What is this standard about?
It gives recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises.
Who is this standard for?
- Designers, manufacturers and suppliers of fire detection and alarm systems
- Architects and other building professionals
- The fire/health and safety industries
- Regulators and inspectors
- Installers and others responsible for implementing fire precautions in domestic premises
NOTE: This standard is not intended for occupiers, (for whom advice is published by the government). However, recommendations are given for simple systems that may be installed by non-specialists.
Why should you use this standard?
It gives the latest specifications for fire detection and fire alarm systems in both new and existing domestic premises that are:
- Designed to accommodate a single family
- Houses in multiple occupation that comprise a number of self-contained units, each designed to accommodate a single family
- Sheltered housing, including both the dwelling units and the common areas
Recommendations for routine attention are also given.
The systems covered in BS 5839-6:2013 range from those comprising a single self-contained smoke alarm to systems of the type described in BS 5839-1. The recommendations of this part of BS 5839 may also be applied to the fire detection components of combined domestic fire and intruder alarm systems or fire and social alarm systems.
The recommendations refer principally to fire detection and fire alarm systems installed for the purpose of life safety. However, recommendations are given for systems that are also intended to protect property.
What’s changed since the last update?
- This is the third edition of BS 5839 – it has been revised and updated by experts to provide the most relevant guidelines and requirements
- The latest technological developments have been taken into consideration to align with best practice in the fire protection industry