Performance Parameters of Fire Detection Systems.
Performance Parameters of Fire Detection Systems.
(574 K)
Smith, R. L.
NISTIR 5439; 14 p. June 1994.
Fire Technology, Vol. 30, No. 3, 326-337, Third Quarter
1994.
Available from:
National Technical Information Service
Order number: PB94-194339
Keywords:
fire detection systems; fire research; probability
Abstract:
This report is a formal, functional analysis of fire
detection systems' requirements. The performance
parameters of fire detection systems are given as
conditional probabilities. These parameters are
identified by the objective analysis of the functions of
a fire detection system. It is demonstrated that using
the false alarm rate to specify the malfunctioning of a
threshold detection system is inadequate. The principal
function of fire detection systems is identified as the
notification of anti-fire agents of the probability of
an unwanted fire. The evaluation of the information
provided by a detector system is central to its worth.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899