Fire Alarm Maintenance Legal Requirements
Fire Alarm Maintenance Legislation
The legislation that governs fire alarm maintenance 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?
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.
