Fire detection and warning systems are some of the most important safety inventions to have been developed in the last 150 years. They are vital for safeguarding people and property, saving countless lives every year.
Whether in the workplace or at home, fire detection systems act as the first line of defence, providing an early warning in the event of a fire. However, to ensure they function correctly when needed, regular checks and maintenance are essential. But how often should you check these systems?
An automatic fire alarm system is crucial in providing immediate alerts during emergencies, enhancing safety protocols by detecting smoke or heat automatically and allowing for manual activation when necessary.
In our latest post, we’ll explore the recommended fire detection and warning system maintenance to help you ensure safety in your workplace in your property.
In any workplace, the safety of employees and visitors must be a top priority. Fire detection and warning systems are essential to this, providing early warnings to help prevent injuries and loss of life. They also minimise property damage by alerting people to the fire, allowing quicker evacuation and faster responses from emergency services. A fire alarm control panel plays a crucial role in registering detected fires as specific locations or zones, ensuring effective fire detection and response. Regular checks ensure these systems remain functional and reliable, making them a vital part of any fire safety plan.
In the UK, fire safety regulations are governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Employers, owners, and those responsible for managing buildings are legally required to ensure that fire detection and warning systems are installed and properly maintained in accordance with fire alarm regulations. Part of this responsibility includes carrying out regular tests and inspections to ensure the system remains operational. Failing to comply with these regulations could lead to fines, legal action, or even loss of life in the worst case scenario.
Fire detection and warning systems should undergo regular fire alarm tests to ensure they are working correctly and to help you stay compliant with all relevant legislation. The British Standards (BS 5839-1:2017) recommend that fire alarm systems are inspected at least once every six months by a competent person. Weekly testing should also be carried out in house, where a designated person tests different call points in rotation to ensure the system is working correctly. These regular checks will help identify any faults or issues that need to be addressed, preventing systems from failing in an emergency.
There are several actions you should take when checking your fire detection and warning systems:
One crucial step is to activate a fire alarm call point during weekly tests to ensure that the alarm functions correctly and that the control panel receives the signal. This practice is essential for maintaining compliance with fire safety regulations.
A manual call point to test alarm sounds and system functionality is crucial. This should be done at different points in the system each week to ensure full coverage over time. Confirming that the alarm produces audible signals during these checks ensures the system is effectively communicating with the central panel.
Regularly inspect fire detectors, alarms, and panels for damage, obstruction, or any visible signs of malfunction.
Hire a professional fire safety technician for fire alarm servicing to carry out comprehensive checks, including testing the smoke or heat detectors, alarms, and control panels to ensure they meet safety standards. Regular inspections and maintenance by a competent person are essential for identifying and addressing faults, ensuring system integrity, and complying with regulatory standards such as BS 5839.
Keep detailed records of all tests, inspections, and maintenance work carried out. This not only helps ensure regular checks are completed but can also be crucial in demonstrating compliance with fire safety regulations.
Engaging a fire alarm company can be an effective way to maintain compliance with fire safety regulations through professional services.
It’s important to check that the smoke detector is clean and free from dust, as this can affect its performance.
In addition to weekly testing, smoke detectors should also be inspected and maintained regularly by a competent person. This includes checking the battery levels, cleaning the detector, and replacing any faulty or damaged detectors. Regular maintenance ensures that the smoke detectors are always in optimal working condition, ready to alert you in case of a fire.
It’s also important to note that smoke detectors should be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Any faults or deficiencies identified during testing should be referred to a competent person for investigation and rectification. This ensures that any issues are promptly addressed, maintaining the reliability of your fire safety system.
Organising fire drills for commercial properties is an essential part of fire safety. Fire drills help to ensure that employees know what to do in the event of a fire, and that the fire alarm system is functioning properly. According to British Standard BS 5839, fire drills should be carried out at least once a year.
A well organised fire drill should include a simulated fire scenario, such as a fire in a specific area of the building. This scenario should trigger the activation of the fire alarm system, prompting the evacuation of the building by employees. Once outside, everyone should assemble at a designated assembly point, where a roll call is conducted to ensure all employees are accounted for.
Fire drills should be carried out during working hours and supervised by a competent person. The drill should be recorded in a fire logbook, and any faults or deficiencies identified should be referred to a competent person for investigation and rectification. This documentation is crucial for maintaining compliance with fire safety regulations and for continuous improvement of your fire safety procedures.
It’s also important to note that fire drills should be carried out in accordance with the fire safety policy of the commercial property. This policy should include procedures for fire alarm testing, fire detector maintenance, and emergency evacuation. The policy should be reviewed and updated regularly, and communicated to all employees to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities in the event of a fire.
By following these guidelines, commercial properties can ensure that their fire alarm systems are functioning properly, and that their employees are prepared in the event of a fire. Regular fire drills and a robust fire safety policy are key components of an effective fire safety strategy.
While weekly in house tests can help identify minor issues, a professional inspection ensures a more thorough evaluation of your fire detection and warning system. Professional technicians have the expertise to spot potential faults and provide tailored maintenance that meets all relevant safety standards. Choosing a professional service, ensures your system is fully compliant with legal requirements, giving you peace of mind and reducing the risk of system failure.
An addressable fire alarm system offers the advantage of providing specific location details of detected fires, which can significantly enhance response times and accuracy in emergency situations.
phs Compliance can help you maintain fire safety in your workplace with our fire detection and alarm systems maintenance packages. We can advise you on how often your fire alarms should be checked and schedule regular inspections and maintenance to give you one less thing to worry about. Using phs Compliance can give you peace of mind that your fire detection and warning systems are being professionally maintained, thanks to experienced professionals who are carefully trained and vetted.
Additionally, regular maintenance and testing of smoke alarms are crucial to ensure they are functional and comply with safety regulations.
All our fire alarm testing services, maintenance or installation works are delivered to the latest UK fire safety standards and in accordance with BS 5839-1 We are also inspected annually by third party certification company, ensuring we maintain the highest level of competency and can provide fully compliant fire alarm test certificates.
Whether you’re a small business owner, a large organisation or a landlord looking to maintain fire safety in your premises, phs Compliance can help. Get in touch for a free quote and let us help you take care of your fire safety needs.
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