Detectortesters - Testing and Maintenance - Mar2020 PDF

Revision Date: 16/03/2020 v2
This is a CPD Endorsed training course

Endorsed by the CPD Certification Service. The Coach House, Ealing Green, London W5 5ER
Certificate Number: A013855
Once you have attended this training course you are eligible to request a CPD certificate. Email:
learn@detectortesters.com
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Your trainer: Paul Gatens
Employed at Detectortesters since 2007. Previously at Which? in Hertford and prior to that I was a
Microsoft Certified Trainer. Served a 5 year electronics apprenticeship with Tektronix in
Hoddesdon.
Currently, I look after training and social media support of our products. Working closely with
detector manufacturer's and trade bodies.
Hobbies/Interest: walking the dog; motorcycling; cycling; running; climbing and kayaking
You can find out more information about Paul on the following social media links –
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgatens/
https://www.facebook.com/PGatensDT
Detectortesters
Established 1965 and known as No Climb Products Ltd since 1995. Trading as detectortesters since
2008. Product ranges include Solo; Testifire ; Scorpion and SmokeSabre.
Recognised global leader, distributing products to 150 countries from our base in Hertfordshire!
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About this course.
This training course is designed to give an in-depth knowledge on the use of detectortesters
functional test products and associated accessories in regards to use in testing fire detection
systems in line with British standards.
It will cover British law (Regulatory reform Order 2005) and parts of BS5839:1 and BS5839:6 that
relate to the use of the detector test products and also promote established best practice and
detector manufacturer's recommendations.
This course is not a replacement for multi-day courses that cover test and maintenance of fire
detection systems as available from the FIA; IFEDA; ECA/FSA etc.
Prerequisite
Although it is possible for someone with no previous experience to go through this course, ideally
candidates should have some working knowledge within the fire maintenance industry.
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Course objectives Notes:
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Competency and Responsibility Notes:
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The Law and British Standards
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (officially listed as The Regulatory Reform (Fire
Safety) Order 2005 S.I. 2005 No. 1541) is a statutory instrument, applicable only in England and
Wales. The Order places the responsibility on individuals within an organisation to carry out risk
assessments to identify, manage and reduce the risk of fire. The Order was made into law on 7 June
2005 and came into force on 1 October 2006.
Guidance for Businesses and Organisation is available in the form of 16 Government Published
documents, with general guidance, a 5-Step Checklist and 12 documents pertaining specifically to a
particular type of business premises. It does not normally apply to domestic premises.
BS 5839-1:2017 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings – Part 1: Code of practice for
design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises
BS 5839-6:2019 gives recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and
maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises that are:
• Designed to accommodate a single family
• Houses in multiple occupation that comprise a number of self-contained units, each designed to
accommodate a single family
• Sheltered housing, including both the dwelling units and the common areas.”
In the eyes of the law, the service and maintenance engineer needs to be able to prove that they are
competent to perform the task of maintaining the fire detection system and to be able to prove they
have followed the codes of practice (BS:5839:1 2017 & BS5839:6 2019). In the event it is not
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possible to follow the recommendations within the standard, it is important to have a good written
explanation (known as a variation to standard).
Compliance with a British Standard cannot automatically confer legal immunity. However, for a CP
and RP compliance with the latest Code is obviously the best line of defence in any court case.
You need to be familiar with relevant parts of the standard and the law, training is the best way to
gain this knowledge
Recommended Code of Practice
Being ignorant; unaware; not having time or the right equipment is no excuse for not following the
recommendations within the British standard!
It is in your interest to make sure that not only you have the right equipment; know how to use it, but
you also know what is in the latest edition of BS5839:1 2017
Originally published in 1980, BS 5839-1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Code of
practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic
premises, has become one of most important standards for fire detection in the United Kingdom.
BS 5839-1:2017 is a code of practice, and therefore, consists of guidance and recommendations. As

the Foreword makes very clear, “[BS 5839-1:2017] should not be quoted as if it was a specification
and care should be taken to ensure that any claims of compliance are not misleading. As a result, all
users claiming compliance with this British Standard are expected to be able to justify any course of
action that deviates from its recommendations.”
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Introduction to basic concepts of the Regulatory Reform (Fire) Safety Order 2005
There are 3 concepts that are fundamental to the success of the RRO, firstly the “Responsible
Person” concept, secondly the “Risk Assessment” concept (the idea being that the ‘responsible
person’ will conduct a fire risk assessment and ensure that the premise that he or she is responsible
for is safe from fire for all person’s that resort there) and Thirdly the concept that a fire should not
start in the first place as opposed to previous legislation that focussed on the measures required to
reduce the effects of a fire that had already broken out.
The ‘responsible person’ will need to enlist the help of a ‘competent person’. ‘Competent Person’ is
anyone appointed by the ‘Responsible Person’ and could be anyone from a company fire warden to
a fire alarm service engineer, they may be directly employed or a subcontractor but the important
word is competent
All fire alarm engineers must be Competent in the field of work they carry out, the British Standards
states:
Competent person
Person with the relevant current training and experience, and with access to the requisite tools,
equipment and Information, and capable of carrying out a defined task.
Note on Responsible person. RRO continues to use the term Responsible person although the
updated version of BS 5839: 2013 has replaced references to Responsible person with ‘Premises
Manager’.
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BS5839:2013 also made a small change to the definition of the competent person. Changing to
‘necessary training’ to ‘relevant current training’ which serves to underlines the need for update and
refresh training.
Fire Risk Assessment

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires that a Fire Risk Assessment is
carried out on all commercial premises, and also on the communal areas of residential premises. Who
can carry out a Fire Risk Assessment? The Order further requires that this assessment is undertaken
by a 'competent person'.
It's mandatory to carry out a detailed assessment identifying the risks and hazards in the premises. It
must be recorded if you have a total of five or more employees.
The responsible person for the premises is also required to:

• Consider who may be especially at risk.
• Eliminate or reduce the risk of fire as far as is reasonably practical.
• Provide general fire precautions to deal with any risk.
• Take additional measures to ensure fire safety where flammable or explosive materials are used
or stored.
• Create a plan to deal with any emergency and where necessary record any findings.
• Maintain general fire precautions, and facilities provided for use by firefighters.
• Keep any findings of the risk assessment under review.
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How do you demonstrate competency
Demonstrating the competency of Fire Alarm Company and employees is very important.
For those that carry out the design, installation, commissioning and/or maintenance of fire alarm
systems they need to demonstrate that they are qualified to carry out such work. This is achieved
through accredited competency training.
Standards training
Accredited competency training as offered by FIA/FPA/IFEDA/FSA etc. covers the standards and
concepts of fire alarm systems in regards to relevant tasks. eg. Design; Install; Commission and
Maintenance
Manufacturer's training
manufacturer's product training covers the relevant product knowledge on the fire systems and
equipment that you plan to work on or with. Often manufacturer's training is free!
What is CPD?
Continuing professional development (CPD) is the intentional maintenance and development of the
knowledge and skills needed to perform in a professional context. This could mean honing current
skills, it could mean developing them to a new level, or it could mean learning new ones that will
allow an employee’s job role to expand or prepare them for potential promotion. It is recognised
that CPD is a good method to document and prove competency.
Third party certification

Obtaining third party certification (Usually BAFE or LPS 1014) for your company will demonstrate
that the company has competencies and quality management systems in place to meet the
requirements of the British Standard. This case highlights that whatever the background of the
individual providing the service, there is no substitute for proper assessment by a competent body,
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to a scheme that clearly sets out the requirements for correctly designing, installing, commissioning
and maintaining the system.
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Hackitt Report: mentions the word ‘competency’ 152 times in her report!
Are you competent or just capable?
Proving your competency is very important as it enables you to cover your back! The Fire industry
generally accepts that the most cost effective way to achieve this is via third party approved
training. CPD (Continuing professional development) should also be considered as way for fire
engineers (and fire alarm company) to demonstrate competency, with documented proof that each
engineer has kept up with legislation; product development; new technology in regards to the skill
set they offer (Design; Install; Commission and Maintenance)
Can you prove that you are competent to install, commission or maintain a fire detection system?
You might be asked to proof competency in the event of a fire on a site that you are maintaining.
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Hackitt Report: “Don’t wait for regulations to raise the bar”
Responsible person
The term ‘Responsible Person’ is unfortunately used in two ways in the fire industry. The law uses
the term to describe the person who is in control of the building – he/she is the legally responsible
person. BS5839-1 2002 used the same term for the person who is responsible for the fire system.
2013 release has changed the term to Premises Manager. Both references could be to the same
person, but in most cases the legally responsible person will appoint someone to be responsible for
the fire alarm system – so they are not the same.
The Premises Manager/Responsible person should have adequate authority, so that he/she is able
to get things done if repairs are needed and he must be adequately trained so that he can ensure
that the system is working correctly for 365 days of the year. The fire CP may only be on site for two
days in the year, so the RP is critical for fire safety in buildings.
Competent Person
For further reading on Enforcement and the Fire Alarm Engineer -
http://www.firesafetylaw.co.uk/enforcement-and-the-fire-alarm-engineer/
Also worth following Warren Spencer from the above website. You can subscribe to his newsletter.
Highly recommended!
Matrix of responsibility
Following on from Grenfell Fire and the Hackitt report courts and the law are looking at who else
could be held responsible. If the fire alarm engineer does not have the correct or serviceable test
and maintenance equipment could the service manager or owner of the service company be held
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accountable?
As of 2019, the RRO is under review and it is looking bring it up to date. It is suspected that it will
make it possible for others who are involved could be held responsible.
In the Law courts changes have already been made and unlimited fines and up to 20 months
imprisonment can be awarded.
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The Importance of Fire Safety Log book
Must to be kept up to date and readily available for inspection/audit by the Fire and Rescue Service
as and when required.
The engineer (CP) should check this is being done.
Hackitt report “Golden Thread of Information”

The Hackitt report talks about a digital record for every building: a “golden thread of information”
about each high rise residential building. But why not for all buildings? A single repository of
information, from initial design through construction and to all subsequent changes throughout
occupation, would benefit all end users of buildings. Software developers maintain detailed design
and change logs, detailing what changes have been made and why: why shouldn’t we have the
equivalent for the buildings we live, shop, relax and work in, to ensure that they are and continue to
be safe and fit for purpose? Such a record would help ensure accountability for decisions and dis-
incentivise corner-cutting for the sake of cost.
Poor on site documentation is an all too frequent occurrence. Fire log book not kept up to date by
either the RP or in some case CP. No record or details on UFS.
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Competent Person (CP) role
Traditionally fire alarm CP will view their job as doing a series of technical tasks to keep the
equipment, in this case the fire alarm system, in good working order.
However BS5839-1 looks at the role of the CP from a very much more holistic point of view.
It is an unfortunate fact that many building owners (RP) are only concerned about the fire system
when it false alarms and are only concerned with fire safety when they have to do something to
comply with the law or when they have just suffered the consequences of a fire. This is where the
CP comes in. His role is both to look after the system technically and act as a teacher and to some
extents a policeman to ensure everything is being done correctly.
The RP should be trained on the fire system when the system is installed. However many RP’s roles
are much shorter than the life of the fire system. Therefore the CP has to train the RP in what his
role is with respect to the fire system. He will also have to provide training with respect to what
things will cause false alarms and how the system needs to be tested and looked after to make sure
it does what it is meant to. This is the role of training and visual inspection of the site.
The tests also have to be done to confirm that all is well with the system and a check on false alarms
is needed to make sure that nothing is drifting.
Often a reminder of the need to keep the log book up to date is also necessary.
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Role of the fire brigade since 2006
The RRO was introduced in 2006 and the requirement for the FRS to issue fire safety certificates
was removed.
The role of the FRS changed and many brigades found themselves falling into a Policing role and
collecting information to carry out prosecutions of non-compliance and blatant offenders. A
number of RP’s were prosecuted and 1 CP was prosecuted in the early days.
The time and cost associated with collecting information for a prosecution is high and continued
government cutbacks has result in a reduction of cases brought to the courts.
The FRS have more recently changed their approach and are now focussing on the number of
unwanted fire signals (UFS).
In England, a lot of confusion exists around the different regional brigades and the different
responses to automatic fire signals. Some will respond to automatic signals others will call challenge
(seek confirmation of smoke and flames).
Localism Act 2011

The laws outlined in the Localism Bill mean that individual fire services throughout the UK can
charge per false fire alarm. Fire and rescue authorities in England or Wales will be able to charge for
the time they spend responding to false alarms from commercial buildings. Plenty of countries in
Europe have already enforced a similar strategy, with England and Wales relatively late in bringing
in this new legislation.
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A false report can be made by an employee, or from malfunctioning or incorrectly installed fire
detection equipment. If a fire and rescue authority decides to charge for taking action as a result of a
false alarm, the amount charged is set by the local authority and can vary depending on
circumstances. All local authorities within England and Wales will have the authority to enforce a
charging system or unnecessary call-outs.
The fire and rescue authority can only charge up to the costs incurred – they cannot make profit
through charges. However, taking into account the costs associated with sending out two fire engines
and two teams of fire fighters (reputed to be £5,000 per tender), plus their specialist equipment, this
could be a considerable amount. Some brigades are against charging, as this could result in companies
becoming reluctant to call the fire service. Therefore, although the general consensus is that
authorities should enforce charges, some may decide not to.
The amount charged is set by each local authority, not nationally, and will be different depending on
circumstances.
Several FRS have introduced fines for repeat UFS and others are considering doing so
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue service was one of the first to implement fines.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/false-alarm-regulars-face-300-fine/story-15533947-
detail/story.html
Other FRS have since followed.
West Yorkshire
http://www.wakefieldexpress.co.uk/news/wakefield-district/false-fire-alarm-bill-to-hit-businesses-
1-6232273
London Fire Brigade are now charging

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-25546816
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What are the common issues?
Some detectors are in hard to reach locations and many go un-tested. Variations to the standard are
often incorrectly written. 2017 edition of BS5839:1 – clause 22 has a new paragraph to prescribe
testing
No asset register of devices attached to system, means there is no way of keeping a record of what
has been tested against what should be tested. This can mean that many detectors that are
reachable go untested and some detectors are over tested.
There is a need for the RP to have more vision and control over what fire detection devices are
attached to the system and what the state of test is. Also what age are the devices and when will
they need to be replaced. In many cases the RP has no way of checking or keeping tabs on the
system. This is not a good state of affairs as he/she is responsible.
Tenders and economics can mean the cheapest contract is signed. This can lead to corners being cut
and testing of detectors not being carried out.
Poor on site documentation is an all too frequent occurrence. Fire log book not kept up to date by
either the RP or in some case CP. No record or details on UFS
From 2017 edition of BS5839:1, there is a prescribe recommendation to test all enable sensors in
multisensors. This may well be overlooked by engineers that have not kept up with their training.
After Grenfell, Insurance companies are taking more interest and encourage RP/PM’s to seek proof
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of what is being tested.
One simple step is to encourage the use of online Fire Log book services that simplifies the task of
proving compliance for the RP/PM. – See - http://www.tiofiresafety.com
The above are a list of common issues that you need to be aware of and to do what you can to make
sure that they do not occur on the sites that you maintain.
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In regards to test and maintenance of fire detectors using Solo; Testifire and Scorpion testers.
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Best practice and recommendations
A ‘best practice’ is a method or technique that has been generally accepted as superior to any
alternatives because it produces results that are superior to those achieved by other means or
because it has become a standard way of doing things.
Manufacturers often give ‘best practice’ recommendations that relate to the products that they
manufacture. Various trade associations also document ‘best practices’ that in some cases can
eventually become included in future updates to British Standards.
It is in the interest of the fire alarm engineer to be aware of the various industry ‘best practices’ that
relate to the products that they use and task that they perform.
All recommendations; which also including non-compliance with BS 5839 as well as

manufacturers/industry recommendations (‘best practices’), should always be documented
carefully and handed over to the client . This part of the service that is provided.
Failure to document recommendations could potentially leave a fire alarm engineer liable in the
event of a fire and subsequent investigation. Once documented and handed to the client, the
responsibility is with them. If they choose not to follow the recommendations that have been given
to them, they could equally be liable in the event of a fire and subsequent investigation.
Best practices are used to maintain quality as an alternative to mandatory legislated standards and
can be based on self-assessment or benchmarking. Best practice is a feature of accredited
management standards such as ISO 9000 and ISO 14001
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Make sure you keep up with industry ‘best practices’.
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Recommended Maintenance Program - Service and Maintenance
Servicing and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems involves both routine attention, such
as regular tests and scheduled service visits, and the special servicing that must be carried out in
abnormal circumstances such as following a fire. It is essential for systems to receive this level of
attention in order for the system to remain fully operational and to function effectively in an alarm
condition. BS 5839–1 contains recommendations to cover both routine attention and special
servicing 31.
Non routine attention, which can include additional servicing, will be required under special
circumstances. These can include: -
• after a fire
• after a false or unwanted alarm
• following a fault
It may also be necessary to increase the frequency of routine servicing if the detectors are located in
environments that are dirty, dusty or involve corrosive atmospheres. Whenever an unwanted alarm
occurs, every effort should be made to record as much detail as possible on the circumstances of the
alarm. This can be invaluable to an engineer in seeking to understand the problem and take action to
avoid the situation in the future. The information that should be recorded should include:
• date and time of occurrence
• location of the device and its identity (eg. address)
• nature of the activity in the area
• reason for the alarm (if known)
• action taken following the alarm
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As a rule, manufacturer's will specify a maintenance programme. Routine functional testing and
visual inspection of detectors is fundamental to this, but it is also necessary to check the calibration of
detectors to ensure that they are operating within normal limits. With analogue addressable systems,
the CP can usually check this from the control panel, and it is often possible to configure the panel so
that it will list those detectors that are outside of normal limits.
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Tools and equipment used in the service and maintenance of fire alarm systems (BS 5839-1 or BS
5839-6) should be designed specifically for the task, and used by those who are properly trained and
qualified to carry out such tasks (ie. Prove competency in the use of such equipment).
It is recommended that a risk assessment is carried out when working with test tools at height
and/or when using pressurised aerosol canisters, (flammable or non-flammable).
Functional testing of fire detectors should be carried out as described in section 45 of BS5839-1.
This involves using external stimuli to prove that the fire like phenomena can travel unhindered into
the fire detectors sensing chamber and cause activation.
Prior to conducting a functional test on a fire detector, the fire panel should be set to a ‘test’
condition and any connection/notification to the ARC temporarily disabled. It is important that the
type of the detector should be determined in order that the correct equipment and test procedure
can be performed. After completion of the test, the fire log book should be updated and all tasks
undertaken should be properly documented. Make sure that the connection/notification to the ARC
re-instated.
• BS 5839 1: 2017 Note 13 - Real Stimuli Required

“Since stimulus of the sensing element through introduction of the phenomena or surrogate
phenomena which the detectors are designed to detect forms part of the test(s), use of a test button
or a test magnet (for example) or compliance with 45.4(i) (confirmation of analogue values) does
not satisfy the recommendations..”
• BS 5839 1: 2017 Clause 45.4 - All Stimulus Entry

“…In the case of detectors (all types) tests must ensure that products of combustion are
capable of passing unhindered from the protected area to the sensing chamber / elements of
the detector and not simply test the ability of the detector to sample / verify the status of the
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atmosphere already in the sensing chamber.”
• BS 5839 Part 1: 2017 45.4 (c) - Heat detector testing
“Every heat detector should be functionally tested by means of a suitable heat source…”
• BS5839 1:2017 Clause 45.4 (d) - Smoke

“Point smoke detectors should be functionally tested by a method that confirms that smoke can enter
the detector chamber and produce a fire alarm signal (e.g. By use of apparatus that generates
simulated smoke or suitable aerosols around the detector). It should be ensured that the material
used does not cause damage to, or affect the subsequent performance of the detector….”
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re-instated.
• BS 5839 1: 2017 Note 13 - Real Stimuli Required

“Since stimulus of the sensing element through introduction of the phenomena or surrogate
phenomena which the detectors are designed to detect forms part of the test(s), use of a test button
or a test magnet (for example) or compliance with 45.4(i) (confirmation of analogue values) does
not satisfy the recommendations..”
• BS 5839 1: 2017 Clause 45.4 - All Stimulus Entry

“…In the case of detectors (all types) tests must ensure that products of combustion are
capable of passing unhindered from the protected area to the sensing chamber / elements of
the detector and not simply test the ability of the detector to sample / verify the status of the
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atmosphere already in the sensing chamber.”
• BS 5839 Part 1: 2017 45.4 (c) - Heat detector testing
“Every heat detector should be functionally tested by means of a suitable heat source…”
• BS5839 1:2017 Clause 45.4 (d) - Smoke

“Point smoke detectors should be functionally tested by a method that confirms that smoke can enter
the detector chamber and produce a fire alarm signal (e.g. By use of apparatus that generates
simulated smoke or suitable aerosols around the detector). It should be ensured that the material
used does not cause damage to, or affect the subsequent performance of the detector….”
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Multisensor alarms detect more than one fire phenomena, for example optical and heat sensors.
They may also include other detection sensors, such as carbon monoxide detection.
A multisensor alarm provides early warning of fire and can significantly reduce the number of
unwanted false alarms in certain circumstances.
Different manufacturer's multisensors can have different ways of working, but the general intent is
that if two or more phenomena's of fire are seen, quick activation occurs. Whereas, in the event of
only one (eg. smoke only) there will be a longer integrating period and thus time to test.
BS5839:1 2017
Include recommendation to test all enable sensors in a multisensor, either as a combined test
(requires separate channel notification) or sequential (one sensor at a time), for multisensors
systems that do not give separate channel notification on the fire panel.
Identifying a multisensor configuration

It is not always easy to identify the configuration of a multisensor detector. Check for supporting
onsite documentation in the fire log book or other on site documentation. Sometimes it may be
possible to obtain information on multisensor configuration from the fire panel, if you have the
appropriate access rights.
Best Practice for testing multisensor detectors

BS5839:1 recommends that all enabled sensors are tested. Sometimes the test will be all sensors at
the same time (combined test). Other times this will be one sensor at time. The exact test sequence
will depend on the multisensor detector and the configuration.
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The fastest test method, is to carry out a combined test of all enabled sensors at the same time. It is
only recommended to carry out a combined test when each active sensor in the multisensor gives
separate notification on the fire panel of activation. Some older types of multisensors do not indicate
which sensors has activated and the recommended method of test is a sequential test. eg. one sensor
at a time.
Sequential testing can have drawbacks in that testing each sensor separately can mean that the test
activation time is significantly longer. For example a combined smoke heat test will cause faster
activation than an individual smoke or heat test. Be prepared to wait up to 2 minutes to test some
multisensors sensors sequentially.
For multisensors that are configured as day/night mode (different sensor per time of the day), testing
both enabled sensors may involve making changes to the fire panel configuration. It is most
important that after testing the fire panel configuration state is returned to its live state. A common
way to test day/night mode is to adjust the panel time clock by 12 hours to invoke the other sensor.
Sometimes one senor is tested on one visit and the other on the following visit.
Testifire is the only detector tester on the market to allow the testing of multisensors correctly via
the ability on the control panel to select the appropriate combination of stimuli.
Only testing one channel is not good enough!
Activation LED v Panel readout

The detector activation LED is not as informative as the information available on some panels. If the
panel gives information about individual sensor activation, then use this information as indication
that each sensor on the multisensor has been tested rather than just the activation LED which in most
cases will not tell you what sensor has activated alarm.
FIA multisensor testing guide lines

The FIA have issued guidelines on how to test multisensor detectors.
1. Multisensor fire detectors should be physically tested by a method that confirms that products of
combustion in the vicinity of the detector can reach the sensors and that the detector responds
appropriately. A test method purely reliant on an electronic and / or mechanical means is not
sufficient to comply with this requirement.
2. Due to the complex nature of multisensor fire detectors, they should also be tested in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Where the detector or system design allows each sensor on which a fire detection decision
depends (e.g. smoke, heat, CO) to be physically tested independently, then these sensors should be
physically tested independently.
4. Alternatively, individual sensors may be physically tested together if the detection system design
allows simultaneous stimuli and individual sensor responses to be verified either individually or
collectively.
5. Only where the detector or system design is such that individual sensors cannot be physically
tested individually, for example certain types of conventional multisensor detectors, the primary
sensor alone should be tested.
6. The response to each test should be at least confirmed by the CIE.
7. All tests and their results should be recorded
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Testing Aspirating Smoke detector (ASD) – intent and understanding
An ASD is a system used in active fire protection, consisting of a central detection unit which draws
air through a network of pipes to detect smoke. The sampling chamber detects the presence of
smoke particles suspended in air by detecting the light scattered by them in the chamber. ASDs can
typically detect smoke before it is visible to the naked eye.
Two methods of testing are recommended within BS5839:1 2017
Functional test of each air sampling hole along each pipe. Typically by using Solo 365 or SmokeSabre
As many ASD systems are mounted at height, access to functionally test each sample point is not
always easy or possible without using expensive height access equipment a better alternative could
be safe and repeatable transportation time test as performed by a Scorpion ASD.
Transport time from furthest hole/dedicated test point. Compared with previously recorded results
to identify deviations. Typically using a Scorpion ASD at the end of each pipe run.
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BS5839:1 2017 Clause 22
British Standard 5839 part 1 2017 revision, included a new recommendation to test detectors that
are in hard-to-access locations. Detectors that cannot be accessed (or perhaps even seen) are often
those most relied upon to function. In many cases they have, until now, either been overlooked and
untested, or the cost of their maintenance has greatly affected lifetime cost and even system design.
A Fire Risk assessment should identify the detectors that could be in such a situation and
recommendation to install a fix test solution – Scorpion should be made.
Health & Safety

Employers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their employees and others.
Working in a confined space is dangerous because of the risks from noxious fumes, reduced oxygen
levels, or a risk of fire. Other dangers may include flooding/drowning or asphyxiation from some
other source such as dust, grain or other contaminant.
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BS 5839:6 2019 – Annex I
The following servicing procedures are only applicable to Grade C, Grade D or Grade F systems
when the risk and/or circumstances require a competent person (not a user) to assess the fire alarm
equipment and its operation.
General
Fire detection and fire alarm systems should be serviced at the intervals indicated above
Fire detection and fire alarm systems should be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
In the case of systems with facilities for transmission of fire alarm signals to an ARC, it should be
confirmed that a fire alarm test signal is correctly rec
Visual inspection (I.2)

A visual inspection should be made to check whether structural or occupancy changes have affected
conformity to the recommendations of this standard for the siting of individual fire detectors, smoke
alarms or heat alarms. Particular care should be taken to verify whether:
a) a clear space of 500 mm is maintained directly below each fire detector;
b) the ability of the alarm to receive the stimulus that it has been designed to detect has not been
impeded by other means;
c) any changes to the use or occupancy of an area makes the existing types of fire alarms unsuitable
for detection of fire or prone to unwanted alarms;
d) any building alterations or extensions require additional fire detection and fire alarm equipment
24
to be installed. eived at the ARC and that the information displayed there is correct.
Cleaning (I.3)
Fire detectors should be cleaned periodically in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Functional testing (I.4)

The guidance of the manufacturer on the method by which the detector/alarm can be tested
effectively should be followed.
For linked fire alarms (either wired or radio-linked) the link(s) should be tested to confirm that the
signal can be successfully transmitted between devices.
NOTE 1 This can, for example, be conducted by activation of one device and checking that all devices are
activated.
Smoke alarms and smoke detectors should be tested to determine whether products of combustion
are capable of passing unhindered from the protected area to the sensing chamber/elements of the
detector/alarm.
Heat alarms and heat detectors should be tested by means of a suitable heat source.
Aico/Ei recommendation for functional testing is as follows –

Must be carried out by a competent and trained fire alarm engineer.
For the testing of Ei/Aico heat detectors the Solo 424/423 is recommended
For the testing of Ei/Aico smoke detectors, the Solo 332 used with either Solo A5 or Solo A10s/A10
Or use the Solo 365 with a Solo 372 adapter
24
Testing part 6 domestic detectors
BS 5839:6
BS 5839 part 6 is defined as a specification for domestic premises, it covers the following property
types.
“BS 5839-6:2019 gives recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and
maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises that are:
• Designed to accommodate a single family
• Houses in multiple occupation that comprise a number of self-contained units, each designed to
accommodate a single family
• Sheltered housing, including both the dwelling units and the common areas.”
25
26
Unwanted alarms
False or unwanted alarms cause a great deal of disruption to the normal activities that take place in
a building. This can include lost production and lost revenue. More worryingly, they can lead to
complacency on the part of the occupants, who may as a result fail to react correctly when the alarm
is genuine. Most false alarms are the result of environmental influences, fire-like phenomena, and
accidental damage or inappropriate action by people. These are generally termed ‘unwanted alarms’
to distinguish them from false alarms arising from faults or malfunction of equipment.
Manual call points can also give rise to the unwanted alarms, usually as a result of accidental
damage. By choosing the correct type of detector, it is possible to minimise many of these causes.
Many others can be minimised by adopting suitable management practices. The responsibility for
limiting unwanted alarms largely rests with the designer of the system. It is essential that the
designer is fully familiar with the use to which the building will be put and with the activities that will
take place in it. Users must recognise that the presence of fi re detectors in a building will require a
certain discipline on their part if inadvertent operation of the system it is to be avoided. The rapidly
advancing technology of fi re detection and alarm systems offers the user many benefits in this
respect. Analogue addressable systems in particular incorporate sophisticated filtering techniques
to help them determine whether an alarm is false or genuine. Multisensor fire detectors are also
available, and these can be used to give more reliable detection of fire.
In 3,000 fires in commercial premises, automatic fire detectors failed to operate

In 1,100 fires in commercial premises, automatic fire detectors operated but did not raise the
alarm
In 12,600 fires in commercial premises, automatic fire detectors were absent in the area in which
the fire started, resulting in 11 deaths and 496 non-fatal casualties.*
27
*20010/11 figures published by the Department for Communities & Local Government in November 2011
Cut false Alarm costs – FIA initiative
Most fire alarm and detection systems don’t cause false alarms; it’s the mismanagement of them that
does and this is where they can really cost you money due to:
• Lost production, disruption due to staff evacuation
• Unnecessary release of retained fire-fighters
• Possible future charging for attendance by fire and rescue services
• Increased insurance premiums
Remember modern properly maintained systems rarely suffer equipment malfunctions!

It is estimated that false alarms cost the UK in excess of £1 billion a year. They must be stamped out!
Even one is one too many. We are on a mission to stamp out false alarms and we need your help.
Use the link below to find out more and see how you can do your bit.
http://www.fia.uk.com/en/cut-false-alarm-costs/
27
False alarm or Unwanted Fire signal
What are the differences?
Unwanted fire signal (UFS). Signal transmitted from the fire pane to the FRS via the alarm receiving
centre. Can result in a fire tender attending site.
False alarms = Alarm is raised on site. Fire signal not transmitted to FRS.
28
Point type detector design and sensitivity
Point type detectors are the most commonly used type of commercial fire detector and can be
divided into four main types Heat detectors, Smoke detectors, Carbon Monoxide detectors and
Multi sensors detectors.
Heat detectors
Heat sensitive point detectors
Point detectors can again be subdivided to a further two types.
Fixed temperature which will operate when it is exposed to a pre-determined temperature.
The second type operates on the rate of temperature rise.
Different temperature rated elements are available to take account of varying ambient air
temperatures for both fixed and rate of rise heat detectors.
Smoke Detectors
There are three basic types operating by ionization, light scattering and light obscuring.
Ionisation
These generally contain two chambers. One is used as a reference to compensate for changes in
ambient temperature, humidity or pressure. The second contains a radioactive source, usually alpha
particle, which ionizes the air passing through the chamber where a current flows between two
electrodes. When smoke enters the chamber the current flow decreases. This drop is used to initiate
an alarm.
29
Light obscuring
In the obscuring type the smoke interferes with a light beam between a light source and photo cell,
the variation in photo cell output being used to initiate an alarm. This type of detection can be used to
protect large areas with the source and photo cell positioned some distance apart.
Light scattering
The light scattering detector operates on the Tyndall effect, a photo cell and light source are
separated from each other by a darkened chamber such that the light source does not fall on the
photo cell. The passage of smoke into the chamber causes the light from the source to be scattered
and fall on the photo cell, the cell output being used to initiate an alarm.
The light scattering and light obscuring detectors both, detect visible smoke.
Carbon Monoxide detector

CO fire detectors are electronic detectors used to indicate the outbreak of fire by sensing the level of
carbon monoxide in the air. Carbon monoxide, usually known by its chemical formula CO, is a
poisonous gas produced by combustion. They are not the same as CO detectors used for home safety
which are used to protect residents against carbon monoxide produced by incomplete combustion in
appliances such as gas fires or boilers.
CO fire detectors use the same type of sensor but are more sensitive (40-100ppm) and respond more
quickly.CO detectors have an electrochemical cell, which senses carbon monoxide, but not smoke or
any other combustion products. The cells do not require much power, so the detectors can be made
electrically compatible with ordinary smoke and heat detectors. As fire detectors they are effective
but only for certain types of fire. Deep-seated, smouldering fires produce carbon monoxide, which
can be detected some distance from the seat of the fire. For this type of fire a CO fire detector will
probably operate before a smoke detector. Smoke detectors, however, will almost always give a
better response to a fire that has produced a rising plume of smoke. CO fire detectors will give a poor
response to flaming fires. Because CO fire detectors work on different principles from smoke
detectors, their false alarm behaviour will be different. For example, they will not be affected by
steam, dust, or by most cooking fumes. However, because of their high sensitivity, they may false
alarm from harmless transient levels of CO produced by gas heaters starting up, or from vehicle
exhaust fumes entering through a window. These events would not affect an optical smoke detector.
The detector must be selected for the application, to achieve the best balance between fire detection
capability and false alarms. There are some known disadvantages of CO fire detectors. One is that
the electrochemical cells at the heart of the detectors have a limited life typically seven years and
that they are not failsafe. The detector might be “dead” with out this fact being apparent. For this
reason a means of checking the CO cell has been incorporated. Another clear disadvantage is the
poor response to many types of fire, especially life threatening flaming fires.
Multi sensor detector

Typically, multisensors combines inputs from optical and heat sensors and processes them using a
sophisticated algorithm. When polled by the control panel it returns an analogue count which is
determined by combined responses from both optical and heat sensors. They are designed to be
sensitive to a wide range of fires and may be used in place of an ionisation detector in many instances
and also if false activation can occur.
Operating principles
Signals from the optical smoke chamber and temperature sensor are independent, and represent the
smoke level and air temperature respectively in the vicinity of the detector; the detector’s micro
controller processes both signals. The temperature signal processing extracts only rate of rise
information for combination with the smoke signal. The detector will not respond to slow increases in
temperature but a large sudden change can cause an alarm without presence of smoke, if sustained
for 20 seconds. The processing algorithms in the multi-sensor incorporate drift compensation.
29
• Fumes from cooking processes
• Steam/Condensation
• Testing of the system, without appropriate disablement of the system
• Tobacco smoke
• Electromagnetic interference
• Dust (whether built up over a period of time or released from an industrial process)
• Insects
• Incorrect maintenance of optical smoke detectors
• Aerosol spray (e.g. from an external bonfire)
• Cosmetic smoke (e.g. in discotheques and theatres)
• Incense
• Candles
• Lightning
• High humidity
• Water ingress
30
• Substantial fluctuation in temperature
• Accidental damage (particularly to manual call points)
• Pressure surges on water mains serving automatic sprinkler systems that are interfaced with the
fire alarm system
• Cutting, welding and similar “hot work”
• Processes that produce smoke or flame
• Smoke from sources other than a fire in the building
Causes of UFS
This very useful list of possible causes of false alarms comes from BS5839-1. These are all things
which are in the control of the RP.
The system might be prone to some of them, such as the EMC or water ingress, if the system has not
been installed correctly – so the CP cannot wash his hands of the subject and in most cases the CP
will have to help the RP to find and recognise what is the cause of the UFS. For example the client is
unlikely to make the link between insects, or aerosol spray or steam and false alarms unless the
mechanism is explained to him by the competent engineer.
Additional help on UFS

Manual call points can also give rise to the unwanted alarms, usually as a result of accidental damage.
By choosing the correct type of detector, it is possible to minimise many of these causes. Many others
can be minimised by adopting suitable management practices. The responsibility for limiting
unwanted alarms largely rests with the designer of the system. It is essential that the designer is fully
familiar with the use to which the building will be used and with the activities that will take place in it.
Users must recognise that the presence of fire detectors in a building will require a certain discipline
on their part if inadvertent operation of the system it is to be avoided. The rapidly advancing
technology of fire detection and alarm systems offers the user many benefits in this respect.
Analogue addressable systems in particular incorporate sophisticated filtering techniques to help
them determine whether an alarm is false or genuine. Multisensor fire detectors are also available,
and these can be used to give more reliable detection of fire.
30
Hochiki - Counting the cost of false alarms infographic:
https://www.ifsecglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Counting-the-cost-of-false-alarms-
e1453898314137.jpg
UFS - Monitoring
Systems designers, installers and commissioning engineers are all required to consider the potential
of UFS as part of their work and CP are required to review false alarms at each visit.
The CP should calculate the rate of UFS per 100 installed detectors from the number of activations
over last 12 months.
BS5839-1 gives guidance as to what level should trigger further investigation and the CP and RP
together should examine the list of activations to identify trends
31
UFS – Preliminary Investigation
Responsibilities of the service organisation
At the time of every service visit, the system false alarm record should be checked carefully to
determine
a) The rate of false alarms during the previous 12 months, expressed as a number of false alarms
per 100 detectors per annum (this rate should be recorded by the engineer).
b) Whether since the time of the previous service visit, two or more false alarms with good intent,
have arisen from any single manual call point or fire detector (or detector location).
c) Whether any persistent cause of false alarms can be identified.
At least, a preliminary investigation should be carried out as part of the service work if any of the
following apply:
1. The rate of false alarms over the previous 12 months has exceeded one false alarm per 25
detectors (4%) per annum
2. More than 10 false alarms have occurred since the time of the previous service visit.
3. Two or more false alarms (other than false alarms with good intent) have arisen from any single
manual call point or fire detector (or detector location) since the time of the last service visit.
4. Any persistent cause of false alarms is identified.
32
UFS - In-depth Investigation
If the preliminary investigation does not fix the issues or if the situation is so bad that a more in
depth investigation is needed then appropriate specialists should be called in by the CP or the RP.
Sometimes the in-depth investigations can become quite ‘political’ where the senior management of
the company, a FRS representative, an insurance representative all want to be present. These
people can sometimes be helpful, but generally the in-depth investigation is more fruitful if the team
is kept to appropriate technical specialists, either from the manufacturer or independent specialists
with appropriate experience, skills or specialist equipment.
Again BS5839-1 gives guidance on when an in-depth investigation should be initiated: When the
UFS rate is 1 alarm per 20 installed detectors or more or where more than two UFS have come from
one device (and changing the device has not helped) for systems with more than 40 automatic
detectors. For smaller systems an in-depth investigation should be initiated if more than two UFS
occur.
33
FIA Infographics – How to cut false alarms
http://www.fia.uk.com/cut-false-alarm-costs/reducing-false-alarms/infographic.html
UFS - What can you do?
• Make the RP aware of consequences

This is most important as many RPs are not aware of what the consequences can be. Make the RP
aware of what the policy of the local FRS. Do they charge or fine for repeat UFS call outs? Make
sure you are aware.
• Record each incident of a UFS

It is the responsibility of the RP to record all information related to a false activation, so that the CP
and RP can review and identify the cause or trends
• Review UFS with RP at each visit

Make sure that the RP is recording each UFS incident in the fire log book, so that you can review.
Causes of UFS should be identified. The RP and CP are best placed to identify the cause of the
activation
• BS5839:1 2017 Annex E

Annexe E details the correct procedure for the selection of detector type, to reduce false alarms.
Annexe E also recommends;
The use of staff alarms to validate a fire alarm and avoid unnecessary mass evacuation and/or fire
service call outs.
34
Linking fire alarm systems to security alarms to ensure that the responsible person is notified, even
when there is no-one in the office at night. However, it is important to ensure that the battery
capacity of the security alarm is equal to that of the fire alarm.
The deactivation of the connection to the alarm receiving centre (ARC) during maintenance to avoid
unnecessary call outs.
• Keep up with best practices and changes in standards

It is in everyone's interest to reduce the number of UFS. Technology improves products and helps to
reduce UFS. Make sure you keep up to date with developments within our industry.
• FIA Infographics – How to cut false alarms

Useful graphics to use as a client handout. Free from the FIA
34
Avoiding unwanted fire signals
Over recent years there has been increasing pressure to avoid unwanted fire signals (or sometimes
known as false alarms) in fire detection systems, this has led to more sophisticated methods of fire
detection. Point detectors incorporating multiple sensors into the one detector enables the detector
to reduce the possibility of an unwanted fire signals.
Traditional testing methods for point detectors, using aerosol canister based test solutions either do
not activate the more sophisticated multisensor detectors or are seen as inappropriate. This has led
to the development of on demand combination testers that use a more ‘fire like’ stimuli and can
deliver a controlled combination of stimuli to test each sensor in turn or at the same time
(dependent on multisensor detector).
The use of on demand generation of stimuli compared to a stored stimuli (such as used in aerosol
canisters) is more economical to use; overcomes environmental concerns and is easier to store and
transport.
The improved take up of multisensor detectors has led to some confusion regarding correct method
of testing and the FIA issued multisensor testing best practice guidelines (see resource section).
35
Detectortesters are the leading manufacturer of universal detector test equipment and accessories.
All leading detector manufacturer's endorse the use of test equipment manufactured by
detectortesters for use on their detectors.
Product range includes: -

• Solo, smoke and heat testers and accessories and consumable aerosols
• Testifire all-in one tester
• Scorpion, remote tester for Aspirating Systems and hard to reach point type smoke detectors
• TruTest, smoke sensitivity tester (required to be used by American and Australia standards)
• SmokeSabre, handheld aerosol smoke tester
36
37
Aerosol Canisters; Capsules and Cartridges
Aerosol canisters have for a long time been a cheap and effective way of dispensing various
everyday products. They turn a liquid in to fine mist, by forcing the liquid through a small hole.
Detectortesters, have used aerosols canisters (since 1995) to dispense a fine mist that mimics
smoke, suitable to activate the most common smoke alarms and detectors.
The canisters contain the product in liquid format and a pressurised gas that is used to force the
content through a small how (nozzle) which then creates a fine mist.
To this day, smoke aerosol canisters are still the most popular product when it comes to testing
smoke alarms and detectors, however a growing number of reasons and concerts that relate to
aerosol smoke canister usage, may question if you continue to use aerosol canisters.
Aerosol canister do have the following drawbacks/concerns –

• All aerosols are classified as dangerous goods, irrespective if they use a flammable propellant or
not.
• Care always needs to be taken in regards to storage and transportation.
• Legislation around Aerosol canisters products continues to tighten in regards to the
environment and H&S.
• The release of Carbon monoxide or smoke is controlled by the user, this can lead to varied
results, if the instructions are not followed.
• Both low and high ambient and canister temperatures effects performance.
• Newer detectors can be much slower or not possible to test with aerosol smoke canister based
38
products.
• If used incorrectly they could shorten the life of the smoke detector under test
The above means that what was once a simple and easy to use solution for functionally testing smoke
detectors, now requires a higher level of skill and knowledge.
Cartridges and Capsules

Over the last 12 years, more modern CO and smoke detector test solutions have moved away from
pressurised aerosol canisters to safe and easy to use capsule and cartridge based systems, which are
not pressurised and more convenient to use; safer and the testers that use capsules and cartridges
control the release, which removes any possibility of over application by the user.
F Gas 2 Regulation
Restrict detectortesters as a manufacturer of aerosol canisters from using propellant that are
harmful to the environment. You can continue to use the older products until stocks are exhausted.
The F Gas regulation restrict detectortesters as a manufacturer.
Detectortesters Aerosol Changes Infographic: https://www.detectortesters.com/wp-

content/uploads/2019/04/V7-Smoke-Detector-Testing_Your-Product-choice_Infographic.pdf
38
You can’t completely eliminate the above when using canisters, you can manage them better!
To eliminate the above, look at the newer cartridge/capsule smoke testers that have a ‘Clear’
feature
Symptoms and causes
Three issues that can be experience when testing smoke detectors are re-alarm issues; no-
activation and slow activation
Nuisance Re-alarm causes-

The over application of aerosol smoke by the user can be one of the main causes of re-alarm issues.
This can be happen when the user, who is testing the detectors is unaware of the following –
• Detector integrating period. In some cases this can be as long as 2 minutes
• Smoke chamber design – Gauzes fitted to optical smoke chambers to keep out insects, will hold
smoke after activation
• Lower temperatures will mean that the smoke does not evaporate after activation, lingering to
cause re-activation
• Smoke detector mounted in areas of slow air movement can also be re-activated by lingering
smoke
• Dirty detectors can also be less sensitive and only activate with lots of canister smoke which
then lingers and causes re-alarms issues
If using aerosol smoke canisters, one way to deal with the above is to reduce the applied smoke and
39
be prepared to wait for the integrating period to pass. Nuisance re-alarms can be controlled, but in
some cases cannot be eliminated if using aerosol canisters. If you want to eliminate re-alarm issues,
you need to use a smoke tester that has a dedicated clear mode, which blows smoke out of the
detectors chamber after activation (such as Solo 365 or Testifire).
Slow or non-activation causes

Slow or non-activation of a smoke detector can be caused by the following –
• Smoke detector is old and dirty and has lost some or all of its sensitivity. Replace smoke detector.
• Long integrating periods. May be testing multisensor with just smoke?
• As the temperature of the smoke canister drops, the pressure inside the canisters drops and
activation of the aerosol canister nozzle does not produce particles of the correct size to activate
smoke detectors
• At high temperatures, the smoke can evaporate before activation has occurred.
The above information will help you manage these issues, although you will never be able to
completely eliminate them while using aerosol smoke canisters.
The only way to completely eliminate these issues is to use one of the newer capsule/cartridge based
smoke testers like Solo 365 or Testifire. They have much better low temperature performance and
include a clear feature to remove lingering smoke after a test.
39
Aerosol canister safety
All aerosols are pressurised containers and often contain flammable products and propellants. So it
is important to give some thought to their storage, display and use.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases the pressure inside the canister greatly and
may lead to the canister deforming and possible explosion!
Another effect of high temperatures on aerosol products is that the performance of the aerosol
product may be affected, typically reducing the maximum number of uses from the canister.
NOTE: Please take care when storing any aerosol canister product in a car or van
It may help to store canisters in a 'cool bag' / insulated bag. These are available from many retail
outlets. Although this will not solve the problems associated with high temperatures, it may assist by
slowing down the rate of rise of temperature. This should not be considered as an antidote to
leaving aerosols in cars or vans however, as the risks remain the same.
General storage guidelines

Storage areas should be cool and well ventilated and out of direct sunlight and always below 50°C
(I22° F). Please be especially careful about leaving aerosol canisters in vans, cars or sealed boots in
the summer when temperatures inside a vehicle can become dangerously high.
Do not store aerosols near stock room entrances and exits. Adequate access gangways should be
provided and maintained to enable the stock room or store to be evacuated rapidly.
Do not store aerosols near any source of heat.
40
Do not store aerosols in direct sunlight.
Do not spray on, or near, a naked flame, fire or near any heat or source of ignition (such as a pilot light
or candle).
Keep aerosols away from children.
Do not allow smoking in storage areas or when using an aerosol canister product.
Take care when splitting up packs of aerosols - the use of knives or sharp implements may pierce
cans. The use of a concealed safety knife is recommended.
BAMA (British Aerosol Manufacturers Association) recommendations
Aerosol Safety
As with all products, it is important to read and follow the instructions:
Aerosols are pressurised so please remember:

• do not put aerosols on a bonfire, even when empty, because they will explode and may cause
injury.
• do not pierce aerosols, even when empty, because there is always pressure left, and possibly
product residue. That may be flammable or cause injury if you pierce the can.
• keep aerosols out of the sun and in a cold dry place away from heat. The pressure inside the can
increases greatly in the heat and may cause it to burst, causing damage and possibly injuries.
• you should never keep aerosols inside cars because, even in winter, temperatures can rise quickly.
If necessary, keep them in the boot.
Aerosols contain a concentrated product so:

• you only need to use them in short bursts unless the instructions say otherwise.
• if you are using them in a confined space, like a cupboard or under the sink, two or three second
bursts should be enough. Make sure that you open windows or doors afterwards.
• do not spray aerosols near your eyes as the contents may irritate them.
The contents of an aerosol may be flammable so:

• do not spray it on, or near a naked flame or fire.
• do not smoke when you are using an aerosol or just afterwards.
• do not spray near any heat or source of ignition (such as a pilot light or candle).
• keep aerosols away from children.
40
Aerosol Canisters; Capsules and Cartridges
Aerosol canisters have for a long time been an effective way of dispensing various everyday
products. They turn a liquid in to fine mist, by forcing the liquid through a small hole.
Detectortesters, have used aerosols canisters (since 1995) to dispense a fine mist that mimics
smoke, suitable to activate the most common smoke alarms and detectors.
The canisters contain the product in liquid format and a pressurised gas that is used to force the
content through a small how (nozzle) which then creates a fine mist.
To this day, smoke aerosol canisters are still the most popular product when it comes to testing
smoke alarms and detectors, however a growing number of reasons and concerts that relate to
aerosol smoke canister usage, may question if you continue to use aerosol canisters.
Aerosol canister do have the following drawbacks/concerns –

• All aerosols are classified as dangerous goods, irrespective if they use a flammable propellant or
not.
• Care always needs to be taken in regards to storage and transportation.
• Legislation around Aerosol canisters products continues to tighten in regards to the
environment and H&S.
• The release of Carbon monoxide or smoke is controlled by the user, this can lead to varied
results, if the instructions are not followed.
• Both low and high ambient and canister temperatures effects performance.
• Newer detectors can be much slower or not possible to test with aerosol smoke canister based
41
products.
• If used incorrectly they could shorten the life of the smoke detector under test
The above means that what was once a simple and easy to use solution for functionally testing smoke
detectors, now requires a higher level of skill and knowledge.
Cartridges and Capsules

Over the last 10 years more modern CO and smoke detector testers have moved away from
pressurised aerosol canisters to safe and easy to use capsule and cartridge based systems, which are
not pressurised and more convenient to use; safer and the testers that use capsules and cartridges
control the release, which removes any possibility of over application by the user.
F Gas 2 Regulation
Restrict detectortesters as a manufacturer of aerosol canisters from using propellant that are
harmful to the environment. You can continue to use the older products until stocks are exhausted.
The F Gas regulation restrict detectortesters as a manufacturer.
41
42
Aerosols contents measured in volume not weight - Solo A5 is much lighter in weight compared to
A10s
Which dispenser smoke aerosol to choose?
Solo A10s and A10 are the direct (non-flammable) replacement for the old Solo A3 and have similar
performance. Solo A10s is more expensive than the discontinued Solo A3.
If price is an issue, look at Solo A5 which is a similar price to the older Solo A3. It is a flammable
aerosol and some sites may not permit the use of flammable aerosols. Although performance is
similar, it is important that you pay attention to the information on the canister and ambient
temperatures on the next few slides.
Flammable or non-flammable
Our flammable aerosols do come with additional warnings and in particular mention carry out a risk
assessment when using on energised circuits. As it is not possible to test a commercial smoke
detector without it being connect to a system, it has to be energised. The addition of this warning is
a legal requirement. We have no evidence of any incidence involving commercial fire detectors that
could be connected to a system with up to 42 volts.
We would however recommend that if you are testing a mains energised device, that you either use
a non-flammable aerosol such as Solo A10/10s or if the device is a Grade D residential fire alarm
which has both battery and mains supply, that the mains is disabled and smoke test is carried out
with battery supply only.
43
The instructions on the side of the canister are supplied in languages for the markets that the
product is intended to be supplied to.
Solo A3; A10;A10s and A5 are only designed to be used with the Solo 330/332 dispenser. Using
these products by hand can result in over application of smoke and nuisance re-alarm issues.
Or potentially can lead to contamination of the detectors optical chamber.
In general use, 0.5/1 second burst this may need to be reduced if nuisance re-alarm issues are
experienced.
44
Corrective action & tips for aerosol canister users
How to avoid smoke detector re-alarm issues after changing from Solo A3 to A5 aerosol smoke
As a user that has recently changed from the discontinued Solo A3/A4 to the newer Solo A5, it is
possible that you may notice slight difference in performance, between Solo A5 and A3/A4. Either
the time to activate a certain make and model of smoke detector or in the time it takes to clear the
detector chamber of smoke and reset the system so that the next detector can be tested.
Solo A5 is a different product from Solo A3/A4 and has slightly different performance
characteristics. The differences in performance between the products relate to the active
ingredients that are permitted under the new F-Gas 2 environmental legislation that came into
force on 31st Dec 2017.
In regards to the clearing of test smoke from the detector chamber, it is important to understand
that all aerosol smoke canister products can suffer from detector clearing issues. One of the
reasons is that some makes and models of optical smoke detectors use a wire gauze around the
chamber to stop insects or dirt from causing false alarms. The wire gauze will cause test smoke to be
held in the chamber and cause re-alarms issues. The time to clear can be slightly longer for Solo A5
when compared to discontinued Solo A3/A4 or the new Solo A10/A10s
What can you do to reduce or avoid spending longer at a detector than necessary due to re-alarm
issues?
45
Instructions on the side of smoke canister are important to follow and are intended for use in typical
situations. In particular -
Only use A5 in a Solo dispenser, use by hand will result in over application of smoke and likely re-
alarm issues.
Additional Tips to help reduce clearing time of Solo A5 –

Shake canister well before use.
Aerosol canisters that are activated when not upright can lead to poor performance.
Try using a shorter burst of Smoke, less than 1 second.
Be aware of detector time to alarm. Some can take as long as 1 minute or more before they activate,
do not be tempted to apply more aerosol smoke, wait for the integrating period to pass.
Make sure that the Solo A5 canister is at room temperature (15 to 30°C). All aerosol smoke canisters
do not create correct particle size at lower temperatures. Solo A5 is more susceptible to
performance fluctuations at temperatures below 10°C.
If you are still not happy with the clearing time of Solo A5
If you have tried all the above and still not happy with the performance of Solo A5, you may want to
switch from Solo A5 to Solo A10s. A10s is the new non-flammable aerosol that clears better from the
detector chamber. Re-alarms can still be an issue as it can with any aerosol smoke canister product.
How to eliminate re-alarm issue

Look at the new cartridge based smoke tester – Solo 365 or the combined all in one, Testifire range.
Both of these testers completely eliminate any re-alarm issue as they both include a clear feature
that after the smoke detector has activation, blows clear air through the chamber to remove any
lingering test smoke.
Both testers also give lower costs per tests when compared to aerosols canister and are designed to
be able to test a wider range of detectors.
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Solo 330 /332 Smoke and CO dispenser
Use only Solo aerosols canisters.
Smoke
• Solo A5
• Solo A10 and A10s
CO
• Solo C3
Nozzle on the above aerosols are designed only for use in the Solo 330 and 332 dispensers and not
for use by hand alone. Use by hand could result in over application.
Assembly
Solo 330 / 332 – Smoke and CO dispenser
1. Unscrew and remove the retaining cup

2. Place the aerosol in the retaining cup
3. Replace the retaining cup and screw upwards
4. Attach the Solo dispenser to a Solo height access pole.
5. Raise the dispenser over the detector to be tested and apply upward pressure 0.5/1 second the
apply dose.
6. For smoke, re-apply every 10 seconds (maximum of 5 applications) until detector activates.
7. Investigate further if detector does not activate. Check for longer integrating times such as
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used in multisensors.
8. Once testing is complete, don’t forget to back off the retaining cup. Consider inverting the
aerosol canister in the retaining cup to avoid accidental activation,
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Heat detector classification
Class A1, A2, B and C detectors are associated with normal fire alarm point detector applications
and may be tested with equipment which can reach temperatures of up to 90°C.
Manufacturer's may give additional information concerning the type of response pf the heat
detector, by adding the suffix S or R.
S = Static and R = Rate of Rise
Class D, E and F detectors are associated with high-temperature applications and will require
specialist test equipment suitable for these higher temperatures.
Applying heat for excessive periods of time can result in distortion of the detector plastics,
especially in the case of detectors which have only rate-of-rise response or a low temperature, fixed
temperature response.
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Solo Heat testers
There are two heat testers in the Solo range.

Solo 460 – cordless heat detector tester for heat detectors with an activation temperature up to
90°C
Solo 423/424 – Mains powered heat detector tester for heat detectors with an activation
temperature up to 100°C
The Solo 424 is for use on 220/240v and the Solo 423 is for 110/120volts
The Solo 460 is sold in a kit (Solo 461) and is supplied with one or two battery batons (kit dependent)
and a mains/12volt powered charger.
The 423/424 are the preferred heat detector testers for residential alarms where access to mains
power and the likeliness of a trailing lead causing a trip hazard are less of a problem.
In commercial environments, the Solo 460/461 is the preferred heat detector tester, although it
must be noted that with a maximum heat output of 90°C, so high temperature commercial heat
detectors cannot be tested with the Solo 460/461.
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Solo 423/424 mains powered heat tester
Available in both 110 / 120 and 220 / 240 volt versions the Solo 423 and 424 are the professionals’
choice where cables and leads are acceptable. Unconstrained by energy availability they provide the
quickest of test times and are, perhaps, most suitable for the highest temperature detectors.
• Suit fixed temperature, rate-of-rise and combination detectors up to 194°F / 90°C
• Quickest activation times
• Lightweight and simple to use
• Universal design suits widest range of detectors
• Designed for use at height, at angles and low level
• Supplied with 5m / 16ft cable with mains plug (EL33435 for 424) and (EL33437 for 423)
• additional Solo 425 5m / 16ft cable(s) also available (not included in kit)
• Requires a Solo height access pole to use
• Can test high temperature detectors such as Apollo CS/CR
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Solo 460
Can be purchased with battery batons and charger and is known as Solo 461.
Operation is very simple. Once a battery baton (with good charge and condition) is attached, the
unit is turned on by pressing the red switch.
A test is activated, by an infra-red beam, across the test cup that is broken by the heat detector
entering the test cup, which triggers the start of the test.
Heat output is a focus beam across the test cup and in most cases aligns with centrally mounted
thermistor in the heat detector. Note: In some cases, the detector body may be too large to enable
perfect alignment between thermistor and heat source. This can mean longer time to alarm or in
some cases no activation.
Rotating the Solo 460 during test can help speed up activation when testing heat detectors with
dual or off-set thermistors.
Use of a heat baffle

Some heat detectors have a body that is larger than the Solo 460 test cup and heat alignment with
the thermistor is not possible without using a heat baffle to deflect the heat into the chamber and on
to the thermistor to cause activation. Heat detectors from Fike/Rafiki or Aico may require the need
for an optional heat baffle to deflect the heat. Available from detectortesters under the part number
spare1051. Also available from Fike under part number 15-0239.
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Solo 460
Can be purchased with battery batons and charger and is known as Solo 461.
Operation is very simple. Once a battery baton (with good charge and condition) is attached, the
unit is turned on by pressing the red switch.
A test is activated, by an infra-red beam, across the test cup that is broken by the heat detector
entering the test cup, which triggers the start of the test.
Heat output is a focus beam across the test cup and in most cases aligns with centrally mounted
thermistor in the heat detector. Note: In some cases, the detector body may be too large to enable
perfect alignment between thermistor and heat source. This can mean longer time to alarm or in
some cases no activation.
Rotating the Solo 460 during test can help speed up activation when testing heat detectors with
dual or off-set thermistors.
Use of a heat baffle

Some heat detectors have a body that is larger than the Solo 460 test cup and heat alignment with
the thermistor is not possible without using a heat baffle to deflect the heat into the chamber and on
to the thermistor to cause activation. Heat detectors from Fike/Rafiki or Aico may require the need
for an optional heat baffle to deflect the heat. Available from detectortesters under the part number
spare1051. Also available from Fike under part number 15-0239.
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Features and Benefit
All in one tester
No need to carry separate heat and smoke testers or not have the right tester to hand. Testifire can
test smoke and heat detectors as well as being the only tester that can test multisensors. There is
also a version that includes ability to generate CO as well as heat and smoke (Testifire 2000).
Controlled release of smoke
Removes any possibility of over application of smoke, which can happen with Solo user who is
untrained. This reduces running costs; much better for the smoke detector and also enables the
identification of smoke detectors that should be replaced because they are old and dirty and could
cause false alarms.
Clearing mode
Smoke detector technology has moved on from ion to photo-optic sensors and many now include
wire gauze around the photo-optic chamber to keep dirt and dust out of the chamber (which can
cause false activation). During testing, the gauze can hold smoke in the chamber causing re-alarm
(sometimes known as nuisance alarm) this can mean more time per detector, waiting for the smoke
to clear the chamber of smoke. Testifire includes a clearing mode that blows clear air through the
chamber of the detector (after a test) and reduces the time spent at each detector.
High heat test mode
Using Testifire means that you can offer a more compliant service by being able to test all installed
heat detectors that have an activation temperature up to 100°C without having to resort to using
the more powerful Solo mains heat tester (Solo 423/424).
Better smoke performance
Aerosol canister based smoke has several problems. One is that aerosol smoke canisters do not
atomise the smoke correctly at temperatures below 10°C. This means if the canisters are stored in a
cold environment such as car or van overnight, they will need to be warmed gently, so that they
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work correctly. Failure to identify a cold can of smoke or that the local temperature is below 10°C
will result in unsuccessful activation of the smoke detector and possible over application of smoke,
which is not good for the detector.
Aerosol smoke canisters are also pressurised canister and classified as dangerous goods. Care needs
to be taken in storage and transportation.
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Resettable test counter
Testifire includes a resettable test counter than can be used to keep count of heats, smokes and
multisensor tests carried out. This can used by the engineer in whatever way they like. eg. tests per
site or tests time period.
Multisensor testing
As Multisensors are being more frequently installed to combat false alarms. The need to test all
enabled sensors in line with the multisensor manufacture is well established as best practice and it is
expected that soon this will be included in standards. At the moment, Testifire is only tester that can
test all enabled sensors at the same time.
Remove-able inner test cup

Test a wider range of detectors that have a larger profile or diameter. In UK the Fike Multipoint is
one example.
Professional image
Testifire is both cleaner and looks more professional than other detector testers.
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Testifire – All in one tester
Having one tester that can perform both heat and smoke or combine, means you always have the
right tester to hand. Testifire is the only tester that can perform a combine test, capable of testing
multisensors that have separate sensor activation notification.
Models and kits

Testifire 1000
Smoke; heat and clearing
Testifire 2000
Smoke; heat; CO and clearing
Sold in various kits that include :-
Battery batons and chargers

Testifire 2001
Testifire 1001
Complete kits with 6m height access poles; removal tool and bags
Testifire 6001 (Testifire 1000)
Complete kits with 9m height access poles; removal tool and bags
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Full details of kits available - http://www.testifire.com/cms/document/Product_Selector.pdf
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Cleaning Testifire
Regular cleaning will help you get the most from Testifire and will avoid fan faults, which can be
caused by a build-up of dirt and debris blocking the fan.
Tools Required
• 1” car detailing brush
• small bowl of warm soapy water (use standard washing liquid)
• 2 x microfiber cloths (one to dry and one to use damp).
Preparation
Remove Inner test cup and bellows
Attach a charged battery baton
Turn on Testifire
Set Testifire to clear only program.
Cleaning Procedure
1. Adjust handle to 90° position away from the Testifire body
2. Holding the baton and handling tube vertically
3. Use the brush the brush the dirt out of the test cup, paying particular attention to brush dirt
away from the duct. (Photo)
4. While the brush and your hand is inside the test cup and Testifire is programmed to Clear, air
will be blown out of the duct and aid cleaning. It will also help prevent any loose debris from
entering the duct.
Note: Take care not to damage the wire heater elements in the duct
5. Use the lint free dampen cloth to wipe the inside of the test cup to remove any remaining small
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particles of dirt.
6. Clean the dampened lint free cloth and squeeze dry.
7. Use the cloth to clean the outside of Testifire; cup; body; facia/control panel and handling tube
8. Clean the inner test cup with the dampened cloth
9. Clean the bellows with dampened cloth
10. Use dry lint free cloth to dry all parts
Inspection
11. Before reassembling inspect the inner cup for scratches and signs of wear. The inner cup is a
field replaceable part – Spare1048-001
Note: If the inner cup becomes badly scratched, Testifire will display a clean cup message. The cup
may be scratched and worn and not dirty.
12. Refit the inner cup

13. Inspect the bellows for tears and rips. The Testifire bellows is available as a field replaceable
part – Spare1049-001 if damage.
Refit bellows, making sure that they are fitted correctly, with the supporting ears on the duct
side of the cup.
14. Inspect the following parts for damage or excessive wear -
Handling tube (cracks or splits)
Light grey cases (check for fit and that the small clips are in place)
Facia for cracks or splits
Do not use Testifire if external damage is found
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Solo 365 – Smoke detector tester
Released in 2017, the Solo 365 gives an upgrade path for Solo (smoke dispenser) users that do not
want to replace two testers (Smoke and heat) at the same time.
Faster, Simpler, Cleaner functional testing of smoke detectors
Compatible with Solo height access poles.
Slim design, ideal for tight locations
Smoke produced by heating fluid from the ES3 Smoke cartridge, suitable for all ionisation and
optical smoke detectors. Capacity of 250 x 20 second tests.
Powered by Lithium-ion compact and light Solo 370 battery pack.
Field replaceable parts include replaceable smoke generator.
No requirement to return for service and calibration.
Solo 371 smoke generator has a 12,000 test life and is available as a spare part and can be fitted in
the field.
ES-3 Smoke cartridges give 250 x 20 second tests. Longer integrating periods = less tests per
cartridge
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Solo 370, lithium battery gives around 2 hours or 200 tests when in good condition and state of
charge. As with all rechargeable battery packs, the life expectancy is around 500 cycles or 2-3 years,
after which time more frequent charging will be required.
Solo 372 is the optional ASD adapter for the Solo 365 which can also be used on the Apollo Soteria
Dimension range of detectors.
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the field.
cartridge
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the field.
cartridge
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The Solo 365 has two sets of indicating LEDs
consumable LEDs (situated on the front panel) indicate the status of the consumable parts. eg.
battery; cartridge and generator. When the LED flashes RED, it indicates that the consumable item
is getting low and need to obtain a replacement soon for cartridge or generator as you will run out.
In regards to the battery it will soon need to be recharged.
A solid RED LED indicates that either the cartridge; battery or generator is exhausted and with
respects to the battery it needs recharging. Solid RED LED alongside cartridge or generator
indicates it needs replacing.
Status LEDs (situated either side of the handle). Status LEDs give easy visibility when working at
height as to what the Solo 365 is doing.
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Solo 365 – LED light
This slide shows the Solo 365 LED light in operation. Video from Derek Fay
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Smoke generation will begin automatically once the smoke detector enters the cup and activates
the proximity sensor.
1) Raise Solo 365 up to the detector to be tested

2) Status indicator LEDs will flash fast blue once the detector enters the cup and is detected.
3) Detector will enter alarm once sufficient smoke has been generated and the detectors
integrating period has passed.
4) Slightly lower the Solo 365 away from the smoke detector and wait for Status indicator to flash
green, which indicates you can now start the clear process
5) Raising the test cup back to detector will then start the clearing process and blow clear air
through the detector, removing lingering smoke. Status LEDs will flash white.
NOTE: For the best results the detector should be fully within the cup. Solo 365 may be used in
ceiling voids and floor voids provided the detectors can be accessed safely. The unit should not be
forced through narrow gaps. If the unit will not pass through a gap easily with the cup orientated 90°
to the normal position there is a possibility it could become trapped.
The use of the Clear feature is down to the operator, if the Solo 365 is not raised while the Green
fast flashing LED displays the clear is not activated and the test cycle will reset, ready to test the
next smoke detector (Status LED, indicates standby, by Green slow flash sequence.
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Press and holding down the function key will activate the purge cycle. This will run the pump and
purge the smoke circuit of any air that may have entered the system through lack of use. Usually
just 10 or 20 seconds is more enough before smoke is emitted and the Solo 365 is ready to be used.
When the Solo 365 has not been used for extensive periods a much longer purge maybe required.
Hold down the function button will run the purge cycle until the 2 minute time out is reached. In
rare situations you may have to purge the system for 3 x 2 minutes. If after this time still no smoke is
produced, it would be recommended to try another Es-3 smoke cartridge.
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Solo battery baton and chargers
As with lots portable tools and gadgets these days most are powered by NiMH or Lithium battery
packs. (NiCad's on the whole have been replaced long ago). Many of us do not appreciate that
rechargeable batteries have a serviceable life and will at some time need to be replaced.
Typical life expectancy for lithium or NiMH battery packs is around 500 recharges or 2-3 years,
after such time the period between charging starts to decrease as the cells start to deteriorate.
Once the battery usage time is less than the charge time, it is recommended to replace the battery.
(charge times: Up to 90 mins for Solo battery batons and 2 hours for the Solo 365 lithium battery
pack).
How you look after your rechargeable battery packs will also have an impact on the serviceable life
of a rechargeable battery pack.
In particular, insulating or exposing a charging battery pack to any form of external heat is not a
good idea and at best is going to shorten the life or may be cause battery pack to deform and be
completely unusable.
Solo battery baton and charger compatibility

Solo 727 Mk2 is compatible with both Solo 760 (2.2Ah) and Solo 770 (3Ah)
Solo 727 is a 3.0Ah charger designed to be used with the Solo 770, 3.0Ah battery baton
Solo 365 (lithium) battery and charger

Spare 1060-001 is compatible with the Solo 370 lithium battery.
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Discontinued chargers and battery batons
Solo 727 Mk1 is a 3Ah charger designed to be used only with Solo 770 (3Ah) nattery baton
Solo 726 is a 2.2Ah charger designed to be used with the Solo 760, (2.2Ah) battery baton
Solo 725 is a 2.2Ah charger and was designed to charge Solo 720 (2.2Ah) Nicad)
Note: If you connect a Solo 727 charger to a Solo 760, it will not work! The Solo 727 charger is wired
to be fail safe so that the smaller capacity battery cannot be over charged. See further information
here - http://www.detectortesters.com/blog/product-update-solo-battery-batons-charger/
Charging in a vehicle (12 volts)

When charging the battery pack in the vehicle, it can be fairly common practice to place the charger
and battery in the foot well of the car and if it is cold outside, the car/van heater may be set to
maximum and heat applied to the foot well. The battery will soon start to overheat which can lead to
cell damage or in extreme cases physically deformed battery packs.
There are other scenarios where a battery under charge may be inadvertently placed in direct
sunlight; close to a source of heat or even charged within an insulated sleeve in a bag which will also
cause the cells in the battery baton to overheat.
Another consideration is to make sure that the power supply that the Solo charger is attached to is
not going to be interrupted as this will cause the charging cycle to restart and can also lead to the
battery overheating.
In the Solo 727/726 instructions it does state that if the battery becomes hot to touch (55/60°C) then
the battery and charger should be disconnected.
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We all take rechargeable battery packs for granted. - Read instructions
Fire statistics show that incorrect use or faulty rechargeable battery packs and chargers are a
concert
Key Cautions and warnings

Never leave a charging battery unattended
Do not cover battery or charger when in use
Do not expose a charging battery to direct sunlight or heat
Do not allow a charger to cycle charge a hot battery
Do not leave charger connected to a fully charged battery if power to the charger could be
repeatedly disrupted. Potential of overheating.
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Solo battery pack deformation
As the battery cells are arranged in a line to form the battery baton, any excess heat via insulation or
cycle charging can cause a deformation of the battery. The latest Solo 727 mk2 overcomes this issue
and cuts out the charge cycle in the event of high temperatures, stopping any form of damage the
battery baton
All earlier chargers, including Solo 725; 726 and 727 Mk1 can cause a battery if the charger is
allowed to cycle charge a hot battery. With modern vehicles that have ‘Stop Start’ technology, the
re-engagement of the car engine starter motor causes the a volt drop across the car battery, which
then cause the above mentioned chargers to restart the cycling cycle. When this is allowed to
happen, the battery baton under charge can over heat and deform. It is also possible for the same
issue to occur, when connecting the charger to a permanent 12 volt supply and when many short
journeys are under taken. Please disconnect once the baton is fully charged.
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Solo 727 mk2
Has mains and 12 volt connections (do not connect both at the same time). Optional mains leads
available with different regional plugs.
Solo 365 Lithium battery and charger
Solo 365 has a all new internal Lithium battery and universal USB charger, with adapters for the
following regions -
• UK
• Europe
• US
• Australia
The Solo 365 charger is rated at 1.8A. Many users may use aftermarket alternative chargers. Make
sure you are aware of the charging current. Modern Smart Phone chargers, charge at 2.1 or 2.4A
these chargers are fine to use. If you use a lower powered 1.2A charger, the Solo 370 will not fully
charge and the battery LED indicator may stay Red and not change to Green to indicate battery is
charged.
The micro USB lead that is supplied is specifically designed for efficient and fast charging of the Solo
370, use of an alternative micro USB lead may cause the Red LED to flash, especially if the lead is
long and the conductors are thin.
If in doubt, always used the supplied charger and lead, which are available to purchase separately
under part number - Spare1060-001
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Around 200 test from a Solo 370 battery in good condition and state of charge
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Solo 610, is a large capacity holdall that has three internal sections; sleeves to carry two battery
batons and a front pocket to hold a Solo 200 removal tool.
Plenty of room for two separate Solo testers; charger; spare aerosols; tools and still room for
sandwiches!
Note: As the capacity of the Solo 610 is large, it is very easy to overload the bag and either cause
back strain or damage the bag.
Solo 602, is a suitable pole bag that will hold one telescopic pole and three separate extension poles.
The Solo 602 can be attached to the top of the Solo 610 for ease of carriage to and from site.
Solo 611, is our recently introduced Urban Rucksack that has multiple compartments for one test
head; consumable; battery pack and charger. There is also a place to carry a laptop and power
supply.
Solo 612, is bag specially designed to carry the new Urban Solo poles. One Solo 110 4 section
telescopic and three Solo 111 extensions
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Solo Urban Kit
This slide shows a YouTube video of the Solo Urban kit. The video can be found here -
https://youtu.be/CvSE9vFA68c
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Testing aspirating detection systems (ASD)
Two approved methods –

• Functional test of every sampling hole
• Transportation time test
Scorpion performs transportation time test

Solo 365 enables a functional test.
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Scorpion – remote tester – components
Scorpion Head units
Scorpion point – for use on hard to reach smoke point type detectors. Available in white
Scorpion ASD – enables repeatable transportation tests to be carried out. Available in red
Scorpion Controllers
Two controller options available.
Fixed, controller able to test 8 Scorpion head units, maximum cable length = 100m.
Engineers Controller, Portable controller that is designed to connect to a Scorpion Access point and
which is connected to one Scorpion head unit.
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Typical applications
There are many applications for Scorpion other than listed above.
Scorpion removes risks; can reduce costs for ongoing maintenance
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Cleaning and replacement of detectors
How do you define detector cleaning intervals?

Panel contamination warnings and externally dirty detectors are only indications and should not be
solely used to indicate cleaning intervals.
An assessment needs to be made and may include one or more of the following:
(a) Environmental conditions
(b) Visual condition
(c) Analogue values (where applicable)
(d) Records of false alarms
(e) Readings from sensitivity test equipment (where appropriate)
BS5839- Part 1 2017 clause 45.3 states that the period between inspections should not be greater
than 6 months.
The service and inspection period should be based upon a risk assessment of the equipment, its
environment and any other factors affecting the long term operation of the equipment. The
outcome of the risk assessment should specify the frequency for detector cleaning and maybe
replacement. The interval between cleaning for a given detector may differ for different areas on a
given site.
It is not down to the Responsible Person (RP) to make a decision regarding the service intervals. The
Competent Person should inspect the building for any adverse environments and seek agreement
with the RP and user as to possible reduction in period between visits. These recommendations
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should be continuously reviewed in light of changes, age of equipment and recurrence of equipment
false alarms
If the 6 months maximum period is exceeded the system should be considered not compliant with
BS5839 Part 1 2017. Furthermore, the system may not be in compliance with the Fire Safety Order
and there could be risk of prosecution.
Life Statement
Most manufacturers of commercial and residential fire detectors/alarms give statements on the
expected life of their detectors which is their recommendation on when the detector/alarm should be
replaced. The most common life expectancy given by manufactures is 10 years. This
recommendation is usually a calculation of the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) and is the
predicted elapsed time between inherent failures of mechanical or electronic parts/system, during
normal system operation.
Some national and international standards do prescribe detector replacement periods. British
Standards 5839:1 2017 recommends following manufacturers guidelines on when to replace a
detector or alarm. Detectors that are installed in dirty environments can potentially fail and need
replacing much sooner than the manufacturers MTBF statement, especially if they are not service
and maintained regularly!
When it comes to the cleaning of detectors, this is a task that is all too frequently overlooked, which
means that optical smoke detectors (in particular) may not perform to specification in dirty
environments.
With an increasing reliance on the optical smoke chamber within fire detectors, the need for regular
maintenance is all the more important. Dust can come in different colours and can either increase or
decrease sensitivity of an optical smoke detector. Detectors with built in smoke obscuration drift
compensation will compensate to a point and give visual indication, when cleaning/replacement is
required. More basic smoke detectors (without drift compensation) don't have this feature and a
decreases in sensitivity will be identified by a functional smoke test (using Solo or Testifire). When
there is an increase in sensitivity a functional test won't identify this condition and false alarms can
become an issue.
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At a minimum, detectors should be inspected twice a year and cleaned if they are dirty. Detectors
need removal and replacement for various reasons. The vast majority are fitted on bayonet
mountings and the task can be done using specialist tools fitted to appropriate access poles. Using
such specialist devices saves the time, cost, disruption and risk to safety that ladders, scaffolding or
access gear represents.
Solo 200 Detector Removal Tool
Is a universal removal tool and is compatible with most detectors, the Solo 200 features colour-
coded heads which rotate to provide a combination of settings and lock into place to fit different
sized detectors.
Specification
Maximum angle that a Solo 200 can work at is 30°
The width of the counter weights (widest part) 34cm
The minimum and maximum size of detectors = Detector Sizes : From 64mm (2.5") to 112mm (4.4")
diameter
Yellow 64 - 76mm / 2.5 - 3.0in diameter
Blue 86 - 98mm / 3.0 - 3.85in diameter
Red 98 - 112mm / 3.85 - 4.4in diameter
Red & Yellow 74 -93mm / 2.91- 3.66in diameter
Yellow & Blue 75 - 87mm / 2.95 - 3.43in diameter
Blue & Red 92 -105mm / 3.6- 4.13in diameter
How to lock the Gimbal
When working directly under the detector to be removed, the gimbal can be locked to aid control.
To lock the gimbal, slide the Solo 200 further down into the Pole so that it locks in the next hole
down. This will push the end of Solo pole up against the bottom of the Solo 200 and lock the angle
adjustment.
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Detectors that have been removed for ever reason should also be retested after re-installing.
Note: It is possible to remove some detectors that have a diameter greater than 112mm. eg. EMS
with a diameter of 145mm use max setting of Red and Red.
Aerosol duster
Dirty or contaminated detectors may cause false alarms. Conversely, they may lead to delays in
detection and alarm activation. Visual dirt on the outside of a detector is an indication of possible
problems on the inside (although a clean outside is not necessarily indicative of a clean inside). Use of
a aerosol duster will remove dust/dirt and insects from the detector chamber.
It is always recommended that you the detector manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning. Some
manufacturer's do not recommend cleaning.
Aerosol dusters are designed to be handheld and not used in the Solo 330 dispenser.
Solo use to manufacture and supply Solo A7 aerosol duster. This product was discontinued as part of
the F Gas 2 changes that were implemented on the 31st December 2017. No replacement is supplied
by detectortesters.
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Cleaning detectors
The cleanliness of a fire detector can greatly affect the performance of a fire detection system. In
particular, dirty environments can radically change the sensitivity of optical smoke detectors which
are the most commonly installed type of fire detector. (Note: The effect of dirt and dust is less
pronounced on ionisation; CO and heat fire detectors although regular maintenance is just as
important).
Failure to follow the guidelines in BS5839-1 in regards to cleaning detectors, is considered a major
contributing factor towards false alarms.
Different levels of cleaning

If detectors are cleaned regularly, it will prevent the build-up of heavy dirt and dust over time and
reduce the need and cost for deep cleaning or replacement.
Most detector manufacturer's are happy for basic on-site cleaning to be carried out by the service
engineer. Basic on-site cleaning of detectors involves the removal of the detector from its base and
then the use of vacuum on the outside and/or use of an aerosol duster to blow out remaining dust or
other solid contaminates and finally wiping the outside case with a slightly dampened cloth (water &
wash up liquid) before the detector is placed back on its base and retested. It is vital that any
detector that is removed from its base, for whatever reason, is retested.
Deep cleaning
If basic (on-site) cleaning does not work, it could be the detector is too contaminated and the only
options available are for the detector to go through a specialist deep cleaning and re-calibration
process by the manufacturer; or for replacement with a new detector. Frequently, replacement is
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the quickest and most cost effective solution.
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Benefits of using Solo height access poles
Access poles are required for detectors out of normal reach. Their use saves the time, cost,
disruption and risk to safety that ladders, scaffolding or access gear represents.
The value of these access poles over ‘other poles’ is not just the quality of their design and
manufacture. It becomes evident when they are required on a daily basis and / or are used at great
heights. Pull-wound glass fibre construction provides non conductivity with an optimum strength to
weight ratio and high tolerance manufacture ensures minimum possible whip or bend at height
relative to weight and cost. This, coupled with the simple locking mechanism of the telescopic
sections means that these access poles combine ease of use with design and manufacturing
excellence.
• Optimum strength to weight ratio

• Minimum possible whip or bend at height
• Certified non-conductivity
• Available in one, two or four telescopic sections
• Simple locking mechanism and easy to use
• Outstanding quality backed by lifetime warranty
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Solo Poles - Product Information
Solo height access poles are specifically designed only for use with the Solo, Testifire and TruTest
product ranges manufactured by detectortesters, allowing access to fire detectors at heights up to
9m (subject to a risk assessment).
It is important to understand the Solo pole range so that you can select the appropriate pole for the
task.
• Solo Height access Pole product range
• Solo 100 – 4 section telescopic pole
• Extends from 1.26m to 4.48m in 4 sections for access up to 6.00m
approx. (including height of man)
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. Weight – 1620 grams
• SPARE1000-001 End Cap For Telescopic Solo 100
• Extends from 1.27m to 2.20m In 2 sections for access up to 4.20m
approx. (including height of man).
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. weight – 610 grams
• Solo 101 – extension pole
• Extension Pole 1.13m length. Gives reach of up to 2.6m
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. Weight - 375 grams
• Solo 110 – ‘Urban’ 4 section telescopic pole
• Extends from 0.5m to 1.88m in 4 sections. For access up to 2.6m
• Dimensions – OD = 48mm Weight - 1000grams
• Solo 111 – ‘Urban’ extension pole
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• Extension pole 0.5m length. Gives reach of up to 2m
Typical Ceiling heights

It is estimated that in the UK 20% of ceilings are above 6m. A light weight pole combination to reach
most detectors would be a Solo108 and 2 x Solo 101 extensions.
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Solo Poles - Product Information
Solo height access poles are specifically designed only for use with the Solo, Testifire and TruTest
product ranges manufactured by detectortesters, allowing access to fire detectors at heights up to
9m (subject to a risk assessment).
It is important to understand the Solo pole range so that you can select the appropriate pole for the
task.
• Solo Height access Pole product range
• Extends from 1.26m to 4.48m in 4 sections for access up to 6.00m
approx. (including height of man)
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. Weight – 1620 grams
• Extends from 1.27m to 2.20m In 2 sections for access up to 4.20m
approx. (including height of man).
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. weight – 610 grams
• Solo 101 – extension pole
• Extension Pole 1.13m length. Gives reach of up to 2.6m
• Dimensions - OD = 48mm. Weight - 375 grams
• Solo 110 – ‘Urban’ 4 section telescopic pole
• Extends from 0.5m to 1.88m in 4 sections. For access up to 2.6m
• Solo 111 – ‘Urban’ extension pole
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• Extension pole 0.5m length. Gives reach of up to 2m
Typical Ceiling heights

It is estimated that in the UK 20% of ceilings are above 6m. A light weight pole combination to reach
most detectors would be a Solo108 and 2 x Solo 101 extensions.
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Recommended distance (angle)
When using Solo height access poles it is difficult to estimate angles. It is far easier to estimate the
distance from a point under the detector to the operator’s feet.
Up to 6 M height access
When working at heights up to 6 m, the maximum distance from a point on the floor, directly under
the detector to the operator’s feet, should not be greater than 1.5m. eg. Solo 108 with the
operator’s feet firmly on the ground and not standing on chair or ladder.
6m to 9 m height access
At elevated heights between 6 and 9 m, it is recommended that you always hold the Solo pole in the
vertical or near vertical
Above 9 m
Do not use Solo height access poles above 9 m. Consider other height access or test tools (Scorpion)
that are available for these situations
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Using Solo height access poles is not technically working at height as the operator’s feet should be
on the ground. However, to ensure safe use of Solo height access poles it is worth adopting a
working practice that includes precautions that are usually taken when the operator’s feet are off
the floor.
To prevent fatigue
Use appropriate pole the task

Do not over-reach or over-stretch
Do not use poles at angles greater than specified
Stand with one foot half a stride ahead of the other to increase balance and reduce strain
Where possible share testing workload
Alternate using the pole between the left and right hand side of the body
Take regular breaks
If possible rest the pole foot on the floor
Do not use height access poles if you are unwell, under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
The appropriate PPE will be dependent on the outcome of the risk assessment which will highlight
hazards with the working area.
Employers are responsible for providing, replacing and paying for personal protective equipment.
PPE should be used when all other measures are inadequate to control exposure. It protects only
the wearer, while being worn.
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Solutions to reduce risk when test and maintaining detectors at height
There are certain situations where the only suitable solution is to use ‘feet-off the ground’ height
access equipment (such cherry picker; platform or ladders etc.), when installing; commissioning or
maintaining fire detection system.
Where possible consider other solutions that enable the operator to keep feet on the ground when
carrying out ongoing maintenance of a fire detection system, which will either reduce or eliminate
risks.
Using Solo height access poles removes a lot of risks that are associated with working with ‘feet-off
the ground’ height access equipment. It does not eliminate all risks!
One option that will eliminate future operational risks associated with the ongoing maintenance of
smoke detectors mounted at height, is to install a hard-to-access test solution such as Scorpion,
which can be used for both smoke point type detectors and ASD systems
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Identifying detector under test
Identifying the detector that you are about to test is most important so that you can carry out an
appropriate test and use the correct test equipment.
• Is it a smoke, heat, CO or multisensor fire detector?

• What about domestic alarms; CO life safety or other sensors?
Importance of manufacturer’s product training cannot be under stated and will help you identify the
detector to be tested.
Heat detector can cause most issues

What is activation temperature? Will the heat tester I have activate the heat detector?
Position of thermistor can mean that a different test technique may need to be employed
for battery powered heat testers.
Product tolerances can mean that a 90°C heat detector does not activate until 100°C is
applied. This detector can still be within tolerance, but can present a testing problem to the
CP.
Multisensor
What sensors - What mode = what test tool to use
Keep Site documentation up to date
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Detector time to alarm
It is important to understand that each make and model of fire detector has a time to alarm. Further
delays can come into play from the polling of the panel to the detector and also any additional
programmed delays/configurations that can be added via the panel.
Time to alarm is particular important to be aware of for aerosol canister users (both handheld and
dispenser). Always follow instructions and take care not to over apply.
Multisensors are looking for more than one fire like phenomena. Applying just smoke to some
multisensors will not activate an alarm. Others will activate after a long delay (up to 2 mins)
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CO Detectors
Before we talk about testing CO fire detectors it is worth covering Carbon monoxide (CO) in more
detail.
What is CO?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced by incomplete
burning of carbon-based fuels, including gas, oil, wood and coal. Carbon-based fuels are safe to use.
It is only when the fuel does not burn properly that excess CO is produced, which is poisonous.
When CO enters the body, it prevents the blood from bringing oxygen to cells, tissues, and organs.
CO Fire detectors
CO detectors, if installed in the correct location, do help reduce false alarms.
CO Life safety alarms

Carbon monoxide is a product of incomplete combustion of organic matter due to insufficient
oxygen supply to enable complete oxidation to carbon dioxide (CO2). Carbon monoxide poisoning
occurs after enough inhalation of CO.
You can't see it, taste it or smell it but CO can kill quickly without warning. According to the HSE
statistics around 20 people die from CO poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues that have not
been properly installed, maintained or that are poorly ventilated. Levels that do not kill can cause
serious harm to health if breathed in over a long period. In extreme cases paralysis and brain
damage can be caused as a result of prolonged exposure to CO. Increasing public understanding of
the risks of CO poisoning and taking sensible precautions could dramatically reduce this risk.
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Exposures at 100ppm or greater, can be dangerous to human health.
CO Life safety alarms are designed to detect and activate an alarm for different CO ppm for a given
time.
CO Concentration/ppm and alarm times

30ppm no alarm before 120 minutes
50ppm no alarm before 60 minutes and alarm in less than 90 minutes
100ppm no alarm before 10 minutes and alarm in less than 40 minutes
300ppm alarm in less than 3 minutes
It is worth being aware that some of the carbon monoxide life safety gas alarms are one shot devices
and use of an Solo C3 canister could make the detector inoperative after testing. Always check with
the detector manufacturer for their recommendations
CO generation
CO can be stored or generated on demand. Older technology relies on CO being stored in a aerosol
canister and then released under the control of the user. Although the concentration of stored CO is
very low within an aerosol canister of CO test gas, concerns exist over storing CO due to potential
health hazards around CO. Testifire TC3 CO capsules overcome this fear as CO is only produced by
Testifire as and when it is required and no CO is stored.
Testifire generates CO, by heating a benign activated carbon cloth which is contained within a
replaceable capsule plugged directly into the side of a CO-enabled Testifire unit (i.e. Testifire 2000
series).
This revolutionary method of CO production and delivery eliminates the need for CO to be stored
and ensures CO is only produced when needed.
Genuine and non-flammable CO stimulus

CO only produced during test activation
Low, safe levels of CO generated only
Multiple failsafe features eliminate risk of unwanted CO
No CO stored or pressurised containers
Efficient detector activation
CO levels ppm in fire detectors

CO fire detectors typically activate between 40-100ppm (parts per million)
As we are concerned here with testing CO fire detectors the levels of CO are significantly low enough
not be of concern or danger to life.
Testifire produces approximately 100ppm of CO within the cup. This is a sufficient level to test the
CO sensors within all known CO and multisensor fire detectors on the market.
Time to alarm
As with heat and smoke detectors, the time to alarm is controlled by inbuilt delay; system wiring a
panel configuration. As previously mention CO life safety alarms can take longer to activate if
300ppm of CO is maintained during a test.
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Flammable or explosive environments
None of our products have been risk assessed or evaluated for use in such environments. We are
aware that some end users carry out their own risk assessments and have used our products in such
environments. It is an extremely costly process to make products for use in these environments, this
is the main reason why our products have not been adapted to test these type of heat detectors.
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Testing in Flammable and Explosive Environments
None of our products have been risk assessed or evaluated for use in ATEX Areas.
Fire Risk Assessment for ATEX environments

Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) of ATEX environments should be completed by a competent person and
should document the areas where Intrinsically Safe (IS) fire detectors have been installed in the
premises. It is recommended that the FRA also documents the need for a special testing procedure
to be followed to enable functional testing of the Intrinsically Safe fire detectors in a safe manner.
This may involve decommissioning or removing ATEX hazards from the area to make it safe for the
testing to be carried out in-situ.
If it is not practical to remove ATEX hazards, this would mean that testing in the installed location
will not be possible. Detectortesters would recommend the removal of the IS fire detectors from
the ATEX environment for testing in a non-ATEX environment.
This would be against the recommendation in section 45of BS5839:1 2017.
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Inspection of equipment
Technically speaking, our test equipment is not classified as height access equipment as feet are on the floor.
However, it is deemed best practice to give the same level of care when inspecting kit to avoid drops or
accidents.
Solo poles should always be inspected before and after use to make sure that no damage is
encountered.
You need to make sure that your test equipment is in good working order and is not damaged or
modified in anyway.
Check –
• Locking buttons to make sure they are not damaged; dirty and engage correctly
• Check the length of the pole for signs of damage
• Make sure that telescopic poles have the rubber foot fitted. If missing.
• Testers and removal tools should also be inspected as damaged equipment could be the cause of
an accident.
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Looking after your pole
Take care of kit

Always return poles to the protective Solo 602 pole bag when the poles are not in use
Do not leave extend poles unattended or in a way that could cause a trip hazard.
Cleaning
Most kit requires some daily attention to keep it in good condition.
Wiping with a damp cloth is recommended
Check locking buttons to make sure that they engage correctly.
Use protective bags when not in use
Do not cause a trip hazard by leaving kit around!
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This is the end of the training. What follows is a resource section for further reading and reference.
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Resources Section
This sections contains a wide range of subjects for further reading that are not covered by the
training course.
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There are number of trade organisations and companies that offer accredited training for the install,
commissioning and maintenance of fire alarm systems to BS5839 part 1 and part 6.
As a minimum requirement any person’s carrying out maintenance on a fire alarm system should
have obtained one of the above (or equivalent) qualifications.
Some of these training provider are third party certified. CPD is one method of certification
Main training course providers
Fire Industry Association (FIA)

http://www.fia.uk.com/en/Training/index.cfm
The FIA offer a number of related training course as well as a route through to IFE EngTech
Professional Recognition
Fire Safety Training Group (FSTG)

http://www.fstg.org.uk/
The British Fire Consortium (TBFC)

http://www.britishfireconsortium.org.uk/fire-alarm-technician.html
Independent Fire Engineering & Distributors Association (IFEDA)

http://www.ifeda.org/training/
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TAVCOM
http://www.tavcom.com/training-courses/fire-alarms/
NICEIC
https://www.niceic.com/contractor/training-courses/fire-alarm-and-emergency-lighting-courses
ECA/FSA
Contact them for further information
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Summary of Responsible Person’s responsibilities.
It is essential for the RP to be someone with adequate authority in the organisation. They are then
able to get things done when necessary, such as repairs to the fire alarm system, renewal of the
service contract and the relocation of goods that are blocking a fire detector or call point.
It is also important that one person has ultimate responsibility to avoid the situation where one
person might feel it is the other person’s job to do a particular task.
A BS5839-1 compliant fire alarm system should have certificates, an operation manual, as fitted
drawings, a log book and a host of other paperwork describing and documenting the system. That
paperwork should remain accessible for the life of the system so the RP should ensure that there is a
place to store the paperwork and that it is in its place.
BS5839-1 recommends that the system log book should be checked every day. This is particularly
important where shift working is carried out and a different duty officer is responsible for the fire
system on each shift. They should know whether the system has a fault, has been disabled or
whether a UFS has occurred (and might occur again if the system is not working correctly). Also the
RP needs to ensure that if a fault has occurred that it has been corrected within a reasonable time
scale.
BS5839-1 recommends that the system is tested each week at the same time and day to confirm
that it is operational and to remind building occupants what the fire alarm sounds like. It also
recommends that the system is tested once a month to demonstrate the alarm for out of ‘normal
hours’ workers.
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The FSO / FSA requires that a system of maintenance is in place to ensure that fire alarm systems are
kept in good working order. So it is legally essential as well as recognized good practice. The RP
should therefore make it a top priority to ensure that a system for service and maintenance is in place
at all times.
The log book is a power tool at keeping everyone up to speed with the status of the fire alarm system.
When intermittent faults and false alarms occur it is essential that the events are recorded so that
the CP is able to review what has happened since his last visit and look for trends that indicate
additional attention is required. The log book is the tool that should be used to facilitate this.
Generally several people in an organisation will have to operate the fire alarm system from time to
time. The RP should ensure that they are adequately training so that in the event of something
happening on the system someone is able to act quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of the
building users.
False alarms are not only annoying but they are disruptive to business operations and breed
complacency that can lead to loss of life and property. The RP should therefore ensure that false
alarms are given the appropriate level of attention to as to deal with the source of the problem and
not just the symptoms. i.e. what is actually causing the problem and what can be done about it so that
the UFS does not re-occur?
Fire alarm detectors need at least 0.5m of clear space all around them to work properly. Items of
storage or building structure closer than 0.5m will inhibit smoke or heat from getting to the detector
and may ultimately cause it to not respond to a fire condition. The RP should ensure that fire
detectors are unobstructed at all times.
MCPs similarly must be unobstructed and visible so that building occupants spot them in the event of
a fire so that the alarm can be raised at the earliest opportunity.
Building works often create the environment that can cause the fire alarm system to operate. The RP
should always therefore be in the loop when building work is done to disable and remove detectors
when appropriate and to ensure that the building works cause the minimum risk to the system and
the building occupants.
A fire alarm system is designed to operate in a specific building. If the building is extended for
materially altered in some way (a new door, stairway, change of use etc.) the fire alarm system will
need to be appropriately updated. The RP should ensure that this is done.
Also if the fire alarm system is modified the system documentation should also be updated so that it
adequately reflect the system. As fitted drawings are only of use when they detail the system as it is.
Some spare parts will be required to be held on site. This might only be a few spare MCP glass
elements, to cover the situation when the alarm is raised and the system needs to be put back to work
after the event. Very large systems, particularly when they are no longer in manufacture, may require
a much larger stock of components so that the system can be kept in good working order.
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Training the Responsible Person
This page gives basic information on the subjects that you should cover in regards to helping and
training the Responsible person to enable to fulfill their legal responsibilities.
The Responsible Person, RP, should be trained when a new fire alarm is installed by the engineer
responsible for handover. However often a fire alarm system will outlast the RP and so, while the
new RP should be trained by the outgoing RP, it is essential that the CP is prepared to provide
training for the RP when necessary.
Because the duties of a RP are rarely a full time job is it often necessary for the CP to provide
training to ‘top up’ or refresh the knowledge and understanding of the RP and in many cases it is
more effective to drip feed the information and reinforce training already provided rather than try
to impart 100% understanding in one session.
It is necessary for the RP to have a reasonable understanding of how the fire alarm system works as
well as knowing which buttons to press and what the indicator lamps mean. That way they can make
informed decisions when the unexpected or the unplanned happens.
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LOG BOOK
Tio centres around an online interactive fire safety log book – accessed whenever and
wherever needed.
• Intuitive and secure Cloud based fire log book

• Always accessible via mobile or web applications
• Never lost, unlike current paper log books
• Enables compliance with statutory audit trail requirements
• Provides proof of compliance for fire safety regulations
• Simply shared with relevant parties to communicate fire safety issues
• Creates a full fire safety history to enable the development of better practices
FALSE ALARM MANAGER

Tio makes it quick and easy. Details are shared, equipment checked, systems reviewed, false
and unwanted alarms prevented and remedies provided. You and the fire brigade save valuable
resources.
• Easily and accurately logs the details of fire equipment activations

• Shares information with fire service providers or other agencies
• Ensuring faults and issues are visible with faster remediation
• Automatically updates the Tio log book
• Assists in the fight against unwanted alarms
COMPLIANCE ASSISTANT
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Compliance reminders guide you on what to do, when and how; and its simple, intuitive design makes
record-keeping easy.
• Proactive reminders of fire safety duties and tasks (tests, inspections, evacuation drills, etc.)
• Reminders can be tailored to your requirements and needs
• Highlights the importance of fire safety tasks to those responsible
• Step by step guide of how to complete fire safety actions
• Monitor and ensure fire safety actions are being performed
IRE DOCUMENT STORAGE

There’s a place for all your fire safety documentation too: vital documents such as risk assessments,
certificates, site drawings, evacuation plans, recommendations and quotations.
Central location for all fire safety documents

• All documentation is paperless
• Fire documentation in one safe accessible place
• Fire risk assessments
• Fire equipment manuals
• Systems and site drawings
• Fire equipment commissioning certification
• Fire system configuration files
• Insurance certificates
• Share detailed site specific information with authorised 3rd parties
KEY / EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Tio keeps all your emergency contacts in the loop, not only does it keep them neatly stored within the
app; it also notifies them of any activations or reports.
• Directly call fire system monitoring centres

• Hints for passwords conveniently stored
• Contact numbers (e.g. fire service company, key holders)
• All information stored on the mobile app is instantly available even if you have no mobile signal
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RP – tests and inspections
The RP should be trained to carry out the inspections and tests that are expected of him by BS5839-
1. Although the operations are quite simple it is wise to demonstrate exactly what to do and then to
get the RP to repeat the operations to ensure that he is comfortable. A RP who is unsure of exactly
what to do is unlikely to do it, so the system will remain untested between service visits. That might
be appropriate if arrangements are made for more frequent visits, but such arrangements should be
recorded as a variation because it is a departure from the recommendations of BS5839-1.
The fire alarm panel should be inspected each day to ensure that no faults are indicated and if a fault
is indicated it should be recorded and appropriate actions taken as mentioned above.
The log book should be inspected each day to ensure that all previously recorded faults have been
cleared and if any work is still outstanding, it should be chased up.
Each week the system should be put into alarm for a short period by the operation of a different call
point. The activation should be recorded in the log book together with the location of the call point
used.
The alarms should not be allowed to operate longer than a minute and building users should be
trained (by the RP) to treat the alarm as a real fire if the alarms operate longer than the ‘usual’ time.
E.g. if 20 seconds is usual, start to evacuate after 1 minute, if 1 minute is usual start to evacuate after
2 minutes of alarm.
Where the system has a connection to an alarm receiving center or where there are connections to
fire protection equipment etc. it will be necessary to disable those outputs before the fire alarm test.
In this case the CP should ensure that the RP is able to disable and re-enable the appropriate parts
of the system and that he understands the effect of not removing the disablements after the test.
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Where a large number of items must be disabled and re-enabled each week it may be appropriate to
provide a single control to make the job easier. For example a key switch adjacent to the main fire
panel or a special switch on panel itself.
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RP duties - Monthly Tests
Out of normal working hours

BS5839-1 has some special requirements for sites with out of normal hours workers, with
emergency backup generators and where vented cells are used on the fire alarm system.
BS5839-1 recommends that where some workers only work out of normal hours and where they
might never hear the fire alarm, except in times of emergency, a regular fire test should be planned
once a month. This ensures that they are familiar with the sound of the fire alarm. Clearly if there
are, say, 3 shifts then it might be necessary to consider planning two monthly tests covering all
shifts.
The test is exactly the same as the weekly fire test, using another, different, manual call point (or
detector) as appropriate.
For those sites that have more than one signal – for example an alert signal and an evacuate signal,
then all of the fire tests should incorporate both signals in somewhat. E.g. different signals at each
subsequent test, or both signals activated at each test.
The RP should also arrange for the emergency generator to be started up and allowed to run on load
for at least one hour – so that the generator is run up to temperature – and then its fuel, oil and
coolant is checked after the test and after the engine has cooled down.
Finally where vented batteries are used then they should be checked each month to ensure that the
electrolyte level is correct and that if one or more cells are wrong that appropriate action is taken
before the battery is at risk of not performing to specification.
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Supersession:
This part of BS 5839 supersedes BS 5839:2013, which is withdrawn.
This is a full revision of the standard, and introduces the following principal changes:
a) In Clause 2:
1) BS 8591, Remote centres receiving signals from alarm systems – Code of practice replaces the
reference to BS 5979, which has been withdrawn; and
2) references have been added to:
BS EN 54-21, Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 21: Alarm transmission and fault warning
routing equipment; BS EN 54-29, Fire detection and fire alarm systems – multisensor fire detectors
– Point detectors using a combination of smoke and heat sensors; BS EN 54-30, Fire detection and
fire alarm systems – multisensor fire detectors – Point detectors using a combination of carbon
monoxide and heat sensors; and BS EN 54-31, Fire detection and fire alarm system – Part 31:
multisensor fire detectors – Point detectors using a combination of smoke, carbon monoxide and
optionally heat sensors.
b) In Clause 3, the definition of “critical signal path” has been expanded to include transmission
equipment for the routing signals to alarm receiving centres and the definition of “false alarm” has
been changed to refer to “environmental false alarms”.
c) In Section 3 a new definition of “unwanted fire signal (UFS)” has been added, taking into account
the effect on the fire and rescue service.
d) In 8.2 the multisensor detectors are now considered as one of the detection options for
Categories L3 and L4 systems and in escape routes for Category L1 systems. An informative note
explains the process of designing Category L2 systems.
e) In 11.2 and 20.2b), it is now recommended that a protective cover is fitted to a Type A manual call
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point to help prevent false alarms.
f) 11.2 now recommends that alarm transmission and fault warning routing equipment should
conform to the requirements specified in BS EN 54-21.
g) 15.2 now recommends that alarm receiving centres to which fire alarm signals are relayed should
conform to BS 8591 and have in place an agreement with the appropriate fire and rescue service to
pass on fire signals from fire alarm systems at the monitored property
h) 15.2 also includes a new recommendation that, where fire alarm signals are routed via the routing
equipment of an intruder alarm system, the standby power supplies for the routing equipment should
conform to 25.4.
i) In 19.2.2, it is acknowledged that, in premises, other than residential care homes, that generate a
high number of unwanted fire alarm signals, automatic transmission of a signal to an alarm receiving
centre may be delayed pending investigation of alarm signals from these devices.
j) A new subclause, 21.1.7 has been introduced specifically addressing video fire detectors, re-
grouping text which was in different subclauses in the 2013 edition of the code.
k) New text in 21.1.8 commentary explains detection principle choices involving single sensor
detectors and multisensor detectors.
l) Attention is drawn in Clause 22 to the need to consider field testing of hard-to-access detectors
when designing the system.
m) In 22.9 and Table 3, it is now recommended that the limits specified for ceiling heights should only
be used as guidance for vertical or flue-like structures, such as lift shafts and stairwells.
n) In 25.2, the recommendation to provide double pole isolation has been replaced with a
recommendation to provide local safe isolation. An informative note explains what is meant by
“special tool”.
o) In 26.2, the recommendations for cables, wiring and other interconnections have been updated to
reflect the currently available standards: BS EN 60702-1, BS EN 60702-2,
BS 7629-1 and BS 7846. In addition, the duration of survival of cables has been referred to the tests
in BS EN 50200 and BS 8434-2.
p) The heading of Clause 29, “Electrical safety”, has been replaced by the new heading “Electrical
Earthing”.
q) Section 3 has been expanded and introduces the concept of “unwanted fire alarm signals”. To
minimize the risk of false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals, it recommends that manual call
points should be fitted with protective covers and that systems that incorporate connection to an
alarm receiving centre should have this connection disabled during the soak period.
r) In Clause 45, recommendations have been added for:
1) measuring the battery voltage;
2) testing of multisensor fire detectors;
3) for using different types of devices when carrying system tests; and
4) checking whether a suitable zone plan has been provided.
s) There is a new Annex E (informative), which gives advice regarding selection and application of
fire detectors.
t) Annex F in the 2013 edition, which gave guidance on visual alarm device illumination
characteristics, has been removed as it duplicated the information in the referenced code:
LPS CoP 0001 [1]
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re-instated.
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Testing multisensors - BS 5839:1 2017 - 45.4 j)
Multisensor detectors should be operated by a method that confirms that products of combustion in
the vicinity of the detector can reach the sensors and that a fire signal can be produced as
appropriate.
1. The guidance of the manufacturer on the manner in which the detector can be functionally
tested effectively should be followed.
2. Multisensor fire detectors should be physically tested by a method that confirms that products
of combustion in the vicinity of the detector can reach the sensors and that the appropriate
response is confirmed at the CIE.
3. Where the detector or system design permits, each sensor on which a fire detection decision
depends (e.g. smoke, heat, CO) should be physically tested individually.
4. On completion of tests the system should be returned to its normal configuration.
5. Alternatively, individual sensors may be physically tested together if the detection system
design allows simultaneous stimuli and individual sensor responses to be verified either
individually or collectively
Notes
NOTE 6 Suitable test methods for each type of sensor are as described in this subclause, e.g. for heat
sensors, see 45.4c).
NOTE 7 Where individual sensors cannot be tested individually, this recommendation does not apply.
NOTE 8 Where a system includes a time-related configuration of detection, care needs to be taken to
ensure that a sensor is not excluded from being tested as a result of the time-dependent mode.
NOTE 13 Since stimulus of the sensing element through introduction of the phenomena or surrogate
110
phenomena which the above detectors are designed to detect forms part of the test, use of a test button or a
test magnet (for example) or compliance with 45.4i) does not satisfy the recommendations given.•
110
BS 5839: 2017 – Testing Aspirating Fire detection systems
f) Aspirating fire detection and fire alarm systems should be functionally tested by a method that
confirms that smoke can enter the detector chamber and produce a fire alarm signal. It should be
ensured that the material used does not cause damage to or affect the subsequent performance of
the detectors; the manufacturer’s guidance on suitable materials should be followed.
Furthermore, appropriate testing should be performed to verify that smoke is able to enter each
sampling point (or collection of sampling points that are recommended by the manufacturer to
cover the same area as a point smoke detector).
NOTE 3 This can be achieved by introducing smoke into each sampling point in turn and verifying a
response at the detector.
However, where access is restricted or other site conditions prevent this, other verification
techniques should be employed such as:
I) verifying transport time from furthest hole or a dedicated test point and comparing with
previously recorded results to identify deviations;
111
Revised system grading for fire detection and fire alarm systems:
Whilst BS 5839-6 has previously been split into six varying Grades, each outlining the level of
protection appropriate for certain properties and their corresponding levels of risk, the new update
has altered the six sections, removing Grade B and Grade E, whilst Grade D and Grade F have been
split into Grade D1 / Grade D2 and Grade F1 / Grade F2 respectively. Grade C has been revised and
its recommendations expanded.
The new grading system is as follows:
Grade A
Separate detectors, sounders and central control and indicating equipment with back-up power
supply that conforms to British Standards BS EN 54.
Grade C
Separate detectors and sounders that are mains powered with back-up power supply and central
control equipment.
Grade D1
A system of one or more mains powered detectors, each with a tamper-proof standby supply
consisting of a battery or batteries
Grade D2
A system of one or more mains-powered detectors, each with an integral standby supply consisting
of a user-replaceable battery or batteries.
Grade F1
A system of one or more battery-powered detectors powered by a tamper-proof primary battery or
batteries Grade F2
A system of one or more battery-powered detectors powered by a user-replaceable primary
battery or batteries. Grades B and E have become obsolete in the latest version.
112
3 categories for fire detection and fire alarm systems
LD1 - all areas where a fire could start

Alarms in all circulation spaces that form part of escape routes and all areas where a fire might start,
but not bathrooms, shower rooms or toilets, such as:
• Hallway
• Landing
• Living Room
• Kitchen
• Bedroom
• Airing / Meter Cupboards
• Loft
• Garage
LD2 - circulation spaces and high-risk rooms

Alarms in all circulation spaces that form part of escape routes and rooms or areas that present a high
fire risk such as:
• Hallway
• Landing
• Living Room
• Kitchen
LD3 - escape routes only

Alarms in all circulation spaces that form part of escape routes such as:
1. Hallway
2. Landing
Carbon Monoxide
Mains powered Carbon Monoxide alarms conforming to BS EN 50291 and installed in compliance
with BS EN 50292 may also be interlinked with the fire detection and alarm system if the
manufacturer of all the components makes such a recommendation.
Updated Testing Schedule

• All systems, other than Grade A systems, should be tested at least every month.
• In the case of smoke alarms and any heat alarms, this test may be carried out by use of a test
button on each of the smoke alarms, heat alarms and multi-sensor alarms installed in the
premises.
• If a fire alarm has no test button, assistance with testing should be a sought from a fire service
company. In case of linked alarms, the "one alarm, all alarm" feature must be verified. The alarm
should be visually inspected, and any defects should be noted for action.
112
What is third party certification?
Third party certification is an assessment carried out to ensure compliance with a publicly available
technical specification, such as SP203. Importantly, the assessment is carried out by an
independent, third party organization that is qualified and licensed to issue certification
when the assessment is successfully completed.
This means that rather than an organization or company claiming to comply with industry standards,
they have taken their commitment to quality further and invited in an external third party to verify
that their product or service does indeed comply with the industry standards.
The Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) has recommended to its members new guidelines from
1st September 2008 which urge them to require that all those involved in the design, installation,
commissioning/handover and maintenance of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems are members
of Third Party Certification Bodies who are in turn UKAS Accredited for Fire Alarm Systems.
Under the RRO the responsible person should look to enlist a competent person from a third party
certified company
There are a number of organisations that can offer third party certification
BAFE and BRE offer similar third party certification that fire maintenance companies can be audited
against. LPS1014 was around first and then BAFE took it on and made it more modular and to bring
it to a wider audience.
The scheme originated from the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) in the early 90’s, as
113
means of controlling the entire design to servicing life cycle for alarm and detection companies with
the aim of providing traceability throughout the work programme by means of certificates of
conformity.
Third Party certification is not mandatory.
Third party certification can be gained via –

BRE - Building Research Establishment
http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=1764
BAFE - British Approvals for Fire Equipment

http://www.bafe.org.uk/schemes-detail.php?id=0000000005
NSI – National Security Inspectorate

http://www.nsi-fire.org.uk/
(mainly intruder alarm companies that also maintain fire alarm systems)
SSIB - Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board

http://www.ssaib.org/MainCat.asp?id=5
Who are UKAS?

The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) operates on behalf of the Government under a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and accredits (approves) Certification Bodies, test
laboratories and inspection bodies as conforming to European or International standards.
113
114
How do I carry out a risk assessment?
There is no set way of undertaking a risk assessment but the simplest and most straightforward way
is to consider following the five steps in the HSE leaflet:
1. Identify the hazards

2. Decide who might be harmed and how
3. Evaluate the risks and decide on precaution
4. Record your findings and implement them
5. Review your assessment and update if necessary
A risk assessment is only effective if you and your staff act on the findings. It is important you follow
through with any actions required and review the assessment on a regular basis.
It is recommended to take further guidance and training so that you have the required knowledge to
perform a risk assessment. See the HSE
website. http://www.hse.gov.uk/contact/faqs/riskassess.htm for more information.
115
116
Standards and regulations
Working at height Directive of 2005
A recommendation in this directive is that all height access equipment should be inspected before
and after use. Check for cracks or damage to each pole section and ensure that all locking buttons
and end caps are present and working. If any damage or problem is found, please do not use the
equipment and contact detectortesters technical support for additional help –
support@detectortesters.com.
Reference should be made to the Working at Height Directive of 2005 -
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg401.pdf
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Head, Hand and Eye and other PPE may be considered appropriate depending on the hazards of the
workplace in question. To allow the right type of PPE to be chosen, carefully consider the different
hazards in the workplace. This will enable you to assess which types of PPE are suitable to protect
against the hazard and for the job to be carried out. Carrying out a risk assessment will identify the
PPE requirements.
Important Note: The use of Solo height access pole does not mean that appropriate PPE is required.
It is the potential hazards of the particular environment that the Solo height access poles are being
used in that will determine what PPE is required.
Further information can be obtained from the Health and Safety Executive website.
A short guide to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (leaflet INDG174(rev1))
Risk assessment
Detectortesters (No Climb products limited) always recommend that a suitable risk assessment is
carried out by a competent person prior to using any height access equipment including Solo height
access poles.
If you require more details on how to carry out a risk assessment please see the Five steps to risk
assessment leaflet (INDG163(rev2)) on the Health and Safety Executive website
Provision and use of work equipment regulations 1998 (PUWER)
117
Solo poles are work equipment subject to the requirements of the provision and use of work
equipment regulations 1998 (PUWER). http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg291.pdf
PUWER also recommends Pre-use visual and regular documented management inspections. In
practice three monthly written inspections are recommended. Procedures should be in place for
handling any defects found that would include repair or replacement.
RIDDOR is the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995.
Reporting accidents and ill health at work is a legal requirement. All users of Solo poles should be
aware of this regulation.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/
117
BAMA (British Aerosol Manufacturing Association)
Have an information sheet on the disposal of aerosol canister products.
76% of local authorities in the UK accept empty aerosols for recycling. Please check with you local
recycling point.
It is important to make sure that aerosol is fully exhausted (empty) before recycling. You are not
allowed to recycle part used or full aerosol products.
Remove the plastic nozzle and cap and place in the container for recycling canisters. The plastic
nozzle and cap can also be recycled.
Aerosol canister are NOT covered by the WEEE directive.
http://www.bama.co.uk/pdf/Aerosols_Explained/08%20Aerosols%20Explained%20-
%20Aerosol%20Recycling.pdf
118
Fact File 53 Guide to Guide to tests and inspections
https://www.fia.uk.com/uploads/assets/uploaded/47d35d90-3ac2-4032-93194cbfa0ce201e.pdf
Fact File 21 Guide to Point Detector Cleanliness
http://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/fact-file-21-guide-to-point-detector-cleanliness.html
Guidance Lead Acid batteries in FDA Systems
http://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/guidance-lead-acid-batteries-in-fda-systems.html
Guidance Code Multisensors, Fire detectors
http://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/fia-guidance-code-multi-sensor-fire-detectors--pdf.html
FIA Infographics – How to cut false alarms
119
Testifire Case Study: Apollo
When called upon to support the commissioning of a new fire detection system at a large
commercial building in Hamburg, Apollo used Testifire, the three in one test tool, to carry out a
functional check on each detector.
The job involved complete replacement of an out dated system, in total this amounted to around
2500 Apollo Discovery Multisensors being installed. Once installed each detector required a
functional test to ensure it was operating correctly and was fit for purpose, this in itself was quite a
task with all detectors requiring testing for both smoke and heat.
Having approved Testifire for use with their detectors, Apollo’s technical team decided this project
would be an ideal opportunity to give the Testifire a thorough evaluation under working conditions.
Technicians set about testing the detectors and as they did impressive findings were discovered.
“Testing multiple sensors with one tool saved us a significant amount of time.” commented Simon
Flavell, Technical Sales Supervisor at Apollo. “We were informed it would increase productivity on-site
but the savings went beyond anything we had expected.” He added. In fact by using Testifire the
engineers were able to save around four and half minutes on each detector. “Prior to Testifire we
would normally have expected to spend five minutes testing each detector,” commented Simon. Using
Testifire removed the need to switch head units and allowed test engineers to programme the test
sequence to automatically test smoke and heat without lowering the tester. “We were amazed to find
that we could test both sensors on each detector in around thirty seconds which over the course of a day
represented a huge saving.”
Testifire is available in two formats. The Testifire 1000 offers testing for smoke and heat sensors
and the Testifire 2000 adds the benefit of testing CO. For more information visit www.testifire.com
120
Solo battery baton and chargers
As with lots portable tools and gadgets these days most are powered by NiMH or Lithium battery
packs. (NiCad's on the whole have been replaced long ago). Many of us do not appreciate that
rechargeable batteries have a serviceable life and will at some time need to be replaced.
Typical life expectancy for lithium or NiMH battery packs is around 500 recharges or 2-3 years,
after such time the period between charging starts to decrease as the cells start to deteriorate.
Once the battery usage time is less than the charge time, it is recommended to replace the battery.
(charge times: Up to 90 mins for Solo battery batons and 2 hours for the Solo 365 lithium battery
pack).
How you look after your rechargeable battery packs will also have an impact on the serviceable life
of a rechargeable battery pack.
In particular, insulating or exposing a charging battery pack to any form of external heat is not a
good idea and at best is going to shorten the life or may be cause battery pack to deform and be
completely unusable.
Solo battery baton and charger compatibility

Solo 727 Mk2 is compatible with both Solo 760 (2.2Ah) and Solo 770 (3Ah)
Solo 727 is a 3.0Ah charger designed to be used with the Solo 770, 3.0Ah battery baton
Solo 365 (lithium) battery and charger

Spare 1060-001 is compatible with the Solo 370 lithium battery.
121
Discontinued chargers and battery batons
Solo 727 Mk1 is a 3Ah charger designed to be used only with Solo 770 (3Ah) nattery baton
Solo 726 is a 2.2Ah charger designed to be used with the Solo 760, (2.2Ah) battery baton
Solo 725 is a 2.2Ah charger and was designed to charge Solo 720 (2.2Ah) Nicad)
Note: If you connect a Solo 727 charger to a Solo 760, it will not work! The Solo 727 charger is wired
to be fail safe so that the smaller capacity battery cannot be over charged. See further information
here - http://www.detectortesters.com/blog/product-update-solo-battery-batons-charger/
Charging in a vehicle (12 volts)

When charging the battery pack in the vehicle, it can be fairly common practice to place the charger
and battery in the foot well of the car and if it is cold outside, the car/van heater may be set to
maximum and heat applied to the foot well. The battery will soon start to overheat which can lead to
cell damage or in extreme cases physically deformed battery packs.
There are other scenarios where a battery under charge may be inadvertently placed in direct
sunlight; close to a source of heat or even charged within an insulated sleeve in a bag which will also
cause the cells in the battery baton to overheat.
Another consideration is to make sure that the power supply that the Solo charger is attached to is
not going to be interrupted as this will cause the charging cycle to restart and can also lead to the
battery overheating.
In the Solo 727/726 instructions it does state that if the battery becomes hot to touch (55/60°C) then
the battery and charger should be disconnected.
121
The Solo 726 and 727 look very similar although have different charging capacities.
Both chargers use the same single (multi-coloured) LED to indicate function. The various LED
colours and flash sequences are printed on the front of the Solo 726 and 727 chargers.
122
Solo 365 Lithium battery and charger
Solo 365 has an all new internal Lithium battery and universal USB charger, with adapters for the
following regions -
• UK
• Europe
• US
• Australia
The Solo 365 charger is rated at 1.8A. Many users may use aftermarket alternative chargers. Make
sure you are aware of the charging current. Modern Smart Phone chargers, charge at 2.1 or 2.4A
these chargers are fine to use. If you use a lower powered 1.2A charger, the Solo 370 will not fully
charge and the battery LED indicator may stay Red and not change to Green to indicate battery is
charged.
The micro USB lead that is supplied is specifically designed for efficient and fast charging of the Solo
370, use of an alternative micro USB lead may cause the Red LED to flash, especially if the lead is
long and the conductors are thin.
If in doubt, always used the supplied charger and lead, which are available to purchase separately
under part number - Spare1060-001
123
Other sources of information
Internet forums and Social media can be a great source of information and help.
The above Facebook groups are closed and you need to apply to join.
124
125

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Revision Date: 16/03/2020 v2

This is a CPD Endorsed training course

Recommended Code of Practice

BS 5839-1:2017 is a code of practice, and therefore, consists of guidance and recommendations. As

Fire Risk Assessment

The responsible person for the premises is also required to:

Third party certification

Are you competent or just capable?

Hackitt report “Golden Thread of Information”

Localism Act 2011

Other FRS have since followed.

London Fire Brigade are now charging

All recommendations; which also including non-compliance with BS 5839 as well as

• BS 5839 1: 2017 Note 13 - Real Stimuli Required

• BS 5839 1: 2017 Clause 45.4 - All Stimulus Entry

• BS 5839 Part 1: 2017 45.4 (c) - Heat detector testing

• BS5839 1:2017 Clause 45.4 (d) - Smoke

• BS 5839 1: 2017 Note 13 - Real Stimuli Required

• BS 5839 1: 2017 Clause 45.4 - All Stimulus Entry

• BS 5839 Part 1: 2017 45.4 (c) - Heat detector testing

• BS5839 1:2017 Clause 45.4 (d) - Smoke

Identifying a multisensor configuration

Best Practice for testing multisensor detectors

Activation LED v Panel readout

FIA multisensor testing guide lines

Two methods of testing are recommended within BS5839:1 2017

Health & Safety

Visual inspection (I.2)

Functional testing (I.4)

Aico/Ei recommendation for functional testing is as follows –

In 3,000 fires in commercial premises, automatic fire detectors failed to operate

Cut false Alarm costs – FIA initiative

Remember modern properly maintained systems rarely suffer equipment malfunctions!

What are the differences?

Fixed temperature which will operate when it is exposed to a pre-determined temperature.

The second type operates on the rate of temperature rise.

Carbon Monoxide detector

Multi sensor detector

• Accidental damage (particularly to manual call points)

• Cutting, welding and similar “hot work”

• Processes that produce smoke or flame

• Smoke from sources other than a fire in the building

Additional help on UFS

Responsibilities of the service organisation

UFS - What can you do?

• Make the RP aware of consequences

• Record each incident of a UFS

• Review UFS with RP at each visit

• BS5839:1 2017 Annex E

• Keep up with best practices and changes in standards

• FIA Infographics – How to cut false alarms

Product range includes: -

Aerosol canister do have the following drawbacks/concerns –

Cartridges and Capsules

Detectortesters Aerosol Changes Infographic: https://www.detectortesters.com/wp-

Symptoms and causes

Nuisance Re-alarm causes-

Slow or non-activation causes

General storage guidelines

BAMA (British Aerosol Manufacturers Association) recommendations

Aerosols are pressurised so please remember:

Aerosols contain a concentrated product so:

The contents of an aerosol may be flammable so: