P&R Safety Testing Specialists | Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a fire alarm system?

Under the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations it states that all employers must carry out a Fire Risk Assessment which includes provision for giving warning in case of fire.

Why do I need to change a fire alarm system that is connected
to the mains electrical supply?
It is a requirement under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations (1996) that all fire alarm warning systems are provided with a guaranteed emergency supply in the event of a power failure. This means that all fire alarm systems without battery back up are no longer legal.

Why do I need to service my fire alarm system?
Fire Alarm testing is essential to ensure that the system is in full working order and is a requirement under BS5839 Part 1 2002. Failure to keep fire detection and alarm systems in good working order is a criminal offence.

What qualifications are required to carry out Fire Alarm Testing?
Servicing should be carried out by a competent person with sufficient training, experience, knowledge and other qualities to enable them to undertake the task.

How often should our Fire Alarm System be tested?
Testing can be quarterly or 6 monthly depending on the alarm system and the environment in which it is installed.

What types of smoke detectors are available?

There are 3 different types of smoke detectors:

Optical – work on the principal of infra red light refracting off smoke particles entering the chamber. This makes the detectors more sensitive to smouldering fires such as modern fabrics or furnishings. Also more prone to false alarms from steam or dusty environments.

Beam Detectors – works as an infra red beam is emitted from the transmitter (TX) to the receiver (RX), which detects any obstruction by smoke. Ionisation– works on the principal of charred smoke particles passing between two electrodes causing a small current flow. This detector is more suited for fast flaming fires such as paper/wood. Also more prone to false alarms from burning smells outside kitchens etc.

What types of heat detectors are available?
There are 2 types of heat detectors:

Rate of rise– these detectors will respond to a sudden increase in temperature and also have a fixed element in case of a slow smouldering fire. Most suitable for areas where is a smoke detector is undesirable i.e. a staff room.

Fixed temperature – have a sensing element which operates the detector when a particular temperature is reached. This type of detector is ideal for rooms where a rate of rise detector would not be suitable such as a kitchen or a boiler room.