Where should the Fire Alarm Control Panel (CIE) be located?

In an area of low fire risk, preferably on the ground floor or main entry level, readily accessible to emergency responders. (Clause 6.2)

What is the requirement for the backup power supply?

A secondary power supply (batteries) must be able to operate the system in standby mode for 24 hours, and then for at least 30 minutes in full alarm condition. (Clause 7.4.2)

What is the minimum recommended size for cables used in fire alarm systems?

The minimum cross-sectional area for any conductor in a cable should not be less than 1.5 sq mm. (Clause 8.4)

How often should the CIE and its batteries be tested?

Daily checks for fault indicators, weekly tests for zone functionality, and yearly checks for battery capacity and overall system performance are recommended. (Clause 10)

IS 15908

: 2011

Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Control and Indicating Equipment for Fire Detection and Alarm System Code of Practice

CurrentEssentialCode of PracticeBIMFire Safety · Fire Fighting

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This standard provides a code of practice for the selection, installation, and maintenance of Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE), which is the central panel of a fire detection and alarm system. It outlines requirements for the panel's location, power supplies, cabling, and routine maintenance to ensure system integrity and reliability.

Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Control and Indicating Equipment for Fire Detection and Alarm System Code of Practice

Quick Reference Values

Secondary power supply standby duration24 hours

Secondary power supply alarm duration (after standby)30 minutes

Maximum time to indicate a circuit fault100 seconds

Maximum time to indicate a power supply fault300 seconds

Minimum cable conductor cross-sectional area1.5 sq mm

Practical Notes

The CIE must be installed in an area with low fire risk, easily accessible to authorized personnel and fire services, but secured from public interference.

Strictly follow cable segregation requirements in Clause 8 to prevent electromagnetic interference from power cables, which can cause false alarms or system malfunction.

Battery health is critical. Regularly check battery terminals for corrosion and perform discharge tests as per the maintenance schedule in Clause 10, as battery failure is a primary cause of system non-performance during a power outage.