Is Your Fire Alarm System Compliant? Avoid Legal Risks Today

We all know employee safety is a priority, however if you’re not a fire safety professional, it can be hard to know your fire alarm requirements. Fire alarm regulations form part of ‘ The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 ’, but we know there is often still a lot of confusion about the exact requirements for UK businesses.

Here are a few frequent questions answered:

Does your business need a fire alarm? Yes. All businesses should have an appropriate fire detection system, meaning that a fire can be detected anywhere on the premises and all occupants can easily be warned. If you are in any doubt, a Fire Risk Assessment will specifically state what fire system you need, and is an important foundation to a business’ fire safety plan.

What type of alarm do you need? A conventional fire alarm is acceptable in smaller premises with low risk factors. Addressable fire alarms have their own unique electronic address and if one activates, a panel will tell you precisely in what location. These are suited to larger, high risk environments such as schools, hospitals and business buildings. Wireless fire alarms use secure wireless links between the sensors and panel, similar to an addressable fire system but with reduced wires and cable.

It is recommended that to ensure your alarm meets UK fire alarm regulations, you should use a reputable fire safety company to design and install it. Get in touch.

How often should your alarm be serviced? The Government recommends that all fire alarm and detection systems are maintained according to the relevant British Standard, BS 5839. This states that the entire system should be inspected by a competent person (fire safety expert) at least every 6 months. We would recommend in larger premises a quarterly service, as there are more components and the system is more complex.

Having your alarm serviced regularly is obviously essential for the safety of your employees, but also prevents false alarms due to system error. False alarms are a major problem as they account for a huge number of fire brigade call-outs, which incurs expenses and pointlessly occupies an important service.

What if something goes wrong with my alarm? If there is an issue with your alarm, for instance an alarm sounding but no fire, a fault light on the panel, unexplained beeping or a lack of power, you must report it immediately to a fire protection company.

At Spectrum we have installed and maintained a huge range of systems from a variety of different brands. We offer fire alarm maintenance packages at low-cost rates, ensuring you are compliant with the latest safety standards and feel safe and secure, knowing we are just a phone call away and can be at your business swiftly if problems occur.

Get in touch on 01753 754890 or drop us a message on info@spectrumsecurity.co.uk if you have any questions or want more information on our fire alarm system services.