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Posted By Tim S
Help!
We've recently taken over some new (old) premises, although I've only just been informed. I've just carried out the fire risk assessment and identified that the current "break glass" alarm system is mains powered with no low voltage back up.
I've been told by alarm suppliers that this is "illegal", is this the case or does it not meet the relevant British Standard. Our MD is saying if its illegal, he'll shut the place down!
T
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Posted By Robert.
Why didn't your MD get a survey done before taking it over.
It sounds like a very old (60s ?) system. are you sure that the break glass is mains? The very old systems were mains operated with a step down transformer to bells, break-glass switches etc. Still AC operated but 24 v AC and no back-up.
Anyway, it does not comply with todays requirements which do require a maintained battery back up (DC) ----------minimum 3 hour I think, the same as emergency lighting.
The wiring of the system unless it's pyro may not comply either.
Best get a quote!
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Posted By Ashley Wood
minimum battery back up is 24 hours with sufficient power to run the sounders at the end of the period for 20 minutes. The system you have got is out of date and not adequate. I would not chance the wiring as modern systems are likely to pick up the slightest earth fault so go for a complete refit. If your building is large, radio systems are worth a look at and these would be quicker to install. The standard you need to comply with is BS5839 Part 1 2002
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Posted By water67.
Hi not my area of expertise, Just a thought, would the regs be retrospective or apply to new systems, buildings etc.
Cheers
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Posted By Steve Cartwright Tim When your alarm system was installed it probably complied with whatever standard was in place at the time. British standards are not retrospective. Basically if your system complied at the time of installation it should still be ok provided it still works and you have evidence of it being maintained and tested. You don't actually need a fire alarm system. Your procedure for raising the alarm can be as simple as someone shouting FIRE. It will all depend on your fire risk assessment. I would suspect that the company you spoke to is just after some extra income. If you go on this website you will find all the info you need. http://www.communities.g...iresafety/firesafetylaw/
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Posted By Fred Pratley
Don't forget to check on your insurance - it may only cover the building if it has a working alarm and specify the standard for the alarm!
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Posted By shaun mckeever
It will be illegal under the H&S (signs and signals) regulations 1996. Schedule 1, Part 1 Para 8.
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Posted By Tim S
Hi folks,
Thanks for all the advice, I'm pretty clear now. MD's calmed down a bit, Particularly when I point out that we can now get wireless alarm systems.
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year
Tim
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