Fire Alarm System Inspection Checklist
Keeping a consistent record of fire alarm checks is a legal requirement under UK fire safety legislation. This checklist covers every level of testing required — from the simple weekly call point test to the full annual professional inspection — so you know exactly what should be done and recorded at each interval.
Weekly Checks (Carried Out by Responsible Person)
Activate one manual call point (rotate zones each week). Confirm the alarm sounds in all areas. Confirm the control panel registers the correct zone. Check that no fault lights are showing on the panel. Record the test in the fire log book: date, time, zone tested, pass or fail. Reset the panel after testing.
Monthly Checks (Carried Out by Responsible Person)
Check the control panel for any fault or trouble indicators. Visually inspect accessible detectors and call points for damage or obstruction. Confirm the fire log book is up to date with all weekly tests recorded. Check that the fire log book is stored in an accessible location near the panel. Check that the fire escape routes are clear and signage is visible.
Six-Monthly Professional Inspection (Qualified Engineer)
Test every smoke detector using aerosol test spray. Test every heat detector using an appropriate heat source. Activate every manual call point using a test key. Test every sounder and visual alarm device. Check and test the main control panel and any repeater panels. Inspect battery backup and measure charge levels. Check wiring for damage, loose connections, or deterioration. Produce a written inspection report.
Annual Service and Certification (Qualified Engineer)
All six-monthly inspection items, plus: clean all detector heads. Check the system complies with the current version of BS 5839-1. Test the communications link to the monitoring centre if applicable. Test the alarm receiving centre (ARC) connection. Inspect the system against the as-installed drawings. Issue a fire alarm certificate on successful completion.
What to Record and Where to Keep It
All tests must be recorded in a bound fire log book — this is your evidence of compliance. The log book should remain on site and be accessible to the fire authority. Engineer reports and certificates should be kept with the log book. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, failure to maintain adequate records is itself a breach of duty.