We were instructed to carry out a full fire safety service at a Nisa Local store in Lyme Regis, Dorset. The works included a fire alarm inspection and service, annual emergency lighting 3-hour discharge test, and a full fire extinguisher service.
This type of combined visit ensures the premises remain compliant with current UK fire safety standards, while also identifying any faults that could compromise safety.
Fire Alarm System Service (BS 5839)
The site is protected by a conventional fire detection and alarm system with a Kentec control panel. As part of the service, we carried out a full inspection of the system in line with BS 5839 requirements.
Fire alarm systems in commercial premises must be regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person to ensure reliability and compliance.
Scope of works included:
- Full inspection of the fire alarm control panel and associated equipment
- Identification and diagnosis of existing faults including:
- Sounder fault
- General system fault
- Zone disablement
- Testing of devices across all zones, including:
- Manual call points
- Smoke and heat detectors
- Sounders and warning devices
- Verification of correct system operation, activation, and reset
- Inspection of wiring, connections, and panel condition
- Logbook updates and certification
Fire alarm systems should typically be serviced at least every six months in accordance with BS 5839 to maintain compliance.
Emergency Lighting Annual 3-Hour Discharge Test (BS 5266)
We completed the annual full-duration emergency lighting test across the premises.
This involves simulating a power failure and allowing all emergency lighting to operate on battery power for the full rated duration, typically three hours.
Annual discharge testing is a requirement under BS 5266 to ensure emergency lighting will function correctly during a real emergency.
Key works carried out:
- Isolation of mains power to simulate failure
- Full 3-hour discharge test of all emergency luminaires
- Monitoring of light output throughout the duration
- Identification of failed or weak batteries
- Replacement of defective emergency light batteries
- Inspection of fittings, covers, and general condition
- Confirmation of correct operation and recharge cycle
This type of testing highlights battery degradation and ensures escape routes remain illuminated during an emergency.
Fire Extinguisher Service (BS 5306-3)
A full inspection and service of all fire extinguishers on site was carried out in accordance with BS 5306-3.
Works included:
- Inspection of all extinguishers across the premises
- Checking pressure levels, seals, and overall condition
- Ensuring correct extinguisher types are installed for identified risks
- Verifying correct positioning and accessibility
- Replacement of service labels and updating maintenance tags
Regular servicing ensures extinguishers are ready for use and compliant with fire safety regulations.
Additional Fire Safety Works
As part of the visit, we also completed the following:
- Supply and installation of a fire blanket
- Installed within 3 metres of the staff kitchen cooking area
- Positioned in a visible and easily accessible location
- Compliant with BS EN 1869 standards
Fire blankets are a key safety feature in commercial kitchens, providing a quick and effective method of extinguishing small fires.
Outcome
Following completion of the works, the premises now benefits from:
- A fully tested and operational fire alarm system
- Faults identified and highlighted for remedial action
- Compliant emergency lighting system with verified 3-hour duration
- Serviced and compliant fire extinguishers
- Improved fire safety provisions with new fire blanket installation
All findings were recorded, and certification was provided for compliance and insurance purposes.
Fire Safety Compliance in Commercial Premises
For businesses such as retail shops, maintaining fire safety systems is not optional. Regular servicing of fire alarms, emergency lighting, and extinguishers is essential for:
- Protecting staff and customers
- Meeting legal obligations under fire safety legislation
- Ensuring insurance compliance
- Reducing risk in the event of a fire
Emergency lighting, fire alarms, and extinguishers all work together as part of a complete fire protection system and must be maintained to the correct British Standards.
Need Fire Alarm or Emergency Lighting Servicing?
If your system is due a service or showing faults, getting it inspected early can prevent larger issues and ensure compliance.
We carry out fire alarm servicing, emergency lighting testing, and fire extinguisher maintenance across Dorset and surrounding areas.