Fire alarm records

[Tom Sutton]

I test my fire call points on a weekly basis and log the results in my fire log book. How long do I need to keep these records for? At present I have 7 years worth.

I know we had a thread on how long should we keep FRA's records what about this guy?

[Messy]

The Fire Safety Order makes no requirement to record maintenance activities, let alone keep any such records for a set period.

So the only comments possible must surely be advice and best practice, rather than any statutory obligation?

[Clevelandfire 3]

no set time frame. id keep records for atleast two years as will show any inspector that you havent just filled in the book before he or she came!

[Mike Buckley]

I would agree with two or three years that way the records would show not only that you are testing the system but also that the system is receiving regular maintenance by a competent person. As well as the inspector, if things do go pear shaped you will have the evidence for the court as well.

[Tom Sutton]

Thanks guys and for advice and best practice I would use BS 5839 Part 1 AMD 2013 which recommends keeping records, but nothing on how long to retain them. I would say keep them as long as they are of some use and give an arbitrary time, as suggested, of two to three years is about right.

[AnthonyB]

I usually advise the year being completed and the whole of the previous year as a guide as it allows ease of demonstration of most tests including the once a year only stuff like EL duration tests, etc.