Fire Industry Association explains BS 5839-1:2025 fire detection and alarm changes

FIA highlights new BS 5839-1:2025 fire detection and alarm standard

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has released detailed guidance on the updated BS 5839-1:2025 code of practice for non-domestic fire detection and alarm (FD&A) systems.

The revised standard, which came into effect on 30 April 2025, replaces the 2017 edition.

According to the FIA, the update reflects the evolving technological landscape and incorporates lessons learned from real-world applications.

The standard sets out how FD&A systems should be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained in non-domestic buildings.

It introduces structural, terminological and procedural changes to ensure consistency, accountability and clarity across the fire safety sector.

Key updates in BS 5839-1:2025

The FIA said the standard has been restructured for improved clarity, with a refreshed numbering system to align with other UK fire safety standards.

Terminology has been updated in line with BS 4422, including changes such as “handover” replacing “acceptance” and “fire and rescue service” replacing “fire service.”

The new edition defines the responsibilities of designers, installers, commissioners and maintainers more explicitly.

The FIA explained that the update requires key documentation – such as zone plans and cause-and-effect records – to be formally agreed and recorded.

New provisions tighten rules on variations and classify certain omissions, including missing zone plans and lack of required remote monitoring in care premises, as non-compliant.

False alarm management is also strengthened through the introduction of a standardised notice to be displayed at control equipment connected to the fire and rescue service.

Digital connectivity receives dedicated guidance, with sections addressing cyber security, remote access controls and the forthcoming Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off.

The FIA said these updates collectively reinforce competence and documentation throughout a system’s lifecycle.

Practical actions for duty holders

The FIA outlined that building owners, facilities managers and responsible persons must ensure system documentation and maintenance meet the new requirements.

It said duty holders should verify that logbooks, cause-and-effect descriptions and zone plans are complete and current.

False alarm incidents should be investigated and recorded, with corrective measures implemented to prevent recurrence.

Remote monitoring arrangements must meet new performance and timing criteria, particularly in residential care and supported housing settings.

Service intervals should follow the recommended six-month schedule, with inspections properly documented.

The FIA added that safe access to interfaces, such as smoke control and door release systems, must be maintained.

It said these steps align with both BS 5839-1:2025 and obligations under the Building Safety Act.

FIA roadshow promotes understanding and compliance

To support implementation, the FIA launched a BS 5839-1:2025 Standards Update Roadshow across the UK.

The organisation said the series combined in-person and online sessions attended by thousands of professionals.

FIA technical experts presented scenario-based discussions breaking down complex revisions into practical examples.

The Association reported that attendees valued the chance to clarify details and benchmark current practices against new expectations.

The FIA described the roadshow as part of its ongoing effort to bridge the gap between regulation and practical application across the fire sector.

Competence and training under the new standard

The FIA said competence underpins every section of BS 5839-1:2025 and remains central to its training framework.

Its FD&A training pathway offers qualifications at foundation, intermediate and advanced levels for system designers, installers, commissioners and maintainers.

Professionals who complete FIA training demonstrate the technical competence and continuing professional development (CPD) expected by the standard.

The FIA noted that for employers and clients, these qualifications provide measurable assurance of capability and compliance.

Shared responsibility for safer systems

The FIA said the 2025 revision of BS 5839-1 represents a collective effort to enhance accountability and system reliability.

It emphasised that designers, installers, commissioners, maintainers and building managers each hold defined responsibilities to ensure system performance.

The organisation added that aligning practice with the new standard, supported by accurate documentation and competence-based training, will improve safety outcomes across the built environment.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The BS 5839-1:2025 update carries direct implications for fire engineers, system designers, installers and maintainers who work on non-domestic fire detection and alarm systems.

Building owners, facilities managers and responsible persons are also affected, as the new standard specifies documentation, maintenance and variation procedures linked to legal duties under the Building Safety Act.

For training providers and CPD coordinators, the FIA’s revised courses and roadshow resources support compliance with the updated competence expectations.

By applying the 2025 standard, professionals can ensure alignment with the latest regulatory framework and maintain reliable detection and alarm performance across buildings.