How to Maintain Your Fire Alarm System Properly?

Why knowing how to maintain fire alarm system compliance protects lives

A fire alarm can only save lives if it works correctly. That means understanding how to maintain fire alarm system performance consistently throughout the year — not only at service time.

Maintenance is a shared responsibility between the Responsible Person and a competent fire alarm contractor.

How to maintain fire alarm system weekly (user checks)

Every week you must:

• activate a different manual call point

• check alarm sounders activate throughout the building

• reset the panel

• log the result

Weekly testing verifies that alarm initiation equipment always works.

How to maintain fire alarm system monthly (visual checks)

Once per month, check:

• no detector damage or blockage

• no fault or disablement indicators

• batteries not showing low levels

• call points accessible

Visual issues often predict functionality issues.

How to maintain fire alarm system through biannual servicing

BS 5839 requires:

Biannual servicing (every 6 months) by a competent engineer

Each visit should include:

• functional testing of a portion of devices

• testing of interfaces (fire doors, lifts, AOVs)

• cable integrity checks

• reviewing fault logs

• updating documentation and certificates

Over 12 months → 100% of devices tested.

Documentation and corrective action

Correct maintenance includes:

• keeping servicing reports and logbooks

• recording any fault, no matter how minor

• prompt rectification of issues

No paperwork = system not maintained from a legal perspective.

Summary

Knowing how to maintain fire alarm system performance ensures:

✔ legal compliance✔ reliable detection & evacuation✔ reduced liability for the Responsible Person

Do you require help maintaining your fire alarm system in London or the South East?

Contact us today to schedule biannual servicing or a maintenance audit.