26/07/2023

Fire Alarm Service and Maintenance Checklist

Fire alarms play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property, making it essential for businesses to ensure their systems are properly maintained and functional.

This blog highlights the significance of regular testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems to guarantee their proper functionality. By investing in a comprehensive fire alarm service and maintenance plan, businesses can promptly identify and rectify any system issues. This proactive approach will reduce the risk of false alarms and ensures your system will respond efficiently during an emergency.

1. Test Fire Alarm Sensors and Detectors for Proper Functionality

Regular testing of fire alarm sensors and detectors is essential to ensure their proper functionality. This includes smoke detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, and any other specialised sensors in the system. By investing in a service & maintenance plan, businesses can identify any faulty elements that may require immediate attention. This ensures early detection and minimises the risk of false alarms or system failure during an actual emergency.

2. Assess Alarm Audibility: Sounder and Alert Device Testing

Fire alarm audibility is crucial to alert occupants in the event of a fire. Sygma’s fire alarm maintenance plan includes checking the audibility of sounders and alert devices throughout the premises. This will ensure that the alarms are loud enough to be heard clearly in all areas, including noisy environments or spaces with background music. Engineer testing will encompass both audible alarms and visual strobe lights for individuals with hearing impairments.

3. Evaluate Power Supply and Battery Backup Systems

Reliable power supply is essentialfor fire alarm systems to function effectively. Sygma engineers check the power supply and battery backup systems during maintenance visits. They will also ensure that the main power source is connected and functioning correctly, and the batteries are fully charged. Additionally, the battery backup system will be tested by simulating a power failure to confirm that it can sustain the fire alarm system during an outage.

4. Verify Control Panel Functionality and Integration

The control panel serves as the nerve centre of the fire alarm system. Servicing involves verifying its functionality and integration with all connected devices, as well as ensuring that the control panel displays accurate information and responds appropriately to sensor activations. Engineers will test communication links between the control panel and other system components, such as sprinkler systems or emergency evacuation systems, to ensure seamless integration.

5. Address False Alarms and Troubleshoot Common Issues

False alarms can disrupt business operations and desensitise occupants to real emergencies. Engineer testing every six months to a year provides an opportunity to identify and address common issues. Engineers will analyse the cause of any false alarms, such as dust accumulation or environmental factors, and take appropriate measures to minimise their occurrence. Troubleshooting these common issues will help to maintain the system’s reliability.

6. Keep Detailed Records of Fire Alarm Maintenance Activities

Maintaining comprehensive records of fire alarm maintenance activities is essential for regulatory compliance and insurance purposes. When Sygma engineers visit a commercial premises, they will document the date, time, and details of each testing session, including any issues identified and their resolutions. These records provide an invaluable reference for future maintenance, system upgrades, and audits.

7. Weekly Fire Alarm System Checks:

Carry out these checks regularly in-between maintenance visits:

• Test a different call point each week to ensure total system efficiency.
• Inspect your fire panel for faults lights and address and issues as soon as possible.

Regular professional maintenance extends the lifespan of fire alarm systems and enhances their overall reliability. To secure an annual maintenance plan with our certified engineers, contact Sygma today by calling 0800 043 6728 or by completing our contact form.