In the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) industry, signaling solutions are crucial for the safety of machinery, people, and the environment. When planning a signaling solution for the BESS industry, there are several important criteria to consider, to ensure a safe and reliable warning system.
Machine or building? The particular challenge of finding the right signaling solution
BESS manufacturers face the unique challenge that BESS systems can be installed in a variety of applications. Therefore they can be classified either as part of a machine or part of a building, each classification imposing distinct requirements.
In Europe, machine classification requires compliance with ISO 7731 for audible signals and ISO 11428 for visual signals, ensuring clear, effective alerts in high-noise and varied lighting conditions. Building classification,on the other hand, necessitates adherence to EN 54-3 for fire alarm sounders and EN 54-23 for visual alarms, ensuring comprehensive evacuation alerts and high reliability.
In the United States, safety standards such as UL 464 for audible alarms and UL 1638 for visual signals must be met. For building safety, UL 1971 for visual signaling devices and UL 464 for fire alarm sounders are essential.
What to consider when choosing a signaling solution for BESS applications?
The dual classification necessitates a versatile signaling solution that integrates machinery as well as building safety standards.
A standardized solution that meets both safety requirements must include the use of products with globally recognized certifications such as UL and EN 54. This approach not only enhances safety and operational efficiency but also ensures that BESS systems meet international safety regulations, providing reliable protection for machinery, people, and the environment as well as operational efficiency no matter where the system is installed.
