Fire protection goes digital: connectivity as a future technology
Digitalisation is fundamentally changing fire protection. Modern fire detection and security systems today deliver far more than just alarms – they enable continuous monitoring, simplify maintenance and optimise operational processes. Smart systems, remote access and predictive maintenance are creating new perspectives for efficiency, availability and safety in the fire protection sector.
The experience of recent years has shown how important digital tools are for crisis-proof operations. Companies that rely on digital services respond more flexibly, work more efficiently and can run their systems more reliably. It is not only the technology itself that is changing – collaboration between manufacturers, installers, planners and operators is also moving further into focus.
Three central challenges call for digital solutions
Skills shortage as a critical bottleneck
The shortage of qualified personnel is becoming a bottleneck for implementing new projects. Installers are often unable to accept orders because capacity is lacking. Digital solutions such as secure remote access provide relief here and allow better deployment of human resources.
For many routine tasks such as software updates, the evaluation of system messages or minor parameter changes, an on-site visit is no longer necessary. Users report that up to 85 percent of enquiries can be resolved remotely. That saves valuable time and allows specialists to concentrate on more complex projects.
Meeting rising customer expectations
Operators today expect fast response times, predictable costs and maximum system availability. Added to this is the desire for predictive maintenance. Intelligent systems continuously analyse operating data and report deviations before faults occur. This makes it possible to intervene in a targeted way instead of only acting once a fault has occurred. This proactive service is increasingly becoming a competitive advantage.
Minimising operational downtime
Whether hospital, school or industrial hall – uninterrupted processes are decisive. Thanks to remote access and digitally networked systems, maintenance and servicing can take place in parallel with operations without appreciably disrupting processes. Particularly in sensitive environments such as intensive care units or care homes, this is a key factor for the safety and satisfaction of operators.
Efficiency gains through intelligent connectivity
The benefits of digital connectivity go far beyond fault resolution. Planning, project design and parameter configuration will in future be based on a uniform data model. Installers and operators access the same information – regardless of place and time. That reduces misunderstandings, shortens coordination processes and creates transparency.
The integration of predictive maintenance approaches represents a further step into the future: algorithms evaluate data from sensors and controllers, recognise patterns and give early indications of possible failures. Spare parts can be procured in good time and maintenance visits planned optimally – before failures even occur. For operators this means greater operational reliability, for installers fewer unplanned call-outs.
Normative foundations create certainty
The move towards greater digitalisation in security and fire technology requires clear guardrails. Two normative publications play a central role here:
DIN EN 50710: standards for secure remote services
This standard defines the requirements for secure remote services on fire protection and security systems. These include specifications for remote access servers and infrastructure, on-site operation and processes for documenting remote access. For example, a verifiable notification must be sent to the client at the start and end of a control function.
Guideline VDE 0826-10: a holistic connectivity approach
The guideline, published in June 2024, describes requirements for connecting security systems in existing and new IT networks. It is aimed at manufacturers, planners, installers, system integrators and operators and offers concrete guidance from concept design through project planning to operation.
The holistic approach of VDE 0826-10 is particularly relevant: the guideline considers the entire life cycle of a security-relevant IT network and covers various trades – from fire alarm and voice alarm systems through access control systems to emergency and safety lighting or video systems. This creates a reliable framework for the interaction of these trades for the first time.
Smart buildings: networked systems working together
Technological development is advancing steadily. Buildings are evolving into intelligent, networked systems. In future, security systems will no longer be operated in isolation but will be a fixed component of digital infrastructures. Systems communicate with one another, exchange data and act increasingly autonomously in the smart building.
Sensors that check themselves, algorithms that predict wear, or platforms that bring together data from different trades – none of this is a vision any more, but already reality in pilot projects. For operators this creates a solid data basis that goes beyond the aspect of safety: energy efficiency, resource conservation and holistic building management can be controlled more effectively.
New business models are emerging
At the same time, new business models are opening up. Maintenance can in future be offered as a service package – based on flat rates or usage-based billing. Software updates or additional functions can also be licensed via digital platforms. The focus thus shifts from one-off investments to continuous services.
Benefits for everyone involved in fire protection
The digital transformation offers opportunities for all players in the industry:
- Installers benefit from more efficient processes, fewer field service hours and better working conditions
- Operators receive transparent information, higher availability and predictable costs
- Planners can draw on a solid data basis and calculate more precisely
- Manufacturers gain valuable insights from the operation of their systems, which in turn can feed directly into product development
This win-win situation makes one thing clear: digitalisation is not only changing technologies, it is above all creating new forms of collaboration across all levels.
Outlook: digitalisation as a driver of new standards
Digital development in fire protection has long been more than a trend. Remote access, platforms and normative foundations such as guideline VDE 0826-10 create the basis for lasting change. The industry has the opportunity to use these instruments not only to increase efficiency, but also to develop new business models and services.
Anyone who actively integrates digitalisation and connectivity into their processes is setting the course for the future – with greater safety, higher availability and significantly improved collaboration between all parties involved. The normative basis has been created and the technology is available – now it is up to the industry to make consistent use of these possibilities.
