5 Common Mistakes When Working with Fire Detection & Alarm Systems

Fire Detection & Fire Alarm (FD&FA) systems are critical to life safety, but even experienced professionals can fall into avoidable traps when working with them. At Ember Compliance, we regularly see the same mistakes cropping up across design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance, all of which can affect compliance with BS 5839-1 and compromise safety.

Here are five of the most common mistakes we come across, and how you can avoid them:

1. Not Following the Standard in Full

BS 5839-1 is a detailed standard for a reason. Cutting corners or “working from memory” can easily lead to missed requirements. Each system must be designed, installed, and maintained with reference to the current edition of the standard, including the latest 2025 updates.

Avoid it: Always work with up-to-date knowledge, and check your work against the standard rather than assumptions.

2. Poor Documentation

A system is only as strong as its paperwork. Incomplete or missing design certificates, installation records, or maintenance logs create serious issues for audits and can leave your organisation exposed.

Avoid it: Treat documentation as part of the job, not an afterthought. Accurate, complete records are essential for compliance and accountability.

3. Ignoring False Alarm Management

False alarms are one of the biggest issues in fire safety. Failing to consider false alarm management during design or maintenance can lead to unnecessary evacuations, wasted resources, and loss of confidence in the system.

Avoid it: Factor false alarm reduction into your planning and testing - it’s a requirement, not an option.

4. Overlooking Competence Requirements

Having “on-the-job experience” isn’t enough anymore. Competence must be demonstrable and aligned with industry-recognised qualifications, such as those recognised under the BAFE SP203-1 scheme.

Avoid it: Invest in accredited training and qualifications to prove your competence and ensure you meet audit requirements.

5. Inadequate Maintenance

Installing a compliant system is only the start. If routine inspection and maintenance are neglected or carried out without full reference to BS 5839-1, the system will drift out of compliance quickly.

Avoid it: Follow a structured maintenance programme, with clear scheduling, records, and corrective actions for any non-conformities.

Avoiding these five mistakes not only keeps you compliant with BS 5839-1 but also ensures you’re delivering systems that genuinely protect lives and property.

At Ember Compliance, we specialise in training and support designed to equip fire and security professionals with the knowledge and confidence to work to the highest standards.

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