The British Standard BS5839-1:2025 provides comprehensive guidelines for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. Within this standard it’s clear that the details matter. Why do fire alarm cables have to be supported by so many clips? Cabling is a critical aspect of your fire alarm system. Getting it right ensures that the system remains operational in the event of a fire.

Use of Metal Clips

BS5839-1:2025 emphasises the importance of securely installing fire alarm cables to prevent premature system failure during a fire. The standard requires that all cables used in fire alarm systems are supported by metal clips. This is crucial as plastic clips or conduits could melt in a fire, potentially causing cables to sag or fall, which may disrupt the alarm system. Metal clips able to withstand the high temperatures typically encountered during a fire help to ensure the integrity of the alarm system.

The Details Matter: Spacing of Metal Clips

In addition to the type of clips used, the spacing of these fixings matters. It’s these fine details which make the difference to fire alarm compliance, and to your fire alarm functioning when you need it most. BS5839-1:2025 sets out specific requirements for the distance between metal clips.

Spacing Metal Clips on Fire Alarm Cabling:

  • Horizontal Runs: Metal clips should be spaced at intervals not exceeding 300mm (approximately 12 inches) for horizontal runs. This spacing ensures that the cables remain securely in place, even if subjected to the stresses of a fire.
  • Vertical Runs: For vertical runs, the distance between clips should not exceed 400mm (approximately 16 inches). This slightly wider spacing accounts for the fact that gravity aids in keeping the cables in place.

We adhere to these guidelines for compliance and to ensure that your fire alarm cables remain supported throughout their length, minimizing the risk of failure during a fire. Keybury standard practice is to install fire alarm cabling on or in it’s own containment and be kept separate from any other cables.

Fire Alarm Systems: We Cover The Details

Keybury Fire and Security are Fire Alarm specialists based in Yorkshire. Our team provide expert fire alarm design, skillful fire alarm installation, detailed fire alarm commissioning and professional fire alarm maintenance. We invest in continued professional development to ensure our team remain at the forefront of developments with the fire safety industry and provide a comprehensive service for our clients across the north of England.

Contact our team to discuss your fire safety requirements: Call 0800 458 7486 or email sales@keybury.co.uk.