When it comes to domestic fire detection and alarm systems, compliance is often considered complete once devices are installed. But as any experienced specifier knows, genuine compliance extends far beyond simply fitting alarms to walls or ceilings. It’s an ongoing process that includes testing, commissioning, handover, and routine checks. Getting each stage right can mean the difference between lifesaving protection and serious liability.
Across the UK, BS 5839-6:2019+A1:2020 is the recognised standard for domestic fire detection and alarm systems. Its guidance is particularly relevant to social housing, private rental properties, houses in multiple occupation and newbuild developments. The standard sets clear expectations for system design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance to ensure fire detection solutions are reliable, properly installed, and capable of protecting lives.
Product specification and system design can demonstrate competence and form the foundations of compliance, but there remains a common misconception that using certified devices is enough to guarantee a compliant system. In reality, even the most advanced fire detection system depends entirely on correct installation, testing, and environmental considerations. BS 5839-6 reflects this, with Clause 23.3n highlighting testing and commissioning as fundamental to system effectiveness. This stage is a vital safety measure to ensure all detectors, alarm devices, low-level controllers and any relays to other systems, including the transmission of alarms to alarm receiving centres, operate as intended.
Rigorous commissioning verifies that detectors respond correctly to test stimuli using manufacturer-approved test apparatus, that interconnected devices communicate effectively, and that both primary and backup power supplies meet performance standards.
Testing must also consider real-life conditions, such as detector placement, proximity to heating, ventilation, light fittings, walls, beams, and the highest point within the protected space, all of which can affect system performance. Skipping or rushing this process undermines reliability and leaves projects exposed to legal risks and, more importantly, increased danger to life.
Achieving compliance is a responsibility shared between manufacturers, specifiers, installers, contractors and housing providers. Their collaboration is essential, from aligning system design with property requirements, to following manufacturer instructions and ensuring documentation is provided at handover.
Over time, factors like wear and tear, tampering, battery degradation, or environmental changes can compromise system performance. BS 5839-6emphasises the need for routine testing and maintenance to ensure continued compliance and effective protection.
Since 2019, systems installed within sheltered housing schemes or connected to social telecare systems require annual test and inspection by a competent person using test apparatus with a certificate of conformity being produced to evidence compliance. The emergence of connected and smart technologies, such as those developed by FireAngel, provides early alerts of faults, tampering, or system issues. While these innovations offer greater visibility and enhanced protection, they are not a substitute for professional inspections or educating residents about the importance of leaving detection devices undisturbed.
Specifiers have a unique role in raising safety standards. In 2021, British Approvals for Fire Equipment launched third-party certification scheme DS301 to enable those who design, install, commission and maintain Grade D fire alarm systems to demonstrate competence, providing assurances of quality and compliance. At FireAngel, our connected technologies and advanced detection solutions are designed to support specifiers with ongoing system monitoring, real-time alerts, and enhanced fault detection. www.fireangel.co.uk/trade