What is BS EN 50244 - Electrical apparatus for detection of combustible gases about?
BS EN 50244 is a European standard is intended to be a guide for people who, in the course of their professional activities, are required to install combustible gas detectors in domestic premises. It is also aimed at anyone who might supply such gas detectors to members of the public for subsequent installation by competent persons according to national regulations, so that advice may be given based on good engineering practice.
BS EN 50244 provides information on the selection, installation, use and maintenance of apparatus for the detection of combustible gas designed for continuous operation in a fixed installation in domestic premises as described in the EN 50194 series.
BS EN 50244 refers to the installation of two types of apparatus designed to operate in the event of an escape of town gas, natural gas, or liquefied petroleum gas
- Type A apparatus - to provide a visual and audible alarm and an executive action in the form of an output signal that may actuate directly or indirectly a shut-off device
- Type B apparatus - to provide visual and audible alarm only
Who is BS EN 50244- Electrical apparatus for detection of combustible gases for?
BS EN 50244 on guide on the selection for electrical apparatus is relevant to:
- Manufacturers of electrical apparatus used for gas detection
- Manufacturers and suppliers of gas detection alarm and warning devices
- Manufacturers of safety and hazard protection equipment
- Product designers
- Fire safety department
Why should you use BS EN 50244 - Electrical apparatus for detection of combustible gases?
The performance and characteristics of electrical apparatus are crucial to the functioning of alarms and indicators.
BS EN 50244 provides best industry guidance on sensing of combustible gas, types of apparatus, safe and appropriate installation and gas release measures.
A list of instructions for manufacturers regarding location, power supply, indicator, alarms and maintenance are also covered in BS EN 50244.
If you are a manufacturer, complying with BS EN 50244 can reduce the risk of leakages due arising from poor detection capabilities, thus preventing explosion hazard of combustible gases in domestic premises. Overall, BS EN 50244 can demonstrate the safety, reliability and performance of electric apparatus used for detection of combustible gases.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 50244:2016 supersedes EN 50244:2000. The following significant technical changes with respect to EN 50244:2000 (various minor changes have also been made):
- General information was added to cover domestic premises, boats, and caravans. This is a result of the splitting of EN 50194 into EN 50194-1 and EN 50194-2
- In Clause 4 text has been added regarding alarm setpoints for apparatus complying with EN 50194-1
- A new Clause 5 has been created to provide further information to the user concerning the differences between Type A and Type B devices
- Former Clause 5 has been renumbered Clause 6, the text has been reformulated to avoid repetition and make it is easier to understand