Angus has been involved in developing and writing British and International Fire & Safety standards since the mid-1980s. The list of standards that he has participated in is impressive and includes BS5839-1, BS8629, EN54-18 and ISO7240-2. Angus utilises his extensive experience to provide an authoritative perspective on the key issues that affect the Fire & Security Industry today.
The code of practice BS 5839-1:2017 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings– Part 1: Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises has been developed in line with national building regulations in respect of both new-build and existing non-domestic premises.
The components of a fire alarm system are not given a specified lifetime under BS 5839-1. This is because BS 5839-1 does not restrict the technology that is being used as various technical solutions could result in a variable life expectancy. The equipment manufacturer will provide the best guidance regarding the life expectancy of the equipment. Manufacturers are also likely to have an obsolescence policy for spare parts and guidance about maintenance. Even though, if a manufacturer gives a recommended lifespan, the major concern is system reliability. There is no compelling reason to replace a fire detection and fire alarm system as long as they continue to function properly during periodic maintenance. But if faults and failures appear to be age-related, especially if they are happening more frequently, it could be time to upgrade your fire alarm system.
In general, manual call points and heat detectors are regarded as robust equipment that shouldn't degrade even over 10 years. However, for some items such as CO detectors, manufacturers include a recommended replacement because they have a finite lifespan. Also, the batteries used for a standby supply have a lifespan of at least 4 years. The British standard's requirements have been satisfied as long as devices work properly when tested.
The environment plays a critical role in equipment’s life expectancy. A smoke detector will likely last longer in a clean environment rather than in a dirty and dusty environment.
The lifespan of an alarm device may be influenced by how many hours it has been used, which is especially true for mechanical bells or visual alarms that use discharge tubes.
Taking Apollo fire detectors as an example, they state that “Devices manufactured by Apollo (with the exception of CO detectors), have a recommended working life of 10 years when used in dry, non-corrosive atmospheres and provided that they are regularly inspected, tested, cleaned and recalibrated. This period has been assessed on the basis of information provided by component suppliers and on around 30 years of experience of servicing these products. Most Apollo detectors will continue to operate within specification after 10 years of service, however, gradual deterioration of integrity and reliability should be allowed. In the interests of safety and the avoidance of unwanted alarms, Apollo recommends the routine replacement of detectors after 10 years of service.”
Not sure about your fire alarm system life expectancy? Got a question about Fire Alarm upgrade or a new fire alarm installation? Need a Fire Safety Risk Assessment? Get in touch today.
For over 45 years, Fixfire® has been providing quality products, systems, and services for Life & Property Protection. Whatever your requirement, please call our Compliance Team for expert advice and a refreshingly different approach.
Freephone: 08000 891 999
Following the recommendations of BS5839 Part 1 2017 (Fire Alarm British Standard), it is a mandatory requirement to have an up to date, clear and accurate Fire Alarm Zone Chart adjacent to your Fire Alarm Control Panel and any repeater panels you have in your premises.
The purpose of the Zone Chart is to assist persons responding to an alarm to quickly identify the specific location in the building and to help the Fire Brigade understand the building layout before they enter.
When the Fire Alarm System is installed, the building is divided into Fire Zones. Any Manual Call Point (Red Box) or Fire Detector that is fitted will trigger a particular zone when activated.
The Zone Chart shows the division of each zone area with a ‘You are Here’ arrow to identify the position of the Fire Alarm Panel. The view of the building should be orientated in relation to the Fire Alarm Panel position to minimise confusion.
What is involved in producing a Zone Chart?
- Hard copy
- Or preferably AutoCAD (dwg) format
You have a legal duty of care to dispose of waste legitimately and safely via a licensed waste carrier. Failure to do so can result in prosecution, even if you have outsourced the disposal to a third party.
The Fixfire® Extinguisher Recycling Process is your reassurance that any Fire Extinguishers we remove from your premises have been disposed of in a safe and legal manner. 97% of each processed Fire Extinguisher is recycled.
Our contracted Extinguisher Recycling Unit (ERU) is a dedicated facility offering a service for the safe processing and recycling/disposal of fire extinguishers. The facility operates closely with the local Water Authority and the Environment Agency to develop safe, efficient and environmentally friendly processes, ensuring that ISO14001 certification is upheld.
Got a question about Fire Extinguisher Disposal? Need Fire Safety Compliance advice? Get in touch today!
For over 45 years, Fixfire® has been providing quality products, systems and services for Life & Property Protection. Whatever your requirement, please call our Compliance Team for expert advice and a refreshingly different approach.
Freephone 08000 891999
False Fire Alarms remain a huge concern within the education sector- interrupting already carefully scheduled, planned and well-prepared lessons or even causing major disruption and distress to exams.
Clearly, these false alarms cause significant inconvenience and disruption to students, staff, and visitors. They compromise everyone’s safety in the school and present a significant risk to the local community since the Fire Brigade will prioritise the school over other emergency callouts.
Solutions you should consider:
The first and most straightforward way is to use anti-tamper products.
Fixfire® supplies a wide range of solutions designed to protect Fire Alarm Devices from inadvertent damage or deliberate misuse/vandalism.
Products include:
- Local plastic cover flaps which attach directly to manual call points.
- The stopper consists of a clear, tamperproof, tough polycarbonate cover, frame and spacer that retrofits over a break glass call point. When lifted to operate the break glass unit, its optional battery powered integral sounder emits a piercing 96dB (at 1m). Immediate attention is drawn to the area and a prankster will either run or be caught!
- A range of steel web stoppers designed to protect fire detectors and warning devices. They are constructed from heavy-duty galvanised steel rod which is plastic-coated for durability and external use.
- A range of polycarbonate enclosures are available for the protection of devices such as fire alarm control panels and associated control equipment. The enclosures combine tough rugged construction with stylish design and offer excellent protection with a key lock for authorised access.
We also provide anti-tamper devices for fire extinguishers and associated products.
KeyCall® is a patented anti-ligature Fire Alarm and Access Control call point. It is designed to use the same key as the doors, providing simple operation for staff whilst eliminating nuisance activations by service-users.
KeyCall® has been developed by Fixfire® specifically for approved applications where standard versions would be vulnerable to abuse.
It is one of the best solutions for SEN schools and it is also compatible with a wide range of Conventional and Addressable Fire Alarm Systems.
Got a question about False Fire Alarms? Need Fire Safety Compliance advice? Get in touch today!
For over 45 years, Fixfire® has been providing quality products, systems and services for Life & Property Protection. Whatever your requirement, please call our Compliance Team for expert advice and a refreshingly different approach.
Freephone 08000 891999
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