How Often Should Fire Alarms Be Tested in the UK?

According to recent studies, only 20% of businesses in the UK test their fire alarm systems once a year. This is a worrying statistic, especially considering the legal and safety implications of not having a fully operational fire alarm system. Ensuring that your fire alarms work correctly could be the difference between a controlled emergency and a major disaster. So, how often should fire alarm systems actually be tested?

Let’s explore the essential fire alarm testing requirements and responsibilities for business owners in the UK, based on the expert guidance of electricians in London UK  and British fire safety standards.

Weekly Testing – What the Law Says

Under British Standard BS 5839, fire alarm systems in commercial buildings should be tested at least once a week. This test involves activating at least one manual call point (the button you press in case of fire) to make sure the alarm sounds correctly and the system operates as intended. This helps identify faults early and ensures the system is functioning properly at all times.

The Fire Safety Order 2005 also requires that businesses maintain their fire safety systems in an efficient state. This means that in addition to weekly tests, a full inspection by a professional company doing fire installation in London should be done every six months. These professional checks ensure that all elements of the system — including control panels, detectors, sounders, and battery backups — are working correctly.

Does Building Size Affect Testing Frequency?

Yes, the frequency of testing can vary depending on the size and layout of the building. For smaller premises, testing one call point per week may be sufficient, rotating through different ones each week. However, for larger buildings with many outstations or zones, two to three call points may need to be tested weekly as part of fire alarm maintenance in London to ensure complete coverage over a cycle.

What About Smoke Detectors?

Smoke detectors, while part of the overall fire alarm system, deserve special attention. Experts from top fire alarm installation companies in London recommend that smoke alarms be tested weekly as well. Many fire-related deaths occur due to smoke detectors failing to sound, often because of dead batteries. Replacing batteries at least once a year is crucial, and using detectors with low-battery warnings can help avoid these risks.

Who Should Perform the Maintenance?

According to BS 5839, fire alarm maintenance and servicing should only be conducted by competent persons. That means using a fire alarm installation company in London certified by recognised organisations like BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) under the SP203-1 scheme, which verifies professional competence.

Your Responsibility as a Business Owner

Even if you hire a certified installer and conduct risk assessments, you are still legally responsible for your premises’ fire safety. If your fire alarm system doesn’t meet legal standards, you could face serious consequences — even if the fault lies with the installer.

Fire Alarm Maintenance  London: Choosing the Right Company 

In order to ensure fire safety regulatory compliance and that high-quality servicing is carried out on your fire safety equipment, it is important to establish a regular maintenance schedule with an experienced fire safety company. Other fire safety equipment within your business premises, such as fire extinguishers and emergency lighting, also requires a servicing and maintenance schedule. For a fire safety system to work effectively, each aspect of this system needs to be in good condition, and high-quality installation and servicing are a key step to ensuring this is the case.

Contact MM Electrical Today For Fire Alarm Maintenance 

MM Electrical provides a wide range of fire safety services for businesses, including fire alarm installation, fire door surveys and emergency lighting servicing, in addition to providing fire risk assessment services. Whether you require expert fire alarm installation in London or repairs of emergency lighting, our specialist team can help. For more information on the range of services we can provide, get in touch with our team today. 

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