Commercial Fire Alarm Installations
At Sygma, we are BAFE certified for the installation and commissioning of a commercial fire alarm system, and we have a team of highly qualified professional engineers to assist with your fire alarm installation to protect life and property. We supply, install and service a wide range of fire detection and alarm systems in commercial premises throughout the UK.
Fire Alarm Installation Process at Sygma
Our service includes the design, fitting and installation of your new commercial fire alarm system. Here are the steps taken by our fire alarm system team:
- Fire System Designers will survey your building and discuss objectives regarding the output of your fire system. After agreeing on a commercial fire alarm system that meets the requirements and objectives set out in your fire risk assessment, a quotation will be provided.
Our fire alarm installation team will then return to your commercial building to:
- First fix the system cabling and provision of power to the control and indicate equipment located as per the specification drawings set out during the design.
- Install the Fire Alarm Control Panel and insulation test for cable continuity.
- Install device mounting bases and termination of cables Second fix of detection and alarm devices.
- Energise the circuits and conduct system checks to ensure all devices are connected to the master panel.
- Conduct cause & effect programming.
- Conduct commissioning of the system in preparation for handover to the client.
- Install zone plans and produce documentation in accordance with the British Standards recommendations.
Fully Qualified for Total Peace of Mind
Whilst it is technically possible for anyone can install a commercial fire alarm; it is strongly recommended that the installer has a good understanding of British Standard BS 5839 and be able to design and install a fire alarm system that meets these requirements. As fire detection and alarm systems are (almost all) electrical systems, it is also recommended that you engage an organisation cable and experienced in understanding and meeting the requirements of BS 7671 & the IET wiring regulations. At Sygma, we hold the BAFE SP203-1 accreditation in the installation of fire detection and alarm systems along with all the necessary electrical certifications from the NICEIC, which means we can handle all stages of the installation, including the provision of suitable electrical installation and power to the main fire alarm panel.
We are also an approved contractor by SAFEContractor, CHAS and ConstructionLine. This ensures that our commercial fire alarm system installation team works to the latest standards, regulations and certifications – and provides you with the most secure peace of mind.
Compliance with Fire Alarm Regulations
Regulations state that business owners must take ‘appropriate’ action to prevent fires from occuring, limiting the time taken to identify a live fire incident, eliminate the blaze, evacuate the building safely, and notify the emergency services.
All Commercial Fire Alarm Systems must comply with the following UK government regulations to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness:
1. British Standard BS 5839
This standard provides guidance on planning, insulation, commissioning and the maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems. The standard focuses on commercial properties, so is essential for business owners to understand.
2. The Regulatory Reform Order (RRO) 2005
The RRO applies to all non-domestic properties. It emphasises the importance of conducting fire risk assessments and implementing appropriate fire safety measures – which include fire detection and alarm systems.
3. BS EN 54
This regulation covers 27 various components of fire alarm systems, including:
- control panels
- sounders
- power supplies
- heat detectors
- smoke detectors
- flame detectors, and more
4. Health and Safety at Work
This act places responsibility on employers or business owners to ensure, as reasonably as possible, the health, safety, and welfare of all employees at their business, including fire safety.
Fire Alarm Maintenance
Regular fire alarm servicing is essential for compliance with fire safety regulations and legislation; inspections are required every six months. This regular maintenance ensures your detection system is reliable and fully operational.
For larger buildings or more complex fire safety systems, quarterly inspections are recommended to maintain optimal performance.
It’s important to hire a qualified technician or engineer to service your fire alarm systems bi-annually to meet the standards outlined in BS5839-1.
Routine repairs performed by an engineer may include:
- Replacing batteries
- Rewiring
- Swapping out faulty components
- Adjusting and recalibrating system settings
- Ensuring your fire alarm system is well-maintained not only keeps you compliant but also enhances safety for everyone.
Self Maintenance
It’s important to schedule weekly fire alarm tests to ensure your system is functioning properly and to familiarise everyone in the building with its operation and the alarm sound.
In addition to these tests, we recommend performing a self-check of your equipment each week. During your inspection, look for:
- Physical signs of wear and tear on call points, panels, and detectors
- Loose connections or damaged wires
- Battery damage
- Blocked sensors or those that have shifted out of place
- Accessibility around call points
By conducting these weekly self-checks, you can identify potential issues before they escalate into significant problems.
Smoke Detectors vs Heat Detectors
|
Function |
Smoke Detectors
|
Heat Detectors
|
|---|---|---|
|
What is it? |
Smoke alarms are more traditionally used in residential properties, they provide an invaluable resource for detecting the first sign of combustion. | These types of alarm systems are lesser known than smoke detectors. They detect signs of excessive heat in the vicinity, instead of smoke or fumes. |
|
How do they work? |
Smoke alarms use ionisation and photoelectric technologies to activate an alarm when smoke is detected. Ionisation smoke alarms have radioactive material between two charged plates, ionising the air and allowing current flow. Smoke disrupts the current in the chamber, triggering the alarm. |
Heat detectors use thermocouples and electro-pneumatic technologies to alert when room temperature exceeds a set level. Electro-pneumatic detectors feature a diaphragm that moves with pressure changes, completing a circuit to activate the alarm. Thermocouple detectors contain two thermocouples; the alarm sounds when the temperature of the first exceeds the second, indicating a fire. |
|
Where would you use it? |
It is best to avoid placing these alarms in areas with high levels of fumes, dust, or near where food is prepared. These alarms are very sensitive, and if installed in these areas, they may frequently go off without an actual fire. | Heat detectors are suitable for areas such as garages, basements, and cellars, where there is excessive dust or fumes that could easily trigger a smoke detector. |
Cost of Fire Alarm Installation
When considering the installation of a fire alarm system, several key factors can impact the overall cost. The cost will depend on the type of fire alarm system you choose. Each type has its own advantages and price range. Larger buildings typically require more devices and complex installation, which can significantly increase costs. Factors such as the building layout, existing wiring, and any additional features (like emergency lighting) can influence installation costs. Meeting specific regulations, such as BS5839, may require additional investment in equipment and professional services to ensure compliance and safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Fire Alarm Installation
Is professional installation necessary for my business?
Yes, hiring a qualified technician or engineer is essential for ensuring proper installation. Professionals ensure that your system complies with safety regulations and standards, such as BS5839, and that it is tailored to meet the needs of commercial property.
How often should my fire alarm system be tested?
Fire alarm systems in commercial properties should be tested weekly to ensure functionality. Additionally, regular professional inspections should be scheduled for at least twice a year to identify and resolve any issues.
What kind of maintenance is required for commercial fire alarm systems?
Routine maintenance should include checking for wear and tear on devices, replacing batteries, testing alarms, and ensuring all components are in working order. Regular servicing by professionals is vital for compliance with regulations and for addressing potential problems before they escalate.
Contact Us
We’re proud to protect our clients across the UK.
54 Poland St
London
W1F 7NJ
Sygma - Kent Office
Unit 4A Geerings Business Centre
Kent
TN23 1EP
Sygma - Suffolk Office
Unit K, Blois Meadow Business Centre
Suffolk
CB9 7BN