Fire Alarms – Servicing

Fire Alarms ThreeESI: Electrical has a team of engineers trained by leading manufacturers to service and maintain their systems. We are not tied to any manufacturer, therefore we are able to service and maintain and repair systems which have been installed by other companies. BS 5839 Part 1 requires that all Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting systems have a maintenance and emergency callout service in place for the ongoing support of these important life safety systems. Under this system we provide engineer support on a same day/within 8 working hours for supported systems.

We provide regular maintenance of fire alarm systems on a contract basis for a variety of premises from Offices and Factories to Hotels and Public Venues.

The British Standards for Fire Alarm systems provide the following guidance for maintenance programmes.:

Weekly Fire Alarm Testing

BS5839-1:2002 recommends that every week a manual call point should be operated during normal working hours. The weekly test should be carried out at approximately the same time every week. This test enables occupants to report any instance of poor audibility of the fire alarm signal. This weekly test can be carried out in-house by your staff.

BS5839-I:2002 Fire Alarm Maintenance & Testing

User Checks

    • DAILY INSPECTION:
      Check that the Charger On indicator shows. Inspect for any fault indicator showing or sounder operating. Inform the designated responsible person of any fault.
    • WEEKLY TEST:
      Ensure that all indicators show by resetting according to the instructions provided with the panel and check that the internal sounder operates. Operate a call point or detector to test the system. Check that the sounders operate. Reset the fire alarm panel. Each week choose a different zone in rotation so that each zone is tested at least quarterly. Remember to use a different call point or detector for each test, that way all call points are tested in rotation. Check all call points and detectors and ensure that none are obstructed in any way. Enter results of tests into log book.

Engineer Visits

    • QUARTERLY/SIX MONTHLY TEST:
      Check all previous log book entries and clarify that any remedial action has been taken. Check the battery and its connections. Operate a call point or detector in each zone to test the fire alarm as per above. Remove mains supply and check that the battery is capable of supplying the alarm sounders.
    • ANNUAL TEST:
      As per above. Additionally test all detectors and call points and check for operation.
    • EVERY 2 YEARS:
      Clean smoke detectors to ensure correct operation and freedom from false alarms. Special equipment is required for cleaning smoke detectors.
    • EVERY 5 YEARS:
      Replace sealed lead acid batteries. If the operating temperature exceeds 25ºC continuously, then the battery may need to be replaced sooner.