Six Monthly Inspection and System Test

The following work should be carried out by a competent person every six months.

If this recommendation is not implemented, it should be considered that the system is no longer compliant with this Part of BS 5839-1.

1. The alarm system logbook should be checked to ensure that any faults recorded have received appropriate attention.
2. A visual inspection should be carried out to check for any structural or occupancy changes have affected the compliance of the system with the recommendations of BS5829 Pt1 for the siting of manual call points, automatic fire detectors and fire alarm devices. Particular care should be taken to verify whether:

• All break glass call points remain unobstructed and conspicuous.
• Any new exits made without the provision of an adjacent break glass call point.
• Any new or relocated partitions have been erected within 500mm horizontally of any automatic fire detector.
• Any items stacked to within 300mm of ceilings.
• A clear space of 500mm is maintained below each automatic fire detector.
• Any changes to the occupancy or use of an area that makes the existing detector unsuitable for detection of fire or prone to unwanted alarms.

3. The records of any false alarms should be checked. The rate of false alarms during the previous 12 months should be recorded. Action taken in respect of false alarms recorded should comply with the recommendations of the standard. (More than 4%).
4. Batteries and their connections should be examined and load tested (other than within radio-linked systems), to ensure that they are in good serviceable condition and not likely to fail before the next service visit. Vented batteries see above.
5. The fire alarm functions and indications should be checked by the operation of at least one detector or manual call point on each zone. Enter all details in the log book indicating which devices have been used for these tests.
6. Check all visual indicators for correct operation.
7. Check all signaling to the receiving center and all types of transmission such as fire and faults. Confirm signal receipt at the receiving station.
8. Any ancillary functions that are fitted should be tested.
9. Simulate faults to check the indicators function correctly.
10. Check printers if fitted function and are readable and that there is sufficient consumables fitted to last till the next service.
11. Radio frequencies should be checked and serviced as per the manufacturers recommendations.
12. All recommendations of the equipment manufacturers should be carried out.
13. On completion of the service, any outstanding defects are to be reported to the responsible person, the system log book updated and a servicing certificate should issued as BS5839 Annex G.

Recommended Daily and Weekly Inspections

Fire alarm inspection and servicing.