Press information To download a text file of this release, a 250 pixel wide low-res image for web use or a 300dpi print quality image, go to www.parkfield.co.uk/kac Unapproved manual call points store up potential long term problems Released 29 September 2006 Manual call points are an essential component of a fire detection system. KAC is the world's largest manufacturer, providing the global industry with UK-manufactured devices third party tested by LPCB, VdS, BOSEC and AFNOR. BS5839 part 1 2002 states that in order to achieve high reliability and reduce false alarms, the components of a fire detection and alarm system should have third party certification to the relevant product standard. The word "should" unfortunately allows the use of unapproved and untested call points, which are often promoted with meaningless statements such as "meets the requirements of", "designed in accordance with" or "conforms to" the relevant EN54 product standard, in this case EN54-11. No reputable fire engineer would consider using unapproved smoke or heat detectors, but call points sometimes seem to be regarded as less important elements of the system. While untested and unapproved devices are normally sold at a discount, the overall saving on the product itself is generally small; the installed cost can actually be higher because the designs are not particularly conducive to rapid installation: small, difficult to wire terminals, limited space for cables and small securing screws appear to be the norm. Third party testing by a reputable test house does far more than simply confirm the physical construction and operation of the device. Extensive tests for environmental factors such as operation at elevated temperatures, corrosion tests, EMC tests and shock and vibration are carried out, so a third party test certificate gives the installer and user confidence that the call point conforms in all respects to the requisite standard. To use non-approved devices is a false economy. *** Ends: body copy 270 words *** Notes to Editors. For further information: Martin Phillips KAC 15 - 19 Trescott Road Trafford Park Smallwood Redditch B98 7AH Tel: + 44 1527 406655 Fax: + 44 1527 406677 sales@kac.co.uk www.kac.co.uk Agency contact: Nigel May Parkfield Communications Limited Parkfield House Damerham Hants SP6 3HQ Tel: + 44 (0)1725 518321 Fax: + 44 (0)1725 518378 nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk www.parkfield.co.uk KAC Alarms is the world's leading manufacturer of manual break glass and resetable call points and associated products for use in conventional and addressable fire detection systems, security systems and process control applications. Honeywell International is a $30 billion diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell's shares are traded on the New York, London, Chicago and Pacific Stock Exchanges. It is one of the 30 stocks that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average and is also a component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. For additional information, please visit www.honeywell.com.