Are you confused by regulations regarding fire alarms? If you own commercial premises, there are several key regulations you should be aware of. “Commercial premises” can be defined as any property that is not a private dwelling. It can also include buildings like:
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is sometimes referred to by the RR(FS)O. It covers fire safety for nondomestic premises. This includes ‘fire fighting’ and ‘fire detection’ according to part 13. According to the order, premises must be equipped with alarms and fire detectors “to the extent necessary”.
However, this does not necessarily mean that all premises need a fire alarm. Due consideration should be given the space’s size and purpose to determine if a fire alarm will be required. A fire alarm is not necessary if the space is small and open-plan. If there are only a few people in the area, it can often be evacuated quickly by one person. This is a rare scenario. It is recommended that you have a professional fire risk assessment done for your property in order to determine your needs.
The RR(FSO)O is not the only one. BS 5839-1:2017 covers all aspects of planning, design, installation, and commissioning fire detection and alarm system systems. This is the British Standard. It is a national standard that is recognized as best practice for fire alarm systems. The British Standard provides more detailed language to help you comply with the legal obligations under the RR(FS). O.
Fire Alarm Testing Regulations
Two parts should be used for fire alarm testing: maintenance testing by the user and UKAS certified, third-party certified maintenance by professionals. These are the elements that should be covered and how often they should occur.
User Testing
According to the British Standard, user testing should take place at a fixed time each week using the manual call point during work hours. A monthly test can be conducted if employees are absent during the scheduled test. To ensure that all manual call points are tested, it is a good idea to test one per week if there are many. The test should not last more than one minute.
Monthly testing is also recommended if you have an emergency generator, vented batteries, or a standby power supply.
Professional testing
BS 5839 suggests that fire alarm systems be inspected at minimum every six months by a competent person’. This is usually a specialist company like City Fire Protection. The professional testing can include, but is not limited to:
If your system fails to meet the six-month inspection quota, it will not be deemed compliant according to British Standards. This could pose problems if you are required to prove that your building meets fire safety regulations.
Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance Professionals
A professional organization will provide specialist fire alarm services to your building, whether it is used as retail space, office space, or tenants.
A fully functioning system can save lives by letting people know when a fire is brewing. A professional installation and regular inspection of your fire alarm system can save you money and time. This will also reduce downtime for your business.
Verrolyne training can help you if you have an older alarm system that needs to be replaced or if you recently purchased a commercial property and need to fit a fire alarm. You can be confident that our work will meet all applicable regulations and standards.
Call our friendly team to discuss your fire alarm needs for your building. Or fill out our quick quote form and tell us what you need. We’ll get back to you quickly with an answer to your inquiry.
