- info@colourandgrey.co.uk
- 47 - 49 Premier Business Centre Park Royal Road, London
May 8, 2023
Fire alarms are essential because they provide an early warning of a potential fire, which can help save lives and property. Fires can start suddenly and spread quickly, and smoke and toxic gases can make it difficult to escape, especially if you are asleep or unaware of the danger.
The primary function of fire alarms is to detect the presence of smoke, heat, or flames and emit a warning signal to notify individuals in the vicinity. This gives them time to evacuate the building and call for help if necessary. By providing this warning, fire alarms can help to minimize the damage caused by fire, prevent injuries or fatalities, and reduce the risk of long-term health effects from smoke inhalation.
In the UK, fire alarms are subject to legal requirements that vary depending on the type of building and its use. The following are some of the legal requirements related to fire alarms in the UK:
Residential Properties: For a single-family home or a house in multiple occupations (HMO), the law requires a minimum of one smoke alarm installed on every single floor of the property. Installing carbon monoxide alarms in areas with solid fuel-burning appliances like fireplaces and wood-burning stoves is essential to detect deadly gas leaks.
Commercial Properties: The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires all commercial premises to have a suitable fire detection and alarm system. The system required depends on the specific hazards and risks associated with the building and its use. For example, a high-rise office building will require a more complex fire detection and alarm system than a small retail shop.
Educational Buildings: Educational buildings, such as schools and universities, are subject to the Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999. These regulations require the installation of a suitable fire alarm and detection system throughout the building.
Healthcare Facilities: Healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and care homes, are subject to the Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 05-01: Fire safety in Healthcare premises. This document outlines these buildings’ specific fire safety requirements, including installing fire detection and alarm systems.
In the UK, fire safety is the responsibility of the person or organization that has control over the premises. Depending on the specific situation, this may include the owner, landlord, employer, or building manager.
The person or organization in control of the premises has a legal duty to ensure that the building is safe from the risk of fire and that appropriate measures are in place to protect all occupants in case of a fire. This includes taking steps to prevent fires from starting, such as ensuring electrical equipment is maintained and used properly, providing appropriate fire extinguishers and signage, and ensuring that the building is appropriately designed and constructed.
In addition to fire prevention measures, the responsible person or organization must ensure that appropriate fire detection and alarm systems are in place and that occupants receive appropriate fire safety training. They must also ensure that an appropriate emergency evacuation plan is in place and that it is regularly reviewed and tested.
The responsible person or organization may also need to work with local fire authorities to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations and to coordinate emergency response in case of a fire. Ultimately, the responsibility for fire safety lies with the person or organization controlling the premises. Failure to comply with relevant regulations can result in fines or criminal prosecution.
A fire alarm system should be maintained regularly to test if it is in proper working order and will function correctly in a fire. Maintenance should be performed regularly to identify and address issues or problems affecting the system’s performance. The following are some general guidelines for fire alarm system maintenance:
In the UK, testing fire alarms at least once a week is recommended. This is typically done by activating the test button on the fire alarm panel or detector to check that the alarm sounds and sound can be heard throughout the building.
During weekly testing, it is essential to ensure the alarm is audible throughout the building, including in areas with high background noise or where occupants may have hearing difficulties. Suppose any issues are identified during testing, such as a weak or non-audible alarm. In that case, these should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure the alarm system functions correctly.
It is also essential to keep a record of fire alarm testing, including the date and time of the test, the name of the person who performed the test, and any issues or problems identified during testing. This record should be kept on file for future reference and to demonstrate compliance with fire safety regulations.
Weekly testing is an integral part of fire alarm maintenance and can help ensure that the alarm system is functioning correctly and will provide adequate warning in case of a fire. However, it is also essential to have the system professionally maintained and inspected regularly in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and industry standards.
In the United Kingdom, it is not a legal requirement to test fire alarms every month, but it is recommended to conduct a more detailed test of the fire alarm system once a month in addition to the weekly tests. Monthly testing is an opportunity to perform a more thorough check of the fire alarm system and identify any issues that may have gone unnoticed during the weekly tests.
Monthly testing should include a visual inspection of the fire alarm system, checking that all components are in good condition and free from damage, dust or other obstructions that could affect their performance. This includes checking the battery status of any wireless detectors and ensuring they have stayed within their recommended service life.
Additionally, during monthly testing, fire alarm sensors should be triggered using a specialist smoke test aerosol to ensure the smoke detectors are responding to actual smoke that would be present during a real fire.
Monthly testing should be documented in the fire logbook or fire safety management system to ensure the testing schedule is maintained and any issues or problems can be addressed promptly.
It is important to note that while regular testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems are essential, they do not replace the need for a professional inspection and servicing of the system by a qualified fire alarm engineer at least once a year in accordance with British Standard 5839-1. This annual inspection should include a thorough check of all system components, including cables, control panels, detectors, sounders, and warning devices, to ensure they are in good working order and that the system fully complies with current regulations.
Fire alarm maintenance should include a comprehensive check of the fire alarm system to ensure that it is in good working order and will operate properly in the event of a fire. The specific tasks involved in fire alarm maintenance will depend on the type of system, the manufacturer’s recommendations, and any relevant industry standards or regulations. However, in general, fire alarm maintenance should include the following:
In addition to these tasks, fire alarm maintenance should be carried out by a qualified and experienced professional familiar with the system’s specific requirements. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the fire alarms are in good working order and will provide adequate warning in the event of a fire.
Send us a message
Have Any Question?
Feel free to contact us via mobile phone or email.
We pride our self with our long years of experience, Qualified and Certified Engineers and 5 stars Customer Service.
Colour & Grey is a small size company which has family and friendly working culture.
Office Location
Copyright© 2023 | Colour and Grey | All rights reserved.
