Firefighters are being issued with their own guides to fire detection and alarm systems for buildings other than dwellings.

The joint initiative between the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and the Fire and Security Association (FSA) consists of the publication of a short guide to BS 5839-1, the standard for designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining fire detection and alarm systems.

The guide will be issued to firefighters in order to improve their awareness of the standard and is a bespoke re-drafting of one of the FSA’s short guide series which is distributed free to all members.

"The FSA strongly advocates the use of competent persons, verified by third party certification schemes in all installation activities,” said Stefan Hay, head of FSA. “[We believe] that this guide will be useful, not only in reducing the number of false and unwanted fire signals, but also in raising the standard of installation activity and, therefore, further safeguarding premises, property and life.”

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union said: “With 45,000 members, the FBU is by far the largest representative body of uniformed fire and rescue service staff, including those who have responsibility for the enforcement of fire safety legislation in occupied buildings. The FBU is committed to securing the highest standards to best ensure the safety of the public and firefighters. For that reason, the FBU is pleased to be associated with the production and distribution of this short guide
to BS 5839-1.”

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