Smoke detectors

Five years after the law was originally proposed, the text to make the use of smoke alarms obligatory in all places of habitation has been published in the Journal Officiel. The law from 9 March 2010 means that at least one smoke detector must be fitted in all flats and houses, whether it is new or existing, within 5 years of the publication of this law. The text of the law is precise in that it is the responsibility of the occupant and not the owner to fit, maintain and ensure the good working order of the smoke detector.

The law also requires that the occupant must notify their insurance company that they have fitted the device in their home and that the insurance company should make a reduction in the premium for the policy as a consequence. The publication of this law brings to an end a marathon of the legislative process, as it has been 5 years in development. Originally proposed in 2005 after a series of fatal domestic fire incidents, two of the most notable being those in apartment blocks in Paris, the proposition has had to overcome a series of hurdles. The proposal was completely rejected by the Conseil Constitutionnel last year. One of the deputies complained that if these devices were installed, one would not be able to smoke in one's own home.

However, there is still a lot of debate and conjecture on the effectiveness of smoke alarms. Of the 98 different models available on the market in France in February this year, only 41 carried the NF (Norme Française) symbol to guarantee that they were fit for purpose. The NF symbol, delivered by the Afnor certification authority is the french equivalent of the British Standard BS kite mark. It attests that in this case the smoke detector uses an optical detector, that it contains no radioactive substances and is sufficiently ergonomically constructed to withstand incorrect usage, such as not fitting the battery or putting it in the wrong way around. The NF marque also imposes on the manufacturer that the device should be delivered with a battery and there should be a clear and explicit notice to say how long the battery should last, either one, five or ten years. Although some smoke detectors may carry the CE mark to show that they meet the minimum standards of european legislation and may be sold in Europe, the NF marque goes further to cover the needs of the user and the installer of the device.