ISO 7240-2:2017

Overview

ISO 7240-2:2017 - Fire detection and alarm systems: Fire detection control and indicating equipment (FDCIE) specifies requirements, test methods and performance criteria for fire detection control and indicating equipment used in fire detection and fire alarm systems installed in buildings. The standard defines how FDCIE must receive and process fire and fault signals, indicate alarm and fault conditions (visual and audible), and perform under defined environmental and electrical tests. Note: FDCIE with special characteristics for specific risks are not covered; other types are covered only for guidance.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Functional conditions: Requirements for quiescent, fire alarm, fault, disabled, test and supervisory conditions - how signals are received, processed and indicated.
• Indications: Visual (LEDs, alphanumeric displays) and audible indication requirements, accessibility and permanent visibility of status information.
• Outputs & interfaces: Standardized I/O interface (optional), outputs for alarm routing, fire protection control and evacuation signals, and optional functions such as delays, alarm counters and dependencies.
• Power & reliability: Power supply requirements, monitoring of total loss conditions and fault outputs.
• Software & data integrity: Program monitoring, storage and memory monitoring to ensure reliable operation of embedded software.
• Mechanical & transmission integrity: Physical construction and integrity of wiring/transmission paths.
• Testing and performance: Defined test methods including functional tests and environmental tests (cold, damp heat, impact, vibration), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) immunity tests, and supply-voltage variation tests.

Applications and practical value

• Product design & manufacturing: Use ISO 7240-2 when designing and type-testing FDCIE to meet recognized performance and safety benchmarks.
• System design & specification: Architects, fire engineers and consultants reference the standard to specify compliant control panels and indication devices for building fire alarm systems.
• Installation, commissioning & maintenance: Installers and maintenance teams use the standard to verify correct indication, fault handling, power backup and software integrity during commissioning and routine testing.
• Testing & certification: Independent testing laboratories apply the standard’s test methods and environmental procedures for product certification and conformity assessment.
• Procurement & compliance: Facility managers and authorities use ISO 7240-2 as a technical reference when procuring FDCIE or assessing system suitability for buildings.

Who would use this standard

• Manufacturers of fire alarm control panels and indicating equipment
• Fire system designers and consultants
• Installation contractors and commissioning engineers
• Testing laboratories and certification bodies
• Building owners, facility managers and safety regulators

Related standards

• ISO 7240 series (other parts covering detectors, alarm devices and system design) - ISO 7240-2 complements these parts by focusing specifically on control and indicating equipment.