The New York City Building Code requires the detection of smoke by means of smoke detection systems. The purpose of this document is to establish acceptance criteria for a video image detection system as an alternative system to the NYCCC.
New products have recently been introduced that use video camera and image recognition software to detect smoke. Generally used in open large spaces where it is difficult to detect smoke with conventional methods, a video image smoke detection system is a network of cameras with embedded processing that visually identifies if smoke, and/or motion is within the cameras field of view. As a supplemental capability, the detected events can be streamed over the internet and recorded/viewed through a Network Video Recorder. However, video image smoke detection systems shall not be used for heat detection.
Video image smoke detection systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the 2008 NYC Construction Codes and the New York City Fire Code and other applicable provisions including but not limited the following:
A. Design
- Shall be specified in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and the conditions of the listing.
- Shall be provided in accordance with section BC907.2.
B. Installation Requirements
- Shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, the applicable listing, and the conditions of this bulletin.
- Shall be labeled as per section AC-113.4. All shipment and deliveries of materials shall be accompanied by a label certifying the material shipped or delivered are equivalent to those tested and approved.
- Shall be subject to inspection requirement of the Fire Department.
C. Maintenance
- Shall comply with all applicable requirements of New York City Construction Codes and the Rules of the City of New York and New York City Fire Code.
- Shall comply with the manufacturer’s instruction and the applicable listing.