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.