Pre-2002, all monitored alarm systems were installed to comply with DD243-1999 DD243:1999 (formerly NACP14 or SCOP103), the Code of Practise for intruder alarm systems signalling to Alarm Receiving Centres. System design is critical to ensure compliance with DD243. DD243–2001 DD243:2001 incorporates some important revisions and additions.

Since July 2002, Installers must work to DD243:2001 but you can still find many that are not. Don’t put your Insurance risks at risk by not being correctly informed! The full policy is available from the BSI.

Important: DD243:2001 became mandatory from 1st July 2002

Revised DD243 Keypoints

• Overlapping detectors are permitted if of differing technologies., Two2 dual-technology detectors are permitted and, as before, 2 detectors of the same type are permitted if not overlapping
• Systems must transmit an Open/Close signal and/or an Abort signal
• A transmission fault may be used in conjunction with an alarm to generate police response e.g. a line cut followed by intruder or visa versa
• Two transmission faults, e.g. on a dual-signalling device, will receive police response
• Users may set or unset from outside the premises by using a keyfob
• The Confirmation Window (ie. time between two activations) must be more than 30 minutes but no more than one hour
• A confirmation signal will not be transmitted from the premises if the Final Exit Door has been opened either by force or in normal circumstances. This part of the policy has received a negative response from the ABI (Association of British Insurers) as it may reduce the effectiveness of the protection. The ABI are currently lobbying UKAS (Feb 2002), the regulator to the NSI (formally NACOSS) Inspectorate.