ad hoc fire practice notices

[shaggy]

Just recently ive noticed a few signs in commercial premises and accomodation blocks stating " A fire alarm test will take place at ....time on...day.No action to be taken"

What would the consequences be if say on that time ,on that day a fire did actually occur...and people already being informed not to take any action,didnt take any action?

Id welcome any views on this matter from any qualified FP department

[Redone]

Normally the test only runs for a short period, long enough for door release devices to actuate for example, would expect full evacuation if the alarm continues.

[nearlythere]

Not very clever at all. In fact, quite stupid.

[kurnal]

It just needs a tweek.Its a good idea because all persons, aware that a test is to be undertaken are more likely to report problems- if they dont hear the alarm for example. It just needs a contingency plan for a real fire- such as changing the notice to say that if the alarm operates more than once to treat it as an emergency and evacuate the building. If there is a tannoy system its much easier- you can announce test starting and finishing.

[John Dragon]

What is your alternative? - don't do the test?

What do they do when maintenance company comes in to test the whole system?

[John Webb]

Can I suggest amended wording such as:
"The fire alarm will be tested today at ...... and will sound briefly.
No action is required unless the alarm sounds continuously
when the building should be evacuated."

People should be able to distinguish between a brief sounding and a prolonged one, particularly if the testing is regularly done.

[nearlythere]

What is your alternative? - don't do the test?

What do they do when maintenance company comes in to test the whole system?

Of course do the test. But the signage suggestion is "No action to be taken". ie. do nothing. Does that also mean not to report to someone if you can't hear it?