Is it really worth the expense – Having your fire alarm system maintained?

Following a recent fire at a hotel in East Hampshire, the fire and rescue service praised the staff for a well maintained smoke alarm system which prevented the spread of fire, loss of life and damage to property.

On the other hand, a fire system contractor is being prosecuted for lack of responsible maintenance of a system in a care home where a fire occurred. After investigation by the fire experts, the fire alarm system was found to have many severe faults including the fault warning light not being visible, a blown fuse overridden with a piece of wire and an electronic component suspended between two terminal bocks instead of being attached to the circuit board.

These cases show that it is imperative for the safety of lives and property; a reputable fire system contactor should be hired. Companies who are members of the British Fire Protection Systems Association or British Approvals for Fire Equipment will be appropriately certified. It would be of course advantageous if they are qualified to IEE Wiring Regulations BS 7671:2008 (17th Edition). It is also imperative that your fire alarm system is inspected and serviced regularly and that weekly tests are performed and recorded.

Is it worth the expense – What do you think? Let us know by leaving a comment.