Fire detection and fire alarm systems: standards today and tomorrow

A fire rarely breaks out unexpectedly. There are often warning signals that — if picked up in time — can limit or even prevent damage. Fire detection and fire alarm systems play a crucial role in this. But how do you ensure that these systems work optimally? There are standards that provide clear guidelines for design, installation, maintenance and inspection. In this article you can read what these standards mean today and what you can expect in the coming years.

In August 2021, the current standard NBN S 21-100-1:2021 Fire detection and fire alarm systems - Part 1: Rules for risk analysis and evaluation of needs, study and design, installation, commissioning, inspection, use, inspection and maintenance was published . What does the current standard NBN S 21-100-1 say?

The NBN S 21-100-1 standard describes how a fire detection system must be designed, installed, monitored and maintained. It applies to almost all buildings with a fixed fire detection system, both in the public and private sectors.

Key elements of the standard include:

• determining risk areas and the required detection rate;
• the correct choice and placement of detectors (such as smoke, heat or flame detectors);
• the technical performance that the installation must meet;
• the management and maintenance of the system throughout its life cycle.

The current version, published in 2021, has become the reference for fire detection in Belgium. But it doesn't stop there: a revised version will be released in 2025.

What will change in 2025?

The NBN S 21-100-1 standard will be revised in the summer of 2025. The update responds to technological developments and insights from practice. For example, more attention is paid to integration with digital building management systems and clarification of requirements regarding system configurations.

But NBN S 21-100-1 is not alone. There are also standards coming up or being revised for related domains:

For fire detection:

• NBN S 21-100-2 : focuses on qualifications and competences of persons involved in the installation and maintenance of detection systems (revision planning still to be determined).

For fire alarm systems (formerly known as NBN S 21-111):

• NBN S 21-112-1 : deals with the selection of fire alarm systems according to the risk and use of the building.
• NBN S 21-112-2 : provides installation instructions.
• NBN S 21-112-3 : concerns competences and training requirements.
• NBN S 21-112-4 : focuses on voice alarm systems (revision planned, date not yet set).

These standards are mutually complementary and together form a broad framework that approaches fire safety in a structured manner.

Why are standards important?

Fire safety is not a matter of isolated choices or well-intentioned interventions. It requires a systematic approach. The application of standards:

• increases the reliability of your systems;
• avoids discussions about responsibilities in the event of incidents;
• often forms the basis for insurance conditions and legal obligations ;
• increases the confidence of customers, residents, users and inspection services.

In short: standards help to not only promise fire safety, but also make it tangible.

Look ahead, stay informed

In a domain that is constantly evolving, staying up-to-date is essential. Expect new publications, practical explanations and training in the coming months. Both at NBN and via partners such as Agoria and Fireforum you will find information and support on how to apply the standards correctly.

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