What is the correct mounting height for a manual call point (MCP)?

MCPs should be fixed at a height of 1.4 m above the floor level.

What is the minimum audible sound level for a fire alarm?

A minimum of 65 dB(A), or 5 dB(A) above any background noise likely to persist for more than 30 seconds, whichever is greater.

What is the maximum allowed floor area for a single fire alarm zone?

The floor area of a single zone should not exceed 2000 square meters.

How far should a detector be placed from a wall?

Detectors should be placed at a minimum distance of 500 mm from any wall or partition.

IS 2189

: 2006

Code of practice for selection, installation and maintenance of automatic fire detection and alarm system

CurrentEssentialCode of PracticeBIMFire Safety · Building Planning and Design

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This code establishes the requirements for the planning, design, selection, installation, and maintenance of automatic fire detection and alarm systems in buildings. It provides comprehensive guidelines on detector spacing, zoning, alarm sound levels, and power supply to ensure reliable early warning in the event of a fire.

Provides guidelines for the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of automatic fire detection and alarm systems.

Quick Reference Values

minimum sound level of alarm65 dB(A) or 5 dB(A) above background noise, whichever is greater

maximum sound level of alarm120 dB(A)

mounting height of manual call point1.4 m above floor level

maximum travel distance to manual call point30 m

maximum floor area per zone2000 sq.m

minimum distance of detector from wall500 mm

minimum distance of detector from air supply grille1 m

Practical Notes

Never mount smoke detectors directly next to HVAC supply vents; the airflow can blow smoke away from the detector, preventing activation.

Cables for fire alarm systems must be segregated from other electrical power cables to prevent electromagnetic interference and ensure system survivability during a fire.

Regular maintenance is critical; many systems fail during emergencies due to lack of periodic testing and cleaning of detector heads.