Each year, there are around 22,000 fires in workplaces which cause thousands of deaths, not to mention injuries, damage caused and loss of property. If you own several commercial holdings, then you must be aware of how important it is to ensure that the buildings are secure and safe.
In the past few years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of fire alarm systems installed in commercial buildings. This is due to the introduction of alternative systems that use fire and smoke detectors in place of conventional fire alarms to ensure compliance with building regulations.
The fire alarm regulations for commercial buildings in the UK
Within the UK, fire detection and warning systems are governed by several regulations. These include the Fire Safety Order from 1986, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. All these pieces of legislation have been introduced primarily for health and safety reasons.
Fire alarms in commercial buildings are required by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Fire Alarm Code (NFAC).
In new commercial structures, fire alarm systems must be installed per the NFPA’s Life Safety Code. It also controls how these systems are tested, maintained, and documented. According to the NFAC, commercial buildings must have a separate smoke detection system and fire alarm system (pagers or strobes). To prevent people from being trapped in their offices or cubicles if there is a fire elsewhere in the building, the NFAC also mandates that all commercial buildings have a central paging system that can be heard throughout the building.
However, the fire safety rules are different in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
How often should fire detection and warning systems be checked?
It is advised that you check your fire detection system frequently — at least twice a year. This entails disassembling the alarm panel and inspecting each component for signs of wear and tear or damage that could impair its effectiveness. This will ensure that everything is operating as it should and that no problems have developed since the previous inspection.
How often should fire equipment be serviced?
To make sure that everything is functioning well and will be useful in an emergency, fire equipment should undergo routine maintenance. The frequency of service depends on the type of fire equipment, its age and its condition.
The NFPA advises testing fire extinguishers once a year; however if they are used often or are situated in high-risk areas, more regular testing may be necessary.
What is KBO’s approach to commercial fire alarm regulations?
Here at KBO Fire & Security, we understand how important a commercial fire protection system is to your building. Before even suggesting a fire alarm system, our experts will conduct a free initial consultation which will consist of examining the alarms and providing a detailed report to you.
KBO offers a fully integrated fire alarm system that can include, but is not limited to:
1. Fire detection systems
2. Wireless fire detection systems
3. Fire suppression and extinguishing systems
And, so much more!
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you with our fire detection and alarm system or request a free initial survey, please get in touch. Call our friendly team today on 0800 999 60 70. We look forward to hearing from you.
