The Information You Need About Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarm systems in the UK are equally crucial for both homes and businesses. Most realize that these are highly important for their own safety, but some do not fully understand that there are specific regulations that must be adhered to when it comes to fire safety.

The British Standards for fire alarms and systems for the detection of fire are governed under the British Standards regulations BS5839.

The Many Causes of Fires

Fires in the workplace can be caused by many different sources. The following is a shortlist of the most common causes.

• Equipment that is faulty
• Unkempt workplace
• Chemicals that are combustible
• Carelessness

Then added to this list is the electrical standards of the business not being kept up to par. 

Knowing What Kind of Fire Alarm System Your Business Needs

As the proprietor of the business, it is your responsibility to know if the law demands that you need a fire system.  You may be exempt from needing a fire alarm or fire detection system if your business….

• Is constructed where it has an open plan layout, or it is a single story building
• Your business does not require you to use flammable materials or chemicals
• You are not in the business of food preparation
• That the layout of your premises allows you to determine if a fire has erupted easily
• If all within the business premises could easily hear a verbal warning that a fire has broken out.

For you to be fully confident that your business does not require a file system, then all of the above would have to apply to your premises.

Having the Proper Fire System Installed

Once it has been determined that indeed you do need a fire system, then the first step will be in seeking out a company that specializes in the installation and servicing of this type of fire detection system.

Once you have settled on a reputable electrical company to perform this service for you, these experts will then determine which type of system is most suited for your business establishment. There are variations in the fire systems that are appropriate for fire detection.

Standard fire systems:

These are the conventional systems where a designated panel identifies what general area the fire is taking place. These are typically used for small establishments or those that are not considered to be high risk.

Addressable Fire Alarms:

This system relies on every device being able to be precisely identified. It can indicate the exact location where the fire has erupted. This is typically used in high public areas like teaching establishments and healthcare facilities.

Wireless Fire Alarm Systems:

Some business establishments do not want to have to deal with a lot of wires and cables running through their business premises. This system applies to them as it operates off of sensors and the fire panel.

Here at SJD Electrical, we can tend to your fire system needs from start to finish. Our experts can advise you on the best choice of system for your business that will meet the regulatory requirements. We can test your current fire alarm system and upgrade as necessary, plus we offer full maintenance services for these fire systems.