The landscape of fire safety standards is evolving. The recent update to British Standard BS 5839-1:2025 marks a significant step forward in fire safety for non-domestic premises. While this new standard is not enforced retrospectively, meaning businesses aren’t legally required to update existing systems immediately, it serves as a crucial advisory guideline. Any deviations from the updated standards are to be noted, underscoring the importance of maintaining the safest possible environment.
The BS 5839-1:2025 Update
The BS 5839-1:2025 update enhances several critical areas, including system integrity, alarm notification, maintenance protocols, and the integration of new technologies. These updates aim to improve the reliability and effectiveness of fire alarm systems, ultimately safeguarding lives and assets. As with any safety advancement, the intention behind these updates is to mitigate risks and enhance protection.
Think of the update to BS 5839-1:2025 like the evolution of seatbelt regulations. In the 1970s, it might have been considered safe to drive without a seatbelt, but today, doing so seems unthinkable. Similarly, while your current fire alarm system may have been compliant with previous standards, aligning with the latest guidelines is a proactive step in ensuring optimal safety.

For businesses, this update presents an opportunity to review and enhance their fire safety systems. While compliance with the new standard isn’t mandatory for existing systems, it is best practice to adopt the most current safety measures. By doing so, businesses demonstrate a commitment to safety, potentially reducing liability and enhancing trust among employees and clients.
The BS 5839-1:2025 update is not just a regulatory change but a call to action for businesses to prioritise safety. As with seatbelt laws, these standards are in place for a reason—ensuring that we protect what’s most important.
We aim to bring peace of mind to our customers. Our team are keeping up to date with developments, including attending training on BS 5839-1:2025 updates.
To discuss updates to your existing system, or for a new system design, contact our team today on 0800 458 7486 or sales@keybury.co.uk.