Fire Alarm Legislation: A Comprehensive Guide for You
For those who are not experts in fire safety and are uncertain about the necessity of a fire alarm, the frequency of maintenance, or the procedure for conducting a fire alarm test, this blog is designed specifically for you. The most frequently asked questions regarding fire alarms and their upkeep are addressed in the latest article from K-Tec Electrical. Keep reading to learn more.
Is a Fire Alarm Necessary?
During the period of September 2017 to September 2018, fire and rescue services were present at a total of 582,551 incidents throughout the UK. Though fire alarms are not able to prevent fires, they can quickly decrease the chances of a fatal fire by notifying individuals in the area of any detected smoke or heat.
It is a legal requirement in the UK for all companies to possess a “suitable fire detection system.” If there is any uncertainty about the adequacy of measures in place to notify occupants of a fire, refer to the Fire Risk Assessment document. If a Fire Risk Assessment is not available, it is recommended to enlist the assistance of a specialist or conduct one independently.
What is the Frequency for Servicing a Fire Alarm?
According to the law, there is no set time period for fire alarm maintenance. However, it does require that the fire alarm system be “properly maintained”. The British Standard 5839 recommends a bi-annual servicing of fire alarms, and this is also endorsed by the authorities.
For larger buildings, it is typically advised to have a fire alarm system maintenance every 3 months. This is due to the greater number of components in these systems, which increases the likelihood of potential problems.
What is the Process for Testing a Fire Alarm?
The process of testing your fire alarm differs from regular servicing, but both are necessary. According to the UK government’s BS 5839 standard, fire alarm maintenance should be conducted regularly and recommends weekly testing.
As part of a fire alarm maintenance, a comprehensive examination of all components in your system will be carried out. In contrast, a fire alarm test is a general assessment to ensure proper functioning and identify any potential issues.
To ensure that the fire alarm is functioning properly during the alarm test, it is important to check that all components are undamaged and to activate the alarm for a brief period to confirm its functionality.
Electricians in London – K-Tec Electrical
At K-Tec Electrical, our services include fire alarm maintenance and repairs throughout London. To schedule an appointment, simply give us a call at 07507372322 or fill out our online contact form.