Fire Detection Systems | Fire Alarm Systems

Reflex systems supply, install and support best of breed fire detection systems from leading industry manufacturers which comply with legal requirements, provide enhanced functionality and integration with other security and safety management systems where required.

The safety of your people and property relies on the earliest possible warning of a fire. A robust fire detection system is the cornerstone of any fire safety strategy, designed to detect smoke or heat and alert occupants before a situation becomes critical.
At Reflex Systems, we supply, install and support fire detection systems from leading industry manufacturers. We understand that compliance is not optional. As a BAFE-accredited company, we provide qualified design and installation services to ensure that standards are met and your organisation’s legal responsibilities for providing a safe environment are fulfilled.

Comprehensive Fire Detection Solutions

Every building has unique risks. Whether you manage a small commercial office or a large industrial complex, the “best” system is one that is specifically designed for your environment. At Reflex Systems, we offer a choice of quality options from recognised leading manufacturers, including Advanced, EMS, Morley, Hochiki, and Fireclass.

Conventional Fire Alarm Systems

For smaller applications such as retail units, small offices and industrial units, conventional fire alarm systems offer a simple, cost-effective solution. In these systems, the building is divided into zones. When a detector is triggered, the control panel identifies the specific zone containing the fire, allowing the fire brigade or responsible person to locate the incident.

Addressable Fire Alarm Systems

For larger, more complex environments such as hospitals, educational campuses and leisure venues, we install fully networked, addressable systems. Unlike conventional systems, addressable fire alarm systems provide a specific “address” for every single device connected to the control panel. This allows you to pinpoint the exact location of a fire (down to the specific room), saving valuable time when emergency services respond.

Key Components of a Fire Alarm System

A complete fire detection system comprises various components that work together to detect fire and alert occupants.

Automatic Fire Detectors

Automatic detection is vital for identifying a fire in its early stages, particularly in unoccupied areas or sleeping risks.

Smoke Detectors: These are the most common form of automatic detection. We use advanced photoelectric detectors and optical sensors to detect smoke particles quickly. They are essential for escape routes and areas where smouldering fires might occur.
Heat Detectors: In environments where smoke detectors might cause false alarms (such as kitchens or dusty industrial areas), heat detectors are used to trigger an alarm when the temperature rises above a certain point or increases rapidly.

Manual Call Points

While automatic systems are crucial, human intervention remains a key part of fire safety. Manual call points allow staff or visitors to raise the alarm immediately upon spotting a fire. These break-glass units are strategically placed along escape routes and near exits to ensure the alarm can be activated quickly during an evacuation.

Sounders and Visual Devices

Once a fire is detected, the alarm must be raised. We install a range of sounders and visual warning devices (such as strobes) to ensure that the alert is heard and seen by all occupants, ensuring a fast and safe evacuation.

Find out more

Installation, Maintenance and Compliance

Installing a fire detection system is not a job for a general handyman. It requires specialist knowledge to ensure compliance with British Standards (specifically BS 5839).

Professional Design, Installation and Commissioning

Our team provides professional design, installation and commissioning services. We ensure that detectors are sited correctly, sound levels are adequate, and the system is fully integrated with other safety management systems, such as access control or extinguishing systems, if required.

Regular Maintenance and Support

A fire alarm system must be maintained to remain effective. Dirt, dust and age can affect the performance of smoke detectors and sensors. Reflex Systems offers comprehensive maintenance packages to ensure your system is tested regularly and remains fully operational. Regular maintenance is a legal requirement and vital for reducing false alarms and ensuring the system works when you need it most.

Get in touch

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of fire detection systems?
Generally, there are four main categories:

Conventional Fire Alarm Systems: Zone-based detection for smaller premises.
Addressable Systems: Pinpoint accuracy for larger buildings.
Intelligent (Analogue Addressable) Systems: Sophisticated systems that can distinguish between a real fire and interference to reduce false alarms.
Wireless Systems: Ideal for listed buildings where cabling is difficult to install.

What is the British Standard for fire detection systems?
The code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises is BS 5839-1. Compliance with this standard is essential for meeting your legal obligations.

What is the best fire detection system?
There is no single “best” system; the most appropriate system depends entirely on your specific risk assessment and building layout. A risk assessment will identify your specific needs, for example, whether you need simple manual systems or complex automatic detection to protect high-value assets in computer rooms.