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Fire alarms have never been more important than they are today. Modern commercial buildings rely heavily on electrical equipment, machinery, and automated systems, increasing the importance of early fire detection.
Commercial properties face fire risks from faulty wiring, cooking equipment, human error, smoking materials, and even arson. A professionally designed fire alarm system for commercial buildings plays a critical role in protecting occupants, assets, and business continuity.
This guide explains what has changed in fire alarm standards going into 2026 and what commercial property owners should be reviewing now.
Building Regulations and Fire Safety Standards
Fire safety in commercial buildings is a legal requirement. UK Building Regulations Approved Document B provides statutory guidance on fire safety in building design and construction.
In addition, BS 5839-1:2025 sets the recognised industry standard for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises.
While not legislation, BS 5839 is widely referenced by enforcing authorities, insurers, and fire officers. As of late 2025, BS 5839-1:2025 is fully in force and forms the benchmark going into 2026.
Key Changes in BS 5839-1:2025
- Clearer requirements for system design, installation, and documentation
- Greater emphasis on smoke detectors in sleeping or resting areas
- Mandatory use of fire-resistant (FR) cabling with red identification
- Updated monitoring and fault detection timings
- Stronger competency requirements for installers and maintenance engineers
Do You Need to Upgrade in 2026?
Many commercial property owners are unsure whether their existing fire alarm system still complies with current standards.
Reviewing Your Current System
The first step is to compare your existing system against BS 5839-1:2025. This includes reviewing detector types, coverage zones, cabling, and battery backup capacity.
Older systems using non-FR cabling, outdated batteries, or inappropriate detector types may now fall short of best practice.
Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment
A valid fire risk assessment is essential and should be reviewed whenever standards change. Updated guidance now places greater emphasis on sleeping areas, lift shafts, and circulation spaces.
The findings of the assessment determine what upgrades are required and where risk is highest.
Documentation and Compliance
Installers must now provide clearer documentation, including design, installation, and commissioning certificates, alongside an up-to-date fire alarm logbook.
Any variations or modifications to an existing system must be fully recorded.
Upgrading Non-Conforming Components
Heat detectors in high-risk or sleeping areas may need replacing with smoke detectors. Maintenance schedules must also align with updated guidance, including professional inspections at least every six months.
What This Means for Commercial Property Owners
Keeping up with changing standards can be complex. Working with a professional fire alarm company ensures your system remains compliant and effective.
Calder Security monitors changes to legislation and British Standards, helping businesses upgrade systems without uncertainty.
Professional engineers can assess your site, identify vulnerabilities, and design compliant solutions that align with both legal requirements and insurer expectations.
Fire Risk Assessment Best Practices
A fire risk assessment forms the foundation of fire safety management in commercial buildings.
Identifying Hazards
This includes ignition sources, combustible materials, and high-risk equipment. Updated standards also extend coverage to lift shafts and rest areas.
Identifying People at Risk
Consider lone workers, people with disabilities, and those working near flammable materials.
Evaluating and Reducing Risk
Risks are prioritised and reduced through system upgrades, improved signage, internal policies, and staff training.
Recording Findings and Reviewing
Findings must be documented, shared with stakeholders, and reviewed regularly as the building or its use changes.
Types of Fire Alarm Systems in Commercial Buildings
Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
Zone-based systems suitable for smaller commercial properties. They indicate the general area of activation rather than the precise location.
Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
Each detector has a unique address, allowing exact identification of fire locations. These systems are ideal for large or complex premises.
Wireless Fire Alarm Systems
Wireless systems offer flexibility and reduced installation disruption but require careful design and strong signal reliability.
Testing and Maintenance
Regular testing and servicing are essential under BS 5839. Professional fire alarm maintenance reduces faults, improves reliability, and helps prevent false alarms.
Systems should be professionally serviced at least every six months, with routine in-house testing carried out weekly.
Where systems are monitored, communication paths to the Alarm Receiving Centre must also be tested. Calder Security supports monitored systems via secure alarm signalling solutions.
Contact Calder Security
Commercial buildings are legally required to have an appropriate fire detection system and a valid fire risk assessment.
Calder Security provides professional design, installation, maintenance, and monitoring of commercial fire alarm systems, ensuring compliance with British Standards and UK fire safety legislation.
Contact us here or call 0800 612 9799 to discuss fire alarm upgrades and compliance requirements for your commercial property.
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