Publication of BS 5839-1:2025 Issued for Fire Alarm Systems in Non-Domestic Premises
The long-awaited revision of British Standard Code of Practice BS 5839-1:2017 for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises has been published this week (30th April 2025).
BS 5839-1:2025 relating to the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems came into effect on 30th April 2025 and supersedes BS 5839-1:2017 which is now withdrawn. The revision has been designed to enhance fire protection, reduce risk and support safety for building occupants in the event of a fire.
This is a full revision of the Standard and includes significant technical changes with respect to BS 5839-1:2017 and aims to provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date recommendations and guidance on system planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance. Changes include:
- The introduction of a new section on extensions and modifications
- The siting recommendations for manual call points have been simplified
- Variations from the recommendations of certain clauses are now deemed unacceptable
NSI certified companies are regularly updated on new and revised Standards and the latest information on BS 5839-1:2025 can be obtained in NSI Circular Letter 005/25 and Technical Bulletin 0070 issued this week which highlights the major changes incorporated into the revision. The NSI Circular Letter also provides information for certified companies on the required implementation timescale. Access to these documents is via the Approved Company Login area of the NSI website.
Any organisation wishing to obtain digital or hard copies of BS 5839-1:2025 may do so from NSI at a discounted rate. The Standard is also available for NSI certified companies and applicants via NSI’s Standards on Subscription Service. Find out more about accessing Standards through NSI.