly installed, or completely absent. This lack of reliable fire detection leads to delayed
response in fire emergencies, resulting in serious damage and casualties. Additionally, many people—
especially students—are not familiar with how fire alarm systems work or how to design them.

This project addresses the following problems:

 Lack of hands-on knowledge in designing a fire alarm system.

 Need for a low-cost, simple and efficient fire detection solution for educational use.
 Lack of awareness about fire safety system, components and their integration.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of this thesis are:

 To study the working principles and classification of fire alarm systems.

 To design a fire alarm system using commonly available components such as smoke
detectors, buzzers, microcontrollers, and indicator lights.
 To implement the system and demonstrate its working in a controlled environment.
 To analyze the system's performance, strengths, and weaknesses.
 To enhance understanding of fire safety standards and engineering design practices.

1.5 Scope and Limitations

This thesis focuses on a conventional fire alarm system using basic sensors and manual call
points. It is not intended to replicate a full-scale industrial system but rather to serve as a small-scale
educational model. The system may not include features such as remote monitoring, integration with
sprinkler systems, or addressable control.

Scope includes:

 Selection of suitable components for fire detection.

 Designing wiring and control logic.
 Building a prototype system on a small scale.
 Testing and documentation.

Limitations include:

 System is designed for demonstration, not for actual building installation.

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 Range and sensor sensitivity may be limited by the type of components used.
 Environmental factors (humidity, dust) are not extensively accounted for in the
testing.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it enhances the technical skills of the
student in areas such as circuit design, sensor technology, and safety engineering. Secondly, it
contributes to raising awareness about the importance of fire detection systems in saving lives and
minimizing property damage. Finally, the completed project can serve as a reference model or
teaching aid for future students studying safety systems or automation.

By the end of this study, the student will have demonstrated the ability to integrate theoretical
knowledge with practical skills, offering a valuable contribution both academically and socially.
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CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Introduction

Fire is a powerful natural force that, if uncontrolled, can lead to catastrophic consequences,
including the loss of life, damage to property, and environmental destruction. In modern times, as
buildings become taller and more complex, fire safety has become a critical aspect of engineering and
architectural design. One of the most essential components of any building's safety infrastructure is
the Fire Protection System. The system required to meet the needs of tackling small fires, evacuation
and major firefighting both by the occupants and then the fire service is outlined. Building
management system under computer monitoring and control will incorporate such system, together
with security functions. Integration of such equipment with the architecture, decoration and other
services is planned from the earliest design state.

2.2. Fire Triangle

For many years, the fire triangle has served as a teaching tool to geometrically depict the
relationship between fuel, air (oxygen), and heat (energy). Each is necessary for combustion, as
illustrated by the triangle in which each side represents one component Figure 2.1. In order for fire to
exist, all three must be presented in sufficient quantities. When the three elements are combined in
sufficient quantities, the heat source, oxygen, and fuel chemically react to cause a discernible release
of energy at a rate that correlates to the quantity of fuel available to sustain the fire. The reduction or
elimination of any one of the three elements will result in extinguishment of the fire. In addition,
changing the proportions of the three elements determines whether the fire will smolder, burn slowly,
or burn rapidly. The fire triangle demonstrates that extinguishing a fire is possible by several different
methods. For example, applying sufficient amounts of water to fire will reduce heat, shutting down a
natural gas line will remove fuel, or flooding an area with carbon dioxide gas will reduce the amount
of oxygen available to sustain a fire. For a number of years, the fire triangle provided a simplified and
understandable model of the fire process. However, continued research led to a more sophisticated
and accurate model of the fire process called the "fire tetrahedron."
 5

Figure 2.1. Fire Triangle

There are two important factors to remember in preventing and extinguishing a fire: if any of
the three components are missing, then a fire cannot start and if any of the three components are
removed, then the fire will go out. It is important to have a clear understanding of these components
and their inter-reactions in a fire. The following paragraphs examine each of these items in further
detail.

2.3. Fire Tetrahedron

Fire research in the latter part of the twentieth century led to a better understanding of the
combustion process. Researchers realized that certain extinguishing agents were effective against
fires, but in a manner that seemed to defy the rules. All three legs of the fire triangle remained, yet the
fire went out. There was no appreciable cooling effect, there was sufficient fuel present, and there was
still adequate oxygen to support combustion. The question repeatedly asked was, "Why did the fire go
out?" The conclusion researchers reached was that the application of certain extinguishing agents
interrupted the chain reaction and interfered with its ability to self-sustain. This ongoing research
leads to the development of an improved four-sided geometric depiction of how fire is sustained.
Refined from the fire triangle, the fire tetrahedron illustrates how a fourth element-the chain reaction-
must also be presented for ongoing fire Figure 2.2, Elimination of any one of the four elements will
result in extinguishment. While the fire triangle depicts the three elements needed to start a fire, the
fire tetrahedron depicts fire's nature at a sufficient rate and quantity to reach the seat of the fire or the
fire might flare up. The types of fuel, the form of the material, and the storage arrangement also have
a significant impact on the effectiveness of water-based systems in cooling the fire.
 6

Figure 2.2. Fire Tetrahedron

Fire Behavior and Stages

A typical fire progresses through four stages:

1. Ignition – The fire starts due to heat, sparks, or chemical reactions.

2. Growth – Flames spread and produce smoke and heat.

3. Fully Developed – The fire reaches peak intensity, consuming surrounding materials.

4. Decay – The fire weakens as fuel is exhausted or suppressed.

2.4. Fire Classification

A building's fire risk is classified according to its occupancy and use. Table 2.1 and 2.2 gives
representative information. Classes of fire are;

1. Class A - fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper or textiles.

2. Class B - fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel or oils.
3. Class C - fires involving gases.
4. Class D - fires involving metals.
5. Class E - fires involving live electrical apparatus
6. Class F - fires involving cooking oils such as in deep-fat fryers.
 7

Figure 2.3 Symbols of Fire Classification

A fire is supported by three essential ingredients: fuel, heat and oxygen. The absence of any
one of these causes an established fire to be extinguished. The fire fighting system must be
appropriate to the location of fire and preferably limited to that area in order to minimize damage to
materials, plant and the building structure. Radiation from a fire may provoke damage or combustion
of materials at a distance. Structural fire protection can include water sprays onto steelwork to avoid
collapse, as used in the Concorde aircraft production hangar.

The system of fire fighting employed depends upon the total combustible content of the
building (fire load), the type of fire risk classification and the degree of involvement by the occupants.
Fire escape design where children, the elderly or infirm needs to consider particular care so that
sufficient time is provided in the fire resistance of doors and partition for the slower evacuation
encountered.

Category Group Hazard Occupancy

Extra Light - Public Buildings
Ordinary 1 Restaurant
Ordinary 2 Mortar garage
Ordinary 3 Warehouse
Ordinary 3 (Special) Woodwork
Extra high - Paint manufacture
Extra high (Storage) 1 Electrical appliance
Extra high (Storage) 2 Furniture
Extra high (Storage) 3 Wood, plastic or rubber
Extra high (Storage) 4 Foamed plastic or rubber

Table 2.1. Classification of Occupancies

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Classification Fire type Fire-fighting system

A Wood and textiles Water, cools

B Flammable liquids Exclude oxygen
C Flammable gases Exclude oxygen
D Flammable metals Exclude oxygen
E Electrical Exclude oxygen,nonconducting
F Cooking oils Exclude oxygen

Table 2.2 Fire Classifications

2.2. Fire Protection System

Fire is a force of nature that, while useful in controlled environments, can become devastating
when left unchecked. In residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, the threat of fire is ever-
present due to electrical faults, human error, chemical reactions, or natural disasters. To mitigate these
risks and protect life and property, the implementation of an effective Fire Protection System is
essential. These systems are designed to detect fires early, suppress them quickly, and ensure the safe
evacuation of occupants.

Fire safety is integral for business owners. A fire can spark in an instant and spread within
seconds. Businesses investing in fire protection systems perform as expected. These systems reduce
damage to the building, expensive equipment, documents, and inventory. Fire extinguishers are
effective in extinguishing fires when they are small in size, but they are not suitable in fighting large
or spreading fires. Such fires should be extinguished by the building's fire extinguishing systems or
firefighters. Fire protection systems, including fire extinguishing system, are very important to
detect, control, extinguish and alert building occupants to fire or smoke. Fire protection systems
include sprinkler systems, standpipe systems and fire alarm systems. They are required in many
buildings. One kind of fire protection system should be used in restaurants, retail stores, day cares,
place of assembly, etc. Functional fire protection systems are useful to prevent injuries and deaths
from fires.

A fire protection system is not a single device or technique but a combination of equipment,
protocols, and technologies integrated into the structure of buildings. These systems play a crucial
role in preserving human life, safeguarding valuable assets, and reducing downtime caused by fire-
related incidents. As the built environment becomes more complex, so does the demand for
intelligent, responsive, and reliable fire protection.
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Fire Hazards

Fire hazards can arise from flammable materials, electrical faults, chemical reactions, or
human negligence. The speed and intensity of fire spread depend on the type of materials involved,
airflow, and surrounding conditions. By understanding fire’s nature, engineers design systems to
minimize these risks through:

Passive Fire Protection: Fire-resistant walls, doors, floors, and coatings that slow fire spread.

Active Fire Protection: Fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and extinguishers that detect and fight fires
directly

This project explores the various aspects of Fire Protection Systems, including their types,
key components, functionality, design principles, importance, and associated challenges. It aims to
provide a comprehensive understanding for students, professionals, and policymakers involved in
building safety and infrastructure planning.

Figure 2.3 Fire Protection System

I Passive Fire Protection System

Fire safety is a crucial element in the design and construction of any building, whether it is
residential, commercial, or industrial. Among the various fire safety measures, Passive Fire Protection
(PFP) systems play a vital role in containing and slowing down the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic
 10

gases. Unlike active fire protection systems such as sprinklers or fire alarms, passive fire protection
systems do not require activation or external energy to perform their function. They are built into the
structure of a building to provide constant and long-lasting protection. This essay explores the
concept, components, benefits, and importance of passive fire protection systems.

Passive fire protection is a building’s built-in defense mechanism designed to resist or limit
the spread of fire for a specified duration. It involves the use of fire-resistant materials, construction
techniques, and design strategies that work together to compartmentalize a structure. The primary
objective of passive fire protection is to maintain the structural integrity of the building, give
occupants sufficient time to evacuate safely, and reduce the damage caused by fire.

1. What is Passive Fire Protection?

A fire in a building can spread quickly through walls, floors, ceilings, ducts, and openings.
Passive fire protection systems are designed to compartmentalize fire into a single area, thus delaying
its spread to other sections. This containment is achieved by integrating fire-resistant materials and
barriers into the building’s construction, making PFP an essential part of any comprehensive fire
safety strategy.

2. Components of Passive Fire Protection Systems

Passive fire protection systems consist of various elements that work together to ensure a
building’s fire resistance. Some of the most common components include:

2.1 Fire-Resistant Walls, Floors, and Doors

Walls, floors, and ceilings are constructed using fire-resistant materials such as gypsum
boards, concrete, and fire-rated panels. Fire-rated doors and shutters are specially designed to
withstand high temperatures for a specific period, such as 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or even up to 4
hours, depending on the design requirements.

2.2 Fire-Resistant Coatings and Insulation

Intumescent paints and coatings are applied to structural elements like steel beams and
columns. When exposed to heat, these coatings expand, forming a protective insulating layer that
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slows down the heating of the underlying material. Fireproof insulation materials like mineral wool or
fiberglass are also used to enhance the fire resistance of walls, ducts, and pipes.

2.3 Compartmentalization and Fire Barriers

Buildings are often divided into compartments using fire barriers such as fire-resistant walls, floors,
and ceilings. This design prevents fire from spreading quickly between different parts of the building.
Fire curtains and smoke barriers are also used in areas such as elevators, staircases, and lobbies to
block fire and smoke movement.

2.4 Fire Stopping Systems

Fire stopping involves sealing gaps, openings, and penetrations in walls or floors where pipes,
cables, or ducts pass through. Special fire sealants, collars, and wraps are used to ensure that these
openings do not become weak points for fire and smoke spread.

2.5 Fire Dampers and Duct Protection

Air ducts and ventilation systems can be a major pathway for fire and smoke. Fire dampers
automatically close when exposed to heat, preventing flames and smoke from traveling through the
duct system.

3. Importance of Passive Fire Protection

Passive fire protection is an essential part of building safety for several reasons:

3.1 Life Safety

The primary purpose of any fire protection system is to protect human lives. Passive fire
protection buys valuable time for occupants to evacuate the building by slowing down fire and smoke
spread. This time can be the difference between life and death during a fire emergency.

3.2 Structural Integrity

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High temperatures during a fire can weaken structural materials such as steel, which may lead
to building collapse. Fire-resistant coatings and materials in passive fire protection help maintain the
strength of these materials, preventing or delaying structural failure.

3.3 Property Protection

By containing the fire to a limited area, passive fire protection minimizes the damage to
building contents and reduces repair and reconstruction costs.

3.4 Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Building codes and fire safety regulations in most countries require the installation of passive
fire protection systems in new constructions and renovations. Compliance ensures not only safety but
also the avoidance of legal penalties and insurance issues.

4. Benefits of Passive Fire Protection Systems

One of the key advantages of passive fire protection is that it requires no activation. It is
always in place and does not rely on human intervention or mechanical systems. Some notable
benefits include:

Reliability: PFP systems function 24/7 without maintenance or external power.

Cost-effectiveness: While the initial installation cost may be high, PFP systems require minimal
maintenance and have long-term durability.

Synergy with Active Systems: PFP works in combination with active systems like sprinklers to
provide comprehensive fire protection.

Environmental Protection: By limiting fire spread, PFP reduces the release of harmful smoke and
toxic gases.

5. Challenges and Limitations

Despite its advantages, passive fire protection is not without challenges. Some of the common
limitations include:

High Installation Costs: Fire-rated materials and coatings can be expensive.

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Space Constraints: Thick fire-resistant walls and barriers may reduce usable space.

Inspection and Maintenance: Although minimal, regular inspection is necessary to ensure that
coatings and fire barriers remain intact.

Moreover, passive systems alone cannot completely eliminate the risk of fire damage. They are most
effective when integrated with active fire protection systems like sprinklers, alarms, and fire
extinguishers.

Passive fire protection systems are a cornerstone of modern fire safety design. By integrating
fire-resistant materials, barriers, coatings, and compartmentalization, PFP ensures that buildings
remain safe for occupants and resistant to structural damage during a fire. While active systems are
essential for detecting and extinguishing fires, passive fire protection provides the first and most
reliable line of defense by slowing the fire’s progression and reducing its impact.

In a world where urbanization and high-rise constructions are rapidly increasing, investing in
robust passive fire protection measures is not just a legal requirement but a moral responsibility. A
well-designed PFP system not only protects property and infrastructure but, more importantly, saves
lives by giving people the time they need to escape safely.

II Active Fire Protection System

Fire safety is one of the most important considerations in building design and maintenance.
While passive fire protection focuses on containing and slowing fire spread through structural
elements, Active Fire Protection (AFP) systems are designed to detect, suppress, or extinguish fires
directly. These systems require some form of action or response—whether automatic or manual—to
operate effectively. Examples include fire alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers, and smoke control
systems.

This project examines the concept, components, advantages, and significance of active fire
protection systems.

Active fire protection refers to systems and equipment that actively respond to a fire event by
detecting or suppressing it. These systems work either automatically (e.g., sprinklers that discharge
water when heat is detected) or manually (e.g., fire extinguishers operated by building occupants).
Unlike passive fire protection, which is integrated into the building’s construction, AFP requires
energy, sensors, or human involvement to function is critical for early intervention during a fire. Its
primary goals include saving lives, reducing fire intensity, and preventing extensive property damage.
By quickly controlling or extinguishing flames, active systems minimize the chances of a small fire
becoming catastrophic.
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2. Key Components of Active Fire Protection Systems

2.1 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

Detection and alarm systems are the first line of defense in AFP. Smoke detectors, heat
detectors, flame detectors, and gas sensors identify the early signs of fire. Once a threat is detected,
alarms (audible and visual) alert occupants and building managers, enabling quick evacuation and
firefighting response.

2.2 Fire Sprinkler Systems

Sprinklers are automatic suppression systems that release water, foam, or other agents when a
certain temperature threshold is reached. They are highly effective in controlling or extinguishing
fires before firefighters arrive.

2.3 Portable Fire Extinguishers

These are manually operated devices used to combat small fires. Fire extinguishers are
classified based on the type of fire they are designed for, such as Class A (ordinary combustibles),
Class B (flammable liquids), or Class C (electrical fires).

2.4 Special Suppression Systems

In areas where water is unsuitable (e.g., server rooms or chemical storage), gas-based or
foam-based suppression systems are used. Examples include clean agent systems like FM-200, CO₂
systems, or dry chemical extinguishing systems.

2.5 Smoke Control and Ventilation

Smoke is often more dangerous than flames. Active smoke management systems, such as
exhaust fans and pressurization systems, help maintain safe evacuation routes by removing or
controlling smoke spread.
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3. Importance of Active Fire Protection

Active fire protection provides immediate fire suppression, which is vital for saving lives and
preventing damage. Key reasons for its importance include:

Early detection and response, often before the fire grows large.

Reduction in injuries and fatalities by enabling faster evacuation.

Minimization of property and asset damage.

Compliance with building codes and insurance requirements.

4. Advantages of Active Fire Protection

The benefits of AFP systems include:

Quick suppression of fires, reducing the risk of uncontrollable spread.

Automatic operation in many systems, minimizing human error.

Compatibility with modern fire detection technologies.

Cost savings in terms of reduced fire damage and insurance premiums.

5. Challenges and Limitations

Active systems have certain limitations:

High installation and maintenance costs.

Reliance on power, water supply, or sensors, which may fail during emergencies.

Regular inspections and testing are mandatory to ensure reliability.

Despite these challenges, AFP systems are indispensable when combined with passive fire
protection measures.

Active fire protection systems are essential for modern building safety. By detecting and
suppressing fires early, these systems provide a proactive approach that saves lives and property.
When integrated with passive fire protection, AFP forms a comprehensive fire safety strategy,
ensuring that both immediate fire suppression and long-term containment are achieved.
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Investing in active fire protection is not just a regulatory requirement but a vital step toward creating
safer living and working environments.

2.2.1. Fire Fighting System

According to Oxford Dictionary, fire is a process which substances combine with oxygen and
produces combustion or burning. A fire can spread at the rate of 4.6 meters per second. Also, fire is
supported by three essential factors, which are fuel, heat and oxygen. Existing fire will be
extinguished immediately if any one of these factors is absent. The fire-fighting system must be
appropriate to the location of the fire preferably limited to the area in order to minimize damage to
materials, plant and the building structure. A building's fire protection is divided into two forms,
which are active and passive fire protection system. A fire fighting system is a collection of
equipment and components designed to detect, control, and extinguish fires. It plays a crucial role in
protecting human lives, valuable assets, and the environment. These systems are installed in
residential buildings, commercial centers, factories, hospitals, educational institutions, and public
facilities to ensure timely and effective fire suppression. They function either manually or
automatically and must always be ready for activation in case of an emergency.

This paper provides an in-depth overview of fire fighting systems, including their types,
components, working principles, and the importance of design, maintenance, and compliance with fire
safety codes.

2.2.1.(a) Types of Fire Fighting Systems

Fire fighting systems are categorized based on the method of fire suppression and the type of
hazard they are designed to handle. The most commonly used systems include:

1. Water-Based Fire Fighting Systems

Sprinkler Systems: Automatically activated by heat, sprinklers discharge water
suppresses or extinguish fires. Commonly used in offices, schools, and residential buildings.
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Figure 2.1 a: Sprinkler System

Wet Riser Systems: A system of pipes permanently charged with water, connected to hose
reels and hydrants for manual fire fighting.

Figure 2.1 b: Wet Riser System

Dry Riser Systems: Used in tall buildings, these pipes are filled with water only when needed
by the fire brigade.

Figure 2.1 c: Dry Riser System

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2. Gas-Based Suppression Systems

Use inert gases or chemical agents (e.g., FM200, CO₂) to suppress fire without damaging
electrical equipment. Suitable for data centers, server rooms, and control stations.

Figure 2.2 Gas-Based Suppression System

3. Foam Systems

Used in flammable liquid storage areas such as fuel depots and chemical factories. Foam
smothers the fire and prevents re-ignition.
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Figure 2.3 Foam System

4. Portable Fire Extinguishers

Handheld devices used for small fires. They are categorized by the extinguishing agent: water, foam,
dry powder, carbon dioxide, and wet chemical.

Table 2.1 Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers

2.2.1.(b) Key Components of Fire Fighting Systems

A complete fire fighting system typically includes the following components:

Water Source: This may be a dedicated underground or overhead tank that stores sufficient water for
fire suppression.

Fire Pumps: These are used to maintain water pressure in the system. Usually, one electric pump, one
diesel pump, and one jockey pump are installed to ensure redundancy.

Piping Network: A system of pipes delivers water to hydrants, sprinklers, and hose reels. It must be
corrosion-resistant and high-pressure rated.

Hose Reels and Fire Hydrants: Allow trained personnel or firefighters to manually direct water toward
the fire.
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Sprinkler Heads: Automatically discharge water when the temperature at the head exceeds a set
threshold.

Valves and Flow Switches: Control water flow and detect system activation.

Alarm and Control Panel: Alerts occupants and the fire department upon detection of a fire.

Each component must be selected, installed, and maintained according to fire safety standards
to ensure system reliability and efficiency.

2.2.1.(c) Working Principle of Fire Fighting Systems

Fire fighting systems are designed to respond immediately when a fire is detected. Their basic
working principle is to either suppress or extinguish the fire as quickly as possible using water, gas, or
foam.

In automatic systems, detectors identify heat or smoke and send a signal to the control panel. The
panel activates pumps and opens valves, discharging water through sprinklers or releasing gas/foam
into the affected area. Simultaneously, the fire alarm system is triggered to alert building occupants
and emergency responders.

In manual systems, fire hose reels or hydrants are used by trained individuals or firefighters. The
system should always be pressurized and ready, with backup power sources to ensure operation
during electrical failure.

Regular testing and maintenance are vital to ensure the system responds accurately during
emergencies.

2.2.1.(d) Design and Installation Considerations

Designing a fire fighting system involves a detailed assessment of building layout, fire risk
level, occupancy type, and local regulations. Key design considerations include:

Hazard Classification: Whether the area is

o low-risk (e.g., office)

o moderate-risk (e.g., kitchen)
o high-risk (e.g., fuel storage).

Water Demand Calculation: Determines how much water and pressure are required to suppress a fire
in the worst-case scenario.
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Code Compliance: Systems must follow local and international standards such as NFPA (National
Fire Protection Association), BS (British Standards), and Myanmar Fire Code.

System Zoning: Buildings are divided into zones so that only affected areas are flooded or gassed.

Backup Power: Diesel pumps or generators are necessary to ensure operation during power outages.

Accessibility: Firefighting equipment must be easily accessible to trained personnel and firefighters.

Coordination with Fire Alarm Systems: Both systems should work in synchronization to improve
response time.

2.2.1.(e) Importance of Fire Fighting Systems

Fire fighting systems are more than just building services—they are life-saving systems. Their
importance includes:

Protecting Human Lives: Ensuring safe evacuation and preventing injuries or fatalities.

Property Protection: Minimizing damage to buildings, equipment, and assets.

Business Continuity: Preventing long-term interruptions in commercial or educational operations.

Legal Compliance: Ensuring that buildings meet fire codes to avoid penalties and shutdowns.

Reducing Insurance Costs: Proper fire systems can reduce insurance premiums and increase coverage
eligibility.

Fire fighting systems are critical elements of building safety that should never be overlooked. They
combine engineering, design, and emergency planning into a powerful defense mechanism against
one of the most dangerous threats known to humanity. As urban development continues and building
technologies evolve, fire fighting systems must be continuously updated to meet higher safety
expectations. A well-designed and properly maintained fire fighting system can be the difference
between minor damage and total disaster. Therefore, architects, engineers, facility managers, and
students in technical fields must understand the principles, components, and responsibilities
associated with these systems.

2.2.2. Fire Alarm System

A fire alarm system detects and alerts people when smoking or fire is presented. The devices
include smoke detectors, heat detectors, strobes, manual fire alarm station, fire alarm control panel,
etc. They are commonly found in day care centers, restaurants, high-rise buildings and catering halls.
 22

A fire alarm system is designed to detect and alert people to the presence of smoke, fire, and
poisonous gas. These devices include smoke, heat, and gas detectors, manual pull stations, and strobes
connected to a fire alarm control. These systems are commonly found in daycare centers, restaurants,
commercial buildings, and catering halls A working fire alarm system provides early warning
notification of fire/smoke conditions to the building occupants in addition to the appropriate
authorities notified by the monitoring company.

2.3. Fire Triangle

For many years, the fire triangle has served as a teaching tool to geometrically depict the
relationship between fuel, air (oxygen), and heat (energy). Each is necessary for combustion, as
illustrated by the triangle in which each side represents one component Figure 2.1. In order for fire to
exist, all three must be presented in sufficient quantities. When the three elements are combined in
sufficient quantities, the heat source, oxygen, and fuel chemically react to cause a discernible release
of energy at a rate that correlates to the quantity of fuel available to sustain the fire. The reduction or
elimination of any one of the three elements will result in extinguishment of the fire. In addition,
changing the proportions of the three elements determines whether the fire will smolder, burn slowly,
or burn rapidly. The fire triangle demonstrates that extinguishing a fire is possible by several different
methods. For example, applying sufficient amounts of water to fire will reduce heat, shutting down a
natural gas line will remove fuel, or flooding an area with carbon dioxide gas will reduce the amount
of oxygen available to sustain a fire. For a number of years, the fire triangle provided a simplified and
understandable model of the fire process. However, continued research led to a more sophisticated
and accurate model of the fire process called the "fire tetrahedron."

There are a few purposes of the operation of fire protection system. The fundamental
purposes of fire protection systems whether active or passive are

 To prevent the passage and spread of smoke and fire, from one area of the building
to another.
 To allow for the safe escape of the building occupants.
 To prevent or to reduce the amount of damage to the building structure, neighboring
structures.
 To reduce the risk of collapse for the emergency services. The following is the
typical "fire triangle", which illustrates the relationship between these three
components:

Figure 2.1. Fire Triangle

 23

There are two important factors to remember in preventing and extinguishing a fire: if any of
the three components are missing, then a fire cannot start and if any of the three components are
removed, then the fire will go out. It is important to have a clear understanding of these components
and their inter-reactions in a fire. The following paragraphs examine each of these items in further
detail.