Why is commercial fire alarm maintenance important?
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires all commercial properties to have an appropriate fire detection system that should be regularly maintained and inspected by a competent person.
We all know that fire safety is important, but what makes it good for business?
In this blog post, we’ll delve into why you should have a fire alarm system installed and regularly maintained for your business, and how it will benefit you financially.
Legal Requirements
In the UK, all commercial properties should have a suitable fire alarm detection system. The size of the system and equipment required may differ from place to place, however it is vital that the property is equipped to deal with potential fires to avoid potentially life changing damages.
According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, a ‘Responsible Person’ needs to ensure that all fire alarms are maintained and tested on a regular basis. British Standard BS 5839-1 advises weekly user tests and periodic inspection and servicing to be carried out by a ‘competent person’ every six months, alongside detailed maintenance records. The ‘competent person’ must have specialist knowledge of fire detection and fire alarm systems.
Commercial Fire Alarm Maintenance: Benefits
- Ensures Life Safety – The most important factor of commercial fire alarm maintenance is its ability to save lives. Proper fire alarm maintenance means potential fires can be detected early, allowing occupants of the building to vacate the premises safely and contact the emergency services, who can eliminate the fire before any significant damage is done. Failure to comply with the Regulatory Reform Order 2005 could result in disaster.
- Reduced Costs – Many insurance companies offer lower premiums for companies with a well-maintained fire detection system, recognising the reduced risk that comes alongside it. Further, regular maintenance by a competent and experienced engineer means faults can be identified early and repaired. This helps to avoid any costly repairs or replacements that may be necessary if not caught sooner.
- Legal Compliance – A system that complies with legal requirements means potential fines or legal issues are avoided.
- Peace of Mind – Knowing that your business is protected provides assurance.
What does commercial fire alarm maintenance involve?
Fire maintenance can include inspections, servicing, repairing and upgrading fire alarm systems within a building to ensure they are in working order and up to date, and compliant with British Standards.
This can include the maintenance of emergency lighting, fire alarm panels or different types of fire alarms that contribute to a premises fire detection system.
Why is commercial fire alarm maintenance good for your business?
If your company has regular fire alarm maintenance visits, you can rest assured that you are doing all you can to protect your business from damage.
Legal compliance means your business can maintain a positive reputation. Should an incident occur, your company could avoid potential fines and other legal issues that are not only damaging financially, but can do harm to the company’s image. Improved risk management looks good on everyone.
Installing and maintaining a sufficient fire detection system means your business can save money. Fire damage can be critical, and in the worst cases, fatal. A properly maintained system means you can avoid disaster. Proper maintenance means any issues can be caught at the earliest possible moment, saving you costly damage or replacements to the system, or your property.
What’s more, a safe environment makes for happy and comfortable staff. If your employees feel safe in their surroundings, they are more productive, focused, and confident. Employees are more likely to stay in their jobs if they know their well-being is being considered and looked after.
Commercial Fire Alarm Maintenance: The Verdict
So, should you maintain your company’s fire alarm system? Absolutely.
Having a properly maintained alarm system for your business can make a significant difference to its success. Clients and customers want to be assured that the company they are working with keep safety as a top priority. Being able to prove this through your fire detection system is endlessly beneficial to your business.
Failure to maintain your fire alarm system can result in severe consequences, including fires, prosecution, and invalidated insurance.