Revised fire safety code aims to improve alarm system design in commercial buildings

BSI has published a revised edition of its fire protection guidance for non-domestic buildings.

The updated document, BS 5839-1, provides detailed recommendations for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems.

The revised code of practice applies to systems in commercial, public and industrial premises in the UK, and incorporates feedback from research, consultations and incident reviews.

BSI outlines scope and updates in revised BS 5839-1 guidance

BSI reported that the code of practice is intended to support building safety through improved fire detection and alarm systems in premises other than dwellings.

The guidance applies to systems including manual call points, sounders, detectors and control panels.

It also covers systems that trigger additional fire protection functions such as smoke control, door releases, gas shut-off valves or lift recall systems.

The updated edition replaces the 2017 version and reflects current best practice for new work and any extensions involving new installation elements.

Changes include new recommendations for sleeping areas and unacceptable variations

According to BSI, the revised standard expands its guidance on buildings that include rooms for sleeping, such as hotels or similar premises.

The update recommends using detection systems other than heat detectors, or sprinklers that act as heat detectors, to increase early warning capability.

The guidance also identifies variations that are no longer considered acceptable in light of evidence from fatal fire incidents.

These changes are intended to reduce risk and improve occupant safety through earlier detection and more consistent system design.

BS 5839-1 supports UK building regulations and Approved Document B

The organisation noted that BS 5839-1 is referenced in both volumes of Approved Document B, which supports compliance with building regulations related to fire safety in England.

Approved Document B includes guidance on fire escape routes, control of fire spread, fire resistance of structures and fire service access.

BSI stated that the revised standard reinforces alignment with these regulations by offering up-to-date technical recommendations.

This supports designers, installers and building managers in ensuring that systems are compliant and effective in fire safety planning.

Expert commentary highlights importance of updated guidance

Ant Burd, Director of Built Environment at BSI said: “Detection and alarm systems are of critical importance to people’s safety in the event of a fire breaking out.”

“This latest revision of BS 5839-1 reflects BSI’s continued commitment to ensuring that fire detection and alarm systems meet the evolving needs of modern buildings and their occupants.“

“By incorporating lessons learned from recent research, industry feedback, and real-world incidents, the updated standard is designed to offer clear, comprehensive guidance.“

“Ultimately, this is about saving lives, supporting compliance, and strengthening fire safety across the built environment.“

Updated BS 5839-1 code of practice issued for UK non-domestic fire alarm systems: Summary

BSI has published a revised edition of BS 5839-1, a code of practice for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises.

The standard provides updated recommendations on system design, installation, commissioning and maintenance.

It applies to systems including manual call points, detectors, sounders, and control panels.

It also covers systems that activate other fire safety functions such as smoke control or gas shut-off.

The new edition replaces the 2017 guidance and supports consistency in new installations and system extensions.

It is referenced in Approved Document B of the UK building regulations.

The updated guidance includes changes relating to sleeping accommodation.

It recommends avoiding heat-only detection in favour of earlier detection methods.

BSI stated that unacceptable system variations have also been clarified based on past fire incidents.

The revised document is intended to improve safety and compliance in commercial, public and industrial buildings.

Ant Burd of BSI said the update reflects lessons from recent research and incidents.