Fire Alarm Requirements & Recommendations for Businesses

Everyone should understand the importance of fire alarms, which is why Cardiff Alarms is here to provide you with all the information that you need to understand the essentials of fire alarms. Fire alarms essentially save lives by alerting everyone that there is a fire in the building, which would give everyone enough time to escape if carried out correctly. It is the law to have a fire alarm in domestic and commercial buildings and in the event of a fire, the right system will keep people safer, and may reduce damage to the building. We are one of the leading installers of Fire Alarms in Cardiff. Find out more today.

 

Why is it important to have updated systems?

 

If you do not have an updated fire alarm system, this can come with a major risk that it will not work effectively in the times that you may need it. The aim of a fire alarm is that a fire detection system is installed to alert individuals to the beginnings or presence of a fire, allowing them to exit the building before the risk becomes life-threatening. If there are not any updated fire alarm systems in the building, occupants will not be aware of the fire and will therefore be at risk of being caught and trapped in the fire.

 

Additional systems and upgrades that are available 

 

Fire alarm systems can become old, and hard to maintain. If your alarm system is over 10 years old or is becoming way too expensive to maintain then it would be best to start your upgrade. According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order of 2005, the legislation stated that Fire alarms should be checked every 2 years, meaning that your fire alarm should always be up-to-date, but if this is not the case, we can help you install a new fire alarm. Cardiff Alarm Systems is here to provide you with the information and knowledge you need to analyze what type of alarm is suitable for your property to ensure the system will be efficiently up and running and every employee in the building will be safe in the case of a fire.

 

Why you should speak to an expert

 

When it comes to Fire safety, it is always best to speak to an expert in the field as it is a very important and essential regulation that every company needs to be wary of. Getting in touch with an expert would be a great option if you are looking to install or upgrade any of your fire alarms as experts will be able to look at your building layout, and give you information on where to install them or what position to place them in. Experts will also be able to look at the size of your building and give you recommendations on how many fire alarms you may need to invest in and they will be able to determine which alarm will be best for your property. Remember that experts are professionals, and they will be able to give you advice and provide you with a lot of information and knowledge in order for you to be comfortable and well-informed about what you are purchasing.

 

What are the risks of fire to your business and are you protected? 

 

There are many risks of fire depending on what type of business you own and the appliances/equipment you have in your building, you also need to ensure that the building has a fire exit to get out of the building in case of a fire and also provided fire extinguishers/blankets to prevent the spread of the fire. Most people who unfortunately die in fires die from:

  • Smoke inhalation
  • Toxic gases 
  • Lack of oxygen
  • Thick smoke 

 

Are you protected? Is your alarm system up-to-date? If not, get in contact with us now: 02920 00 44 65

 

Legal requirements vs. recommendations

 

It may be difficult for non-specialists to figure out the difference between the legal requirements and recommendations when it comes to figuring out what actions should be put into place, and today we will discuss the differences to educate to public on legal requirements vs. recommendations

 

Legal Requirements

 

  • At least one smoke alarm in the principal habitable room (most often known as the living area)
  • At least one smoke alarm in every circulation space on each storey
  • At least one smoke alarm in every access room serving an inner room
  • At least one heat alarm installed in every kitchen
  • Minimum of two class A dire extinguishers on every floor of a building
  • At least two escape routes from every part of the premises

 

Recommendations

 

  • Identify all hazards in the workplace
  • Identify people who may be at risk of a fire 
  • Constantly adapt fire policies and training schedules
  • Provide training to employees for evacuation 
  • Provide training to employees in the event of a fire

 

The legal requirements are some examples of regulations that must be followed by the law, the recommendations are something that should definitely be put in place to increase the overall safety of the workplace.

 

Testing schedules and other regulations

 

On a weekly basis, the fire alarm system should be tested from different call points each week, ensuring that all equipment attached to the fire alarm activates, such as fire doors closing, alarm ringing and everyone following an evacuation plan. 

To find out more, get in contact with us now: 02920 00 44 65

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