📜 1. Legal Framework

• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO)

  • Applies to all non-domestic premises and communal areas of multi-occupied residential buildings.

  • Requires a Responsible Person to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment and implement appropriate fire detection systems.

📏 2. Fire Alarm Standards

• BS 5839-1:2017 – For non-domestic buildings

• BS 5839-6:2019 – For domestic premises

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🏢 BS 5839-1:2017 – Non-Domestic Premises

Fire alarm system categories (based on risk and use):

• Category M – Manual only (e.g. manual call points). Suitable for low-risk areas.

• Category L – Life protection (automatic systems):

  • L1 – Maximum coverage: all areas

  • L2 – All escape routes and high-risk areas

  • L3 – Escape routes and rooms opening onto them

  • L4 – Escape routes only

  • L5 – Customised to a specific risk

Key Requirements:

• Audible alarms must reach 65 dB(A) or 75 dB(A) in sleeping areas.

• Manual call points should be installed near exits and no more than 45m apart.

• Weekly testing (rotating call points).

• Biannual service/maintenance by a competent engineer.

• System must be documented with as-fitted drawings, logbook, and user manual.

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🏠 BS 5839-6:2019 – Domestic Dwellings

System Grades:

• Grade A – Full commercial-style system (for large HMOs or high-risk settings).

• Grade D1/D2 – Mains-powered alarms with tamper-proof (D1) or replaceable (D2) batteries.

System Categories:

• LD1 – Detectors in all rooms except bathrooms

• LD2 – Detectors in escape routes and high-risk rooms (e.g., kitchens)

• LD3 – Detectors only in escape routes

Other Requirements:

• All alarms must be interlinked (wirelessly or wired).

• Preferably fitted to ceilings, 30 cm away from walls or light fittings.

• Should comply with BS EN 14604 (smoke alarms) or BS 5446-2 (heat alarms).

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🔧 Testing & Maintenance

• Weekly tests (different manual call point each week)

• Quarterly & biannual inspections by professionals (non-domestic)

• Keep records in a fire alarm logbook

• Test domestic alarms at least monthly