The Importance of Weekly Fire Alarm Testing for Your Business
Weekly fire alarm testing is one of the simplest yet most critical fire safety tasks for any business. While annual servicing and professional maintenance ensure the system remains compliant and dependable, weekly tests provide assurance that your fire alarm will activate when they are needed most. At Kings Fire, we support businesses across Bedfordshire and the Home Counties with compliant weekly alarm testing as part of our fire alarm servicing solutions.
Why Weekly Fire Alarm Testing Matters
A fire alarm is only effective if it activates at the right time. Weekly tests are designed to identify faults early, confirm the system is functioning correctly, and ensure occupants understand what the alarm sounds like. The test takes just a few minutes but significantly reduces risk and strengthens day-to-day safety.
Weekly testing is not optional. It is a requirement outlined in BS 5839-1 for non-domestic premises. While many organisations carry out these tests internally, a growing number choose Kings Fire to manage them professionally for consistency, compliance, and accurate record-keeping.
What BS 5839-1 Requires
British Standard BS 5839-1:2025 states that every fire alarm system in a commercial or public building must be tested at least once every week. This involves:
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Activating a manual call point (rotating which one is used each week)
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Ensuring sounders operate correctly
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Confirming signals are received by the monitoring centre (if applicable)
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Recording the result in the fire logbook
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Notifying the Alarm Receiving Centre and relevant departments before and after the test
Weekly testing is a mandatory verification practice — not a replacement for 6-monthly or annual servicing.
Weekly testing is not optional. It is a requirement outlined in BS 5839-1 for non-domestic premises
The Risks of Not Completing Weekly Tests
Failure to complete regular tests can lead to:
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Undetected faults that may render the alarm ineffective
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Increased liability in the event of a fire
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Higher risk of system failure during an emergency
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Issues during fire risk assessments
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Potential non-compliance with insurers or regulators
Weekly testing provides assurance that your system is ready to perform at any moment.
Benefits of Professional Weekly Fire Alarm Testing
While a nominated competent person can perform weekly tests, many organisations prefer to outsource this task to Kings Fire for:
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Consistent testing carried out to BS 5839-1
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Accurate logbook completion and documentation
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Fault identification and escalation
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Reduced pressure on internal staff
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Timely reporting and corrective recommendations
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Peace of mind that the system remains compliant
Our engineers ensure that every test is completed properly and that any concerns are addressed without delay.
How Weekly Testing Integrates with Your Servicing Schedule
Weekly tests complement the wider fire alarm maintenance regime:
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Weekly: User testing of at least one call point
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Monthly/Quarterly: System checks where applicable
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Biannual: Inspection by a competent fire alarm engineer
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Annual: Full service, system audit, and performance review
Kings Fire can manage all stages of this maintenance cycle, ensuring seamless compliance across your property or multiple sites.
Who Is Responsible for the Tests?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Responsible Person must ensure weekly tests are completed. Delegation is permitted, but accountability remains with the business or building owner. Using a professional company like Kings Fire helps ensure everyone meets their legal obligations.
Our Weekly Fire Alarm Testing Service
Kings Fire provides a structured weekly fire alarm testing service tailored to:
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Offices and commercial properties
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Schools and educational establishments
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Healthcare environments
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Industrial units and warehouses
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Retail and hospitality
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Multi-site organisations
We rotate call points, carry out BS-compliant testing, record findings in your fire logbook, and notify you immediately if faults or issues are identified.
Conclusion
Weekly fire alarm testing is a simple yet essential activity that keeps people safe and ensures legal compliance. Whether you prefer Kings Fire to take full responsibility or simply require guidance on best practices, our experienced engineers are here to support you.
Ensure your fire alarm system is fully compliant. Contact Kings Fire today to schedule weekly testing.
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Call our friendly fire safety team for expert advice on 01462 337037
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