The selection & testing of cables & junction boxes for fire-alarm & safety systems

Although it could be a reasonably logical requirement, there is no existing single standard which covers the selection and testing under fire conditions, of the electrical apparatus which might be utilized in a fire alarm, emergency lighting or other similar system. Here, the author describes how the IEE regulations (BS7671) whilst recognizing the validity of BS476 as a test standard for intumescent protection pillows, seals etc., still does not, unfortunately, relate, as well as it might, with the fire standard BS5839 and, it may be argued, could provide better guidance if sections 526 and 527 were amplified to suggest BS476 as a system test standard for every component in a fire alarm or emergency lighting system