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Home Automatic Fire Alarm Notifications Advice for Businesses and Occupiers

Advice for Businesses and Occupiers

A well-maintained fire alarm system is essential for workplace safety. However, frequent Unwanted Fire Signals (UwFS) can be disruptive, costly, and strain valuable resources. This guide offers you advice to identify and address common causes of UwFS, promoting a safer and more efficient environment.

Understanding UwFS

UwFS occur when a fire alarm activates due to factors other than a real fire. This triggers an emergency response from RBFRS, leading to wasted resources and potential business disruption. The financial impact of UwFS can be significant, including fire service call out charges and lost productivity during evacuations. Additionally, frequent false alarms can erode occupant confidence in the system, potentially delaying response to a real fire emergency.

1. Human Error and Activity

  • Accidental Activation: Break-glass call points are susceptible to accidental damage, especially in high-traffic areas or by untrained personnel. Consider:
    • Relocating them to areas with less foot traffic or accidental contact.
    • Implementing protective covers where appropriate to deter accidental breakage.
  • Testing and Maintenance:
    • Ensure clear communication with your Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) before system testing to avoid dispatching emergency services unnecessarily.
    • Schedule regular preventative maintenance by a qualified engineer following BS 5839 standards. This ensures timely identification and rectification of minor issues before they escalate into UwFS.
  • Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited in all enclosed workplaces. Enforce a clear no-smoking policy and display prominent signage throughout your premises.
  • Cooking Activities: Cooking fumes are a persistent cause of false alarms, particularly in busy kitchens or restaurants. Implement strategies such as:
    • Installing and maintaining proper ventilation systems to effectively remove smoke and grease particles from the cooking area.
    • Educating staff on proper cooking practices to minimize smoke generation, such as avoiding unattended cooking or using appropriate heat settings.
    • Considering heat detectors in kitchens as an alternative to smoke detectors, as they are less susceptible to false alarms triggered by cooking fumes.

2. System-Related Issues

  • Maintenance Deficiencies: A poorly maintained fire alarm system is more likely to experience malfunctions and false alarms. Here’s how to ensure proper upkeep:
    • Regularly clean detector heads and maintain the system as per BS 5839 standards. Dust buildup or cobwebs can hinder a detector’s ability to function correctly.
    • Maintain fire safety logbooks with detailed maintenance records readily available for inspection by RBFRS officers. These records demonstrate your commitment to fire safety and can help identify recurring issues.
  • Faulty Equipment: Malfunctioning detectors, call points, or control panels can contribute to UwFS. Here’s what to do:
    • Replace malfunctioning detectors and call points promptly. Faulty equipment can compromise the entire system’s reliability.
    • Investigate the cause of system faults and address them immediately. Ignoring system faults can lead to recurring UwFS and potential safety hazards.
  • Incorrect Detector Placement: The effectiveness of your fire alarm system relies on strategically positioned detectors. Here’s what to consider:
    • Ensure detectors are the appropriate type for the protected area. For example, heat detectors are better suited for kitchens than smoke detectors.
    • Position detectors strategically to ensure adequate coverage of the entire space, following BS 5839 guidelines.

3. Environmental Contaminants

  • Insect Activity: During peak insect seasons, particularly thrips infestations in summer, insects can trigger false alarms by entering detector chambers. Consider using pet flea collars or citronella oil around detectors as deterrents.
  • Steam Emissions: Steam from kettles, showers, or industrial processes can activate smoke detectors. Here are some solutions:
    • Relocate detectors away from potential steam sources, especially in kitchens or bathrooms.
    • Designate specific areas for using steam-generating equipment to minimize the risk of accidental activation in areas with smoke detectors.
  • Aerosol Sprays: Aerosol sprays, such as air fresheners, hairsprays, or insect repellents, can release airborne particles that trigger smoke detectors. Here’s how to minimize the risk:
    • Restrict the use of aerosols in areas with smoke detectors.
    • Explore alternative air fresheners and insect repellents that don’t rely on aerosol sprays.
  • Dust Buildup: Dust buildup can hinder a detector’s ability to function correctly. Here’s how to maintain cleanliness:
    • Maintain good housekeeping practices, including

By following the guidance in this brochure and working collaboratively with RBFRS, you can significantly reduce UwFS at your premises. Remember, a well-maintained fire alarm system with minimized false alarms translates to:

  • Enhanced safety: Reduced risk of complacency and delayed response to real fire emergencies.
  • Improved business continuity: Minimized disruptions caused by unnecessary evacuations.
  • Reduced costs: Lower fire service call out charges and improved productivity.

RBFRS is committed to supporting businesses in achieving a safer and more efficient environment. Don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our website for further guidance.