The 4 Grades of Intruder Alarms
An intruder alarm system is a security system that is designed to detect unauthorised entry into a building or area. It typically consists of a series of sensors that are placed around the perimeter of the area to be protected, and a control panel that is used to monitor and manage the system. When one of the sensors is triggered, it sends a signal to the control panel, which can then initiate a response, such as sounding an alarm or alerting the authorities. Some intruder alarm systems also have additional features, such as the ability to send notifications to a designated phone number or email address, or to trigger a camera to record video footage of the event.
Grades
A Grade 1 intruder alarm is the most basic type of intruder alarm system. It is designed for use in residential and small commercial premises and is intended to alert the occupants of the premises in the event of an intrusion.
Grade 1 intruder alarms typically have a single signalling path to the alarm receiving centre (ARC) and are required to meet certain performance standards in order to be compliant with industry guidelines. They may include basic features such as door and window sensors, movement detectors, and sirens, and may also have the ability to be remotely armed and disarmed. Grade 1 intruder alarms are generally considered suitable for low-risk premises, such as homes and small businesses, where the risk of intrusion is relatively low.
Grade 2 intruder alarms are similar to Grade 1 systems but are more sophisticated and are designed for use in larger, more complex premises such as factories and warehouses. These systems have multiple signalling paths to the alarm receiving centre (ARC) and are required to meet more stringent performance standards than Grade 1 systems.
Grade 2 intruder alarms may have additional features such as remote access, fault reporting, and self-monitoring capabilities, and are typically more flexible and scalable than Grade 1 systems. Grade 2 intruder alarms are generally considered suitable for medium-risk premises, where the risk of intrusion is higher than in low-risk environments but not as high as in high-risk environments.
Grade 3 intruder alarms are the most advanced type of intruder alarm system. They are designed for use in high-risk premises such as banks, jewellery stores, and other high-value assets, and are required to meet the most stringent performance standards of all the grades.
Grade 3 intruder alarms typically have multiple signalling paths to the alarm receiving centre (ARC) and may have additional features such as remote access, fault reporting, and self-monitoring capabilities. They may also include a wide range of sensors and devices, such as smoke detectors and temperature sensors, to provide a comprehensive level of protection.
In addition to detecting and deterring intrusions, Grade 3 intruder alarms may also be used to monitor other critical systems and functions within the premises, such as fire protection, temperature control, and power systems. They are typically highly customisable and can be tailored to the specific needs of the premises they are protecting.
Grade 3 intruder alarms are generally considered suitable for high-risk premises, where the risk of intrusion is high, and the consequences of an intrusion could be severe. They are often used in conjunction with other security measures such as CCTV and access control systems to provide a comprehensive security solution.
A Grade 4 is for very high-risk properties. Intruders could be expected to plan a burglary and have the knowledge and equipment to alter parts of the intruder alarm system to prevent detection. It is assumed that the intruder could gain access by penetration of floors, walls and ceilings. The intruder is unlikely to be working alone.
There are currently not many devices that are manufactured to Grade 4 specification so it is normal to find a grade 3 system with grade 4 level Monitoring.
The Standards EN50131 Vs. PD662
EN 50131 is a European standard that specifies the requirements for intruder alarm systems (IAS) used in residential, commercial, and industrial premises. The standard covers the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of IAS, and is intended to ensure that these systems are reliable and effective in detecting and deterring intrusions.
The standard is divided into five grades, with Grade 1 being the most basic and Grade 5 being the most advanced. Each grade has specific requirements for the performance and reliability of the IAS, as well as the level of risk that it is designed to protect against.
EN 50131 is widely recognized as the benchmark for the design and installation of intruder alarm systems in Europe and is often used as a reference by insurance companies when determining coverage for alarm systems.
PD 662 is a British standard titled “Code of Practice for the Design, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance of Intruder Alarm Systems.” It is published by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and provides guidance on the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of intruder alarm systems (IAS) in residential, commercial, and industrial premises.
PD 662 is based on the European standard EN 50131, which specifies the requirements for IAS. However, PD 662 provides additional guidance and recommendations specific to the UK market and is intended to help ensure that IAS are installed and maintained to a high standard in order to provide reliable protection against intrusions.
The standard covers a wide range of topics related to IAS, including system design, installation practices, commissioning procedures, maintenance schedules, and testing procedures. It is widely recognized as the benchmark for the installation and maintenance of IAS in the UK.