What is BS EN 50131-2-2 - Passive infrared detectors for alarm systems about?
BS EN 50131 is a European standard on intrusion and hold-up alarm systems. The main objective of the BS EN 51031 series is to establish operationally efficient security and protection systems that minimize the risk and impact of hazardous events.
BS EN 50131-2-2 is one of the parts in the multi-series on passive infrared detectors installed in buildings and provides for security grades 1 to 4 specific or non-specific wired or wire-free detectors, and uses environmental classes I to IV.
Functions additional to the mandatory functions specified in this BS EN 50131-2-2 may be included in the detector, providing they do not influence the correct operation of the mandatory functions.
Note: BS EN 50131-2-2 does not apply to system interconnections.
Who is BS EN 50131-2-2-Passive infrared detectors for alarm systems for?
BS EN 50131-2-2 on passive infrared detectors is relevant to:
- Manufacturers of alarm systems
- Manufacturers of intrusion and hold-up systems
- Alarm receiving centres (ARC)
- Alarm receiving centres (ARC)
- Product designers and engineers
- Installers
- Police
- Insurers
Why should you use BS EN 50131-2-2-Passive infrared detectors for alarm systems?
The purpose of a detector is to detect the broad-spectrum infrared radiation emitted by an intruder and to provide the necessary range of signals or messages to be used by the rest of the intrusion alarm system.
BS EN 50131-2-2 deals with passive infrared detectors used as part of intrusion alarm systems installed in buildings. It includes four security grades and four environmental classes. The number and scope of these signals or messages will be more comprehensive for systems that are specified at the higher grades. It is essential that a detector fulfils all the requirements of the specified grade.
BS EN 50131-2-2 provides functional, operational and electrical requirements and guidance on tamper security and immunity to incorrect operation. Tamper security requirements for each grade of detector is also covered.
BS EN 50131-2-2 also walks you through the basic detection test and the walk test method that verifies the qualitative performance of a detector.
Compliance with BS EN 50131-2-2 is beneficial as it can help you maintain the operational efficiency of intrusion detectors. As a result, risks arising from false and delayed alarms and resulting unauthorized access can be avoided with enhanced detection capabilities.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 50131-2-2:2017 supersedes EN 50131-2-2:2008 and EN 50131-2-2:2008/IS1:2014. The following significant technical changes with respect to EN 50131-2-2:2008 and EN 50131-2-2:2008/IS1:2014:
- Editorial changes and refinement of wording
- Clarification to a significant reduction of range requirements
- Clarification of the electrical requirements section and certain environmental conditions
- Improvement of the requirements of the supplied documentation
- Improvement of the standard conditions for testing

