Essential preparation steps to ensure your fire alarm testing is completed efficiently and safely
Inform tenants, staff, and nearby properties about testing. Fire alarms will sound repeatedly during the inspection.
If your system is monitored, notify your alarm receiving center to prevent false alarm calls to emergency services.
All fire alarm devices, control panels, and detection zones must be accessible. Remove any obstructions.
Find previous fire alarm test certificates, maintenance records, and system installation documentation.
The engineer will test the main fire alarm panel, check fault logs, and verify all zone indicators are functioning.
Each smoke, heat, and beam detector will be individually tested using appropriate test equipment.
Manual call points will be activated and all alarm sounders tested to ensure adequate coverage.
Standby battery performance will be tested to ensure 24-hour operation in case of mains power failure.
Your engineer will explain any findings and provide recommendations for maintaining optimal fire safety.
2-4 hours (based on your fire alarm system)
At least every 6 months as required by BS 5839-1
Alarms will sound repeatedly during testing
All areas with fire alarm devices
Fire alarm systems should be tested weekly by a responsible person, with full system testing every 6 months by certified engineers to ensure life safety compliance.
Read our fire alarm testing guide →Digital fire safety logbook that tracks all your testing, maintenance, and compliance records in one secure platform.