(New measures are called upon by the Institute of Housing to stop security measures being a hazard during house fires…)
"The Institute of Housing has called for new measures to prevent needless deaths from fires where security features installed in homes delayed the fire brigade's entry. A report in the Institute's monthly magazine highlighted the dangers posed particularly by security doors.
"In some cases the security measures were installed by the householder and some were put in by local authorities. Among the measures the Institute of Housing would like to see implemented are: Local authorities, insurance companies, manufacturers and installers should ensure that security equipment is approved by the fire brigade before it is fitted in people's homes. The Institute is also of the opinion that it should be mandatory that installers consult with fire authorities before fitting 'substantial' security devices."
One big happy family
(The Kitson College of Technology in Leeds reports a first with two sets of fathers and sons enrolling on the same training course..)
"We are pleased to report that our College would appear to have a First in connection with the 185/1 City & Guilds Alarms Course.
"At the start of the register we have father and son and end it also with father and son. This is the first time that Kitson College has had two sets of father and sons enrolled on the same course and it must be an all time first for the Alarm Industry."
Room for improvement
(A reader comments that the IAAI is a 'must have' association for smaller installers but the standard of inspection must improve…) "The way is open to smaller installers to begin to climb the tree, but IAAI must vet more than they do, insist on more stringent requirements, stick to their own rules and expel members if necessary.
"The standard of inspection of records and installation must also be improved, instrument readings must be taken and inspectors should have the knowledge to do this. It is not good enough to assume it has been done, the installation of cables, terminations and fixings must also be examined to see if they comply with the British Standard and the IEE regulations. The standard of work in general is appalling within the alarm industry, large and small companies sprouting logos and adding daily, poorly wired and installed systems to the mess which exists.
"To the newcomer the association is a must, but it will always have its limits by its very nature."
Rules of engagement
(The NSCIA replies to a reader who complained about its 'time consuming and expensive enrolment procedures'…)
"It is not necessary to employ a specially qualified person to produce the documentation for enrolment in the NSCIA. It was recognised some years ago that BS 4737 told installers what was required, but did not tell them how to do it. Consequently, the NSCIA asked applicant companies to produce their own practical guide for their engineers.
"We have always offered guidance to companies on producing their Code of Practice and most applicants appreciate the value of producing their own. They have often commented that putting their practices down in writing has benefited both management and staff.
"The requirement now is for a Company Operating Procedures Manual particular to that company and covers such items as the documentation controls, false alarm management, tools, training etc."
Source
Security Installer
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