Generically, it is recommended to test fire alarms in the workplace at least Monthly.
Fire safety in the workplace is an absolute necessity. It serves to protect your premises, staff, and customers in the event of a fire. UK law dictates that appropriate fire safety measures are mandatory in every workplace, which usually includes an effective fire detection system, extinguishers and other fire fighting equipment, and company-wide fire drills and training.
Maintenance and testing of the alarm systems and procedures in your workplace are critical to ensure that when the time comes, they work as they should. But how often should you test your fire alarm systems, what should you look out for and who’s responsible?
These are the questions we will be answering in subsequent paragraphs:
How Often Should You Test Fire Alarms In The Workplace?
Regulations in the UK state that fire alarms and warning systems should be tested weekly on your business premises. This is in addition to routine maintenance which should be carried out every 6-12 months. Weekly testing and inspections should highlight any issues or faults with the detection system and it could just save lives.
If any serious issues are identified, a fire safety technician should be called in as soon as possible to review your system and make any repairs that are needed. You should aim to limit the downtime of your alarm as much as possible to ensure everyone is safe in your workplace or premises.
Things To Look Out For When Testing Fire Alarms
Several issues need to be considered when testing and inspecting fire alarm systems. A typical fire alarm drill will ensure that the system is working as it should, but a closer inspection of particular elements is recommended too.
1. Visual Inspection
- Control Panel: Check for any warning lights, error codes, or power supply issues.
- Smoke and Heat Detectors: Ensure they are clean, undamaged, and free from obstructions.
- Manual Call Points (Pull Stations): Verify they are accessible, visible, and not damaged.
- Sounders and Strobes: Confirm that alarms and flashing lights are positioned correctly and not blocked.
- Wiring and Connections: Look for loose, damaged, or corroded wires that may affect performance.
2. Functional Testing
- Alarm Sound and Visibility: Activate the system to confirm the sound and visual alerts are loud and visible throughout the building.
- Detector Response: Test smoke and heat detectors using appropriate test aerosols or heat sources.
- Manual Call Points: Activate pull stations to verify they trigger the alarm system.
- Alarm Reset Function: Ensure the alarm can be reset properly after activation.
- Backup Battery: Disconnect mains power and check if the system switches to battery backup.
3. Communication and Integration
- Fire Department Notification: Verify that signals are properly sent to the monitoring station or local fire department.
- Sprinkler and Suppression System Integration: Check if the fire alarm properly activates connected suppression systems.
- Elevator Recall: Ensure elevators return to the designated floor during an alarm (if applicable).
- Door Release Mechanisms: Confirm that fire doors release and close as intended when alarms activate.
4. Documentation and Compliance
- Log Test Results: Record all tests, failures, and maintenance actions for compliance.
- Check Expiry Dates: Some components, like batteries and detectors, have a lifespan and should be replaced if expired.
- Verify Compliance with Codes: Ensure the system meets NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) or other relevant local fire codes.
READ: What Is Fire Alarm System: How It Works & Types
If your warning system runs on batteries then check these in each device and detector and replace them with new 9V batteries if they are running low. The wider alarm and fire procedure system should also be checked, including emergency lighting, signage, and fire doors, and checking that emergency exits are unobstructed.
Who Is Responsible For Testing Fire Alarms?
Every workplace should have a designated fire safety officer, but responsibility for testing fire alarms ultimately comes down to the business owner, building owner, or property manager depending on who owns the premises.
READ: 30 Important House Fire Prevention Tips
Failing to perform the necessary checks and maintenance could lead to disastrous consequences for your business. As the responsible person, you could be fined or even prosecuted if safety standards are not maintained in your workplace and someone comes to harm as a result. So take no chances when it comes to people’s safety!