Fire alarms are a vital component of any commercial buildings fire safety measures. In an emergency, fire alarms provide the critical first warning, giving occupants and emergency services the crucial seconds they need to act. Fire alarms can also trigger other safety systems within your building, such as emergency lighting or ventilation systems. A fully operational fire alarm system not only ensures the safety of occupants but also ensures compliance with your legal requirements, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Understanding when you need to update or replace your fire alarm is essential for maintaining your buildings safety standards and compliance.
In this blog we explore when you might need to update or replace your commercial fire alarm system, providing information on faults to look out for, regulations and what required information you will need to secure a quote for your new system.
The Risks of Outdated Fire Alarm Systems
Like many electronic systems, fire alarms age over time, and their components can deteriorate. After about a decade, a detector’s light output can drop below 70%, reducing its ability to detect smoke effectively. Consider how often you upgrade your phone over a similar period as technology evolves, batteries lose their charge, or buttons stop working.
Over time, the sensitivity of your fire alarm system can also change, potentially causing false alarms that can disrupt your business and waste emergency services' resources, or even worse, failing to trigger when needed most. False alarms account for a significant portion of fire service callouts each year, costing time, money, and, in some cases, lives. If your system is past its prime, it’s time to act.
When Should You Replace or Update Your Fire Alarm System
Fire alarm systems generally last between 10-15 years, but don’t just rely on your calendar, your building’s needs might change before then or a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) could flag issues with compliance, aging equipment, or insufficient coverage. Changes in how your building is used, an increase in occupancy, or layout alterations can also mean your current system is no longer fit for purpose. Regular maintenance checks will help catch these issues early, ensuring your fire alarm is always ready when you need it.
Commercial Fire Alarm Regulations and Key Standards
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that business owners and responsible persons must ensure fire safety measures, including alarms, are in place and working properly. BS 5839 is the British Standard for fire alarm system design, covering everything from installation to ongoing maintenance. Building Regulations Approved Document B Volume 2 also sets out fire safety standards, ensuring new and altered buildings meet the right protection levels. Keeping up with these regulations means ensuring your building and its occupants are kept safe.
Signs that your Fire Alarm system should be Updated or Replaced
Several warning signs indicate it may be time to replace or upgrade your fire alarm system. These include:
- Frequent false alarms disrupting operations
- Difficulty sourcing replacement parts due to system obsolescence.
- Failure to integrate with modern fire safety systems.
- Increased maintenance costs and recurring product faults.
- Non-compliance with updated fire safety regulations.
If your fire alarm suffers from any of the above points, then it might be time to consider either updating or replacing your fire alarm system to make sure your commercial building is protected.
Information You Will Need for A New Fire Alarm Quote
To receive an accurate quote for a new commercial fire alarm system, you will need to provide:
- The size and layout of your building.
- The current fire alarm system type and condition.
- Any specific compliance requirements.
- The level of integration needed with other fire safety measures.
- Details of any recent Fire Risk Assessments.
Providing this information upfront will allow your designated fire alarm engineer to quote for a system that meets the specific requirements of your building.
Finding an Accredited Installer
Post Grenfell competence in fire safety has never been more important. With strict regulations and high stakes, ensuring that your fire alarm system is designed, installed, and maintained by a qualified provider is essential. Choosing an accredited contractor guarantees that your system meets the required standards for safety and compliance. Ventro carries the BAFE SP203-1 accreditation, covering Design, Installation, Commissioning, and Maintenance of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems. This certification demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant fire safety solutions, giving you confidence that your fire alarm system is in expert hands.
Knowing when to replace your commercial fire alarm system can be challenging. Over time, fire alarm components degrade, increasing the risk of false alarms or, worse, system failures. This guide has outlined the signs of an outdated system, the importance of regulatory compliance, and the steps needed to get an accurate quote. By proactively assessing your fire alarm system and upgrading or replacing when necessary protects your occupants and ensures your building remains fully compliant with all fire safety regulations.
If you need expert advice for replacing or updating your fire alarm systems, Ventro is here to help.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your fire alarm needs.
