In our modern world, protecting your business from potential fire risks is more important now than it ever has been.
One major part of any good fire prevention strategy is making sure you have the right fire detection and alarm systems installed in the right places. These systems are vitally important for protecting the lives of occupants and preventing property damage.
In this blog, we’ll explain how to choose the right fire alarm systems, tailored for your business, specific needs, and building type.
What are fire alarm systems?
Fire alarm systems are used to pick up on fire hazards early, making sure everyone has enough time to evacuate safely and prevent serious injury or property damage.
Fire alarm systems are made up of different types of detectors and then divided into categories depending on the levels of protection required. They’re also split between domestic systems and non-domestic systems.
What are the different systems and categories?
1. Domestic systems
Domestic systems are primarily made up of smoke or heat detectors, which can work independently of each other.
This type of detectors are allocated grades which start from F1/F2 (battery powered smoke or heat alarms) to D1/D2 (mains powered smoke or heat alarms), and can be fitted by a competent DIY’er or electrician.
Grade C are detectors and alarm sounders which are mains powered with a stand-by supply – they’re also connected to a central control.
The highest grade is Grade A, which requires all detection to be connected and controlled by a fire alarm panel, which also indicates where the fire has been detected.
The categories of system then range from an LD3 system (which has detection in the escape routes) to LD2 (which has detection in the escape routes as well as any high-risk areas/rooms), to the highest level of domestic system, LD1 (which has detection throughout the premises).
Domestic systems have both a grade as well as a category, e.g., BS5839-6 Grade A LD1.
2. Non-domestic systems
Non-domestic systems are determined by their category and generally require a fire alarm engineer to design and fit.
For life protection, the systems are categorised from M (Manual) to L (Life).
P category alarms are for property protection only. Category M is the lowest level of protection and consists of manual call points (MCP’s) only.
The alarm would be activated by someone in the building and not automatically being activated by a detector, therefore it would only be considered in premises where occupants are awake and alert and a fire is likely to be quickly identified.
Category L1 is the highest level of system and would consist of both MCP’s and automatic detection throughout. These systems are required in higher risk premises where early detection is important to give occupants as much time as possible to evacuate.
There is likely to be persons sleeping on the premises and occupants may have mobility impairments, e.g. Care homes. The categories in between are L4, L3, and L2.
By understanding the types of fire detection systems available, you can understand the right level of system to match the specific hazards and needs of your business. For Non-domestic systems, consider engaging a competent alarm engineer or fire risk assessor to determine the right category required.
Fire alarm regulations in the UK
In the UK, fire alarm and detection systems need to meet firm regulatory standards, in order to make sure a building is safe and legally compliant.
Some key fire alarm regulations are:
British Standard BS5839: is the code of practice for determining which type of fire alarm system is appropriate for your type of premises and also details the requirements for installation, maintenance, and testing of fire alarms and detection systems. The standard is split into two categories; Domestic (BS5389-part 6) and Non-Domestic (BS5839 – part 1).
Building regulations: different types of premises, like residential, public, commercial, or industrial spaces, all have their own individual building fire safety regulations for fire alarms and fire detectors that need to be followed.
Maintaining fire systems: BS 5839 states that fire alarms should be tested weekly, and they need to be fully inspected and serviced by a competent person twice per year.
Following these regulations isn’t just a legal fire safety obligation – it’s also a really important step to take to protect the lives of occupants and keep your business safe from fire damage.
Choosing the right fire detection system for your business
When it comes to choosing the right fire detection system for your business, you should carefully consider a few things.
This includes the size and layout of the building, the type of business being operated, and any risks which may be specific to the premises.
For example, a bigger or multi-story building might need more advanced fire detection systems which may feature a phased alert, while a restaurant or garage would require heat detectors for their kitchen or workshop.
High fire risk industries, like manufacturing or industrial premises, will see the benefits of a flame detector or multi-sensor alarm system for faster and more accurate warnings, which could save lives or severe damage to a building by avoiding a disastrous fire incident.
What is a fire panel?
A fire panel acts as the central control centre of a fire alarm system, operating all of the connected alarms and fire detectors. This gives business owners and operators the ability to easily monitor and oversee the prevention of fire incidents.
What is a continuous fire alarm?
A continuous fire alarm is a fire detection system which sets off a loud and ongoing alarm, alerting everyone in the area that a potential fire has been detected. This type of alarm needs to be manually reset, so it won’t switch off until the fire hazard or incident has been identified and resolved.
Schedule a fire risk assessment to protect your business
Choosing the right fire safety and detection systems is a massive part of keeping your business occupants and premises safe from fire.
By understanding the types of systems available, following UK regulations, and assessing the specific needs of your business, you can make a truly informed decision that could save lives and property.
Don’t leave the safety of your occupants to chance! Get a free quote for a fire risk assessment today to make sure your business is ready for anything.
Reviewed: 4/2/2025
Our articles are regularly reviewed to keep our guidance clear and accessible. While we focus on providing easy-to-understand information, fire safety standards and legislation may evolve over time. For the most comprehensive understanding of your fire safety requirements, you may wish to seek professional advice or refer to the full regulations.