Brandskyddsnät

Brandskyddsnät is a Swedish term for the integrated network of fire protection measures in a building or facility. It encompasses the devices, systems and procedures designed to prevent fires, enable early detection and warning, contain a fire, and support safe evacuation and rescue operations.

A typical brandskyddsnät includes fire detection and alarm systems (smoke and heat detectors, manual call points, central control panels), automatic extinguishing or suppression systems (sprinklers, inert gas or foam systems), and passive fire protection such as fire-resistant walls, doors and compartmentation. The network also covers emergency lighting, clearly marked escape routes, audible and visual alarm signaling, and communication with local fire authorities. In modern installations, the components are interconnected and may be monitored by a central building management system or an external monitoring service.

Maintenance and testing are essential parts of operating a brandskyddsnät. Regular inspection, functional testing, fault reporting, and documentation are typically required by law or insurance. The design follows a risk-based approach and adheres to applicable standards and regulations.

Regulatory context in Sweden involves national and municipal authorities. The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) provides guidelines and supervision for fire safety, while Boverket (the National Board of Housing, Building and Planning) sets building regulations that include fire safety requirements. EN 54, the European standard for fire detection and alarm systems, is commonly used in design and commissioning.

Impact: A well-functioning brandskyddsnät reduces fire risk, limits damage, protects occupants, and enables rapid emergency response.