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Reviewed 25.10.2026England focus

Jasmine Gokmen
In forceFire & Building Safety

BS 5839-1: Fire detection and fire alarm systems

Design, installation, commissioning and maintenance

Design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises.

Also known as: BS5839-1, BS 5839-1, fire alarm, fire detection

Jurisdiction
UK
Document type
Technical standard
Edition
Current edition
Source updated
Not stated by publisher
Applies from
—
Topic
Fire & Building Safety

Key requirements

  • Defines system categories, including life protection and property protection.
  • Covers detection coverage, alarm audibility and control equipment.
  • Requires commissioning and clear documentation.
  • Sets out routine testing and maintenance regimes.
  • Should be coordinated with the fire strategy and evacuation plan.

Performance at a glance

System categories
L · P · M
Scope
Non-domestic premises

Applies to

Non-domestic premises in the UK.

Official source

BSI Knowledge — BS 5839-1

Open official source

Related records

Part B · Fire safetyBS 9999 · Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildingsBS 5266-1 · Emergency lighting

Reviewed 25 October 2026. This summary is an editorial reference, not legal advice. Check the current official text and confirm the approach with building control before relying on it. Browse all 35 records.