Hall & Kay Fire Blog London Fire Brigade’s New Protocol on Automatic Fire Alarms

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||" theme_builder_area="post_content"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"] Implications for Commercial Building Owners and Managers Effective 1st October 2024, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) will significantly change its response protocol to automatic fire alarms (AFAs) in most commercial buildings. This new policy marks a pivotal shift in managing fire safety across London's commercial sector, with crucial implications for building owners, managers, and other stakeholders. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://hkfire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/New-Protocol-on-Automatic-Fire-Alarms.jpg" alt="New Protocol on Automatic Fire Alarms" title_text="New Protocol on Automatic Fire Alarms" _builder_version="4.27.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="40px||20px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||" theme_builder_area="post_content"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" theme_builder_area="post_content"] The New Policy Explained Under the revised protocol, the LFB will no longer automatically respond to AFAs in most commercial buildings between 7am & 8:30pm. This means that the Brigade will only dispatch fire engines when they receive a call reporting a fire rather than responding solely based on an alarm activation. The decision stems from the LFB's goal to reduce the number of false alarms, which have historically accounted for a significant portion of their call-outs, draining resources and diverting attention from genuine emergencies. The policy will apply to commercial buildings, such as office blocks or industrial estates during daytime hours, unless a call is also received from a person reporting a fire. Schools, residential buildings and many other types are exempt from this policy. Check whether your building is exempt: AFA Exemptions | London Fire Brigade (london-fire.gov.uk) “In 2023/24 Automatic Fire Alarms made up 40 per cent of all LFB incidents – 52,000 calls. Less than one percent of calls from non-residential AFAs are ultimately recorded as fires – the 99 per cent majority are false alarms.”  AFA policy | London Fire Brigade (london-fire.gov.uk) The change has been driven by a growing concern within the LFB about the frequency of false alarms. False alarms can be triggered by a variety of non-fire-related factors, including system malfunctions, poor maintenance, or non-emergency scenarios like cooking fumes. Each unnecessary dispatch not only wastes valuable resources but also poses a risk by potentially delaying responses to actual emergencies elsewhere. Implications for Commercial Building Owners and Managers For commercial building owners and managers, the new policy introduces a heightened responsibility for fire safety and alarm management. Here's how the changes might impact them: Increased Accountability: Building owners and managers will need to ensure that their fire detection systems are well-maintained and less prone to triggering false alarms. Regular maintenance, system checks, and prompt repairs of any faults will become even more critical to avoid unnecessary alarm activations that won't prompt an immediate LFB response. Enhanced Fire Safety Measures: Without the automatic response to alarms, there will be a stronger emphasis on robust internal fire safety protocols. Owners and managers may need to invest in enhanced on-site fire response measures, including staff training, improved evacuation procedures, and possibly the installation of more advanced fire detection systems that can better distinguish between real fires and false triggers. Insurance Considerations: The change could also have implications for insurance policies. Insurers might review the terms of coverage for fire incidents, taking into account the new LFB response policy. Building owners and managers should consult with their insurers to ensure that their fire safety measures meet the required standards and that their coverage reflects the updated risk landscape. Potential Cost Implications: The responsibility of verifying the legitimacy of fire alarms before contacting the LFB may necessitate additional resources, such as employing or training staff to assess situations and implement initial fire response actions. While this might introduce additional costs, it is crucial for minimising the risk of fire damage and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Keeping the system well maintained and tested in accordance with BS5839.  Owners and managers must remain vigilant to ensure compliance with fire safety legislation. The new policy underscores the importance of adherence to fire safety laws, including maintaining proper records of fire alarm tests and system maintenance, and ensuring that fire safety systems are in optimal working condition. Communication and Coordination: There will be a need for clear communication with all building occupants about the change in protocol and what it means for their safety. Tenants and staff should be well-informed about the importance of reporting actual fire incidents directly to the fire brigade and understanding the building's emergency procedures.   Preparing for the Transition To prepare for the upcoming changes, building owners and managers should consider conducting a thorough review of their current fire safety systems and protocols. Engaging with fire safety consultants to audit their facilities and provide guidance on best practices may prove beneficial. It is also advisable to establish a clear plan for responding to fire alarms, including who will be responsible for verifying alarms and the steps to take in the event of an actual fire. The LFB has committed to working closely with businesses to ensure they understand the changes and can adapt accordingly. Building owners and managers should take advantage of any offered training or resources to ensure a smooth transition. Will this impact your business? Talk to one of our experts to discuss how H&K can help mitigate the risks.   [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section] The post London Fire Brigade’s New Protocol on Automatic Fire Alarms appeared first on Hall&Kay Fire Engineering.