Fire alarm systems play a major role in keeping people safe in a building so the importance of keeping them maintained is crucial.
It’s no exaggeration when we say that serviced fire alarm systems can legitimately save someone’s life so this isn’t something you can leave to chance.
Fires cause devastating damage and repercussions so to prevent this, you need to ensure that your fire alarm system remains in optimum condition all-year-round.
In this blog, we will explore why fire alarm servicing is paramount for businesses.
Key points we cover include:
- Reasons why fire alarm servicing is crucial
- What does fire alarm servicing include?
- Frequency of fire alarm servicing
- What happens if you neglect servicing?
- Choosing a reliable fire alarm service provider
Do you require an immediate quotation for fire alarm servicing?
Call Lookout Fire & Security Solutions at 01942 387035 or use the contact form.
Reasons Fire Alarm Servicing is Crucial For Businesses
Fire alarm servicing for business is of paramount importance.
Key reasons for this include:
• Ensuring System Reliability: Over time, your fire alarms will experience wear and tear, possible damage and more. The wiring, sensors, control panels, power sources and more will need looking at to ensure they are working properly. Regular fire alarm servicing will do this nicely which will maintain top levels of reliability.
• Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Standards: You are obligated to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 which requires commercial and residential buildings to maintain a good quality fire alarm system along with many other standards. This is not only good because it encourages safety by law, but it also means people must follow the rules and therefore there’s less chance of neglect.
• Early Detection of Issues: Regular inspections can uncover potential problems, such as faulty sensors, drained backup batteries, or wiring issues, before they escalate into major malfunctions. Addressing these issues early ensures your fire alarm system remains fully functional.
• Prolonging System Lifespan: Fire alarm systems can be a significant investment, and routine servicing can extend their lifespan which means you get more value for money on your purchase. Proper maintenance keeps the system running efficiently and delays the need for costly replacements.
• Maintaining Insurance Coverage: In order to receive competitive rates on your insurance and actually have valid insurance, you will need to show that your fire alarm is in perfect working order. You will have the confidence that it is, if you do regular services and checks. The result is lowered premiums and proper coverage.
What Does Fire Alarm Servicing For Businesses Include?
A professional fire alarm service with Lookout Fire & Security typically includes the following steps:
• Visual Inspection: Technicians check the entire system for visible signs of damage, corrosion, or tampering.
• Sensor Testing: Smoke and heat detectors are tested to ensure they respond accurately to fire conditions.
• Control Panel Check: The control panel, the brain of the fire alarm system, is examined for proper functionality and errors.
• Battery Assessment: Backup power supplies are tested to ensure the system remains operational during a power outage.
• Sounder and Strobe Testing: Alarm signals are checked to confirm they are loud and visible enough to alert occupants.
• System Log Review: We will look at previous issues that have been logged and make sure they have been dealt with.
• Post-Servicing Reports: Deliver a detailed service report outlining findings, completed tasks, and recommendations.
How Often Is Fire Alarm Servicing Required?
In the UK, fire alarms should be serviced every six months by a competent professional. Fire alarms must comply with British Standard BS 5839, which recommends servicing every six months. High-risk environments, such as manufacturing facilities or kitchens, may require more frequent checks due to the increased likelihood of false alarms or system strain.
As well as ensuring a professional service with Lookout Fire & Security Solutions at least once every six months, you should also check independently test your fire alarm weekly.
What Happens If You Neglect Servicing?
Fire alarm servicing is a legal requirement and is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Failure to comply with servicing requirements may results in one or more of the following:
Increased Fire Risk
Without comprehensive fire alarm servicing, the system’s ability to detect fire diminishes, putting lives, property, and operations at significant risk.
Financial Penalties
Non-compliance with fire safety regulations can result in fines, insurance premium hikes, or loss of coverage.
Legal Liability
If there’s a fire accident and you’re found to not have a serviced fire alarm then you may face heavy prosecutions or other legal consequences.
Choosing a Reliable Fire Alarm Servicing Provider
You want to have absolute confidence that you’re going to a company for fire alarm servicing that knows what they’re talking about and who are qualified. Be sure to look out for certifications and that they’re ‘British Approvals for Fire Equipment’ certified.
Find out what experience they have and whether they’ve serviced fire alarms in buildings similar to yours. Have a look at their rating on Google and check out testimonials. You can check out a selection of our 50 + five-star reviews here.
Contact Lookout Fire & Security Solutions
Neglecting fire alarm servicing simply isn’t an option and we hope we’ve explained why in this blog.
If you require extra support on this or would like our team to service your fire alarm system then please get in touch. We will be delighted to offer a without-charge quote as well as show you some options such as scheduled fire alarm servicing and more.
Call us now at 01942 387035 or use the contact form and we will respond to your enquiry promptly.