When it comes to protecting your business, staff, and property, fire safety is a top priority. A properly installed and maintained fire alarm system is one of the most important components in safeguarding your premises against the threat of fire.
Categories of Commercial Fire Alarm Systems (BS 5839-1:2017)
UK fire alarm systems are classified under the British Standard BS 5839-1:2017, and all commercial installations in Cornwall must comply with this standard. Systems fall into three main categories:
1.
Category M – Manual Fire Alarm Systems
Overview:
This is the most basic type of system, relying on manual activation through break-glass call points.
Common in:
Smaller commercial properties like independent shops, cafés, and workshops.
Key points:
No automatic smoke or heat detectors.
People must detect the fire and activate the alarm manually.
Must include call points at all exits and alarm sounders throughout.
Regulatory note:
Category M systems meet the minimum legal requirement for many low-risk buildings but are not suitable where automatic detection is needed.
2.
Category L – Life Protection Systems
Overview:
These systems are designed to detect fires early and help ensure safe evacuation. They use automatic detection and are divided into five levels, from L1 to L5.
Subcategories:
L1:
Comprehensive coverage across the entire building. Common in hotels, care homes, and other high-occupancy buildings.
L2:
Coverage in escape routes and high-risk areas like kitchens or plant rooms. Often found in larger guest houses or offices.
L3:
Detection in escape routes and adjoining rooms. Suitable for many general commercial properties in Cornwall.
L4:
Basic detection in escape routes only.
L5:
A custom system designed for specific risks, such as areas storing flammable materials.
3.
Category P – Property Protection Systems
Overview:
These systems focus on protecting the building and its contents, often with remote monitoring included for 24/7 alerts.
Subcategories:
P1:
Full coverage for maximum property protection.
P2:
Targeted detection in high-risk areas.
Common in:
Warehouses, workshops, server rooms, and heritage buildings throughout Cornwall.
Choosing the Right System for Your Cornwall Business
Whether you operate a retail shop in Truro, a warehouse in Redruth, or a holiday park in Newquay, the right fire alarm system will depend on several key factors:
- The size and layout of your premises
- The type of business operations carried out
- Occupancy levels, including overnight stays
- Insurance and legal compliance needs
Installing a system that aligns with BS 5839-1:2017 is not just good practice—it’s a legal obligation under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Fire Alarm Services Across Cornwall
At Celtic Security Solutions, we design, install, and maintain fire alarm systems for commercial properties across Cornwall. From St Austell to Penzance and beyond, we bring local knowledge, professional expertise, and a commitment to keeping your business protected.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your fire alarm system requirements—we’re here to help you choose the right solution for your business.
Celtic Security Solutions
Your Local Experts in Fire Alarm Systems
03
JAN
2025
Open Protocol VS Closed Protocol why Should you know the difference!!?
The Benefits of an Open Protocol Fire Alarm System
When choosing a fire alarm system, one of the most important decisions is whether to install an open protocol or a closed protocol system. This choice can significantly impact the cost, flexibility, and long-term management of your fire safety solution. Here’s why open protocol systems often provide a better option and how to avoid the pitfalls of closed protocol systems.
What is the Difference?
• Open Protocol Systems: These systems allow multiple manufacturers or service providers to access, maintain, and upgrade the equipment. This provides property owners with greater flexibility and competitive pricing.
• Closed Protocol Systems: Proprietary systems that can only be serviced, programmed, or upgraded by a specific manufacturer or their approved agents. This creates a dependency on a single supplier.
The Advantages of Open Protocol Systems
1. Cost-Effectiveness
Open protocol systems enable you to obtain service quotes from multiple providers, keeping maintenance and upgrade costs competitive. You’re not locked into a single supplier’s pricing.
2. Flexibility in Servicing
With an open protocol, you have the freedom to switch service providers at any time. Whether you’re unhappy with your current provider or need more affordable options, you remain in control.
3. Wider Availability of Parts
Parts for open protocol systems are often easier to source and more affordable because they are not restricted to a single manufacturer. This reduces downtime and cost when repairs or replacements are needed.
4. Future-Proofing
Open systems are more likely to support upgrades and new technologies, ensuring your fire safety system remains compliant with evolving standards without requiring a full replacement.
The Downsides of Closed Protocol Systems
• Higher Maintenance Costs: You are forced to rely on the manufacturer’s approved agents, which can lead to inflated service prices.
• Limited Competition: Without alternative providers, service quality and responsiveness can suffer.
• Shorter Lifespan: If the manufacturer discontinues a product line, you may be left with no choice but to replace the entire system at significant cost.
How to Avoid Getting Locked into a Closed Protocol System
1. Ask the Right Questions: Before committing, confirm whether the system is open or closed protocol. Ask for written evidence to avoid surprises later.
2. Do Your Research: Speak to other businesses and property owners about their experiences and check reviews of specific systems.
3. Seek Independent Advice: Consult a fire safety expert who can recommend solutions based on your needs, free from manufacturer bias.
Choosing the right fire alarm system can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Opting for an open protocol system ensures that your property’s safety remains under your control, giving you flexibility, cost-efficiency, and peace of mind.
The Vital Role of Fire Alarms & Evolving Fire Safety Regulations: What Businesses in Cornwall Need to Know
At Celtic Security Solutions, we know that the safety of your premises, staff, and assets is non-negotiable. As specialists in fire and security systems across Cornwall, we believe that staying informed on fire safety regulations is just as important as installing the right equipment.
In this post, we’re shedding light on why fire alarms are crucial, how regulations have evolved, and what the latest changes to BS 5839-1 mean for your business or premises.
Why Fire Alarms Are Essential
Fire alarms are the first line of defence in detecting and alerting occupants to fire. Whether you’re managing a commercial building, rental property, or industrial facility, early detection can:
Save lives by ensuring timely evacuation
Protect property by minimising fire spread
Reduce downtime and financial losses
Comply with legal obligations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Without a fully functional and properly maintained fire alarm system, you’re not only putting people and property at risk—you’re also risking prosecution for non-compliance.
Understanding BS 5839-1: The British Standard for Fire Alarm Systems
BS 5839-1 is the British Standard that outlines the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. It’s the benchmark for fire safety professionals, building owners, and facilities managers across the UK.
.This standard helps ensure systems are both effective and appropriate to the level of risk—so a high-risk facility like a hotel or care home will have different requirements from a low-risk office.
What’s Changed in BS 5839-1 in Recent Years?
Fire safety is not static—it evolves in response to technological advancements, incident reviews, and a growing emphasis on life safety. Here are key updates to BS 5839-1 over the past few years:
1.
Enhanced Guidance on Multi-Sensor Detectors
Recent revisions provide clearer recommendations for using multi-sensor detectors, which combine smoke, heat, and sometimes carbon monoxide detection. These are now encouraged in more complex environments to reduce false alarms and improve detection accuracy.
2.
False Alarm Reduction
With false alarms still a major issue, newer guidance places greater emphasis on designing out false activations, particularly in sleeping accommodations and high-risk environments. The goal is to ensure people take alarms seriously and to reduce unnecessary callouts for emergency services.
3.
Improved System Documentation and Verification
there’s a stronger emphasis on record-keeping, verification, and communication between designers, installers, and building owners. This ensures accountability and makes future system inspections more reliable.
4.
Regular Maintenance Requirements
The updates clarify and reinforce the importance of ongoing system testing and maintenance—not just annual checks, but weekly user checks, documented maintenance visits, and system reviews when building use changes.
What This Means for You
If you’re a business owner, landlord, or facilities manager in Cornwall, these changes could affect your legal responsibilities. Here’s what you should do:
Review your current fire alarm system
Ensure your documentation is up to date
Schedule regular inspections and maintenance
Consult with a certified fire alarm specialist (like us!) to ensure compliance with BS 5839-1:2017 + A1:2020
How Celtic Security Solutions Can Help
At Celtic Security Solutions, we offer comprehensive fire alarm services across Cornwall, including:
- System design and installation
- Upgrades to meet current standards
- Weekly/monthly/annual testing and maintenance
- Fire risk assessments and compliance audits
We work closely with our clients to deliver tailored solutions that keep you protected and compliant—whether you manage a small business or a large commercial site.
Final Thoughts
Fire safety is too important to leave to chance—or to outdated systems. With evolving standards like BS 5839-1, now is the time to ensure your fire alarm systems are not only installed but optimised, maintained, and fully compliant.
If you’re unsure whether your system meets the latest regulations, contact Celtic Security Solutions today for expert advice and a no-obligation site survey.
Stay safe. Stay compliant. Stay protected—with Celtic Security Solutions.
©Copyright. All rights reserved. 2024
We need your consent to load the translations
We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.