Heat alarm
The Technical Handbook – Domestic, published by Scottish Ministers to provide guidance on the Scottish Building Standards suggests there are 4 main types of fire detector used in dwellings:
- Optical smoke alarms.
- Ionisation smoke alarms.
- Multi sensor alarms.
- Heat alarms.
It is important that the right type of detector is used for different situations, as false alarms can result in occupants disabling fire detection and fire alarm systems.
The most common causes of false alarms are:
Heat alarms have fixed-temperature elements and respond to the temperature of the fire gases in the immediate vicinity of the heat alarm. They are used where ambient temperatures are likely to fluctuate rapidly over a short period, such as in kitchens, and are less likely to produce false alarms. Elsewhere, heat alarms should not be used instead of smoke alarms to reduce unwanted false alarms.
The Scottish Building Standards require that at least 1 heat alarm is installed in every kitchen.
Heat alarms should conform to BS 5446: Part 2: 2003 Fire detection and fire alarm devices for dwellings. Specification for heat alarms.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Carbon monoxide.
- Carbon monoxide detector.
- Fire and rescue service.
- Fire dampers.
- Fire detection and alarm system.
- Fire detector.
- Fire.
- Intruder alarm.
- Ionisation smoke alarms.
- Multi-sensor alarm.
- New requirements for fire detection and alarm network systems IP 12 13.
- Optical smoke alarm.
- Over £1 billion lost every year due to false alarms.
- Smoke detector.
- The causes of false fire alarms in buildings.
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.