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Fire Indicator Panels (FIPs)

Fire Indicator Panels (FIPs) in NSW incorporate modular designs and interface with multiple external systems to coordinate fire safety responses. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

FIP Module Configuration​

  1. Modular Design:
    The F3200 Fire Indicator Panel uses up to 8 internal modules, with each module supporting either:

    • 8-Zone Input Module: Monitors fire detection zones (e.g., smoke detectors, heat sensors).
    • 8-Relay Output Module: Controls external systems like alarms, door releases, or HVAC shutdowns.
      This allows a total capacity of 64 detection zones per FIP.

  2. Key Components:

    • Firefighter Facility: Includes a 2-line LCD display for zone-specific alarm messages (compliant with AS 4428.1).
    • Network Compatibility: Supports mimic panels, nurse station annunciators, and graphics terminals for centralized monitoring.

External Systems Communication​

FIPs interface with the following external boards and systems:

System/BoardFunctionStandard/Interface
Alarm Signalling Equipment (ASE)Transmits alarms to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) via dual SIM arrangements.AS1670.1 (mandatory for brigade callout).
Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS/OWS)Broadcasts evacuation alerts and enables warden communication via WIP phones.AS1670, AS1851.6-8.
Fire Management System - FMSMonitors Fire Sprinkler System; Monitors and control valves and pumps; Monitors and control Mechanical Systems.IP network connection.
Manual Call Points (MCP)Each MCP is wired as a unique alarm zone for precise identification.AS1670.1 (individual zone labeling).
Mass Notification System (MNS)Used in large campuses for coordinated alerts.Addressable network protocols.

Additional Notes​

  • REMTEC: REMTEC is a service provide, refers to remote telecommunication interfaces used for fire brigade monitoring. In NSW, ASEs handle this function, often via IP networks or PABX systems.
  • Compliance: All installations must adhere to AS1670 (detection and control) and AS1851.6-8 (maintenance).
  • Testing: Monthly system checks and bi-annual detector testing are required.

Monthly system checks and bi-annual detector testing for fire systems in NSW are required under Australian Standard AS 1851-2012, which is now legally enforceable under NSW fire safety regulations.

Breakdown of Requirements​

  1. Monthly Checks:

    • Mandated by AS 1851-2012 Section 6 for fire indicator panels (FIPs), including functional tests of alarms, battery backups, and brigade callout systems.
    • Includes visual inspections of detectors and manual call points.

  2. Bi-Annual (6-Monthly) Testing:

    • Covers detector sensitivity testing for smoke/heat alarms and full system interface checks (e.g., HVAC shutdowns, door releases).
    • Required under AS 1851-2012 but does not require formal certification.

  3. Legal Basis:

    • AS 1851-2012 became directly enforceable in NSW in February 2025 under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021.
    • Non-compliance risks fines up to $5,500 for building owners under NSW strata laws.

Relationship to Other Frameworks​

  • NCC: References AS 1851 for compliance but does not independently specify testing intervals.
  • NSW Fire Brigade (FRNSW): Conducts audits of maintenance records but defers to AS 1851 for technical requirements.

For clarity:

  • AS 1851-2012 = Source of testing frequencies.
  • NSW legislation = Legal enforcement mechanism.
  • NCC = Performance standard referencing AS 1851.

Last updated: 2025-05-14