According to news reports, the fire alarm activated in the British Museum last month. The British Museum is housing the world famous Bayeux Tapestry whilst renovations are carried out at it’s home Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux in Normany.
Reports suggested smoke caused by an overheating light had triggered the fire alarm system. Some 3,700 visitors were evacuated and the fire services attended the building. Following the event, a spokesperson has explained that a smoking electrical fault in a gallery was thought to be the root cause.
Disruption & Delays
This has caused something of a headache for the museum. Firstly with disruption to the long queues of people and those enjoying the tapestry’s limited viewing time. The museum has offered apologies and refunds, and many are likely wishing the fire alarm hadn’t gone off. But the truth is that such a scenario does not bear thinking about. Imagine having to make that call to Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux.
Similarly those facing “rush hour rail disruption” after a fire alarm activated in a railway signaling centre might have been cursing the fire alarm. But the cancellations and delays are minimal because the fire alarm protected the signaling centre and it’s staff.
Should The Fire Alarm Have Activated?
False alarms are detrimental to your fire safety strategy. Much work has been done within the industry to reduce the risk of false alarms. One small example is the implementation of plastic call point covers, which prevent someone accidentally leaning on them and activating the system. These are part of the British Standard BS5839.
However not all fire alarm activations are false alarms. A genuine fire alarm activated by something such as a smoking electrical fault is necessary to protect your premises. Without the fire alarm, this becomes something much more serious and costly than refunding tickets.
Would your fire alarm activate in the event of a fire – or a potential fire? Regular testing and professional maintenance are key to ensuring your system will work when you really need it to.
Keybury Fire and Security design, install, commission and maintain fire alarm systems in a range of business premises including commercial, industrial and hospitality. We hold BAFE Certification and our FIA trained team specialise in providing fire alarm solutions to protect your premises. Speak to our team today to schedule a free of charge fire alarm survey. Call 0800 458 7486 or contact sales@keybury.co.uk.
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