The British Approvals Service for Cables is issuing a note of caution around the introduction of the new standard dealing with data and communication cables covering automation in the home:
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| Dr Jeremy Hodge, CEOI of BASEC. |
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The standard
EN 50173-4: 2007 - recently introduced to deal with communication cables for homes - suggests that some safety-critical functions like fire alarm systems might be operated through such systems. Already, many commercial security systems are digital and operate via data cables.
However, where there are safety-related issues, then BASEC is emphasising that any cabling system would still have to comply with these other requirements.
Dr Jeremy Hodge, Chief Executive of BASEC, said: "Although technologically these building automation systems can provide a much better overall performance, it is not as simple as replacing fire rated fire alarm cable with Cat 5 cable.
"This standard has been introduced to cover the arrangement of data and control cables necessary to pass information around for home automation, but we should not forget that integrity of a system like a fire alarm will still be paramount.
Building regulations & fire safety take priority:
"A particular area of concern would be blocks of flats and other multiple-use buildings, where the potential for installing shared communications, automation and media services is high. However, building regulations and fire safety legislation still take priority in these regulated premises and fire safety systems need to be robust so that they cannot be defeated by faults in other systems."
Related applications intended to go through new data communications systems include security systems, building services control and lighting control. Systems will still need to comply with the Wiring Regulations if they are ultimately switching hazardous mains voltages.
Dr Hodge added: "On the positive side, there are new types of cable being developed that provide the building automation functions while still meeting safety requirements."
By detailed examination of manufacturers' production processes and controls and rigorous testing, BASEC ensures that cable products meet appropriate national, European and international standards.
The BASEC schemes are designed to assess an organisation's ability to produce goods and services consistently to specification and customer requirements, in a safe manner and with due regard to environmental needs.
More about BASEC:
BASEC, a Voltimum UK Partner, is the recognised leader in product certification services for electrical cables, data/signal cables and ancillary products. Through its teams of highly skilled engineers and auditors, who possess extensive in-depth commercial and industrial experience, BASEC has a reputation for professional and rigorous assessment processes which ultimately lead to the issuing of the organisation's highly respected certification.
In addition, BASEC offers auditing for Process Capability in cable making, Certificates of Assessed Design for innovative cable products and independent testing and reporting in the event of disputes.
The picture shows Dr Jeremy Hodge, Chief Executive of BASEC.
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Related contacts
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British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC)
23 Presley Way, Crownhill,
Milton Keynes MK8 0ES.
Tel: 01908 267300
Fax: 01908 267255
Email: mail@basec.org.uk
Web: www.basec.org.uk |
BASEC
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