Servicing a fire alarm system means functionally testing the devices, checking the control equipment and the power supplies, and confirming the system still does what it was designed to do. It is a different activity from the occupier's weekly test and it is what finds the failures the weekly test cannot see.
What a visit covers
A proportion of the detectors and call points functionally tested, so that every device is proved across an annual cycle. The panel checked for faults and its event log reviewed. Batteries tested under load and their age recorded. The standby supply proved. Sounder levels confirmed where anything has changed. The cause and effect verified, including door releases, smoke vents and any plant interfaces. And the previous visit's outstanding defects reviewed.
How often
The detection standard sets out a periodic regime, commonly delivered as visits spread through the year so that the whole system is covered annually. The frequency should be stated in the maintenance agreement and should match what the standard asks for the system type, rather than being set by the price the building wanted to pay.
Competence
The law requires a competent person. Third party certification of the servicing company is the ordinary evidence, and the scheme reference should appear on the paperwork. A duty holder who has checked the registration and kept a copy has done what can reasonably be expected; one who appointed on price alone and kept nothing has not.
What the certificate must name
The system, the standard, which devices were tested on this visit, the results, the defects found, what was done and what remains outstanding, the battery condition, and the engineer. A certificate that says the system was serviced and gives no device detail cannot be checked against the building and does not help a responsible person demonstrate anything.
Questions people ask about fire alarm servicing london
How many service visits a year are needed?
Enough that every device is functionally tested annually and the control equipment is checked regularly. The standard sets the regime and the agreement should state it.
Does servicing include repairs?
Usually not beyond minor adjustments. Defects are reported and quoted, which is why the outstanding defects list is the part of the certificate to read.
What if the system is obsolete?
Spares availability becomes the issue, and a system that cannot be repaired is a system on borrowed time. A service report should say so rather than leave the building to find out during a fault.