Australian Standard 3786:2014 – Smoke Alarms Using

Scattered Light, Transmitted Light or Ionization

All photoelectric interconnected fire alarms sold within Australia must comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014.

Section 4.22.1 of the Australian Standard describes the markings and types of information that must be included on the interconnected fire alarm itself. This ensures consumers can verify compliance and make informed purchasing decisions. If the interconnected fire alarm does not have all this required information on it—such as model number, manufacturing details, and compliance markings—then technically, it is non-compliant with the standard. Purchasing non-compliant smoke alarms can lead to safety risks, legal issues, and potential insurance claim complications in the event of a fire. Always choose Australian Standard certified alarms for peace of mind and total protection.

Required Information To Be Printed

On An Interconnected Fire Alarm

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

4.22 Markings

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 interconnected fire alarm with required markings as per Australian Standard 3786:2014

Interconnected Fire Alarm With

10-year Non-Replaceable Battery

For an interconnected fire alarm incorporating non-replaceable batteries (i.e. 10 year lithium long life batteries sealed inside the unit), the following warning is also required:

WARNING: BATTERY NOT REPLACEABLE—SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL.

ZEN Smoke Alarm with 10-year battery and markings as per Australian Standard 3786:2014

Interconnected Fire Alarm ‘DO NOT PAINT’ Marking

Additionally, a notice on the outer surface of the enclosure marked ‘DO NOT PAINT’ is required. The letters shall be not less than 3 mm high and must remain plainly visible after the smoke alarm is installed in its intended manner. This warning is critical, as painting over a smoke alarm can interfere with its functionality and compromise its ability to detect smoke effectively.

Be wary of many cheap ‘knock-off’ smoke alarms sold in online marketplaces—they often lack essential compliance markings, even though they claim to meet Australian Standard 3786:2014. Without these markings, there is no guarantee that the alarm has been properly tested or certified, putting your home and family at risk.

Whilst it may seem trivial whether the interconnected fire alarm has this information on it or not, in the event of a house fire and subsequent insurance claim, your insurer could be double-checking this same information before approving any pay-out. Investing in fully compliant, high-quality smoke alarms—like those from ZEN Smoke Alarms—ensures both safety and peace of mind.

Smoke Alarm Point Of Sale Packaging – Essential Info

Section 4.22.2 of the Australian Standard identifies the information and data that must be incorporated into the smoke alarm’s point-of-sale packaging (i.e., the box it comes in) and also within the user manual. This ensures consumers receive clear instructions and essential safety details for proper installation and use.

As before, if the information below is not included, then technically, the smoke alarm is non-compliant with the standard. Missing or incomplete packaging details may indicate that the product has not undergone proper testing or certification, putting homeowners at risk. Always check for these required details to ensure you’re purchasing a fully compliant and reliable smoke alarm.

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 interconnected fire alarm packaging with required information as per Australian Standard 3786:2014

Interconnected Fire Alarm And The Australian Standard – Summary

In summary, section 4.22 of the Australian Standard describes the necessary information which must be included on the alarm, packaging, and in the instruction manual. This ensures consumers have all the relevant details needed for proper installation, operation, and compliance. It is a requirement that both manufacturers and retailers must adhere to, helping to maintain safety standards across all interconnected fire alarms sold in Australia.

Queensland legislation mandates that all smoke alarms must be photoelectric, interconnected, and fully compliant with Australian Standard 3786:2014. Failure to meet these requirements could have serious consequences, including potential issues with insurance claims in the event of a house fire.

At ZEN Smoke Alarms, we take compliance very seriously. Our wireless interconnected fire alarms are rigorously tested to meet and exceed Australian safety standards. Plus, with every ZEN smoke alarm bundle pack, you receive a bonus smoke alarm remote control and a free fire blanket—giving you even more value and protection for your home. Trust ZEN for reliable, fully compliant fire safety solutions – why not check us out today!

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 Interconnected Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005