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Understanding Alarm Classifications in BMS – Why It Matters

September 1, 2025

In any Building Management System (BMS), alarm processing isn't just about triggering a sound—it's about prioritizing actions, ensuring safety, and giving operators the right tools to respond effectively.

 

Here’s how alarms are typically classified for smart processing:
✅ Class 1 – Life Safety & Fire
▪️ Fire, security, and critical life-safety equipment
▪️ Audible alert 🔊 + printed + display
▪️ Requires individual acknowledgment to silence

✅ Class 2 – Critical (Non-Life Safety)
▪️ High-priority systems (e.g. HVAC failure)
▪️ Same as Class 1, but can be acknowledged in bulk

✅ Class 3 – General Alarms
▪️ Standard equipment faults
▪️ Audible alert + silence key option
▪️ Return to normal? No sound, just a print

✅ Class 4 – Maintenance/Warnings
▪️ Routine tasks or info logs
▪️ Printed only – No sound, no acknowledgment

📟 Bonus Features:
🔹 Unacknowledged Alarm Indicator
🔹 Backup printer support – because no alarm should ever go missing!

🎯 If you're designing or reviewing BMS alarm strategies, always ask:
“Does this help the operator take the right action at the right time?”

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