Major Changes to Fire Alarm Standards? What’s New in BS 5839-1 🔥 #Regulations

Summary

This video discusses key aspects of fire detection and alarm systems, focusing on modifications, certifications, and inspections. It covers the responsibilities of technicians and users, particularly in maintaining and updating system documentation after changes. The video also emphasizes the importance of testing systems after shutdowns or fire incidents, ensuring they are functional for future use. Additionally, it highlights the need to assess and replace damaged components when necessary, ensuring that the system remains safe and operational. The overall message stresses responsibility, thorough inspections, and proper documentation in line with standards like BS5839.

Takeaways

• 😀 Thorough testing and inspection are essential when modifying fire alarm systems to ensure they function as a complete system after changes.
• 😀 Commissioning certificates do not require mentioning non-conformities in the existing system, but it's important to inform the customer of potential issues.
• 😀 Users of fire alarm systems should be responsible for maintaining documents like fire logbooks and zone plans, particularly after any modifications.
• 😀 When a fire system has been disconnected for a while, it should be re-commissioned or inspected over a 12-month period to ensure it remains functional.
• 😀 Any changes in the building’s use may affect the fire alarm system's requirements, necessitating an updated inspection and testing process.
• 😀 Fire detection systems should be checked and tested after a fire to ensure they are still capable of functioning, especially if damaged components were involved.
• 😀 Magnetic retainer doors and other cause-and-effect elements must still be checked and verified, even if they fall under different standards.
• 😀 If a fire causes damage to the system, such as broken detectors, repairs or replacements are necessary to ensure the system remains functional.
• 😀 After a fire, any damage caused by water or other elements to the electrical system must be assessed and repaired before the system is returned to service.
• 😀 Regular system maintenance may be done by a different contractor than the one who originally installed the system, emphasizing the need for updated and clear documentation.

Q & A

What is the main responsibility when modifying a fire alarm system?

The main responsibility when modifying a fire alarm system is to not only make the necessary changes but also to ensure thorough testing, inspection, and verification that the system functions as a complete unit after the modifications.

Is it necessary to document non-conformities in the existing fire alarm system when commissioning a new one?

No, it is not required to document non-conformities in the existing system when issuing a commissioning certificate for the new work. However, it's a good practice to inform the customer about any identified non-conformities, even though it is not mandatory to record them on the certificate.

How should the fire alarm system documentation be handled if changes are made to the system?

If changes are made to the fire alarm system, the documentation, such as the zone plan and any as-fitted drawings, should be updated to reflect the changes. This helps future users or maintenance personnel understand the modifications and where they have been made.

What should be done if a fire alarm system has been disconnected for a long period of time?

If a fire alarm system has been disconnected for a long period, it must undergo a thorough inspection and testing to ensure it is functioning correctly. A detailed check should be performed to confirm the system’s suitability for its current use.

What is the user’s role in maintaining a fire detection and alarm system?

The user is responsible for engaging in the maintenance process, which includes ensuring that documents like the fire log book and zone plans are up-to-date. The user should also be aware of the fire alarm system’s status and any changes made to it.

What does the standard say about inspecting a fire alarm system after it has been shut down for a long period?

The standard recommends conducting an inspection and test over a 12-month period to ensure that the system is operational and meets current requirements. This should be documented, and the system should be assessed to ensure it's still fit for its intended use.

What is the importance of cause and effect elements in a fire alarm system?

Cause and effect elements, such as magnetic retainer doors, are crucial for ensuring the system operates as intended during an emergency. Even if these elements are not covered directly in the fire alarm standard, they should still be tested to confirm they function properly.

What should be done if a fire alarm system is activated during a fire but the system itself is not damaged?

If the fire alarm system is activated and functions correctly during a fire, it should be checked afterward to ensure it is still operational. Any damaged parts, such as detectors or wiring, should be replaced, and the system should be reassessed to ensure it is ready to function again if needed.

How should fire alarm systems be checked after a fire has occurred in a small area?

After a fire, the fire alarm system should be checked in the affected areas where the fire occurred. This includes inspecting the manual call points, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and visible wiring in the fire-affected zone. If the detectors are damaged, they should be replaced.

What should be done if a fire alarm system has been exposed to water damage?

If the system has been exposed to water damage, such as from sprinklers or immersion heater issues, the affected components should be replaced. Water can damage electronic components, and they may no longer function properly, so it's important to assess the extent of the damage and take necessary actions.