Fire alarm weekly testing

The majority of people don't weekly test their fire alarm system. Most that do are not aware how to do this properly.

Before we begin here are some common mistakes when testing fire systems:

1 - Triggering the fire system from the evacuate button on the main fire alarm control panel
2 - Testing from the same break glass call point each week
3 - Leaving the break glass test key in & then resetting the main panel
4 - Completing the test & not writing it down in the log book
5 - Not writing full details in the log book

The following procedures should be followed for Fire alarm weekly testing:

• An agreed time & day for testing the alarm should be noted in the fire testing procedure & all staff notified,
   
• also letting everyone know that if the alarm lasts for longer than 1 minute then to treat the alarm as genuine.

Before starting testing if the fire alarm is monitored the system should be put on test with the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC)

1. Every week a break glass call point should be operated during normal working hours & the results recorded. A different call point to be tested each week, there is no maximum period for this e.g. 150 call points would take 150 weeks

2. Any occupants should report any poor audibility of sounders

3. Systems with staged evacuation or alert should be run through their full procedure, e.g. - test, alert & evacuation

4. In premises with shift patterns or out of normal working hours then a separate test should be made available once a month

5. Voice alarms should be tested in accordance with BS5839-8

6. Ensure that for monitored systems that the fire alarm & reset signal was received at the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC)

For monthly testing carry out the above weekly testing & the following:

If any generator is used as stand by power supply, then it should be started & fully checked Any back up batteries should be visually inspected by competent person.

Further to weekly & monthly testing the following considerations & procedures should be carried out:

Action in the event of pre-alarms.

Determine & fully inspect the area from whence the pre-alarm has originated.

If fire discovered, carryout the pre-determined fire evacuation procedure.

If no fire is discovered, record the events or activities near the suspected detector in the log book & if work further inspection or corrective works required then to contact the fire alarm service company. Action in the event of genuine fire.

Follow your own written fire procedure, if you do not have then please contact us for more information. The integrity of the system must always be checked after a fire to determine weather any damage has taken place that may affect the proper use of the system. You are advised to contact the service company for an inspection in accordance with the British Standards Action following a fault.

Determine the area of the fault & if any special action is required such as fire patrols If possible determine the reason for the fault In all circumstances note any activities in the area prior to the occurrence of the fault Record all details in the log book Notify the fire alarm maintenance company Log book.A requirement of The Regulatory Reform Order.

A log book is to be kept for recording all events of the fire alarm system such as fire alarms, false alarms, faults & on going testing of the system. This provides not only proof of testing & maintaining the system but also useful information for the user & Service Company with respect to investigating false alarms & faults with the system Note - an accurately completed log book can save you & your organization time & money.

The following information should be completed :

1. Name of the responsible person
2. Brief details of maintenance arrangements
3. Dates & times of all fire alarm signals & which detector was operated this is for all signals e.g. drills, false alarms, genuine fires
4. Causes & circumstances surrounding any false alarm
5. Dates & times & types of all tests
6. Dates, times & types of all faults & defects
7. Dates & types of all maintenance (e.g. service visit or non-routine maintenance such as call outs etc) ASSURED ASSISTANCE - if you are unsure of any of your requirements as a responsible person or require an onsite demonstration of testing then please contact our service department on 0845 402 3045