How often should testing be carried out?
Routine testing It is vital for a regular test to be undertaken to ensure that there has not been a major failure of the entire fire detection and fire alarm system that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Weekly testing by the user Test a manual call point during working hours to cheek that the control panel and alarm sounders operate satisfactorily. Each week, a different manual call point should be tested. Voice alarm systems should be tested weekly in accordance with BS5839 Part 8. If the system is connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) for calling the fire brigade, it is very important that the ARC is notified before testing commences and when it is complete. Testing should be recorded in the log book.
Monthly attentions by the user Any automatically started generator used for the fire detection and fire alarm system should be tested. Any vented batteries used as a standby power supply for the fire detection and fire alarm system inspected.
Quarterly inspection of vented batteries Vented batteries should be examined by a person with relevant competence and should be topped up if necessary.
Periodic inspection and testing The period between visits to undertake inspection and service should he based upon a risk assessment but the maximum period between visits should not exceed six months. Morgan Fire Protection offers you a complete service of fire alarm system and emergency lighting periodic testing and servicing in accordance with BS5839 Part1: 2002 (Fire Alarm Systems) and BS5266 Part1: 2005 (Emergency Lighting Systems).
This information is provided for the general guidance of fire detection and fire alarm system users. As it is a summary, it omits much of the information included in BS5839 part 1. It is therefore not intended to be a replacement for the detailed recommendations included within British Standard. |
