Tag: photoelectric smoke alarm

The rise in the cost of living across Australia, particularly in Queensland, is a growing concern for families. As electricity, fuel, food, and insurance premiums increase, disposable income is stretched thin. While financial strain is a clear consequence, a lesser-known issue is the impact on residential house fire safety. With many homeowners cutting costs, it’s essential to prioritize photoelectric fire detectors to ensure reliable protection against fire risks. Photoelectric fire detectors offer early detection, especially for smouldering fires, and provide peace of mind in a time when safety should never be compromised.

Photoelectric fire detectors and the cost of living crisis

As families tighten their budgets to meet basic needs, the temptation to cut corners on home maintenance and safety measures becomes more pronounced. One area where this compromise can have severe consequences is fire safety. Neglecting home fire safety, by not installing or maintaining interconnected photoelectric fire detectors, can significantly elevate the risk of house fires and leave a family exposed. Faulty appliances, aging electrical panels, outdated wiring and cheap electrical gadgets are other examples of potential fire hazards that may be overlooked in the quest to trim expenses.

Home Fire Safety And The Cost Of Living

In a recent article published in Queensland’s The Courier Mail newspaper, University of Wollongong fire expert Dr. Owen Price said the rising cost of living was likely affecting fire risk within homes, as many of the steps people could take to protect themselves required money. He highlighted how financial constraints were leading homeowners to overlook essential fire safety measures, such as updating outdated smoke alarms or maintaining electrical systems. As a result, the potential for preventable fires increases, putting individuals and families at greater risk. Dr. Price emphasized the importance of prioritizing fire safety, even in challenging financial times.

“A lot of people realise they are at risk, but they often don’t do anything about it and when cost of living comes in it’s often lowest on people’s priorities,” he said.

Cash strapped families also tended to live in cheaper, older housing, which was more vulnerable to fire, Dr Price said.

Older buildings with outdated fire prevention measures, such as a lack of interconnected photoelectric fire detectors, or inadequate escape routes, can pose a serious threat to residents. In such cases, the cost of living pressures directly translate into compromised safety. Many homeowners simply cannot afford to upgrade their smoke alarms, leaving them vulnerable to unnoticed hazards. Furthermore, older homes may lack modern fire-resistant materials, which can significantly increase the risk of fire spread.

The stress induced by financial strains can also lead to behavioural changes that impact fire safety. Individuals working multiple jobs or long hours may be more prone to fatigue, increasing the likelihood of negligence in daily tasks such as turning off stoves or unplugging electrical devices. Additionally, the inability to afford quality appliances and heating equipment may force individuals to resort to makeshift solutions, elevating the risk of electrical fires. With the right investments in fire safety, however, these risks can be minimized, ensuring peace of mind for families.

Install Interconnected Photoelectric Fire Detectors

To mitigate these risks, it is important for individuals facing cost-of-living pressures to prioritize fire safety. This includes installing and maintaining interconnected photoelectric fire detectors, performing regular checks of electrical systems, investing in quality appliances and avoiding cheap knock-offs, and staying vigilant about potential hazards. ZEN photoelectric fire detectors offer a 10-year long-life battery that never needs to be replaced, providing significant cost savings over conventional 9v battery-powered smoke alarms, which require new batteries to be purchased every year.

Additionally, when purchasing ZEN photoelectric fire detectors in a bundle pack (5/7/10-pack), customers receive a free remote control, further enhancing convenience and offering another cost-saving benefit by eliminating the need to buy separate testing devices. This combination of safety and savings makes ZEN smoke alarms a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners, without sacrificing protection.

Government run public awareness campaigns and community initiatives can further emphasize the importance of fire safety in the face of financial challenges, ensuring that individuals and families can navigate these pressures without compromising their well-being. These programs can provide valuable information on affordable fire safety measures, such as the installation of photoelectric fire detectors, which offer early detection of smouldering fires and can be lifesaving in emergencies. Additionally, community workshops could teach basic fire safety practices, helping people make informed choices within their budgets. By fostering a collective mindset focused on proactive safety, these initiatives can empower residents to protect their homes and loved ones without feeling financially burdened.

Free Safehome Fire Safety Initiative

The QLD Fire Department’s ‘Safehome’ initiative is a free service provided in the interest of developing a safer Queensland community. Firefighters will visit your QLD home at no cost and advise you on the correct positioning of interconnected photoelectric fire detectors and discuss any other fire-related safety concerns. This proactive approach helps residents understand the importance of fire prevention, especially in homes with limited resources. Contact the Queensland Fire Department for further information and to make a booking, and take advantage of this invaluable service to safeguard your home.

Summary

By fostering a culture of awareness and not neglecting preventative measures such as interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors, we can ensure that the cost of living crisis doesn’t come at the expense of our most precious asset—our safety and well-being.

As Queenslanders, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding homes from the silent threat of fire that lurks within the shadows of the cost of living crisis. Investing in photoelectric fire detectors is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing our homes and loved ones are protected. With these life-saving devices, we can confidently face the future while prioritizing both safety and financial stability, knowing we are making a wise investment in our family’s protection and long-term security.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Queensland was rocked by another devastating smoke alarm house fire tragedy earlier this month when police confirmed that five young brothers and their 34-year-old father died in a house blaze on Russell Island, off Brisbane’s Redland Bay. Emergency services rushed to the home on Todman Street just after 6am on Sunday 8th August to find the two-storey house fully engulfed, with two neighbouring properties also alight. Thick smoke and intense flames made rescue efforts extremely difficult. A 21-year-old woman thought to have been inside the house when the fire broke out managed to escape with injuries, suffering from burns and smoke inhalation.

The Queensland Fire Department Assistant Commissioner, John Cawcutt, said the blaze was “one of the worst fires we’ve had for a long time”. Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan also said the fire was a great tragedy. “Of course a very sad day for Queenslanders,” he said. “Our hearts break for those involved in the tragedy. It seems a tragic loss of life”. A forensic investigation is currently underway to determine how the fire started, and why the smoke detectors did not activate.

In terms of sheer loss of life from a single domestic house fire, the Russell Island fire tragedy is second only to the August 2011 Logan house fire, which was Queensland’s deadliest house fire, causing the death of 11 family members. A coronial inquest could not establish the exact cause of that blaze but a coroner found there was a ‘reasonable prospect’ that all or some of the victims could have escaped if interconnected smoke detectors had been working. That tragedy led to the introduction of new QLD laws for interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors inside every bedroom, hallways outside the bedrooms, and on every level of Queensland homes.

Why Didn’t The Smoke Alarms Activate?

The rented two storey Queenslander home allegedly had smoke detectors installed, however the female survivor of the blaze said she didn’t hear any smoke detectros activate, adding that concerns had previously been expressed about them. It remains unclear why the three alarms didn’t activate and whether they were in working order. ‘With a fire of that intensity it will be difficult to know whether there were smoke alarms present or not but that will be part of the investigation,’ Queensland Fire Department Deputy Commissioner Joanne Greenfield said.

It is understood the home was transported to the site around 2017. ‘So thinking about the legislation that was in place at that time it would have required one hardwired smoke alarm, that’s if it was following the legislation,’ QLD Fire Department Commissioner Leach said.

A close family friend issued a harrowing plea to all Australians on the behalf of the Children’s surviving mother, stating that she ‘just wants the world to know – check your smoke alarms and hold your babies’.

What Are Queensland’s Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Laws?

From 1st January 2022, all properties being sold or leased for rent in Queensland were required by law to be compliant with the photoelectric smoke detector rules below. On 1st January 2027, the law is being extended to cover all QLD homeowners and occupiers, irrespective of whether the property is being sold or rented out. This means every residence must have interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors installed in bedrooms, interconnecting hallways outside the bedrooms, and on each level of the property – ensuring maximum fire safety and early warning for all occupants. Compliance is essential to protect lives, reduce fire risks, and meet Queensland’s strict fire alarm regulations.

QLD Photoelectric Smoke Alarms Requirements

Smoke alarms must:

  • be photoelectric. 
  • comply with the smoke alarm Australian Standard 3786:2014.
  • be hardwired to the mains power supply with a secondary power source (i.e. non removable 10 year battery) or;
  • be powered by 10 year non-removable battery type photoelectric smoke alarm.
  • be interconnected with every other smoke alarm in the dwelling so all activate together.
  • must not contain an ionisation sensor.

Installing Photoelectric Smoke Alarms In QLD

Photoelectric Smoke alarms must be installed:

  • on each storey
  • in each bedroom
  • in hallways that connect bedrooms and the rest of the dwelling
    – if there is no hallway, between the bedroom and other parts of the storey; and
    – if there are no bedrooms on a storey, at least one smoke alarm must be installed in the most likely path of travel to exit the dwelling.

QLD Rental Property Smoke Alarm Laws

In addition to the above, rental property managers and landlords are required to test and clean photoelectric smoke detectors and replace any flat batteries within 30 days before the start of a tenancy. This also includes a renewal tenancy. Regular maintenance ensures the fire alarms function correctly, providing tenants with reliable fire protection. Landlords must also ensure that all alarms comply with Queensland’s strict fire safety laws, including interconnection requirements. Failure to meet these obligations can result in legal penalties and increased risk to tenant safety, making proactive compliance an important responsibility for property managers and owners.

Postscript Update – April 2024

The landlord was charged and fined under the QLD Fire Services Act 1990 after she admitted failing to install compliant interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors in the rental property.

The interstate landlord claimed to be unaware of the changes to QLD’s smoke alarm legislation.

“It’s absolutely no excuse that she failed to keep abreast of the laws required of an investment property owner in having the premises legally wired with smoke detectors after January 2022,” Magistrate Deborah Vasta said. Ms Vasta told the court that the landlord had failed to comply with safety legislation and a coronial inquest into the six deaths was still yet to occur.

“There’s no evidence about whether two smoke alarms that were there were working or not,” she said.

Detectives are continuing their investigation following the fire and a final report will be given to the coroner in the near future.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Is your 10-year lithium smoke alarm battery a cause for concern? In recent years, Australia has seen a rapid rise in the adoption of lithium-ion battery technology, and Queensland is no exception. These small, lightweight, and highly efficient batteries power everything from smartphones and laptops to e-scooters, e-bikes, and even household renewable energy storage systems. While lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized convenience and energy efficiency, their increasing use has also been linked to a troubling rise in battery-related fires in Queensland homes.

QLD Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Increasing Exponentially

Data collated from Australian state fire departments indicate that more than 450 fires across this country have been linked to lithium-ion batteries since 2021 (including 157 in Queensland). Several of these fires have garnered significant media attention – see below.

Close call! e-scooter battery fires extremely difficult to extinguish

What Is The Cause Of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires?

Numerous factors contribute to this alarming safety trend, but one of the primary culprits behind lithium-ion battery fires is improper charging practices. If incompatible chargers are used, or devices like e-scooters are left charging unattended for extended periods, it can lead to overheating and a subsequent lithium-ion battery fire.


Numerous factors contribute to this alarming safety trend, but one of the primary culprits behind lithium-ion battery fires is improper charging practices. If incompatible chargers are used, or devices like e-scooters are left charging unattended for extended periods, it can lead to overheating and a subsequent lithium-ion battery fire. Another common cause of lithium-ion battery fires stems from manufacturing defects in either the battery charger or the battery itself. Poor adherence to quality standards during manufacture can lead to internal faults, increasing the risk of overheating and fire.


E-scooters and e-bikes, due to their nature of use, are often subjected to rough handling and exposure to environmental elements. Consequently, damage to the battery can occur, leading to internal short-circuits and potential fires. Even seemingly minor physical damage to the battery’s protective casing can create a pathway for ‘thermal runaway’, triggering a catastrophic fire event.

When lithium-ion batteries fail, they undergo thermal runaway, involving the violent bursting of one or multiple battery cells, releasing toxic, flammable, and explosive gases, and resulting in an intense, self-sustaining fire. Putting out a lithium-ion battery fire is challenging, as it escalates rapidly with intense heat and cannot be easily extinguished with water or regular fire extinguishers. Additionally, such fires often reignite several times after being extinguished.

ABC report – dangers of lithium-ion batteries in Australia

Is Your 10-Year Smoke Alarm Battery A Fire Hazard?

What about my smoke alarm battery – isn’t it also a lithium-ion battery?

The 10-year long-life lithium smoke alarm battery differs in design from lithium-ion batteries used in e-scooters, e-bikes, and other rechargeable devices. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which store high amounts of energy and require frequent charging, the smoke alarm battery inside a photoelectric smoke detector consists of two small 3V, single-use lithium batteries that are fully sealed within the alarm.

These non-replaceable batteries are engineered to deplete slowly and steadily over a 10-year lifespan, ensuring a consistent power supply without the need for repetitive re-charging. Once the smoke alarm battery reaches the end of its life, the entire photoelectric smoke alarm is replaced, maintaining optimal fire protection in your home.

Unlike larger lithium-ion batteries, which pose risks such as thermal runaway, overheating, and fire hazards, the smoke alarm battery is specifically designed to be stable, safe, and maintenance-free. The same fire and thermal runaway risks associated with continuous and repeated recharging of large, high energy lithium-ion batteries are not present with the small non-rechargeable lithium smoke alarm battery. By choosing a certified, high-quality smoke alarm such as ZEN Smoke Alarms, homeowners can enjoy reliable fire safety without worrying about smoke alarm battery malfunctions or potential fire hazards.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Battery Safety

When purchasing an interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm, it is essential to choose one that complies with Australian Standard 3786:2014, as indicated by the official Australian Standard red ‘5-tick’ mark on both the packaging and the product itself. This certification ensures that the smoke alarm battery and internal components meet strict safety and performance requirements, reducing the risk of electrical faults.

Additionally, the smoke alarm should carry the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), which confirms compliance with Australian electrical safety regulations as outlined in Australian Standard 3820:2020. This guarantees that the smoke alarm battery and electronic circuits have been rigorously tested for reliability and do not pose an electrical hazard under normal operating conditions.

Avoiding cheap, imported knock-offs without the RCM mark is crucial for smoke alarm battery safety. Non-compliant alarms may fail prematurely or trigger false alarms, putting lives at risk. Investing in a certified, high-quality smoke alarm ensures peace of mind and long-term fire protection for your home.

ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms – symbols of smoke alarm battery safety compliance

Watch lithium-ion battery fires in this video

Conclusion

The surge in lithium-ion battery fires in Australia calls for a collective effort from manufacturers, regulators, and users to address this growing concern. While the benefits of lithium-ion batteries are undeniable, the risks associated with their usage demand immediate attention. By enhancing safety regulations, improving manufacturing standards, educating and promoting responsible usage and recharging practices, we can embrace the lithium-ion battery revolution in QLD while ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for all.

To further protect your home and loved ones, it is important to have a reliable smoke alarm battery that provides early detection of fire hazards. ZEN photoelectric smoke alarms are designed to detect smouldering fires, including those caused by lithium-ion battery failures, giving you and your family valuable time to respond. Unlike traditional alarms, they feature a safe non-removeable 10-year smoke alarm battery, ensuring maintenance-free operation without the hassle of replacing batteries. For more information on lithium-ion battery fire safety, refer to the QLD Fire Department or fire authorities in other states. Stay informed, stay prepared, and prioritize fire safety in your home.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Photoelectric Alarms And Australian Standard 3786:2014

This informative blog post will reveal key secrets about your photoelectric smoke alarm and compliance with the Australian Standard. Understanding these details is essential to ensure your photoelectric smoke alarm is legally compliant and offers reliable protection. Failing to meet the required standards could result in serious safety risks, as well as potential issues with insurance claims in the event of a fire.

All photoelectric smoke alarms sold in Australia must comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014. One of the most important sections, 4.22.1, outlines the mandatory markings and information that must be displayed directly on the smoke alarm itself. These markings provide critical details about the alarm’s compliance, performance, and proper usage.

Unfortunately, many cheap, non-compliant alarms sold online may lack the necessary markings, even if they falsely claim to meet Australian standards. If an alarm does not display this required information, it is technically non-compliant, putting your safety and insurance coverage at risk. Make sure you choose a trusted brand like ZEN Smoke Alarms to guarantee full compliance and peace of mind.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Marking Requirements

Have a look at the photoelectric smoke alarm on your ceiling to double check if it has the following information.

4.22.1 Smoke alarm

Each smoke alarm shall be legibly and indelibly marked with the following:

(a) The number and date of this Standard (i.e. AS 3786:2014).

(b) The name or trademark and address of the manufacturer or supplier.

(c) The model designation (type or number).

(d) The type of smoke alarm (type A or type B), e.g. photoelectric or ionization.

(e) The alarm condition aural signal pattern (ISO 8201 or ISO 7731).

(f) The date of manufacture which may be coded into a serial number or the batch

number.

(g) The recommended date for replacement, subject to normal, regular maintenance

NOTE: Provision may be made for a place to note the date for replacement of the smoke

alarm.

ZEN photoelectric smoke alarm with all required markings as per Australian Standard 3786:2014

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms With 10 Year Battery

For a battery-powered smoke alarm that includes a sealed, non-replaceable 10-year lithium battery, Australian Standard 3786:2014 mandates that a specific warning must be clearly displayed on the device. This ensures that users are aware that the battery cannot be removed or replaced and that the entire unit must be replaced at the end of its lifespan.

The required warning is:

WARNING: BATTERY NOT REPLACEABLE—SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL.

This warning helps prevent tampering, ensuring the alarm remains fully functional for its entire 10-year lifespan. Always check for this marking to confirm that your smoke alarm meets Australian safety standards and provides reliable long-term protection.

ZEN photoelectric smoke alarm with 10 year battery – compliant with Australian Standard 3786:2014

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms – ‘DO NOT PAINT’ Marking

Additionally, a clear notice stating ‘DO NOT PAINT’ must be marked on the outer surface of the smoke alarm enclosure. The letters must be at least 3 mm high and remain plainly visible after installation to ensure homeowners do not accidentally cover or obscure them. This small yet important detail is a legal requirement under Australian Standard 3786:2014 and is often overlooked by cheap, non-compliant smoke alarms found in online marketplaces.

Many low-cost ‘knock-off’ smoke alarms may claim compliance with Australian standards but fail to include all required information. While this might seem trivial, insurance companies could verify these details when processing claims after a house fire. If your smoke alarm lacks the necessary markings or certification, your claim could be denied, leaving you with devastating financial and personal losses. Choosing a fully compliant, Australian Standard-certified smoke alarm like ZEN ensures your home is protected, and your insurance remains valid.

ZEN Smoke Alarm with required ‘DO NOT PAINT’ marking

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Packaging – Essential Info

Section 4.22.2 of the Australian Standard 3786:2014 specifies the mandatory information and data that must be included on both the photoelectric smoke alarm’s packaging (the box it comes in) and in the user manual. This ensures that consumers receive clear, accurate details about the alarm’s performance, compliance, and proper usage.

Just like the markings on the smoke alarm itself, this packaging and manual information is not optional—it is a legal requirement. If this information is missing, the smoke alarm is technically non-compliant, meaning it does not meet Australian safety standards and may be unsafe or unreliable in an emergency. Always check for this crucial information before purchasing a smoke alarm to ensure it meets the highest safety standards.

4.22.2 Packaging

The point-of-sale packaging shall be marked with the following:

(a) The model designation (type or number).

(b) The type of smoke alarm (type A or type B) and an explanation of the meaning of the type designation (e.g. photoelectric or ionization).

(c) The nominal sound level output.

(d) The alarm condition aural signal pattern (ISO 8201 or ISO 7731).

(e) For smoke alarms using 520 Hz alarm condition signal frequency, the nominal frequency.

(f) For type B smoke alarms, permanently marked with the trefoil symbol, and name of

radionuclide and activity. The markings shall be visible from the outside of the packaging.

(g) The maximum number of interconnectable smoke alarms.

(h) Statement if the smoke alarm is suitable for wall (vertical) mounting.

ZEN photoelectric smoke alarm packaging is compliant with Australian Standard 3786:2014

Summary

In summary, Section 4.22 of the Australian Standard 3786:2014 outlines the essential information that must be displayed on the photoelectric smoke alarm, its packaging, and the instruction manual. This ensures consumers receive accurate details regarding compliance, functionality, and installation. Adhering to these requirements is not optional—manufacturers and retailers must comply to sell smoke alarms legally in Australia.

In Queensland, legislation mandates that all smoke alarms must be photoelectric, interconnected, and conform to Australian Standard 3786:2014. Non-compliant alarms could lead to serious consequences, particularly in the event of an insurance claim after a house fire. Using certified, Australian Standard-compliant alarms like ZEN helps ensure your home meets legal and safety requirements, protecting both lives and property.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005