{"id":1386,"date":"2017-07-13T06:05:00","date_gmt":"2017-07-13T06:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sageenergy.stackedsite.com\/?p=1386"},"modified":"2020-07-16T12:19:13","modified_gmt":"2020-07-16T12:19:13","slug":"smoke-alarm-legislation-information","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sageenergy.com.au\/2017\/07\/13\/smoke-alarm-legislation-information\/","title":{"rendered":"Smoke Alarm Legislation and Information"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n\t\t<\/span> <\/span> \n\t\t<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As of 1 January 2017, the state government has released new legislation for smoke alarms. For those living in an existing home, you have a maximum of 10 years to get your Fire Prevention system up to the new standards. However, those looking to sell or lease out their properties, you will be required to adhere to the new legislation within a maximum of 5 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you sleep, your sense of smell also sleeps. If a fire starts, toxic fumes can overcome you. Photoelectric smoke alarms see smoke and will alert you early, so you can escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With interconnected alarms, you will be alerted no matter where you are, or where the fire starts. To give your family the best chance of surviving a house fire, QFES recommends updating your smoke alarms to match the new legislation as soon as you can. In the meantime, make sure all your alarms are working and properly maintained. A well-practised fire escape plan will also ensure a quick escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Photoelectric smoke alarms, also known as optical or photo-optical, detect visible particles of combustion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They respond to a wide range of fires, but are particularly responsive to smouldering fires and the dense smoke given off by foam-filled furnishings or overheated PVC wiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Advantages<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Your protection against fire increases with the quality and type of smoke alarm that is installed. Research indicates that photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more effective across a wider range of fires experienced in homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A hardwired smoke alarm is connected to a home\u2019s 240v mains power supply and has a battery back-up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If cooking smoke sets off the alarm, do not disable it. Turn on the range fan, open a window or wave a towel near the alarm until the alarm stops beeping; or use the hush button (if fitted). Consider relocating the smoke alarm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once a month check by pressing the test button. If you cannot reach the button easily, use a broom handle. Replace the backup battery on 240v alarms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most alarms emit a short \u2018BEEP\u2019 sound when the batteries are low. This is your reminder to replace the battery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Smoke alarms must never be painted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All types of smoke alarms have a limited life-span (10 years under normal conditions of use). They should be replaced prior to the expiry date on the manufacturer\u2019s warranty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For smoke alarms with 10-year batteries that are non-removable, the entire smoke alarm must be replaced after 10 years. Small numbers of smoke alarms can be safely disposed of in household rubbish. Contact your local council for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Specialty alarms are also available, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Where practicable smoke alarms must be placed on the ceiling. Smoke alarms must not be placed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are special requirements for stairways, sloping ceilings, and ceilings with exposed beams. Specific requirements will be explained in the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
New legislation specifies the type, positioning, and interconnectedness of alarms, which are critical factors for an early warning and quick escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAbout Photoelectric Alarms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How do I keep my Smoke Alarm working?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dust and debris can interfere with alarm functioning, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen do I replace my Smoke Alarms?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
All smoke alarms should be date stamped at the time it was manufactured – usually on the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLocations for installing Smoke Alarms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n