Fire alarm system periodic test

[asdf]

Hi,

I have been asked to do a periodic test for fire alarm system with smoke detectors and sounder installed in HMO. I have never done it before and I don't know which form should I use. For new installations with mains and battery backup smokes I have filled up Fire Alarm Design Installation and Commissioning Certificate. I don't think this certificate appropriate in this situation. Which one should I use?

Thanks

 

[Darkwood]

If your testing, designing, installing fire alarm systems you need to have a good knowledge of alarm systems including sound level coverage, what and where needs detectors, where extra measures may be required i.e. strobe alerts amongst many other things, i wouldn't consider putting my name to any test, design, or any installation cert if i didn't have a fully understanding and a copy of BS 5839.

If you cant tell me how big a void above a false ceiling needs to be before it requires void smoke detectors then turn the job down.

.http://www.ttsfire.co.uk/guide-bs5839.PDF

heres a link to give you part 1 of many sections just to wet your brow.

 

[Darkwood]

Although i havent answered your question i hope to open your eyes a bit about the responsibility of going into fire alarms in any context, if a fire was to occur and the alarm operated as should or even not and serious injury or life lost occured the system would be scrutinised to showed it was compliant to BS 5839 .... in taking on the testing of a system even if you didnt install it you are required to note any issues and non-compliances with the existing system and failure to do so in the worst case could see you with a fear of picking soap up :sick:

 

[asdf]

I'm sure about my installs as they are very simple.
In this case I would get more information before install systems like this.

 

[Darkwood]

Wise to print it out as most sites charge you about £50 for each section of BS 5839 but if you search long enough you may be able to download the lot for free..

 

[tazz]

The advice given previously is one to take note of....however to answer your question, Under NICIEE i would used your test/commissioning cert, under BAFE use standard test certs and if HMO follow a few simple rules.
1. Test all smokes with canned smoke. not just by the test button even if the manufactures state not to.
2. On first test take average DB reading to clarify all areas meet levels required.
3. if grade A test control panel and batteries with suitable discharge meter...(not a multimeter)
4. Grade A make sure zone chart is uptodate and correct.
5. Always carry all spares for the premises, if a smoke detector has failed, it must be replaced, no going back 1 week later to change.
Hope this helps,