Fire Detection Solutions for Heritage Buildings

Fire safety in heritage buildings is a major challenge. It is necessary to find effective solutions that minimise damage to the protected building and do not cause damage or diminish the aesthetic value of the building. This requires not only special equipment, but often also specific solutions. The easiest way to increase the fire safety level of a building is to retrofit it with active fire protection systems. The aim of this paper is to review fire detection solutions suitable for historic buildings, with particular emphasis on minimally invasive and visually unobtrusive systems. The study combines a structured review of point, linear, and aspirating smoke detection technologies with a demonstrative parametric sizing assessment of an aspirating smoke detection (ASD) system using a manufacturer-supported sizing software. The sizing analysis investigates how changes in sampling hole diameter and fan settings influence transport time, sensitivity distribution, and system balance under constrained routing conditions typical of heritage interiors. The results highlight key trade-offs between response time and system balance, providing practical guidance for designers and conservation professionals. The findings support the development of fire detection strategies that align with European recommendations for heritage protection while ensuring technical effectiveness. The paper also provides a guideline to professionals, architects, restorers, and heritage experts, who have key roles in the protection of heritage structures.