At Essential, we are often asked to clarify the requirements for fire-related tests & inspections at commercial premises. Although some premises may contain other specialist installations & equipment not addressed below, these are the main tests and inspections that should be carried out on a periodic basis:
Daily:
- Check the fire alarm panel for faults
- Visual inspection for defects or blocked escape routes
Weekly:
- Test the fire alarm from a different Manual Call Point (Breakglass)
- Carry out sprinkler & smoke control tests
- Check the batteries in torches etc.
Monthly:
- Carry out a functional test of all emergency lighting
- Visually inspect all fire extinguishers
- Check all fire doors and fire exit doors
6-Monthly:
- Ensure that the fire alarm is serviced by a competent engineer.
Annually
- Emergency lighting should be tested for it’s full duration (normally 3 hours) by a competent engineer.
- Fire extinguishers should be serviced by a competent engineer
- The fire risk assessment should be reviewed
With the exception of the daily inspections, all of the above should be recorded in the Fire Safety Log Book, retained on the premises.
For a free Fire Safety Log Book, email: info@essentialconsult.co.uk
