“This system just paid for itself ten times over”, he said. It was only a matter of weeks since he’d had his fire alarm system installed, when one customer called to tell us that the system had saved their business when fire broke out on the premises. This is exactly what the system is there to do.
We recently wrote a blog about the costs of installing a fire alarm system. After this particular conversation, we reflected that perhaps it’s the costs of not having such a system installed that need to be considered.
If you don’t have a fire alarm installed, there are a number of different costs that your business could face.
No Fire Alarm? You Could Face Huge Costs
Without a fire alarm system installed in your commercial premises, you could face huge costs. The costs may come in the form of fines for not complying with fire safety law. The alternative is the cost of dealing with a fire in your premises.
Should fire break out at your premises, your fire alarm activates, alerting anyone in the building to the fire. Should a fire start when the premises is empty, a monitored fire alarm can alert you to the activation. In both scenarios, swift action can be taken to prevent the fire from spreading and minimise damage and disruption.
Without an early warning system, a fire can spread quickly, causing extensive damage that could result in thousands of pounds in repair and replacement costs. Business interruption due to fire damage can lead to further loss of income.
Most insurers will stipulate the type of fire alarm system required in your premises. This means you’ll have an adequate level of detection in place should the worst happen. Cutting corners to cut costs puts your business at risk.
What Are The Costs of Not Having a Fire Alarm System Installed?
It’s a legal requirement to have appropriate fire safety measures in place in a business premises, including a fire alarm system. Failing to comply with fire safety regulations can lead to hefty fines and legal action. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that business owners must carry out fire risk assessments and implement necessary precautions. Non-compliance is not only costly but can also result in criminal charges against the business owner.
Beyond financial and legal implications, the absence of a fire alarm can severely impact employee safety. A fire alarm is essential for providing early warning and allowing safe evacuation of the premises, potentially saving lives. The lack of such a system can lead to increased risk for employees.
Investing in a compliant fire alarm system is not just a legal obligation, but a fundamental step in safeguarding your business and its most valuable assets; people.
Keybury Fire and Security are BAFE & NSI Gold Certified Fire Alarm Specialists, offering Fire Alarm Design, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance. Contact our team to discuss your requirements on 0800 458 7486 or sales@keybury.co.uk.