Fire & Life Safety
Weekly Fire Alarm Testing
Ensure your fire alarm system meets safety standards with fire alarm testing. According to the British Standard BS 5839, weekly fire alarm testing in commercial spaces is mandatory!
Weekly checks guarantee your system’s functionality, averting major failures and ensuring it’s fully operational when needed most.
Trust RACAM’s expert fire safety services to keep your fire alarms in working condition and your business safe.
How often should your fire alarm be tested?
The British Standard BS 5839-6:2019 mandates a weekly fire alarm system test for optimal functionality. Testing ensures the system operates effectively in case of a fire. Familiarise yourself with the alarm panel’s location to guarantee smooth operation and timely fire detection.
A fire alarm engineering company should conduct a detailed inspection every six months for a thorough check. Trust the experts to keep your system in prime condition and secure your premises against potential risks.
Types of Fire Alarm Systems and How to Test Them
It’s important to test a different call point each time to make sure your entire fire alarm system is functioning as it should be!
Regularly testing these systems, following manufacturer guidelines and national standards, helps ensure they’re ready to protect lives and property in case of a fire. For detailed and accurate testing, consider professional fire alarm services to guarantee system reliability.
How should my weekly fire alarm test be carried out?
Carry out your fire alarm testing using these 10 easy steps:
- 1
Read Instructions: Always start by checking the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper testing procedures.
- 2
Notify Staff: Inform your team before conducting the test to avoid unnecessary alarm.
- 3
Scheduled Testing: Test the system at the same time every week for consistency.
- 4
ARC Connection: If your alarm connects to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), inform them before testing and put the system on ‘test’ mode.
- 5
Prepare Key: Have a manual call point reset key ready to reset the activated call point after testing.
- 6
Record Details: Keep a record of the test, noting the zone and call point tested.
- 7
Activate Call Point: Trigger a manual call point to initiate the alarm.
- 8
Confirmation: Check the alarm sounds, then reset the call point using the reset key.
- 9
Control Panel Check: Confirm on the fire alarm control panel that the activated call point address and zone are accurate.
- 10
Silence and Reset: If everything is correct, silence the alarm and reset the fire alarm control panel.
Remember, test a different call point each week to ensure the entire system is functioning. Regular testing guarantees your fire alarm is ready to protect when needed. For thorough and professional testing, consider engaging fire alarm service experts to ensure your system’s reliability.