Expert insights, industry updates, and practical guidance for fire safety
There is a widely held belief that a small fire alarm company cannot operate legitimately without a comprehensive portfolio of accreditations. That belief does not accurately reflect the legal or practical requirements — and small companies are being guided into expenditure that is commercially motivated rather than genuinely necessary.
Fire resistance testing ensures construction materials and products meet safety standards to prevent the spread of fire and protect building occupants. This guide covers the key organisations, the tests they carry out, and why it matters.
A zone plan is a legal requirement under BS 5839-1:2025 for virtually every commercial fire alarm system. This article explains exactly who needs one, why it must be displayed at the control panel, and how its absence is recorded on a fire risk assessment.
A comprehensive guide to every major UK fire alarm panel manufacturer — covering wired addressable, conventional, and wireless systems. Understand the protocols, the pros and cons, and which system is right for your application.
The Ansul R-102 dominates the commercial kitchen suppression market — but it's not your only option. Jactone's PAFSS KitchenGuard is an LPS 1223 certified, UL listed alternative that delivers proven performance at a significantly lower price point.
Small fire protection companies often advertise a wide range of services — fire risk assessments, alarms, extinguishers, fire doors, emergency lighting and more. But not all of them have the qualifications to back it up. Here is what to ask before you hire.
Large fire protection companies can appear to offer reassurance through size, brand recognition, and accreditations. But bigger does not always mean better — and there are specific, well-documented pitfalls that responsible persons should understand before signing a contract.
Many fire safety companies display the FPA (Fire Protection Association) logo prominently in their marketing, implying competence and compliance. But the FPA does not audit or screen its members — and that's something every buyer should understand.
BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) is a paid commercial registration scheme. This article examines why BAFE registration does not guarantee quality, how the audit process can be manipulated, and why a BAFE-approved company is not necessarily better than a non-approved one.
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) present significantly higher fire risks than single-family dwellings. This guide covers the key UK legislation, the LACORS Housing Fire Safety guidance, and what landlords and managing agents must do to comply.
The Ansul R-102 is one of the world's most trusted commercial kitchen fire suppression systems. Learn what it is, how it works, its key components, and the significant insurance benefits of having one installed.
Fire extinguishers are only effective when properly commissioned and maintained by a competent company. This guide covers everything from initial commissioning to annual inspections, CO2 stretch tests, and BS 5306 compliance.
BS 5839-1:2025 requires two six-monthly service visits per year, testing 100% of the system across any 12-month period. This comprehensive guide covers every servicing requirement — from battery load tests and multimeter checks to sounder dB levels, zonal plans, and certification.
BS 9792:2025, Housing — Code of Practice for Fire Risk Assessments, was published by BSI on 1st August 2025 and came into effect on 31st August 2025. It replaces PAS 79-2 and sets updated requirements for fire risk assessments in residential buildings.
The 2026 updates to fire door standards introduce stronger, more consistent safety requirements across residential buildings, directly affecting social housing, supported housing, high-rise blocks, and all multi-occupied residential properties.
Everything you need to know about emergency lighting: requirements, installation, and maintenance. Covers BS 5266-1, escape route lighting, exit sign lighting, and testing schedules.
A practical checklist to ensure your small business meets all fire safety requirements and protects your employees. Covers legal duties, detection, escape routes, equipment, staff training, and documentation.