The landscape of fire safety standards doesn’t stand still for long. BS5839-1:2025 represents one of the latest benchmarks for fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises. With these updated guidelines in place, businesses must take proactive steps to ensure compliance, enhancing both safety and reliability. So you might be wondering; what should your business do next?
What should Businesses do to Ensure Compliance with BS5839-1:2025?
We’ll guide you through what to do to ensure compliance with the updated 2025 British Standard for Fire Alarm Systems in non domestic premises.
Conduct a Comprehensive Audit
The first step is to conduct a thorough audit of your current fire alarm systems. This involves reviewing existing Fire Alarm Zone Plans, Detection types (and their age), Fire Alarm Signalling methods, and Commissioning history. In doing this review, you can identify areas that require updates or adjustments to align with the BS5839-1:2025 standards. This audit is crucial for understanding the current state of your systems and planning necessary upgrades. Questions to consider in your review include;
- Are Fire Alarm Zone Plans up to date and accurate?
- Are detection types appropriate?
- Are detectors 10+ years old?
- Is fire alarm monitored to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC)?
- Is the fire alarm monitoring signaling up to date and effective for the category of the system?
Does your building have a fire alarm zone plan clearly displayed?
Fire Alarm Zone Plans are a key component of fire safety. Does your building have one clearly displayed? A compliant fire alarm zone plan accurately represents the building layout. It should be
Update Documentation and Protocols
The next task is to update your policies, logbooks, and maintenance protocols. This includes documenting any changes made to the systems and ensuring that all records reflect the new requirements. Comprehensive documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance and can serve as a valuable resource during inspections or audits.
Engage Qualified Contractors To Ensure Compliance with BS5839-1:2025
Another critical step is to engage qualified contractors who meet the new “competent person” criteria outlined in BS5839-1:2025. These professionals bring the expertise needed to implement the latest standards effectively. By working with accredited contractors, businesses can ensure that their systems are installed, maintained, and upgraded in line with current regulations.
approved.
Keybury fire & Security are BAFE approved for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire alarm systems.
Continuous Training and Education
Keeping team members informed about the latest standards and best practices in fire safety can help maintain compliance and safeguard the well-being of all building occupants. Invest in continuous training and education for your staff to ensure everyone understands your up to date fire safety policies and their roles and responsibilities.
By taking these steps, you can ensure not only business compliance, but also the overall safety and reliability of your fire alarm systems, ultimately protecting lives and property.
Keybury Fire and Security design, install, commission and maintain fire alarm systems to BS5839-1:2025. Our FIA trained team provide expert fire alarm system design, installation & commissioning as well as fire alarm maintenance. Schedule your free of charge survey to find out more about our fire alarm solutions.