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Common Fire Alarm Testing Mistakes to Avoid

Common Fire Alarm Testing Mistakes to Avoid

Posted in: Testing Product Support

As the owner of a commercial premises, you are responsible for the safety of staff and visitors and a critical part of every safety plan is having a fully operational fire alarm system. The law dictates that fire alarms in commercial premises are tested weekly but even if you abide by this simple rule, you could still make mistakes which jeopardise the safety and efficacy of your system.

Common fire alarm testing mistakes

  • Forgetting to notify staff of the test.

    Productivity invariably drops when staff experience an unplanned and unnecessary evacuation. This costs businesses time and money, so always notify staff of a planned alarm system test.

  • Forgetting to notify the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) of the test.

    If your system is remotely monitored, make sure to notify your ARC of your planned test so that they do not dispatch an emergency response.

  • Not testing the backup power source.

    If your system has a backup power source, it too should be tested to ensure that the system is fully operational in the event of a fire.

  • Not investigating false alarms.

    If your fire alarm system is malfunctioning, find out why. It is essential to investigate and rectify the root cause of all false alarms to ensure that when the alarm sounds, it is for a genuine reason.

  • Not integrating your system correctly.

    If your building has a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, your alarm system should be correctly integrated so that it works optimally at all times.

 

  • Not integrating your system correctly.

    If your building has a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, your alarm system should be correctly integrated so that it works optimally at all times.

  • Using the wrong type of detectors.

    There are a wide range of fire alarms available for commercial premises, all of which are intended for different types of building. If you are unsure which product is best suited to your needs, seek expert advice.

  • Inadequately maintaining your detectors.

    Not only should you test your detectors weekly, but you should ensure that they are on a strict maintenance schedule, guarding against defects and extending their lifetimes.

  • Using inadequate test equipment.

    You should always use appropriate PPE and test equipment when testing fire alarm systems, not only to ensure the efficacy of the system and achieve accurate results, but also to protect your operator's health.

  • Not seeking professional advice.

    If you are unsure about any aspect of your fire alarm system, seek professional advice. A defective fire alarm could cost lives, so don't delay; contact a professional today.

  • Not having a service plan.

    It can be hard to remember when to test your fire alarms and maintain them, and unexpected breakdowns can affect your business' operational efficiency. All of these issues can be overcome by taking out a service plan with the manufacturer or industry professional, delegating all aspects of maintenance to a qualified third party.
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For advice about your fire alarm system or to purchase appropriate test equipment, please contact Detector Testers today.

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