Monitor Your Fire Alarm Operation Regularly Through the Consistent Fire Alarm Testing

Having a fully operational fire alarm system installed in your business premises is a regulatory requirement. To ensure that it is fully operational in case of fire, doing a fire alarm test frequently and consistently is necessary.

Even the most expensive and advanced fire alarm systems can malfunction and wear out if it is not regularly tested and maintained. Failure to keep the system in good working condition can expose you to hefty penalties and even criminal charges. That's why fire alarm tests are important and should not be taken lightly.

The UK government recommends that all fire alarm and detection systems be maintained in accordance with the British Standard, specifically, the BS 5839. Here's everything you should know about fire alarm tests in the UK.

Inspection fire alarm systems should be done every 6 months

UK fire alarm regulations aren't clear on how often fire alarm systems should be serviced. The law simply states that it must be "adequately maintained." However, according to BS 5839, fire alarm systems in business premises should be inspected at least every 6 months or twice a year by a “competent person.” If the building you own is large, experts recommend a quarterly service because the system you have has more components, and therefore, higher safety risks.

Weekly fire alarm tests are also required

Aside from periodic fire alarm tests, weekly tests are also necessary. They may not be as thorough and comprehensive as periodic fire alarm tests done every six months, but they can help identify issues immediately. A quick test allows you to determine whether or not your fire alarm is in working order and address any problem as soon as possible. You don't have to test all the fire alarms every week. You can just activate at least one fire alarm call-point each week, checking the alarm sounds and the panel that receives the signal.

The results of fire alarm tests should be recorded

The "responsible person" in your company should record the results of all the fire alarm test in a logbook. It should show the date, time, duration, and actions taken.

How Electrical Installation Testing Ensures the Safety and Efficiency of Appliances?

Electrical installation testing ensures that all essential aspects of a property's electrical system are in their good working condition. It also helps ensure that the landlord, property owner, or employer complies sufficiently with regulatory standards and legal requirements to avoid fines and penalties due to noncompliance and negligence.

Whether you are a landlord or a business owner, you surely put a lot of resources into your properties and the appliances/equipment inside it. With all this financial investment, the last thing you want is to lose your assets because of fire from sudden electrical surges, overloading, and other electrical-related problems. More importantly, you also don't also want to cause harm to other people. The good news is that with regular electrical installation testing, all these can be avoided. So what can you expect during the inspection?

Fixed wire testing

Poor electrical work can cause a power surges and power failures, which can in turn cause appliances to malfunction or get damaged forever. That's why electricians check the wiring of the property to see signs of wear and tear. They also test their grounding and look for potential weather damage or exposure to pests such as rodents. Each installation is assessed using the standards set forth in the latest version of BS7671 or the IET Wiring Regulations. Fixed wire testing can protect your appliances against common electrical problems.

PAT testing

PAT tests involve various processes such as visual inspection, grounding continuity testing, and soundness of insulation testing. These tests are done to individual portable appliances in the property to ensure they are safe to use. Business electrical equipment is also covered in the inspection for commercial properties. This help make sure they are all functioning properly and won't cause unnecessary strain on the system.