systems in the workplace life safety systems · include fire, earthquakes or less critical events,...
TRANSCRIPT
1
A free guide to the regulations regarding the testing of life safety systems in the workplaceA Guide to
February 2019
Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
2
Introduction 3
1 Life Safety Explained 4
2 Legal Requirements 5
3 Best Practice 8
4 Maintenance Programme 9
Conclusion and Next Steps 16
wwwjcwescom
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
3
The purpose of this eBook is to provide Facilities and Building Managers
with a guide to the laws and regulations that govern life safety systems in
the workplace and good practice with regard to maintaining life safety
installations and equipment
JCW have history dating back to 1903 within the electrical engineering
industry We were also one of the original members of the Electrical
Contractorsrsquo Association (ECA) As our business model evolved the
maintenance of life safety systems was a natural progression and forms a
large element of the maintenance and compliance services we now provide
Our experience puts us in a strong position when tendering for new work it also provides
our existing customers with peace of mind that we are looking after their life safety
systems ensuring that they remain compliant
Introduction
Disclaimer
Whilst we endeavour to provide as useful a resource as possible the information in this eBook is not a substitute for
official legal documents The intention of this paper is to help you identify potential areas of risk or gaps in your
knowledge and you should use that information to investigate the regulations in detail Links have been provided to
the relevant sources as a resource for you to find out more
Legislation and technology continues to change and
making sure that our engineers are up to date with
the most recent regulations is paramount to our
business With this is mind we decided to share some
of our knowledge and experience with our customers
in the form of this eBook We will cover a little about
the systems covered under the heading lsquolife safetyrsquo
an overview of the regulations and how businesses
and landlords can remain compliant
Thank you for downloading we hope you find our
guide useful please do not hesitate to contact us
should you require any further information
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
4
Chapter 1
What is a Life Safety System
lsquoLife safetyrsquo could cover an infinite number of occurrences and risks within the
workplace all of which should be given consideration when factoring the
safety of your employees and tenants For the purpose of this eBook we are
looking at the buildings interior elements which are designed to protect and
evacuate people within the building in case of emergencies which could
include fire earthquakes or less critical events such as power failures
One of the most common life safety systems are fire detection and alarm systems These
systems are usually designed to detect the presence of a fire for example through heat or
smoke detection and then raise alarm through the sounders that form part of the system
The building may also have linked or separate fire suppression systems that will release an
agent onto the fire This suppresses the fire by
either reducing the oxygen chemical reaction
with the atmosphere or by cooling the fire
Probably the most common are water sprinkler
systems Your building will likely have portable
fire extinguishers to be used by trained persons
which will also form part of the life safety systems
and fire emergency procedures
Smoke can be as dangerous as the fire itself
Smoke kills more people than fire and can easily
trap people preventing them from escaping
Protective measures that may be installed can
include smoke extract systems to pull the smoke
away from escape routes fire doors with smoke
Seals smoke curtains and the automatic shut
down of ventilation systems
The ability of a building to protect against fire
spreading is also important Your building will
have elements installed to help prevent this such as
fire doors fire compartmentation and automatic
shut down of ventilation systems
In the event of an emergency to aid the occupantsrsquo
evacuation are the emergency light systems which
guide people through corridors and exits to the
exterior of the building
Did you Know
bull In 20172018 there were 334
fire related fatalities in England
bull 3306 people suffered fire
related injuries resulting in
hospital treatment in the same
period
bull Fire and Rescue Services
attended around 565000
incidents in the same period
bull Smoke inhalation not burns
are the primary cause of fire
casualties
(Statistics obtained from the Home
Office Fire Statistics)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
5
There are a number of references you can follow when
looking at your legal requirements with regard to life
safety many understandably are focused on fire
safety in particular In this section we will look at
the general principles that persons responsible
for buildings must ensure are in place
Fire Safety
The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) and subsequent amendments Fire safety is
also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides For
the purpose of this eBook we will first look at the general principles as laid out in the
RRFSO and the measures that should be in place which include measures
bull To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the
premises
bull In relation to the means of escape from the premises
bull For securing that at all material times the means of escape can be safely and
effectively used
bull In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises
bull In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of
fire on the premises
bull In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the
premises including measures
o in relation to the instruction and training of employees and
o measures to mitigate the effects of the fire
With regard to maintaining life safety systems there are several clauses that require the
Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of the measures required to be in place
for means of escape which include
bull Fire doors
bull Emergency lighting
bull Signage
bull Staircases
bull Corridors
Chapter 2
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
2
Introduction 3
1 Life Safety Explained 4
2 Legal Requirements 5
3 Best Practice 8
4 Maintenance Programme 9
Conclusion and Next Steps 16
wwwjcwescom
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
3
The purpose of this eBook is to provide Facilities and Building Managers
with a guide to the laws and regulations that govern life safety systems in
the workplace and good practice with regard to maintaining life safety
installations and equipment
JCW have history dating back to 1903 within the electrical engineering
industry We were also one of the original members of the Electrical
Contractorsrsquo Association (ECA) As our business model evolved the
maintenance of life safety systems was a natural progression and forms a
large element of the maintenance and compliance services we now provide
Our experience puts us in a strong position when tendering for new work it also provides
our existing customers with peace of mind that we are looking after their life safety
systems ensuring that they remain compliant
Introduction
Disclaimer
Whilst we endeavour to provide as useful a resource as possible the information in this eBook is not a substitute for
official legal documents The intention of this paper is to help you identify potential areas of risk or gaps in your
knowledge and you should use that information to investigate the regulations in detail Links have been provided to
the relevant sources as a resource for you to find out more
Legislation and technology continues to change and
making sure that our engineers are up to date with
the most recent regulations is paramount to our
business With this is mind we decided to share some
of our knowledge and experience with our customers
in the form of this eBook We will cover a little about
the systems covered under the heading lsquolife safetyrsquo
an overview of the regulations and how businesses
and landlords can remain compliant
Thank you for downloading we hope you find our
guide useful please do not hesitate to contact us
should you require any further information
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
4
Chapter 1
What is a Life Safety System
lsquoLife safetyrsquo could cover an infinite number of occurrences and risks within the
workplace all of which should be given consideration when factoring the
safety of your employees and tenants For the purpose of this eBook we are
looking at the buildings interior elements which are designed to protect and
evacuate people within the building in case of emergencies which could
include fire earthquakes or less critical events such as power failures
One of the most common life safety systems are fire detection and alarm systems These
systems are usually designed to detect the presence of a fire for example through heat or
smoke detection and then raise alarm through the sounders that form part of the system
The building may also have linked or separate fire suppression systems that will release an
agent onto the fire This suppresses the fire by
either reducing the oxygen chemical reaction
with the atmosphere or by cooling the fire
Probably the most common are water sprinkler
systems Your building will likely have portable
fire extinguishers to be used by trained persons
which will also form part of the life safety systems
and fire emergency procedures
Smoke can be as dangerous as the fire itself
Smoke kills more people than fire and can easily
trap people preventing them from escaping
Protective measures that may be installed can
include smoke extract systems to pull the smoke
away from escape routes fire doors with smoke
Seals smoke curtains and the automatic shut
down of ventilation systems
The ability of a building to protect against fire
spreading is also important Your building will
have elements installed to help prevent this such as
fire doors fire compartmentation and automatic
shut down of ventilation systems
In the event of an emergency to aid the occupantsrsquo
evacuation are the emergency light systems which
guide people through corridors and exits to the
exterior of the building
Did you Know
bull In 20172018 there were 334
fire related fatalities in England
bull 3306 people suffered fire
related injuries resulting in
hospital treatment in the same
period
bull Fire and Rescue Services
attended around 565000
incidents in the same period
bull Smoke inhalation not burns
are the primary cause of fire
casualties
(Statistics obtained from the Home
Office Fire Statistics)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
5
There are a number of references you can follow when
looking at your legal requirements with regard to life
safety many understandably are focused on fire
safety in particular In this section we will look at
the general principles that persons responsible
for buildings must ensure are in place
Fire Safety
The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) and subsequent amendments Fire safety is
also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides For
the purpose of this eBook we will first look at the general principles as laid out in the
RRFSO and the measures that should be in place which include measures
bull To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the
premises
bull In relation to the means of escape from the premises
bull For securing that at all material times the means of escape can be safely and
effectively used
bull In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises
bull In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of
fire on the premises
bull In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the
premises including measures
o in relation to the instruction and training of employees and
o measures to mitigate the effects of the fire
With regard to maintaining life safety systems there are several clauses that require the
Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of the measures required to be in place
for means of escape which include
bull Fire doors
bull Emergency lighting
bull Signage
bull Staircases
bull Corridors
Chapter 2
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
3
The purpose of this eBook is to provide Facilities and Building Managers
with a guide to the laws and regulations that govern life safety systems in
the workplace and good practice with regard to maintaining life safety
installations and equipment
JCW have history dating back to 1903 within the electrical engineering
industry We were also one of the original members of the Electrical
Contractorsrsquo Association (ECA) As our business model evolved the
maintenance of life safety systems was a natural progression and forms a
large element of the maintenance and compliance services we now provide
Our experience puts us in a strong position when tendering for new work it also provides
our existing customers with peace of mind that we are looking after their life safety
systems ensuring that they remain compliant
Introduction
Disclaimer
Whilst we endeavour to provide as useful a resource as possible the information in this eBook is not a substitute for
official legal documents The intention of this paper is to help you identify potential areas of risk or gaps in your
knowledge and you should use that information to investigate the regulations in detail Links have been provided to
the relevant sources as a resource for you to find out more
Legislation and technology continues to change and
making sure that our engineers are up to date with
the most recent regulations is paramount to our
business With this is mind we decided to share some
of our knowledge and experience with our customers
in the form of this eBook We will cover a little about
the systems covered under the heading lsquolife safetyrsquo
an overview of the regulations and how businesses
and landlords can remain compliant
Thank you for downloading we hope you find our
guide useful please do not hesitate to contact us
should you require any further information
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
4
Chapter 1
What is a Life Safety System
lsquoLife safetyrsquo could cover an infinite number of occurrences and risks within the
workplace all of which should be given consideration when factoring the
safety of your employees and tenants For the purpose of this eBook we are
looking at the buildings interior elements which are designed to protect and
evacuate people within the building in case of emergencies which could
include fire earthquakes or less critical events such as power failures
One of the most common life safety systems are fire detection and alarm systems These
systems are usually designed to detect the presence of a fire for example through heat or
smoke detection and then raise alarm through the sounders that form part of the system
The building may also have linked or separate fire suppression systems that will release an
agent onto the fire This suppresses the fire by
either reducing the oxygen chemical reaction
with the atmosphere or by cooling the fire
Probably the most common are water sprinkler
systems Your building will likely have portable
fire extinguishers to be used by trained persons
which will also form part of the life safety systems
and fire emergency procedures
Smoke can be as dangerous as the fire itself
Smoke kills more people than fire and can easily
trap people preventing them from escaping
Protective measures that may be installed can
include smoke extract systems to pull the smoke
away from escape routes fire doors with smoke
Seals smoke curtains and the automatic shut
down of ventilation systems
The ability of a building to protect against fire
spreading is also important Your building will
have elements installed to help prevent this such as
fire doors fire compartmentation and automatic
shut down of ventilation systems
In the event of an emergency to aid the occupantsrsquo
evacuation are the emergency light systems which
guide people through corridors and exits to the
exterior of the building
Did you Know
bull In 20172018 there were 334
fire related fatalities in England
bull 3306 people suffered fire
related injuries resulting in
hospital treatment in the same
period
bull Fire and Rescue Services
attended around 565000
incidents in the same period
bull Smoke inhalation not burns
are the primary cause of fire
casualties
(Statistics obtained from the Home
Office Fire Statistics)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
5
There are a number of references you can follow when
looking at your legal requirements with regard to life
safety many understandably are focused on fire
safety in particular In this section we will look at
the general principles that persons responsible
for buildings must ensure are in place
Fire Safety
The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) and subsequent amendments Fire safety is
also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides For
the purpose of this eBook we will first look at the general principles as laid out in the
RRFSO and the measures that should be in place which include measures
bull To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the
premises
bull In relation to the means of escape from the premises
bull For securing that at all material times the means of escape can be safely and
effectively used
bull In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises
bull In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of
fire on the premises
bull In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the
premises including measures
o in relation to the instruction and training of employees and
o measures to mitigate the effects of the fire
With regard to maintaining life safety systems there are several clauses that require the
Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of the measures required to be in place
for means of escape which include
bull Fire doors
bull Emergency lighting
bull Signage
bull Staircases
bull Corridors
Chapter 2
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
4
Chapter 1
What is a Life Safety System
lsquoLife safetyrsquo could cover an infinite number of occurrences and risks within the
workplace all of which should be given consideration when factoring the
safety of your employees and tenants For the purpose of this eBook we are
looking at the buildings interior elements which are designed to protect and
evacuate people within the building in case of emergencies which could
include fire earthquakes or less critical events such as power failures
One of the most common life safety systems are fire detection and alarm systems These
systems are usually designed to detect the presence of a fire for example through heat or
smoke detection and then raise alarm through the sounders that form part of the system
The building may also have linked or separate fire suppression systems that will release an
agent onto the fire This suppresses the fire by
either reducing the oxygen chemical reaction
with the atmosphere or by cooling the fire
Probably the most common are water sprinkler
systems Your building will likely have portable
fire extinguishers to be used by trained persons
which will also form part of the life safety systems
and fire emergency procedures
Smoke can be as dangerous as the fire itself
Smoke kills more people than fire and can easily
trap people preventing them from escaping
Protective measures that may be installed can
include smoke extract systems to pull the smoke
away from escape routes fire doors with smoke
Seals smoke curtains and the automatic shut
down of ventilation systems
The ability of a building to protect against fire
spreading is also important Your building will
have elements installed to help prevent this such as
fire doors fire compartmentation and automatic
shut down of ventilation systems
In the event of an emergency to aid the occupantsrsquo
evacuation are the emergency light systems which
guide people through corridors and exits to the
exterior of the building
Did you Know
bull In 20172018 there were 334
fire related fatalities in England
bull 3306 people suffered fire
related injuries resulting in
hospital treatment in the same
period
bull Fire and Rescue Services
attended around 565000
incidents in the same period
bull Smoke inhalation not burns
are the primary cause of fire
casualties
(Statistics obtained from the Home
Office Fire Statistics)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
5
There are a number of references you can follow when
looking at your legal requirements with regard to life
safety many understandably are focused on fire
safety in particular In this section we will look at
the general principles that persons responsible
for buildings must ensure are in place
Fire Safety
The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) and subsequent amendments Fire safety is
also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides For
the purpose of this eBook we will first look at the general principles as laid out in the
RRFSO and the measures that should be in place which include measures
bull To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the
premises
bull In relation to the means of escape from the premises
bull For securing that at all material times the means of escape can be safely and
effectively used
bull In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises
bull In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of
fire on the premises
bull In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the
premises including measures
o in relation to the instruction and training of employees and
o measures to mitigate the effects of the fire
With regard to maintaining life safety systems there are several clauses that require the
Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of the measures required to be in place
for means of escape which include
bull Fire doors
bull Emergency lighting
bull Signage
bull Staircases
bull Corridors
Chapter 2
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
5
There are a number of references you can follow when
looking at your legal requirements with regard to life
safety many understandably are focused on fire
safety in particular In this section we will look at
the general principles that persons responsible
for buildings must ensure are in place
Fire Safety
The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) and subsequent amendments Fire safety is
also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides For
the purpose of this eBook we will first look at the general principles as laid out in the
RRFSO and the measures that should be in place which include measures
bull To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the
premises
bull In relation to the means of escape from the premises
bull For securing that at all material times the means of escape can be safely and
effectively used
bull In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises
bull In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of
fire on the premises
bull In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the
premises including measures
o in relation to the instruction and training of employees and
o measures to mitigate the effects of the fire
With regard to maintaining life safety systems there are several clauses that require the
Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of the measures required to be in place
for means of escape which include
bull Fire doors
bull Emergency lighting
bull Signage
bull Staircases
bull Corridors
Chapter 2
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
6
The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting
equipment fire detection and alarm systems And fire mitigation measures such as fire
suppression systems fire compartments as well as emergency escape routes and exits
In addition to the general principles as detailed above the RRFSO also has more specific
duties around dangerous substances such as flammable explosives oxidising substances
etc
With regard to maintenance there is a general requirement to maintain life safety systems
to an efficient state effective working order and good repair
Codes of practice
Chapter 2 (continued)
System Legislation Details
Fire Detection and
Alarm Systemsbull BS 5839-12017
Fire alarm systems for non-domestic
premises design installation commissioning
and maintenance
Fire Extinguishers bull BS 5306-32017
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises commissioning and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers
Fire Suppression
Systemsbull BSEN 12845 2015
Fixed firefighting systems Automatic sprinkler
systems Design installation and maintenance
Emergency Lighting bull BS 5266-12016Code of practice for the emergency lighting of
premises
Automatic Door
Releasebull BS 5839-31998
Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings Specification for automatic release
mechanisms for certain fire protection
equipment
Fire Doors
bull DHF (Door and
Hardware
federation)
Code of Practice for Fire and Escape Doors
Ventilation Systemsbull BS 9999
bull BSEN 15650
Code of Practice for the Fire Safety in the
Design Management and Use of Buildings
Ventilation for Buildings ndash Fire Dampers
Smoke and Fire
Curtainsbull BS 8524 ndash 1 2013 Active fire curtain barrier assemblies
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
7
To decide what is necessary for your building the key is for the Responsible Person to
work through their Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) This is a strict legal requirement and must
be undertaken Often if there is not an assessment in place the buildings insurance could
be null and void and could potentially attract enforcement action
What does a fire risk assessment include
The FRA should be suitable to the premises and processes undertaken at the premises
and be sufficiently well completed There are a number of registers for fire risk assessors
JCW follow the PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessment guidance and methodology from BSI along
with the governments guidance for FRArsquos that is applicable to the type and use of the
premises
When preparing an FRA the terms lsquohazardrsquo and lsquoriskrsquo are used throughout the document it
is important to have a clear understanding of how these should be used
Hazard anything that has the potential to cause harm
Risk a combination of the chance of harm and the reasonable potential severity
from that harm
The guidance states the following should be included in a fire risk assessment
bull Identify the fire hazards
bull Identify people at risk
bull Evaluate remove or reduce the risks
bull Record findings prepare an emergency plan and provide training
bull Review and update the fire risk assessment regularly
The Responsible Person will also need to consider
bull Emergency routes and exits
bull Fire detection and warning systems
bull Fire fighting equipment
bull The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
bull An emergency fire evacuation plan
bull The needs of vulnerable people for example the elderly young children or those with
disabilities
bull Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
bull Staff fire safety training
If you require assistance with your FRA and would like to appoint a competent person to
complete one for you get in contact with us we can complete a professional risk
assessment of your premises
The governments guidance can be found at httpswwwgovukworkplace-fire-safety-your-
responsibilitiesfire-risk-assessments
Chapter 2 (continued)
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
8
1 Perform regular risk assessments Regular assessment of fire
hazards highlights risks and helps you to take appropriate preventative
measures Continual evaluation eliminates oversight helps identify
new potential causes of fires and provides opportunities to improve
control measures
2 Educate occupants Create an awareness of fire risks and help
people to understand the consequences of a relaxed attitude towards
fire hazards Human action or neglect is often a contributory factor to
fire hazards so be sure to inform occupants about both the risk and
their responsibilities in creating a workplace that is void of the threat of
fire
3 Create a policy Draw up a policy document that addresses the
findings in your risk assessment This will reinforce a culture of
awareness of the risk of fire Your policy document should include not
only risk factors but also cover best-practices that building occupants
should follow to minimise fire hazards Designated outside smoking
areas storage of highly flammable material the operation of electrical
equipment and ensuring fire exits can be freely accessed are all
factors that can be addressed in a comprehensive policy document
Ensure that updates to the policy are applied as and when new
hazards are identified
4 Test your equipment frequently Regular testing and maintenance of
life safety equipment is crucial to minimising risks In the event of early
detection the efficacy of your life safety equipment will determine the
extent of the resulting damage Make sure that you have a complete
inventory of all equipment their age date last tested and supplier
contact details
5 Consult an expert A good practice is to make sure a competent
person is involved in fire risk assessment You might have enough
knowledge to be the competent person However if you feel that you
are not capable of addressing the entire scope of the subject consult
an expert in the field Specialists in the field are there to help give a
greater vantage point on the subject
5 key steps
to a best
practice
preventative
approach
Chapter 3
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
9
Regular servicing and maintenance of your fire detection and alarm systems not only
keeps you and your occupants safe it also can reduce the amount of false alarms which
may occur in the system Legislation recommends a periodic inspection and test of the
system which includes all types of detectors such as heat and smoke These should be
tested to ensure that products of combustion are able to pass into the sensing chamber of
the detector
The period between inspections and service visits are based on the risk assessment and
take into account the type of system and the environment in which it operates The
recommended period should not exceed six months if this is not implemented the system
could be considered as no longer compliant
The Responsible Person should also conduct a daily check to ensure there are no faults
indicated and also a weekly fire alarm test from different break glass points
All tests and services should be recorded in the fire log book and any maintenance carried
out by a maintenance company should be detailed and a service certificate provided after
each visit a copy of which should also be kept in the log book
Once you have reviewed your risk assessment you need to ensure that your
planned maintenance programme for your life safety systems is prepared in
line with legislation and suits the building you occupy We will now look at the
guidelines set out for the main systems that require regular maintenance
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Chapter 3
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire Alarm
Systems
Daily ndash check the system lights
indicate no fault
Weekly fire alarm test from
different break glass points ndash
record in fire log book
Fire alarm test by a competent
person to BS 5839 standard ndash
record in fire log book
Annual fire alarm test (Ensure
Quarterly Bi annual checks
have tested the whole system)
ndash record in fire log book
bull BS 5839-12017Employer Servicing
Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
10
Fire extinguishers can help occupants protect themselves against small fires and should
only be used if safety permits it Staff should be given suitable training in how to operate
this type of equipment
In order for fire extinguishers to be fully effective in emergency situations they must be
properly maintained and inspected The Responsible Person can conduct monthly checks
of the extinguishers to help determine
bull If the pressure is adequate
bull If the tamper seal and pin are still intact
bull If the fire extinguishers have taken physical harm This includes possible dents and rust
bull If the fire extinguishers are held in a safe area that is never obstructed by clutter
bull If the nozzle is not hindered
Thorough maintenance should occur at least once a year by a competent person to ensure
the extinguishers are functioning correctly or if they need to be replaced or recharged
Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are used to
extinguish or prevent the spread of fire
in a building These systems can use a
combination of dry chemicals and or wet
agents to suppress the fire
Fire Extinguishers
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Conducted By
Fire
Extinguisher
servicing
Annual 5 Yearly servicing to
manufactures guidelines bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
Carbon
Dioxide Fire
Extinguisher
refills
Refilled every 10 years bull BS 5306-32017 Servicing Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
11
The fire is detected by either manual detection where the alarm has been raised through a
break glass call point or automatically depending on the system Water sprinkler systems
have a small glass bulb which will break once a certain temperature is reached releasing
the water gas and chemical systems can detect fire through the smoke or heat detectors
To ensure the fire suppression system is functioning correctly in case of an emergency
regular tests should be conducted both by the Responsible Person and also a full
maintenance should be completed by a qualified person The period between checks will
depend on the suppression system you have installed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Required Action Legislation Completed by
Fire
Suppression
Systems
Weekly ndash automatic
suppression system fault check
Record in fire log book
Quarterly Bi-Annual ndash test
Record in fire log book
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS EN 15004
bull BS EN 12845
bull BS 5306-42001
bull BS 8489-12016
bull BS 8458-12016
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency Lights
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Emergency
Lighting
Daily ndash check indicator lights
Monthly ndash simulated mains
failure test Record in Fire Log
Book
Annual ndash Full duration test
(usually 3 hours depending on
the evacuation regime) Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5266-12016
bull BS EN 50172
Employer Servicing
Contractor
Emergency lighting is lighting for an unforeseen situation when the mains power supply is
lost and normal illumination fails This may lead to sudden darkness and a possible
danger to staff and customers either through physical danger or mental distress The
purpose of emergency lighting is to allow for safe evacuation of staff andor public
Although it is recommended that a daily check of the indicator lights be conducted there
should be simulated mains failure test completed every month and the results of which
being recorded in the fire safety log book
There should also be an annual test performed whereby the emergency lights are left
illuminated for a minimum duration of 1 hour or 3 hours if the premises is not evacuated
immediately or if it will be reoccupied as soon as the supply is restored This will then
highlight any issues with the lamps not lasting the full duration either due to fault or loss of
battery power A record needs to be made in the fire safety log book
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
12
Automatic door release mechanisms are installed on self closing fire doors which cause
serious restriction in the movement of people within a building Doors fitted with these
mechanisms are actuated by automatic fire detection and alarm systems which give
warning of smoke in the areas on either side of the door All automatic door releases
should be triggered by each or any of the following
bull The detection of smoke by an automatic detection
bull The actuation of an alarm by a manual fire alarm call point
bull Failure of the fire warning system
The release mechanisms should be operated at least once each week to ensure that it is
working effectively and has not warped or become obstructed
Chapter 3 (continued)
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Automatic Door
Release Systems
Weekly with the testing of
the fire alarm system Record
in fire log book
bull BS 5839-3 Employer
Automatic Door Release Systems
Fire Doors
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
The Responsible person should ensure that fire-resisting and escape doors are kept in
safe working order and the maintenance of which should be
properly documented
It is recommended that regular weekly checks are
conducted to ensure the doors close properly and
are not damaged or obstructed A thorough
maintenance should be conducted annually
The maintenance period should also be appropriate
for the building For high life risk such as hospitals
and schools this may mean more regular checks
are required
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
13
Chapter 3 (continued)
Ensuring the door is maintained to provide correct performance is essential and the
maintenance and replacement of components should be undertaken only by persons
experienced in this type of work and recorded in the maintenance log Elements that
should be regularly checked include
bull Hinges
bull Floor springs
bull Door closing devices
bull Electro-magnetic hold open devices
bull Lock latches bolts and furniture
bull Seals
bull Panic and emergency exit device
Ventilation Systems
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Fire DoorsMonthly ndash Annually Record
in fire log book
bull DHF Code of
Practice
EmployerService
Contractor
Smoke ventilation systems transports the flow of
toxic smoke created by a fire away from escape
routes and out of the burning building
These systems require regular testing weekly
monthly and quarterly tests can be conducted by
the Responsible Person the 6 monthly and annual
tests should be conducted by a competent person
with the suitable qualifications Certificates of
testing must be obtained and kept in the buildings
maintenance log
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
14
Chapter 3 (continued)
Fire and smoke dampers are fitted into ductwork where it passes through a fire
compartment barrier These are designed to close when a specified temperature is met
which can prevent the spread of fire and smoke
Fire dampers are crucial in a buildings fire safety system
and their regular maintenance is essential to ensure they
work effectively
The most common fire dampers are spring operated and
they should be tested every 12 months However
environmental factors play a part in how often the dampers
should be tested If the environment is dusty then it is
recommended that more frequent checks are made
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke Ventilation
SystemsWeekly Monthly amp Quarterly bull BS 99992017
EmployerService
Contractor
Fire Dampers Annually bull BS EN 15650 Service Contractor
Smoke and Fire Curtains
Some buildings typically with large expanses of area used by
many people may have smoke curtains installed which help
ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire They provide
essential compartmentation containment and channeling
from the effects of a fire generally they can withstand these
effects for 1 to 2 hours
These curtains should be tested annually by a competent
person Batteries should be changed in the control panel
and the motor serviced
System Interval Legislation Completed by
Smoke and Fire
CurtainsAnnually bull BS 8524 - 1 Service Contractor
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
15
Chapter 3 (continued)
Evacuation Chairs
The RRFSO states that business owners have a duty to ensure the safety of all people
who are on their premises Evacuation chairs provide mobility impaired people with a safe
way to evacuate a building in the even of an emergency
These chairs are lightweight but strong and play a vital role
in the fire safety and evacuation plan of a building
It is recommended that evacuation chairs receive an
annual service to ensure safe operation by way of a
thorough visual inspection and tests of the chair and
replacement of wearing parts
Other Considerations
Every building is different which is why it is essential that you follow the fire risk
assessment recommendations made regarding your specific premises
Also the use of the building can affect the maintenance schedule As detailed previously
where there is high life risk such as in hospitals and schools more regular servicing and
testing may be required for certain systems
Buildings with a high public occupation such as cinemas nightclubs shopping centres
theatres and sports stadiums have different and very specific requirements also
Many other building functions can connect to the life safety systems such as
bull Building Management Systems
bull Landlord Alarm Systems
bull Smoke Shutters
bull Lifts
bull Automatic Doors
bull Alarm Monitoring
All of these will also need to be maintained to ensure that the systems behave according to
the Building Fire Cause amp Effect Strategy in the event of a life threatening occurrence
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
16
Most Facilities and Building Managers appreciate the importance of
understanding the factors that may jeopardise the health and safety or the
people they are responsible for However this is a complex area and there
are a wide range of risks and health hazards to consider This can be difficult
and time consuming so we hope this guide makes the task easier
Understanding your legal obligations and following the various codes of practice will help
you to meet your compliance obligations as set out by the HSE and associated laws
concerning workplace health and safety Codes of practice documents are a valuable
source of information that arm Facilities and Building Managers in their continued efforts to
mitigate and minimise health and safety hazards
As a supplement to governmental guidelines the British Standards Institute (BSI) has been
providing businesses with insights to ideal practices in creating working environments of
the highest standard The British Standard Institute is the oldest and largest certification
body in the world and currently has over 50000 active standards The BSI offers
responsible people and their Health and Safety Managers a comprehensive course on
workplace safety that aims to bolster your acquired knowledge and improve your skillset
resulting in safer workplaces
Although not a replacement for the laws and standards themselves this guide has
hopefully provided you with a useful overview of the various laws and legislation relating to
life safety systems as well as some key considerations for building owners and Facilities
Managers
Conclusion amp Next Steps
You may also be interested to read
A Guide to Workplace Compliance
Visit our blog for regular updates on industry related information and JCW articles
A Guide to Life Safety Systems
wwwjcwescom
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems
17A Guide to Life Safety Systems