Maintenance of alarms (fire and theft)

It is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to implement and maintain fire detection equipment.

Fire alarms are critical to ensuring compliance with health and safety and fire safety law. Fire alarms-Property management | London Fire Brigade (london-fire.gov.uk) Smoke detectors are recommended for the fast detection of fire, preventing harm to people and, in some systems, helping to protect the building and contents.

It is recommended that individuals are designated stewards. They will be responsible for raising the alarm and organising evacuations.

If manually operated sounders are inadequate, due to the size of the building or if the site contains more than one building, the premises must be provided with an electronic fire warning system. Mains fed “domestic type” smoke alarms will suffice for premises comprising not more than two floors e.g. ground floor and first floor or ground floor and basement. These devices can be used together and must be regularly tested. If the fire alarms are at height, consideration should be given to the Work and Height Regulations, see “Building work and Managing contractors” for further information. Alternatively, mains operated smoke alarms can be powered and linked together by lighting circuits provided they are fitted with a battery backup should the lighting circuit fail.

The need for alarms should flow from the particular risks identified in the risk assessment.

• The alarms should be installed by reputable and approved contractors.
• The alarms must be clearly audible.
• Every fire exit in the building should have an alarm call point.
• The alarm should be in good working order at all times.
• The alarm should tested regularly and at least once a week.
• Training should be provided on the use of the alarm and on proper access/egress in line with the sounding of an alarm.
• The system should be reviewed by a reliable contractor twice annually.
• You should enlist a responsible individual or organisation that carries the British Approvals of Fire Equipment certification to carry out these checks.
• Systems should normally be designed to meet British Standard 5839: part 1.