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Fire Alarm Systems2025-11-28T12:00:54+00:00

FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

Installation & Maintenance of Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FIRE ALARM SYSTEM

It is essential when choosing a fire alarm system, that the type of system is one that is suited to protecting the safety of your people and property. We understand that when it comes to fire protection, there is no one solution that fits all.

Our experienced project team continually develops our system designs using the latest technological advancements to suit your specific fire risk in accordance with current legislative and British Standard requirements.

We are 3rd party accredited by BAFE, SSAIB, and ISO registered, with over 25 years experience installing and maintaining fire alarm systems across the UK for Commercial business, heritage buildings, schools, local councils and national accounts. You can be assured of excellent technical support and advice, whether you need a brand-new install, upgrade to your existing system or a reliable ongoing maintenance contract.

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Fire Alarm Systems Maintenance

A commercial maintenance contract is required by law and your insurance provider, and must be carried out by an approved company to comply with British Standards regulations. BS 5839-1:2017 recommends systems are checked bi-annually as a minimum. SS Systems is a third-party accredited company which allows us to maintain all systems installed by ourselves and other companies. Our engineers are fully trained and qualified to meet current legislation and are supported by our in-house service manager and team of service coordinators, to ensure you receive a high level of service and standard of work.

What to expect from our maintenance package

  • 24 hour call out facility, 365 days a year
  • Fully qualified engineers
  • Full compliance with current legislation
  • Maintenance visits arranged at your convenience
  • Full visit report and recommendations
  • System modifications
  • Dedicated service manager

What a maintenance visit includes

  • Systems list check
  • Log book check
  • Field device check
  • Aspirator filter change
  • Battery check
  • Alarm load testing
  • Decibel level check
  • Remote alarm monitoring test (If connected)

The engineer’s notes and checklists are sent back to the SS Systems maintenance team. Our engineering manager will check through the notes and make any remedial action recommendations which admin will process and liaise with yourselves. Each service report constitutes an annual service certificate which the client then keeps in the fire records.

Fire Extinguishers

You are legally responsible to ensure there are enough fire extinguishers on your premises.

In addition to ensuring that you comply with the laws relevant to your industry and the size of your site. A risk assessment will provide how many fire extinguishers and ancillary products are required to protect your site.

Fire Safety Training

Fire safety is a fundamental part of any business and training is the corner stone of implementing any fire safety policy.

Legislation via the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires employers to provide training for all employees in actions to be taken in the event of a fire.

 

Emergency lighting

Emergency lighting is part of a building’s fire safety provision and is a requirement of The Regulatory Reform Order of 2005.

In the event of the mains power lighting failing or a power cut, emergency lighting can save lives by aiding in the safe evacuation of people within the building.

Fire Alarm Monitoring

Our Monitored Fire Alarm Systems offer you protection 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for complete peace of mind.

Your Fire Alarms System is monitored at a central station for a fast response to your key holder and the local fire and rescue services.

Aspirating Systems

An aspiration detection system (ADS) is a highly sensitive form of fire detection that can detect a fire at an early stage. The system takes samples of the air and tests them for the presence of smoke.

The air is drawn by a pump from the various test points.

Fire Suppression

Fire suppression systems are used as a safer and more advanced alternative to typical fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and water mist systems. These systems not only prioritise occupant safety, but also protect your property and assets in the event of a fire.

Frequently Asked Questions For Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

We design and install systems including conventional, addressable (loop) and wireless fire alarm systems – tailored to your building’s size, layout and risk.

We conduct a free site survey to understand the building, how it’s used, what risk factors exist and which British Standards apply. Then we propose a system design suited to your people, property and compliance requirements.

Yes, we are third-party accredited (including BAFE and SSAIB), ISO registered, and design/install/maintain fire alarm systems in accordance with current British Standards.

Yes, our maintenance service covers fire alarm systems whether installed by us or another company, ensuring they remain compliant and fully operational.

During a maintenance visit we check the system list, log book, each field device, battery condition, alarm loads, decibel levels, aspirator/filters (if used) and remote monitoring (if connected). We then provide a full visit report with recommendations.

According to our service guidance, systems should be checked at least bi-annually to comply with BS 5839-1:2017 for commercial premises.

Yes, we can design systems that interface with access control, smoke vents, sprinkler systems, voice alarms, lockdown systems and more, depending on your needs.

We have experience across commercial buildings, heritage sites, schools, local councils and national accounts, with a wide range of sectors with varied fire safety needs.

Absolutely, we can extend or upgrade existing systems, recommending cost-effective solutions while ensuring compliance with current standards.

Yes, at the end of installation we walk you through how to operate the system (set/unset, use the interface) and provide a user manual with step-by-step instructions.

We can provide monitored fire alarm systems so your fire alarm can be connected to a central station for 24/7 monitoring and rapid response.

Because every building has different usage, occupancy, hazards, layout and legislation requirements, selecting the wrong type could leave gaps in coverage or non-compliance.

Yes, wireless fire alarm systems are part of our portfolio and are especially useful where hard-wiring is difficult or disruptive. They are designed to meet robust performance and compliance standards.

The timeline varies with building size, complexity and system type. After the survey, a design is provided, and once approved we schedule installation, commissioning and handover. The specifics would be outlined in our proposal.

You will receive system design documents, site survey reports, commissioning certificates, maintenance visit reports, and annual service certificates for your fire records.

Advice When Considering Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Before deciding on a system, you must carry out a fire risk assessment.
This identifies the fire risks in your building, who’s at risk, and what detection and warning measures are needed.
It’s also a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for commercial premises.

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ solution. The right system depends on your building’s layout, size, and usage:

  • Conventional systems – cost-effective for smaller premises.
  • Addressable systems – pinpoint exact alarm locations; ideal for larger or more complex buildings.
  • Wireless systems – perfect for heritage sites or locations where cabling is difficult.

A qualified fire alarm designer will help you decide which type best suits your environment and compliance needs.

Your fire alarm system should meet the relevant British Standards, typically BS 5839-1:2017 for commercial premises.
Ensure your installer is BAFE-accredited or SSAIB-certified — this confirms compliance, quality, and proper design procedures.

Modern systems can integrate with other building management and security systems, such as:

  • Conventional systems – cost-effective for smaller premises.
  • Addressable systems – pinpoint exact alarm locations; ideal for larger or more complex buildings.
  • Wireless systems – perfect for heritage sites or locations where cabling is difficult.

Integration helps coordinate your overall emergency response.

Fire alarm systems must be inspected and tested regularly, usually every six months in accordance with BS 5839-1.
Maintenance ensures:

  • Early fault detection and prevention.
  • Compliance with insurance and legal obligations.
  • Extended lifespan of your equipment.

Tip: Combine fire alarm maintenance with other systems (CCTV, access control, etc.) to reduce downtime and call-outs.

The cheapest quote often doesn’t include full compliance, quality hardware, or ongoing support.
A reputable, accredited installer ensures your system is designed properly, commissioned to standard, and supported long-term.

Consider connecting your fire alarm to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) for constant monitoring.
This ensures the fire service or keyholders are automatically notified of an alarm, even outside working hours.

Your fire alarm system is only effective if people know how to respond.

  • Train staff on evacuation procedures and system use.
  • Appoint Fire Wardens or Responsible Persons.
  • Conduct regular fire drills.

Good awareness saves lives and reduces panic during real incidents.

Maintain an up-to-date Fire Alarm Log Book that records:

  • Weekly user tests
  • Maintenance visits
  • Faults and repairs
  • Fire alarm activations

This documentation is crucial for audits, insurance inspections, and demonstrating compliance.

Your building and business may grow, so choose a system that’s scalable and flexible.
Addressable and IP-based systems make it easy to expand coverage without a complete system overhaul.

If you’re working in a listed or occupied building, discuss wireless or low-impact installation options with your provider.
Modern systems can offer full protection while maintaining your premises’ aesthetics and reducing installation downtime.

Working with a company that handles fire, security, and maintenance (like SS Systems) ensures:

  • Integrated solutions that work together.
  • Fewer site visits.
  • Consistent documentation and support.
  • A single point of contact for all compliance matters.

Bonus Tip: Always check that your chosen fire alarm provider can supply certificates of design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance. These are key proof of compliance with BS 5839-1 and will be requested by insurers or auditors.

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A care home operator and its Managing Director have been sentenced following multiple fire safety violations at a Nottingham care facility. Both the company and its representatives pleaded guilty to several offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The Managing Director received a nine-month suspended prison sentence and was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work within 12 months. The company was fined £120,000 and, along with the Director, ordered to pay over £20,000 in prosecution costs.

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The new BS 5839-1:2025 standard is now live, offering critical updates to the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. This latest edition replaces BS 5839-1:2017 and reflects evolving industry best practices, regulatory expectations, and technological advancements.

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OUR PARTNERS

SS Systems partner with leading UK based manufacturers to ensure that the fire detection and alarm systems we provide are at the forefront of current technology, along with being the most reliable our industry has to offer.

Externally Monitored to Ensure that we meet a High Standard of Service.

As members of the SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board), We maintain service records and monitor our success. The SSAIB, is a leading certification body for organisations providing security systems and services, fire detection alarm systems, and monitoring services. So, you can be confident that we strive to provide our clients with a reliable and professional level of service.

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