A smoke detection and alarm system is required in buildings described in Specification E2.2a of the National Construction Code ("NCC"). This Specification describes the installation and operation of automatic smoke detection and alarm systems. The types of smoke detection and alarm systems generally falls into one of three categories;
- a smoke alarm system with smoke alarms (mains powered) complying with Australian Standard AS 3786; or
- a smoke detection system complying with Australian Standard AS 1670.1 that operates the building occupant warning system; or
- a combination of a smoke alarm system and a smoke detection system.
In certain circumstances, a cool room in a building fitted with with either a smoke alarm system or a smoke detection system may require the installation of one or more fire detectors subject to its size (floor area).