A common arrangement is a regular user test of the alarm, supported by periodic inspection and servicing by a competent specialist. The Responsible Person should make sure faults are recorded, acted on and not simply carried forward between service visits.
Routine user testing
A regular test helps confirm that the alarm can be operated and heard and that obvious faults are identified promptly. Government guidance for many workplaces describes routine weekly testing of the system, using a different manual call point in rotation where appropriate.
Competent inspection and servicing
Routine user tests do not replace competent maintenance. Fire alarm systems should be inspected and serviced at suitable intervals by a competent person, taking account of the system specification, relevant standards, manufacturer information and the fire risk assessment.
Record faults and follow-up action
Keep a record of tests, servicing, false alarms, faults and repairs. Where a contractor identifies a defect, the management record should show what was done and when, rather than relying only on the fact that a service visit took place.
Coordinate shared systems
In a multi-occupied commercial building, a shared alarm may serve several tenants and common areas. Testing, isolation, maintenance and changes to the system should be coordinated so that every occupier understands how the alarm affects them and what to do when it operates.
Review arrangements when the premises change
Changes to layout, occupancy, compartmentation, working hours or evacuation arrangements can affect whether the existing warning system remains suitable. The fire risk assessment should be reviewed where a material change could affect the alarm strategy.