Fitting main's wired backed up smoke detectors ...Legislation

[Jimmy Boy]

As the firms sparky I am often asked to fit mains powered Cap. or battery backed up smokes, I don't mind doing this, but am becoming increasingly concerned as to my potential liability should there be a fire and a) They were deemed to be not fit for purpose or b) My choice of smoke and install was deemed incompetent.

The properties fall into 3 categories, single dwelling above the business premises, the business premises, and dwellings detached from business premises, on the whole the buildings are all very old and do not have modern fire retardant and containment features found on new properties.

So I need advice from someone with this specialist knowledge to advise me how to advise my employers on the correct and proper way to go about this.

ATB steve

 

[SirKit Breaker]

This is a very complex and involved world. There are a few websites from the equipment manufacturers like Aico. If you do a search for fire alarms and british standards you will find all the info you need. It is also worth a call to your local council to ensure you keep up to their requirements as they often do change the rules.

Cheers......Howard

 

[telectrix]

I would suggest that your employer contact your local chief fire officer and ask him what is required. As the firms sparks, is it part of your job to design? If not, then you should not be expected to do that. Professional indemnity insurance comes to mind here

 

[telectrix]

Sirkit beat me to it.

 

[Jimmy Boy]

Do you think I should have a recognised qualification to do this ?

Although the residents are employees they do pay some rent so I guess this kind of makes a Landlord type of arrangement

 

[tomxhug]

chanel safety (Petersfield) have very good product and design guides on Fire and Em lighting

 

[nickblake]

Ei are good little detectors they also have a guide on there web site , i have spoken to our local fire service who install free smoke detectors the battery free ten years , but the latest batch work for 2 to 3 months then start bleeping , opps,even the proffessionals get caught out , so if we install battery / mains they should be trouble free for 12 months so where do you install them basic house heat in kitchen , lounge ,G/F hall , landing , utility and any rooms are above the garage in the garage . too