Fire Alarm Maintenance Legal Requirements
Fire Alarm Maintenance Legislation
The legislation that governs fire alarm maintenance requirements in the UK is enshrined in The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. According to this legislation, all fire alarm systems must be “adequately maintained” in order to be effective in alerting occupants in the event of a fire. This means that fire alarms should be in perfect working order at all times.
Also, British Standard BS 5839-1:2017 outlines the specific standards for fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. This standard details the recommendations for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. Failure to comply with these fire alarm maintenance requirements and the Fire Safety Order could result in fines.
Who is Responsible for Fire Alarm Maintenance Requirements?
The Fire Safety Order stipulates that the ‘responsible person’ is in charge of ensuring fire alarm system maintenance requirements. This person can be the employer, owner, landlord, or anyone else in control of the premises. They’re obligated to ensure that the fire safety systems, including fire alarms, are regularly maintained and tested to guarantee their efficiency.
The Importance of Regular Fire Alarm Maintenance
Regular fire alarm maintenance is an important process that ensures the safety and security of a building and its occupants. A fully functional fire alarm system can detect a fire at the earliest possible moment, giving occupants more time to evacuate safely and prevent loss of life. Regular maintenance also reduces the chances of false alarms, which can lead to unnecessary panic and disruption.
Besides safety, maintaining fire alarm systems can help protect property from severe fire damage. Early detection and alert can potentially save thousands, if not millions, of pounds in damage and restoration costs.
How Often Should a Fire Alarm Be Maintained?
The British Standards recommend that fire alarm systems should undergo weekly testing by the responsible person. This is to ensure all components of the system, such as call points, are in working order.
In addition to this, professional fire alarm maintenance should be conducted at least twice a year by a competent person. This allows for a more comprehensive assessment and includes tests that can’t be performed during weekly checks, such as the inspection of control panels, detectors, and sounders.
What is Included in Fire Alarm Maintenance?
A comprehensive fire alarm maintenance procedure should include several essential elements. This includes:
• A full system inspection to check for any damage or wear and tear.
• Cleaning all detectors to ensure they’re free from dust or dirt that could hinder performance.
• Testing of all components such as control panels, call points, detectors, and sounders.
• Checking battery backups to ensure they are fully operational.
• A full report detailing any faults or necessary repairs.
Britannia Fire Alarm Maintenance Services
As one of the leading fire safety providers in the UK, Britannia Fire & Security offers comprehensive fire alarm maintenance services. Our team of expert technicians ensure that your fire alarm system is fully compliant with the latest UK regulations and fit for purpose.
Britannia Fire & Security technicians will carry out routine checks and maintenance to ensure the optimal performance of your fire alarm system. We provide a detailed report after each visit, outlining any identified issues and recommendations for improvements.
Regular fire alarm maintenance is a legal requirement in the UK that ensures the safety of buildings and their occupants. Understanding this legislation, and adhering to it, is a crucial aspect of managing a property, whether it is a business, a public building, or a private residence.
Best Practices for Fire Alarm Maintenance
Maintaining a fire alarm system is important for a few different reasons. A well-maintained fire alarm system can save lives by alerting occupants of the dangers of fire quickly, allowing for swift evacuation. It also keeps you compliant with the latest regulations – so make sure you’re keeping up-to-date with fire alarm maintenance. Below are some best practices for you to follow:
Log Maintenance Activities
Keep a detailed log of all maintenance activities, including dates, issues found, and how they were resolved. This documentation is essential for inspections and for ensuring that all parts of the system are regularly checked and maintained.
Train Your Staff
Ensure that your staff is well-trained in the basics of fire alarm system operation and the steps to take in case of an alarm. Training should also include routine checks that can be performed in-house, such as testing manual call points and checking annunciator panels.
Address Issues Promptly
Any issues identified during routine checks or through alarm system monitoring should be addressed immediately. Delaying repairs can compromise the system’s integrity and functionality in an emergency.
Professional Fire Alarm Maintenance vs. DIY Checks
While basic fire alarm system checks can be performed by trained staff members, it’s important to have the system thoroughly inspected and maintained by professionals. Professional maintenance ensures the system is working optimally and can help cut back on issues such as false alarms, which are time-consuming. So, here’s how to balance in-house checks with professional maintenance:
Weekly In-House Checks
Staff can perform weekly checks to ensure that all components of the fire alarm system are operational. This includes testing notification devices, checking control panel error messages, and ensuring that all call points are unobstructed.
Professional Inspections and Maintenance
Annual inspections and maintenance should be performed by certified professionals, like our team at Britannia Fire & Security. Experts are trained to perform comprehensive checks and maintenance that go beyond what is practical for in-house staff. They can address complex issues, update system firmware, and ensure that the fire alarm system meets all current legal standards.
Choosing a Fire Alarm Maintenance Provider
Selecting the right provider for fire alarm maintenance will ensure all aspects of your system are operational and free from faults. Below are a few factors to consider to ensure that your provider meets the necessary legal and professional standards:
Accreditation
Choose a provider that holds relevant accreditations and certifications. These qualifications demonstrate that the provider meets standards for quality and safety in fire alarm maintenance.
Experience
Consider the provider’s experience with fire alarm systems, especially those that are similar to your own. Experienced providers are more likely to understand the unique needs and potential issues of your system.
Compliance with British Standards
Ensure that the maintenance provider is familiar with and adheres to British standards for fire alarm systems. Compliance with these standards is not just about legalities – it also affects the reliability and effectiveness of your fire alarm system in protecting lives and property.
