Siren Assists Clients in Navigating London Fire Brigade’s New Automatic Fire Alarm Policy
Big changes are here! The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has introduced a new approach to handling automatic fire alarm (AFA) calls, and businesses across London are feeling the impact. But don’t worry—Siren is here to help you adapt, stay compliant, and keep safety a top priority.
What’s Changing?
From October 29, 2024, the LFB will no longer automatically respond to AFA calls from most commercial premises during the day (7:00 am–8:30 pm), unless there’s a confirmed fire—think visible smoke, flames, or heat. This doesn’t apply to schools, residential buildings, or other exempt sites.
Why the change? False alarms. The LFB gets over 52,000 AFA callouts annually, and 99% turn out to be false. The new policy helps free up resources for real emergencies while encouraging businesses to take more responsibility for their fire safety systems.
How Siren is Making the Transition Easier
Siren is working closely with businesses, from local shops to high-rise office buildings, to help them navigate these changes with confidence. Here’s how:
1. Fire Alarm System Upgrades
- Assessing fire detection systems to ensure they meet BS 5839-1 standards.
- Recommending improvements, like replacing smoke detectors with heat sensors in high-risk areas.
2. Emergency Response Plans
- Creating safe protocols for investigating alarms on-site.
- Setting clear guidelines on when to contact the LFB.
3. Staff Training
- Teaching teams to recognize fire signs, operate alarm systems, and safely investigate alarms.
- Coordinating fire warden duties and evacuation drills for a smooth emergency response.
4. Preventing False Alarms
- Working with certified maintenance teams to keep systems in top shape.
- Tackling common culprits like dust, steam, or kitchen fumes to reduce unnecessary triggers.
Why This Matters
This policy aligns with broader fire safety laws, like the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which requires businesses to have a fire risk assessment and designate a competent person for alarm management. Siren ensures your business not only meets these legal requirements but also creates a safer environment for everyone inside.
At Siren, we specialise in managing fire safety for over 80 high-rise buildings across London and the UK. From multi-storey offices to complex commercial premises, we provide a comprehensive, tailored approach that keeps landlords, tenants, and all stakeholders informed, compliant, and safe.
Experts in Fire Safety for High-Rise Commercial Buildings
Services We Offer:
- Fire Strategies
- Fire Risk Assessments
- Fire Emergency Evacuation Plans
- Fire Drill Observation, Support, and Reporting
- Fire Alarm Installation and Maintenance
- Fire Extinguisher Supply and Maintenance
- Fire Stopping Surveys and Remedial Work
- Emergency Lighting Tests
- Fire Safety Training
- Fire Lift Training
- Full Fire Safety Consultation
Instead of juggling multiple suppliers, Siren can handle all your fire safety procedures and protocols, ensuring seamless coordination and compliance. Whether you need full management or support for your H&S or facilities teams, we’ve got the expertise to help.
A Safer Future
The LFB’s new policy is a game-changer, allowing firefighters to focus on real emergencies and community safety. At Siren, we’re here to make sure your business thrives under this new system. Whether you’re managing a small café or a towering office block, we’ve got your back.
Need help adjusting to the changes? Let’s talk! Contact Siren today, and we’ll help you build a fire safety strategy you can rely on. Call us at 0203 740 8088 for a FREE onsite visit or phone consultation, and let’s build a fire safety strategy that works for you!