Johnson Controls says its new FireClass FC-EAS Evacuation Alert System is designed to provide fire and rescue service personnel with a simple, intuitive way to initiate an evacuation alert signal within high-rise structures.
The company says the system will help residential high-rise buildings in the UK comply with the recently mandated BS8629:2019 code of practice requiring the use of sounders or similar devices to alert residents and other occupants of an emergency, and help guide them to safety.
“When it comes to fire safety, swift and controlled evacuation is paramount,” said Tony Gryscavage, director, Product Management, Fire Detection Products, Johnson Controls. “Recent events in London have highlighted the critical need to re-evaluate evacuation protocols within densely populated buildings.” Johnson Controls points out that there are 80,000 high-rise buildings currently located in London alone, and many more planned for construction in the UK.
The FC-EAS (Evacuation Alert System) is designed to guide safe, controlled evacuation using an easy-to-operate, zoned communication system. Individual toggle switches allow the operator to systematically activate and cancel the sounders to each floor. The indicators also confirm to that the sounders on each floor are working properly. As evacuation is initiated, LED identifiers located on the exterior of the panel indicate the status and availability of power within each zone.
The FireClass FC-EAS Evacuation Alert System features a two- to four-loop power system that can support up to 16 building zones, and is extendable by networking with the FC-EAS-BB Evacuation Alert System Black Box panel or additional FC-EAS Evacuation Alert System panels. Panel access is protected via a unique key to ensure that operation is restricted only to first responders. A simple user interface provides quick and intuitive operation during critical moments. Safety and performance are further enhanced with the support of EN 54-24 certified speakers, sounders, and power supply equipment.
The evacuation alert system operates independently from the fire detection system – allowing installation alongside new or existing fire detection systems within both new-build and retrofit projects.