CFOA Guideline For The Reduction Brochure FINAL June 2014 PDF

CFOA Guidance for the
Reduction of False Alarms

& Unwanted Fire Signals
Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA)
CFOA is a professional membership association

and a registered charity that has been representing
the fire service in their aspirations to protect the
communities they serve for more than 60 years.
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voice of the sector.
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2
Contents
04 Foreword CFOA
04 Foreword Industry & Partners
04 Background
06 Introduction 24 Glossary and References
07 The Aims of this Guidance 26 Appendix A FAMOs and Remote Monitoring

Relationships
08 Impact Of False Alarms
29 Appendix B FAMO: Code of Practice
08 Impact Of Unwanted Fire Signals
12 Figure 1 Call filtering
09 Summary Of Guidance Processes
Required for Effective UwFS Reduction 20 Figure 2 FRS Response & Charging
10 Guidance Operation A Tool Kit Approach 26 Figure 3 Fire alarm Monitoring

organisation/Service provider/
14 FRS Attendance Levels End user
15 Performance levels and the resolution process 28 Figure 4 FAMO Example

approach to call handling
16 Dealing with poor performance
22 CFOA Guidance: Forms & Letters
22 CFOA Guidance: Access, Revision and Version Control
22 Data Protection
22 Advertising and use of FRS or CFOA Identity
22 CFOA Liability
23 Certification Schemes for Automatic Fire Detection

and Fire Alarm Systems
23 Certification Schemes for Alarm Receiving Centres

& Telecare Service Providers
3
Welcome
1 Foreword Chief Fire Officers' Association (CFOA)

The Chief Fire Officers Association Fire Services and achieve a greater in false alarms and unwanted fire
(CFOA) is pleased to publish this degree of consistency as possible, the signals. They also all want to know
Guidance for the Reduction of False likelihood is that different approaches quickly when a real fire has started
Alarms and Unwanted Fire Signals. will continue across the United and a message sent through these
Kingdom. Therefore this document partners so that an attendance by
False alarms and unwanted fire is provided as guidance and not a the FRS can be made thus avoiding
signals continue to be a real problem protocol. unnecessary risk to life and property.
for both businesses and the Fire and
Rescue Service (FRS). The previous It has become evident through the CFOA believes that this guidance
CFOA Protocol, which this replaces, development of this guidance that is only the starting point in a closer
created an over expectation with there is an equal responsibility upon working relationship between
other partners and stakeholders that Business, Alarm Receiving Centres these partners to achieve greater
a consistent approach was going (ARCs) and the FRS to work together consistency, call reductions and
to be achieved across all Fire and to reduce False Alarms and unwanted response when required. In so doing
Rescue Authorities. fire signals. Therefore CFOA is businesses will be free to grow
delighted that representatives of without the disruption of unwanted fire
The reality is that Fire Authorities Business and ARCs have been fully signals or escalating fires and FRS
are independent, operate in very involved in the development of the will concentrate decreasing resources
different governance models and guidance and have added their name on preventing fires, and responding
have differing priorities and funding to this document. when really necessary.
pressures. Therefore, although
CFOA will continue to draw together One thing is clear; Business, ARCs Dave Curry, CFOA Director
and all FRS want to see a reduction
2 Foreword Industry & Partners

The past 10 years has seen a reduction alarms can be achieved. The industry Security Policy as a means to
in false alarms from AFA systems but welcomes this new policy as a tool to improve the management of call
the fire industry still has work to do if help achieve this common goal. For handling of fire alarm systems.
it is to achieve further reductions. No consideration of future development
single action will achieve this, but by of this guidance, the industry would Industry Partners Joint Statement
working in partnership, together with also welcome the introduction of FIA, BSIA, TSA, FSA, NSI, SSAIB.
the introduction of new technology, Unique Reference Numbers (URN)
our common goal of minimal false in a similar manner to the ACPO
3 Background
Over many years the FRS have been a reduction in calls to attend false In England and Wales, FRS continue
working with partners to reduce the alarms and an introduction of non- to attend a large number of false
number of Unwanted Fire Signals attendance to AFA policies by some alarms that are generated by AFA
(UwFS) that are generated from FRS. However, despite this reduction, systems. The CLG Fire Statistics
premises protected by automatic it remains clear that there is still the Monitor reports that, although reduced
fire detection and fire alarm (AFA) need for significant improved action, by some 37% in ten years, there were
systems. A considerable reduction associated with the management still 249,000 fire false alarms attended
(about a third) has been seen in of false alarms and the numbers of from April 2011 to March 2012. The
recent years. This is both due to resulting UwFS. cost of responding to AFA false alarms
4
has been estimated to be some British Security Industry Association The Guidance has formed the basis
700 million per year in England and (BSIA) a Model Agreement between for many FRS policies on this issue
Wales (CLG: Costs and benefits of Fire and Rescue Authorities and and has led to many examples of
alternative responses to Automatic Users of Remotely Monitored Fire best practice with industry partners.
Fire Alarms, 2008). Alarm Systems (Model Agreement Individual FRS have to now consider
for RMFAS) published September new response strategies to AFA
These figures indicate that, 2004, was developed to address the systems to reduce the overall
despite reductions, responding recommendations included in the cost of response to such calls
to AFA false alarms continues to HMFI thematic report. It attempted and to meet the requirements of
effect considerable drain on FRS to clarify the relationship between locally determined Integrated Risk
resources. Responding to false those responsible for the protected Management Plans. In addition the
alarm calls diverts FRS resources premises, the fire alarm service Localism Act has provided Fire &
away from attending actual incidents provider, the Alarm Receiving Centres Rescue Authorities with the power
or undertaking Fire Prevention and (ARCs) and the FRS. to put in place a charging policy in
Protection work as well as introducing support of its strategy to deal with
risks to fire fighters and the general Since the first model agreement was
unwanted fire signals from automatic
public in mobilising and attending put in place by CFOA and its partners
fire detection systems.
unnecessary calls under blue light on this issue, a number of revisions
conditions. and updates have been promulgated This new guidance has been
in an effort to continually reduce produced in recognition of these
The clear benefits that AFA systems further the numbers of false alarms changes and it continues to advocate
can offer is not disputed. The early from AFA systems and subsequent a partnership approach as being the
warning of fire is essential to protect unwanted fire signals. best way to deal with the problem
both life and property and research of UwFS from AFA systems. Clear
The most recent document CFOA
has proved that AFA-detected fires responsibilities and expectations
Protocol for the Reduction of
tend to be smaller than person exist between all of the stakeholders
False Alarms and Unwanted Fire
detected fires and generally require namely, the responsible person at the
Signals (2010), aimed to ensure
less effort to extinguish when the premises, the alarm receiving and
improvements leading to;
FRS response arrives. This also monitoring centres, the industry sector
assists with protecting business The improved design and responsible for the design, installation,
assets, business continuity and installation of fire alarm systems. servicing and maintenance of the
community resilience system and the FRS.
The improved consistency in
A report on the measures taken and approach across FRS.
The guidance provides a Tool Kit
action required to reduce the number Significant reductions in FRS approach for FRS to formulate their
of false alarms from AFA systems in attendance of false alarms local strategies and policies and
England and Wales was published protecting valuable resources. provides options for dealing with poor
by the Home Office in March 2001. performance.
This report, entitled "Reducing Improved industry awareness
False Alarms - Reduction through leading to better servicing, The aim of the guidance should be for
Partnership, the report of a thematic maintenance and guidance. all stakeholders to work together to
inspection by HM Fire Services Improved compliance with fire ensure that, ignoring persistent false
Inspectorate" (HMFI), identified many safety legislation. alarms rather than fixing the problem,
issues that required action. is not acceptable.
Significant improvements in
With the assistance of the Fire protecting persons from fire through
Industry Association (FIA) and the improved fire safety measures.
5
Introduction and The Aims of this Guidance
4 Introduction
The guidance outlined in this no single solution to the UwFS issue. responsibility to promote best practice
document has been widely consulted It recognises that a holistic approach in the management of those fire alarm
and developed with stakeholders is required to encourage and ensure systems it monitors.
representing the fire alarm industry the cultural change required from
and FRS in order to reduce the FRS, the Fire Industry, the business This guidance provides clear direction
occurrence of false alarms from community and the general public in to Fire and Rescue Services, Fire
automatic fire detection and fire order to promote a sustained reduction Alarm Monitoring Organisations
alarm systems and to manage the in the number of UwFS to FRS. (FAMOs) and to those people in
appropriate FRSs response to UwFS. Industry and Commerce that have a
It is essential that FRS operate responsibility for building management
This guidance applies to all premises within a framework to reduce UwFS. in their responsibilities towards false
which are or will be installed with an This can be achieved through alarm and UwFS issues.
AFA system. the widespread adoption and
implementation of this guidance. FAMOs signing up to the CoP will
There are two distinct elements which promote the best practices outlined
this guidance seeks to address: Co-operation and understanding in this guidance and provide the
cannot be expected from companies consistent approach that will be a
False alarms which may contribute operating across various regions in welcome improvement in this area
to fire safety issues. the UK when each FRS operates of alarm operation.
UwFS which impact on the FRSs a local policy which details the
resource response to AFA systems. Widespread implementation will
resources.
FRS attention has turned over recent encourage our fire industry partners
If we succeed in reducing false years to changing the response to to work with us in the development
alarms, UwFS will also reduce. AFA systems in line with risk. The and review of the FAMO elements of
However the reduction of UwFS to historical cautious presumption that the guidance. This guidance provides
FRSs does not necessarily reduce the call is genuine, until proved a clear and structured strategy that
false alarms and therefore may leave otherwise, is becoming more difficult will, where adopted, lead to sustained
fire safety issues unaddressed. to sustain with the large numbers of reductions in false alarms and UwFS
This may not only lead to business false alarms being generated and and provides a framework for all FRS,
disruption but also to complacency of the ever more stringent requirements the Fire Industry and Business in
the alarm system by the occupants. for managing the health and safety which to operate.
of fire fighters as well as the public.
The guidance also seeks to address Reducing the overall cost of response
the issue of a relatively small number to AFA calls is now a driving factor for
of premises generating a large most FRS.
number of false alarms and UwFS.
However it recognises that a large CFOA recognise the differences
proportion of the total false alarms between Telecare Service Providers
come from premises producing just (TSPs) and traditional security based
one or two false alarms per year. ARCs. However CFOA regards
that any organisation considering
The guidance recognises that there is monitoring fire alarms has a
6
5 The Aims of this Guidance
To reduce the number of false Responsible Persons Industry
alarms generated by AFA systems. To ensure the AFA system is Designers, installers and
To reduce the number of UwFS designed installed, commissioned, maintainers are to ensure that
sent to FRS. managed and maintained in systems comply with the relevant
accordance with British Standards British Standards (or their
To provide a working framework
so as to minimise the potential for equivalent), that systems are
that offers a sufficient level of
false alarms. maintained accordingly and that all
flexibility, whilst establishing
necessary co-operation is provided
a structure with sufficient To establish a level of co-operation
to the Responsible Person.
consistency to satisfy the legal with installers and or maintainers
and other operating obligations and monitors to support the FAMOs are to operate in
of practitioners. above. accordance with the Code
of Practice attached to this
To have effective procedures in
document.
place so that an alarm actuation
is managed appropriately to
Fire Rescue Services
minimise UwFS calls and ensure,
To provide a framework of best
as much as reasonably possible,
practice that will encourage the
that a call being passed to FRS is
adoption of effective management
a fire event.
practices. These will be designed
To duly consider the appointment to improve local response to AFA
of 3rd party certificated signals whilst including a level of
professionals as necessary flexibility that allows for vigorous
to support comprehensive FRS filtering techniques with
management of the AFA system appropriate support through risk
and its function. analysis.
7
Impacts and Summary of Guidance Processes
6 Impact of False Alarms 7 Impact of Unwanted Fire Signals

Disruption of business (downtime, Diverting essential services from Disruption to training of
time wasted, loss of business emergencies (putting life and operational personnel.
and theft). property at risk).
Impact on the environment of
Erode users confidence in the Cost to business of retained fire unnecessary appliance movements
value and reliability of AFA systems fighters being released. (noise, air and traffic pollution).
and discourage people from taking
Unnecessary risk to crew & public Drain on public finances.
these systems seriously.
whilst responding (accidents).
The impact on Responsible
False alarms unnecessarily
Disruption to arson reduction, Persons (RP) where persistent
transmitted to FAMOs impacts on
prevention, community safety mismanagement of fire alarm
their resources. Whilst dealing
(education, domestic smoke signals has resulted in withdrawal
with false alarm alerts, operators
alarm fitting) & business support of AFA attendance.
are unavailable to deal with real
activities. Disruption to training of
emergencies. Financial impact on premises
operational personnel.
where FRS apply charging for
attending false alarms.
8
8 Summary of Guidance Processes Required for Effective UwFS Reduction
NB: Where FRS employ a nil This will be supported by: Implementing the appropriate FRS
response to groups of premises types The uniform adoption of this response (including pre-determined
as opposed to targeting of specific Guidance by FRS. attendance (PDA) response,
system poor performance, they must AFA response, full emergency
Promoting the use of competent
recognise that it will not be possible response or a follow-up response
persons in the design, installation,
to appreciate the full benefits of the (community fire safety and/or fire
commissioning, management
holistic approach. FRS that engage safety regulation response) to
and maintenance of systems.
with RPs through responding to resolve UwFS issues).
CFOA recommend that FRS
UwFS will be able to influence these
support the use of third party Monitoring the performance
key processes:
certification schemes. Certification of AFA systems.
The Responsible Person, as through a UKAS (United Kingdom
defined under the FSO, has Accreditation Service) accredited
overall responsibility for the third party certification body
performance of the AFA system. provides valuable reassurances
and assists in the making of
Prevention of false alarms.
informed decisions as to the
Prevention of false alarms competency of the service provider.
becoming UwFS.
Promoting the appropriate
AFA signal filtering. management of AFA systems by
Responsible Persons.
FRS response to an UwFS.
Working in partnership with
Agreed working practices between
stakeholders to improve false
FRSs and FAMOs.
alarm filtering.
Industry support of the Guidance
Promoting the adoption of AFA call
process.
filtering through FRS control on
the 999 system.
9
Guidance Operation A Tool Kit Approach
9 Guidance Operation A Tool Kit Approach

The CFOA guidance for prevention systems performance and the number 2. Maintenance; Management
of false alarms and unwanted calls of false alarms it produces: Once a fire alarm system has been
from automatic fire alarm systems installed the on-going maintenance
offers a number of tools for FRS 1. Design; Installation; and management of the system
to use. The tools are represented Commissioning - The decision becomes a duty of the responsible
below in a chronological order. to install, extend or upgrade an person for the site. There are clear
However, it is recognised that each alarm system will be made on the requirements for the regular testing
FRS must determine which of the basis of a risk assessment, of the AFA system (to the relevant
tools they wish to use in accordance insurance requirement or other standard) by a competent person
with their respective Integrated Risk consideration. to ensure it operates as designed.
Management Plans (IRMP) and overall This should be extended to include
Organisations undertaking design,
arrangements for managing risk. effective arrangements for
installation and commissioning
managing the system and
Stages of the process: work have a responsibility to
building in which it is installed.
make sure that their work meets
A Highlighting the problem of These arrangements must include
the recommendations of the
unwanted calls and false alarms prevention of the causes of false
relevant code of practice (Usually
from AFA systems alarm calls in particular those
BS5839) and is suitable for the
arising from visiting workers and
Whilst the installation and use of building, its occupancy and
misuse of the alarm and its
an automatic fire alarm system is intended use and is designed to
detection system (e.g. vandalism
common in many buildings, the minimise false alarms. If,
or damage to break glass call
role they play and the impact of during the course of conducting
points). In addition to completing
false alarms, particularly on the system work a failure or issue was
work to the required standard, fire
building user and owner, is often identified outside the workers area
alarm maintenance companies
misunderstood. Undertaking a range of responsibility, it is best
have a role to play in advising their
of generic and specific campaigns to practice to report that matter to the
clients of problems with system
highlight the moral and legal duties appropriate persons responsible.
design, apparatus or detector
of the responsible person and other In addition to the
selection and positioning which
key stakeholders in the fire alarm recommendations set out in the
could lead to the system generating
industry, the impact of unwanted relevant code of practice,
false alarms.
calls and actions which should be designers and installers should,
taken to prevent these will go a wherever possible, take The FRS should have
long way to reducing the problems advantage of modern technology arrangements to provide guidance
which users and the FRS currently which is focussing on increasingly and advice for the responsible
experience. (See also dealing with intelligent components and person about their maintenance
poor performance). systems which go a long way and management regime and
to preventing false alarms. FRS how it can be extended to ensure
B Prevention of false alarms have a role in promoting the use false alarm calls are prevented
There are two main stages of an of such systems across the sector (See also dealing with poor
automatic fire alarm systems life and specifically when being performance Section 12).
which have a significant effect on the consulted on building fire safety
arrangements and solutions.
10
C Confirmation of the cause of available. For example, AFA signals process non-filtered calls. FRS need
alarm before calling the Fire and that alert of an incident with a high to be aware of this approach. Where
Rescue Service reliability indication of fire, such as care homes have excessive UwFS
A fire alarm system is intended to sprinkler activation, co-incidence and associated deficiencies in alarm
alert the occupants of a building to detection, call point actuation, management practices, it will be
the possibility of a fire and to initiate multiple detector/type activation, necessary for the FRS to promote
the emergency plan for the building. or unoccupied premises, may all, effective change in order to reduce
This will normally, but not always, potentially, be considered sufficient UwFS.
include evacuation. Dependent on the reason to immediately request the
attendance of the FRS. In premises Responsible Persons need to
findings of your fire risk assessment,
with persistent false alarms, it would establish how calls are received and
the fire safety arrangements in a
be necessary to establish a high confirmed when the building is empty.
building should include having a
degree of reliability in the signal When a building is unoccupied, a
system in place to check the area
indication if filtering processes are to signal from the fire alarm system
where the alarm has been initiated.
be avoided. is less likely to arise from a false
This will confirm at an early stage if
alarm. Fire alarm installation and
there is a fire or the cause of the false
If a call is placed via the services maintenance companies will be
alarm. This is particularly important
of a FAMO and no on-site filtering in a good position to advise the
given the large number of false
is employed, consideration should Responsible Person about options
alarms which are generated by some
be made to establishing a call-back which will suit their building. Where
AFA systems. The arrangements
confirmation by the FAMO before there are electronic means for a
should be included in the fire risk
alerting FRS. Where the FAMO FAMO to establish that the building is
assessment, fire safety policy and
has information that an AFA signal unoccupied, this information should
emergency plan for the building and
indicates a high reliability indication of be relayed to the FRS along with
will be dependent on the building, its
a fire incident (see paragraph above), the fire alarm signal and any other
occupancy and use. In addition to
this information should be provided to relevant information.
using information from the building
the FRS.
users, modern technology provides
FRS also have a role in promoting
a range of options for confirming the
However, it must be noted that under this approach and should be able
cause of an alarm. The ideal place
BS5839-1, care homes may expect to draw on their own experience of
to prevent false alarms from being
to receive an FRS response without similar buildings and case studies
transmitted to FRS as UwFS is on site.
application of filtering practices. It which illustrate how this confirmation
is therefore accepted that, for care can be achieved.
It is appropriate to consider the
homes, FAMOs may accept and
significance of the system information
11
D Call handling by the fire and A call challenge or filtering process for any site will need to consider what
rescue service Use of this system will allow the arrangements they will put in place
The objective of the call handling FRS to gain additional information to provide this confirmation (See
process is to determine the about the cause of the alarm, preceding Section 9C confirmation
appropriate attendance to an incident. following which a decision is made of cause).
about what, if any, response is made.
A FRS receiving a call based on Development of such a process will Full attendance The FRS may
AFA actuation should consider be determined by the specific FRS in select to send a full attendance to
an appropriate response where line with an assessment of risk in their any report of an AFA sounding. Whilst
information provided indicates Integrated Risk Management Plan. this is likely to mean no change
circumstances where there is a to the services existing control
high reliability of a fire incident as Reduced attendance The FRS may measures, the implications should be
described in Section 9C. select to send a reduced attendance considered within the wider context
to any call resulting from an AFA of the services Integrated Risk
The FRS has a number of options system actuation where there is Management Plan.
which it can consider in deciding how no confirmation of a fire or signs
AFA calls will be handled. of fire. In line with adoption of this Figure 1 below shows the call filtering
approach, the responsible person process in operation.
Figure 1 Call filtering
Signal received via

999/112 system
Is report of a
CONFIRMED FIRE? Mobilise PDA
Yes
[Flames Heat, Smoke, for FIRE
Smell of Burning, etc.]
No
Does the caller know

Mobilise PDA
the cause of No
for AFA
the AFA?
Yes
Is report of 1 No Operational
CONFIRMED Yes Response
FALSE ALARM?
2 Record given
cause of UwFS
12
FRS must be careful not to Where a FAMO is employed to relay F Stakeholder engagement
recommend the investigation of an the alarm signal to the FRS, they Many of the tools described previously
alarm during an emergency call. If are often unaware of the cause involve a number of stakeholders,
investigation was possible it should and outcome of an incident. FRS all of whom may have a role to play
have already been carried out as part should consider providing feedback in the effective design, installation,
of their existing procedures before to FAMOs as this may assist the management and maintenance of
the emergency call was made. An Responsible Person/alarm maintainer fire alarm systems. When selecting
unplanned investigation at this stage in identifying and establishing which tools are appropriate for use
may jeopardise the safety of the appropriate measures to reduce when seeking to prevent false alarms
investigator. future UwFS incidents. In addition, from AFA systems in their own area,
Responsible Persons, in conjunction FRS will want to consider to what
E Investigation and follow up of
with the alarm maintainer, should also extent engagement with the key
false alarm calls
consider providing the FAMO with stakeholders should be undertaken
Following a false alarm from an
feedback on alarm incidents in order in order to influence attitudes towards
AFA system there is an onus on the
to assist in reducing both false alarm AFA systems and the problems
Responsible Person to undertake
and UwFS incidents. which repeat false alarms produce.
an investigation into the cause of
the false alarm. The focus of this The section on dealing with poor
The FRS will also be in a position
investigation should be on identifying performance (Section 12) has more
to advise the Responsible Person
the cause of the false alarm which detailed information about working
about measures which can be taken
may fall into the areas of system with stakeholders.
to prevent false alarms in the future,
design, equipment specification,
particularly where these relate to FRS must be careful not to recommend
system testing and maintenance,
the management of the building the investigation of an alarm during an
or building management. Having
and activities within it. It is important emergency call. If investigation was
identified the cause of the false
alarm, effective steps should be taken to recognise that any changes in possible it should have already been
to prevent a future occurrence. management of the building are carried out as part of their existing
likely to have an impact on the procedures before the emergency call
Where the cause of the alarm is fire safety risk assessment for the was made. An unplanned investigation
found to be based on system design, building which should be updated at this stage may jeopardise the
equipment specification or testing and by the Responsible Person or their safety of the investigator.
maintenance, the alarm installation appointed risk assessor.
and maintenance company should
be consulted when determining what
steps should be taken to prevent a
future occurrence.
13
Introduction and The Aims of this Guidance
10 FRS Attendance Levels

In order to protect resources, FRS If adjusting FRS standard response Attendance Level Three no
response policies may alter the attendance to premises the process emergency response, until a
response to premises where calls are must be applied in accordance with confirmation of fire is received from
based on unreliable AFA systems. the guidance in this section and the premises via the 999 system or
This may include anything from the section 11 where applicable. from some other acceptable source.
reconsideration of any enhanced Such confirmation will result in a full
response options through to not FRS should determine an appropriate or enhanced emergency response,
sending any attendance in the case level of authority to decide the level dependent on the information received.
of persistent false alarms1. Any of response. The three principal
determination should always be based response options are as follows: It is recommended that these
on an appropriate assessment of the response options should only be
Attendance Level One is an applied if there is experience of
risk. Due account should be taken of
immediate emergency response, persistent false alarms from specific
premises type, occupancy, time of day,
resulting in an initial attendance premises. It should not be the case
historical data and life and property risk.
based on a risk assessment of the that it is applied generically e.g. to
Calls to a confirmed fire will always fire fighting requirements that will be all premises of a certain type. Any
attract a full or enhanced emergency not less than one fire appliance. changes to the attendance level by the
response. This will be dependent FRS will be communicated in advance
Attendance Level Two in the
upon the information received, to the persons responsible for the
absence of a confirmation call
the individual FRS fire response protected premises and time will be
via the 999 system; the FRS will
established procedures and the allowed for them to take appropriate
make an attendance based on a
availability of resources. remedial action in accordance with
risk assessment of the fire fighting
section 11 Performance levels and
It is recommended that any reduction requirements. The attendance may
the resolution process.
in response is applied to premises on be made under non-emergency
an individual assessment basis and conditions, thereby maintaining
that suitable notification is provided the availability of the resources
in advance of any change. However, for confirmed emergencies and
it is recognised that an assessment protecting the public from the risk
of risk can be appropriately applied that arises from fire appliances
to certain premises types as a whole. responding under emergency
FRS employing this approach must conditions. (It is recognised that this
be satisfied that they have taken response is effectively presuming
all reasonable steps to meet their that the call is to a false alarm. FRS
obligations to educate and inform. may determine that at this point
Fire calls should be reported as it is appropriate to go straight to
fire calls and not alarms actuating. application of Attendance Level 3
All callers reporting an AFA signal or alternatively maintain Attendance
and who are not to receive a Level 1 up to Level 3 performance
response should be advised that any described in Section 11).
subsequent call confirming a fire will 1
FRSs considering applying a reduced response (or charge) option should ensure UwFS can be considered
persistent. This would include a recent history of multiple calls to false alarms and a failure to adopt
receive an emergency fire response. reasonable practices recommended by the FRS to assist them in reducing UwFS.
14
11 Performance levels and the resolution process
Although it is recognised that a The responsible person will put in FAMO, any call back filtering
certain number of false alarms will place an action plan that will include: arrangements and any other
occur, in general, much more should influencing processes.
be being done to reduce excessive i) Provide an agreed written action
levels of false alarms. Improved co- plan for the reduction of UwFS to The Responsible Person, together
operation between alarm maintainers, the FRS. with the maintainer of the AFA system
FAMOs and Responsible Persons will take the recommended actions
ii) Advise their insurance company
is necessary. Under the FSO, to address an unacceptable rate of
in the event of any change to
Responsible Persons are required to false alarm activations as outlined in
attendance levels by the FRS.
safeguard relevant persons and this BS5839-1.
iii) Revise the fire risk assessment
commonly requires using appropriate
and emergency plan for the Some systems are complex and
AFA systems. It is generally accepted
premises to take account of any have considerable numbers of
that an appropriate fire alarm system
changes in response by the FRS. detectors installed. Whilst there
would need to comply with the relevant
may be a greater likelihood of a
British Standard or its equivalent. iv) Review the fire safety
false alarm occurring, unlike false
Advice on reducing false alarms and management arrangements,
alarm levels, there is a point at
the level of false alarms considered revise and implement appropriate
which the numbers of UwFS are
acceptable is contained in BS5839. It changes as necessary.
considered unacceptable irrespective
must be appreciated that the level of
v) Ensure appropriate maintenance of the number of detectors. This is
false alarms considered acceptable
is undertaken on the AFAS. because, in these circumstances, the
is entirely different to any level of
Demonstrate their competence as Responsible Persons should employ
UwFS. Responsible Persons should
a premises manager, as described an effective and appropriate on-site
minimise the level of false alarms in
in BS5839-1. filtering process.
accordance with BS5839. In addition
any remaining level of false alarms vi) Arrange for the maintainer to
FRS employing a reduced response
should not generally result in UwFS undertake the actions required in
option will consider the individual
and it is often appropriate that filtering BS5839-1:2013, clause 46.4.4.
circumstances of the premises
measures are applied to keep any vii) Ensure a suitable emergency management and alarm performance
UwFS to an absolute minimum. If an plan includes comprehensive in order to determine the level of
AFA system produces a false alarm, consideration of action taken in response appropriate to the level of
it is irresponsible and unacceptable, response to an alarm actuation, UwFS being produced.
particularly where false alarms endure, including any filtering practices,
to assume it necessary to persistently relevance and subsequent
call for the emergency attendance of handling of information identified,
the FRS. time dependant services of
15
Impacts and Summary of Guidance Processes
12 Dealing with poor performance

Scope of the problem Staged approach to dealing with Service wide publicity using local
As outlined elsewhere in this poor performance media and trade publications to give a
document, the problem of unwanted FRS can choose a variety of ways standard message about the problems
calls from AFA systems is significant. to highlight and address issues of associated with unwanted calls
Disruption to building users and their poor performance from automatic and the responsibilities the system
commercial activities is compounded fire alarm systems. It needs to be owner has for effective management
by an impact on the FRS that often recognised that there are a number of and maintenance of the system,
are unable to send the nearest stakeholders in the process ranging and taking action to investigate and
emergency response vehicles to from the building manager and/or prevent unwanted calls.
an emergency because they are responsible person through to the
Publicity tailored towards a specific
attending an unwanted alarm call at FRS which receives the call.
group or type of premises using
another location.
Stakeholder engagement a more refined message which
Recognising poor performance highlights the issue of unwanted alarm
FRS are now very familiar with the
calls and focuses on issues relating
The scale of the problem caused by problem of unwanted calls from fire
to the premises type combined with
unwanted calls is such that a fire & alarm systems. However the impact
guidance on actions which can be
rescue service would want to take a of these is not always appreciated
taken to manage the problem, improve
strategic approach to reducing the by commerce. The first objective
the reliability of the alarm system and
calls combining measures to engage is to highlight the impact unwanted
reduce the number of unwanted calls.
with, influence and, where necessary, calls have both for the fire alarm
regulate those who are responsible user and their premises and the
Where a specific site or sites
for managing buildings with AFA FRS. Depending on the scale of the
have been the source of repeated
systems with amendment or variation problem, this can be achieved at a
problems the FRS has a couple of
to response arrangements. number of levels.
options available to engage with
those responsible for managing the
site and its alarm system:
Sending a standard letter to the

Responsible Person (copy to local
management where appropriate)
for the site clearly highlighting
the problem. This should include
reference to the number and
cause of unwanted calls over an
appropriate reference period,
explanation of the duties of the
Responsible Person and provision
of guidance and advice about the
actions they should be taking to
manage their system and reduce
the number of unwanted calls.
16
Visiting the premises and In the event of no sign of fire being problem of unwanted calls from fire
meeting directly with the person apparent, the FRS will not necessarily alarm systems. The service will also
responsible for the site and await attendance of the competent be able to clarify the responsibilities
managing the alarm system. This person before deciding on the action of the installer/maintainer to make
can be either for the sole purpose to take. sure that the systems they work
of addressing the false alarm with are properly designed and
problem or as part of a wider It is recognised that FRS may choose installed to minimise the likelihood
fire safety audit. Evidence of the to silence an alarm during an incident of false alarms being generated and
alarm systems poor performance for FRS operational purposes. This the role that timely and effective
should be provided along with may be to aid clear communications maintenance has on preventing false
guidance about the Responsible (with due consideration given to alarms. Encouraging Responsible
Persons duties and advice about how this may effect the intention of Persons to use the services of
minimising unwanted alarm calls. the alarm, including the evacuation designers, installers and maintenance
process). Resetting an AFA system companies that are third party
Whilst it is important to recognise may result in the loss of data that certificated will also be of benefit.
that the primary duty holder is the is required for comprehensive
responsible person for the affected assessment of an incident. Persons, FAMOs operating to the Code of
site, there are other industry not properly trained or familiar with Practice attached to this Guidance will
stakeholders. These stakeholders the AFA system, may not reset also play an important role in reducing
have an essential part to play in to the intended state of system UwFS. By employing call-back
reducing the number of false alarms operational function and it is therefore confirmation of a fire incident, where
produced by systems they install, recommended that AFA systems this is appropriate and where on-site
maintain or monitor, and should are only reset by specific persons filtering is not in place, UwFS can be
preferably be third party accredited to assigned to do so by the Responsible reduced. Additional support of the
BAFE SP201 or SP203. Person. The Responsible Person, most appropriate FRS response to an
depending on the type of system, incident can also be affected through
It is a recommendation of this should ensure that contingency the provision of supporting information,
Guidance that the Responsible arrangements are in place until the such as double-knock/co-incidence
Person shall nominate a competent system is reset. detection, sprinkler actuation, Call
person to respond to the premises Point actuation, visual confirmation of
at all times within 20 minutes of an Engagement with installation and smoke, smell of fire, etc.
alarm activation to facilitate entry maintenance companies operating
to the building, resetting of the AFA in the fire security area will give a
system and post alarm procedures. further opportunity to highlight the
17
Case studies and working in The use of case studies of similar Dealing with Poor Performance
partnership buildings will assist this. Partnership the Tool Kit Approach
FRS is likely to be aware of a number working in this way may allow the FRS Each FRS will have established a
of buildings or sites where effective to influence management behaviour local policy for dealing with calls
management and maintenance of at a number of sites or buildings, for that emanate from AFA systems.
the fire alarm system takes place example within a company with a Within these policies call filtering and
and this results in minimal problems number of sites in the FRS area. response levels will have formed a
arising from false alarms. FRS major part of the policy.The policy
Call Filtering by FRS Control
may want to use these sites as will also have outlined the FRS
Operators
case study examples of how an relationship with FAMO. The aim of
effective installation, maintenance Call filtering is commonly used by the policy will have been to promote
and management regime can be FRS to reduce the large number of the establishment of close and
achieved. A number of such case UwFS resulting in an emergency harmonious working relationships
studies can be developed which response being required. In many between the FRS and the FAMO,
will allow managers of similar premises there exists a culture of service providers and end users to
buildings to see how problems with telephoning the FRS if the fire alarm develop best practice in the reduction
alarm systems can be effectively system is activated even though the of false alarms and UwFS.
overcome. It may be possible to cause of the activation is known to
get managers from some buildings be something other than a fire. In The policys main objectives
to become advocates for effective many ways this culture has been should be to ensure that the roles
system management and false alarm encouraged by FRS campaigns such and responsibilities of the various
reduction within the sector. as Get Out, Stay Out, Get the Fire organisations are effectively translated
Service Out. FRS as a whole now into practical working arrangements
FRS will, on occasions, be presented needs to work with local industry, that will minimise requests for FRS to
with a site or building where the commerce and public bodies to attend false alarms from AFA systems.
manager or responsible person re-educate them to the changes in It is recognised that it is ultimately
requests advice and guidance about response to AFA calls and to re- the Responsible Person who is
managing the AFA system and emphasise the importance of the responsible for fire alarm performance.
reducing false alarms. Whilst it is local management of the AFA system
important to recognise the overall and the fire risks in the building. The monitoring of the number of calls
responsibility for the alarm system received from individual premises,
and fire safety within the building Call filtering is also an opportunity to which may have been transferred via
remains with the manager, this will gather information to assess the level a FAMO or come direct via the 999
give the FRS an opportunity to engage of response required and to influence system, will establish the scale of any
with the building manager and share the change in culture necessary for problem and will trigger certain actions
experience from other sites showing long term reduction in UwFS. to improve the poor performance.
how alarm systems can be effectively
FRS may adopt call filtering It needs to be recognised that the
managed to meet both the legal duties
procedures which relate to the time greater the number of fire detectors
of the responsible person and eliminate
of day or occupancy/premises type installed, the greater the likelihood of a
unwanted calls from the system.
or risk in line with their integrated risk false alarm occurring. This fact needs
management plan. to be taken into account when FRS
set poor performance trigger levels.
18
Once the pre-set trigger has been Provide advice in accordance with in advance of any changes and
reached, FRS will consider the the Regulators Code. remind them to alert their Insurance
potential response which can follow a Company to any changes to FRS
Issue non-statutory advice (notice
number of routes, either singularly or attendance levels.
of deficiencies).
all at the same time.
Continue to review the
Commence FSO enforcement, i.e.:
performance of AFA systems.
Unacceptable performance may result Enforcement Notice
in the requirement for immediate Prosecution Advise that the Fire Risk
remedial action and improvements Assessment/Emergency Plan for
may be time bound. A reduced Reducing Attendance the premises must be reviewed.
attendance may be introduced until In line with local policy where an AFA
Consider the use of regulatory
the poor performance is rectified. System crosses the pre-determined
enforcement powers.
trigger that indicates unacceptable
Action under the Regulatory performance and UwFS are being The Responsible Person, together
Reform (Fire Safety) received by FRS, those responsible with the maintainer of the AFA, should
Order 2005 (FSO) for the system should be instructed to take the necessary actions to address
take immediate remedial action. an unacceptable rate of false alarm
The FRS may consider the use of
activations as outlined in BS5839-1.
regulatory enforcement powers as Once performance has become
Fire and Rescue Authorities have a unacceptable in line with local Once a FRS determines that an
statutory duty to enforce fire safety policy, then best practice suggests unacceptable rate of UwFS has
legislation and, where appropriate, that the following actions should be occurred, and a reduced attendance
should respond with regulatory considered by FRS. or non-attendance of FRS resources
fire safety intervention under the
has been instigated, then the FRS
FSO where poor performance of The FRS should:
will need to determine how long the
the automatic fire alarm system
reduced attendance will last, when it
is detrimental to the safety of Establish in advance the
will be reviewed to see if performance
occupants. The level of response will appropriate level at which changes
has improved, and how normal
be determined by the level of risk and in response are determined.
attendance is reinstated and notified
the contraventions found during an Advise the protected premises to the protected premises.
audit of the relevant premises. If the that they have exceeded the
offending premises are covered by acceptable performance trigger.
the provision of the FSO the enforcing
Consider whether to revise the
authority may:
attendance level.
Undertake an audit of the Advise the protected premises
premises under the FSO.
19
Levying a Charge under the advice to the responsible person as part Figure 2 below shows how a FRS
Localism Act of a fire safety audit of the premises, can take action simultaneously under
The Localism Act 2011 brings into nor compromise a fire and rescue the FSO and recovering costs for
force changes to the FRS Act 2004. services ability to take appropriate attendance at a persistent UwFS call.
Three new sections have been enforcement action under the FSO.
added to the 2004 Act Sections
18A, 18B and 18C allow Fire and
Rescue Authorities to charge for
responding to a report of fire where Figure 2 FRS Response & Charging
the call is made within the following False alarms Actions under FSO & charging
circumstances:
There is a report of fire.

The premises are not domestic There are a number of false alarm
calls from the same premises
premises.
The report is false.
The report is made as a direct Are the premises No
or indirect result of warning covered by the Are the premises No
provisions of non-domestic? charge
equipment having malfunctioned the FSO?
or been mis-installed.
Yes Yes
There is a persistent problem.
Undertake an audit Is there a persistent
No
of the premises problem of false
These changes to the 2004 Act under the FSO alarms made as a
No
charge
supplement powers under the FSO direct or indirect
and should add to the toolkit that the result of warning
equipment under
FRS has at its disposal to reduce the Provide advice
common control
in accordance with
large numbers of resources being having malfunctioned
the Regulators
or been misinstalled
dedicated to persistent UwFS. Code
Yes
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Has the FRA got a No
Order 2005 (FSO) offers a legislative Issue non-statutory charging policy No
advice in place following charge
option for tackling any mismanagement consultation?
of fire safety arrangements in non-
Yes
domestic premises, including the issue
of false fire alarm reports. Charging for Commence FSO
Consider the national
guidance relating to
false reports, as set out in the Localism enforcement
false alarm charging
Act, can be used independently to
recover the cost to the fire and rescue
service alongside the provision in the
FSO. Charging should not prevent or Raise a charge
Enforcement
Prosecution
preclude the provision of appropriate notice
20
Each FRS making use of the power gather the appropriate information to Once each Authority has in place a
to charge will need to establish a calculate the cost of responding to charging policy in relation to UwFS
robust methodology for assessing the a UwFS call, the Authority may wish then they should produce a plan
costs to the Authority in responding to to establish a period over which to to provide clarity in respect of any
the unwanted UwFS. monitor costs. The period adopted charges to be imposed and provide
may differ between Authorities. details on how such a list of charges
Section 18A(5) of the 2004 Act The 2004 Act does not specify a could be accessed.
places Authorities under a duty to period over which charges should
secure that, taking one financial be calculated; this is left to each Having established a policy on
year with another, the income from Authoritys discretion. charging for attendance at UwFS
levying a charge for responding to a and a means of determining the level
UwFS does not exceed the costs of Should they so wish, Authorities may of charge, the Authority will need to
provision. In establishing a charging decide to respond to UwFS without determine who is liable to be charged
regime for UwFS, Authorities may charge. Equally they may decide to and how they establish liability. It has
have limited information initially upon charge different amounts to different to be accepted that it is, ultimately,
which to base an assessment of the groups of recipients when the service the Responsible Person who has
costs they expect to incur and, thus, responds to a UwFS call. The charging responsibility for a fire alarm systems
the charge that should be made for power allows this level of discretion. performance and maintenance and, as
responding to a UwFS. In order to such, would be liable for the charge.
21
Information and Certification
13 CFOA Guidance: kept under review and modified in the restitution, misrepresentation
Forms & Letters light of experience and improvements or otherwise (in each case
in performance and developments in whether caused by negligence
The forms and letters related to this
fire alarm technology. or otherwise) arising out of or in
Guidance are provided in the toolbox
connection with this Guidance or
available from the CFOA web site:
The version of the Guidance its performance.
maintained on the CFOA web site will
Toolbox link: www.cfoa.org.uk/10863
be the current Guidance. iii) Subject to paragraph 17 i), CFOA
14 CFOA Guidance: Access, shall have no liability for any
15 Data Protection loss of profit, loss of sales, loss
Revision and Version Control
The provisions of the Data Protection of business, loss of goodwill or
The Guidance will be available to
Act apply to all personal data held by reputation, third party claims or
download on the CFOA web site at
CFOA & FRS. pure economic loss (in each case
www.cfoa.org.uk/10275
whether direct or indirect) or for
16 Advertising and use of FRS any indirect or consequential loss
Should you experience any problems
or CFOA Identity in connection with this Guidance.
downloading a hard copy, please
contact CFOA IT Support via email Companies selling or promoting AFA
iv) Subject to paragraph 17 i), CFOA
or on the phone 01827 302374 or by systems or FAMO services shall not
shall have no liability for any
post at: use the CFOA logo or any FRS crest
matter that arises from any act
or signage on any documentation
or omission arising out of or in
9-11 Pebble Close or promotional materials without the
connection with this Guidance
Amington written permission of the relevant
by any body, corporation,
Tamworth organisation. No company shall
undertaking, association or
Staffordshire make misleading or inaccurate
individual user, their employees,
B77 4RD explanations of the CFOA Guidance
agents, customers, sub-
The content of this guidance will or FRS response standards on any
contractors or suppliers.
be drawn to the attention of users documentation or public material
of AFA systems, by the installer or circulated to customers.
maintainer of the fire detection and
fire alarm system. 17 CFOA Liability
i) CFOA does not exclude any
Interested parties may inform CFOA
liability for death or personal injury
of any issues that may prompt an
caused by its negligence or the
amendment to this guidance. These
negligence of its employees.
should be forwarded to CFOA at
the above address. On a regular ii) Subject to paragraph 17 i) and
agreed basis, the Chair of the notwithstanding any provision
CFOA Working Group will meet with of this Guidance, CFOA shall
representatives of the fire industry, have no liability in respect of this
independent inspectorate bodies and Guidance whether in contract,
other representative organisations tort (including but not limited
to review potential updates and to negligence), breach of any
amendments. The guidance will be statutory duty, under statute,
22
18 Certification Schemes for Automatic Fire Detection 19 Certification Schemes for Alarm
and Fire Alarm Systems Receiving Centres & Telecare
Service Providers
CFOA is committed to assisting and There are, at the time of writing,
supporting users of fire protection two UKAS accredited third party A list of companies recognised as
products, systems and services to certification schemes for companies providing third party certification for
meet their legal responsibilities by that design, install, commission and FAMOs can be obtained through
encouraging such users to use only maintain fire alarm systems. These are; UKAS.
third party certificated companies.
The SP203 Scheme published UKAS
UKAS accredited Third party by BAFE and available from a 21-47 High Street
certification schemes for fire protection number of UKAS accredited Feltham
products and related services are certification bodies. A list of Middlesex
an effective means of providing the companies certificated under TW13 4UN
fullest possible assurances, offering this scheme can be found on the www.ukas.com
a level of quality, reliability and safety BAFE web site www.BAFE.org.
that non-certificated products may uk It is important to ensure that CFOA strongly recommends that all
lack. This does not mean goods companies are certificated for the FAMOs shall be certificated by UKAS
and services that are not third party particular service provided e.g: accredited, or equivalent, third party
approved are less reliable, but there a company might be third party certification body to the relevant
is no obvious way in which this can certificated for maintenance work, standard for the types of alarm which
be demonstrated. but not third party certificated for they monitor.
design work.
Third party certification can provide A number of certification bodies
The SP201 scheme available from
confidence, both as a means of operate third party certification
the Loss Prevention Certification
satisfying you that the goods and schemes that monitor fire alarm
Board A list of companies certified
services you have purchased are signals. At the time of writing these
under this scheme can be found at
fit for purpose, and as a means comprise;
www.redbooklive.com.
of demonstrating that you have
complied with the law. NSI
UKAS
21-47 High Street SSAIB
Third party certification bodies that
Feltham
offer certification of designers and LPCB
Middlesex
contractors should be accredited by
TW13 4UN
UKAS, so providing the user with
confidence about the standard of the www.ukas.com
certification body.
23
Glossary and References
20 Glossary and References

The following definitions are applied BS76712 CoP
only for the purpose of this document British Standard Code of Practice Code of Practice
and should not be used to interpret for requirements for electrical
any other publications. installations IET wiring regulations. False Alarm
A fire alarm signal resulting from a
AFA Building fire alarm monitoring cause or causes other than a fire, in
Automatic fire alarm (AFAs indicates This includes all BS5839 part 1 which a system has responded, either
plural form): An automatic fire detection fire alarm systems and all BS5839 as designed or as the technology can
and fire alarm system as defined in part 6 fire alarm systems excluding be reasonably expected to respond to
BS5839-1) those covered under the definition of any of the following:
Individual Domestic Premises Fire
A fire like phenomenon or
ARC Alarm Systems (27.17).
environmental influence (e.g.
Alarm Receiving Centre (ARCs
smoke from a nearby bonfire dust
indicates plural form): A continuously Call Back
or insects, processes that produce
manned remote centre to which A type of call filtering process
smoke or flame or environmental
information concerning the status of undertaken by FAMOs to prevent
effects that can render certain
one or more alarm systems is reported. UwFS. Where call back is in place,
types of detector unstable, such
(See FAMO) [Source BS5979:2007] on receipt of a fire alarm signal, a
as rapid air flow.
FAMO will call the premises contact,
BAFE waiting for a maximum of 30 seconds Accidental damage.
British Approval Fire Equipment for an answer (unless a longer period
Inappropriate human action (e.g.
is otherwise justified under a risk
BS5839-1 2 operation of a system for test or
assessment). If the phone is answered
British Standard Code of Practice for maintenance purposes without
at any time within the 30 seconds, the
the design, installation, commissioning prior warning to building occupants
call filtering process commences. If the
and maintenance of fire detection and/or an alarm receiving centre.
phone is not answered within the 30
and fire alarm systems for buildings. Equipment false alarms, in which
seconds, the call back process ends
[source BS5839-1:2013] the fire alarm has resulted from
and the signal is relayed to the FRS.
a fault in the system. [source
BS5839-62
CFOA BS5839-1:2013 clause 3.18].
British Standard Code of Practice for
Chief Fire Officers Association.
the design, installation, commissioning A false alarm becomes an UwFS at
and maintenance of fire detection and Competent Person the point a FRS is requested to attend.
fire alarm systems for buildings used Nominated by the responsible person:
as dwellings. [Source BS5839-6:2004] A person with enough training, FAMO
experience, knowledge or other Fire Alarm Monitoring Organisation
BS59792 (FAMOs indicates plural form): A
qualities to enable them properly to
British Standard Code of Practice combined term developed under this
assist in undertaking the preventative
for remote centres receiving signals Guidance to include all remote fire
and protective measures. [Source
from security systems. [Source alarm monitoring organisations e.g.:
RRFSO 2005 guidance documents]
BS5979:2007] ARC, TSP, etc.
2
All references to British Standards or equivalent documents within this Guidance require referencing the current version applicable.
24
Filtering Protected premises emergency and provide regular contact
Steps taken to limit a false alarm being A premises in the Guidance is as by telephone. It can include detectors
transmitted to FRS as an UwFS and defined in the FSO. (See building or monitors such as motion or falls and
action taken by the FRS to determine if alarm and individual domestic fire and gas that trigger a warning to
an emergency response is necessary. premises definitions) a response centre staffed 24 hours a
Filtering can be done through: day, 365 days a year (See FAMO).
Responsible Person
Measures introduced on site.
This is defined in the FSO as: In this UKAS United Kingdom
FAMOs. order "responsible person" means; Accreditation Service
The United Kingdom Accreditation
FRS (Call filtering is the preferred a) Relation to a workplace, the
Service is the sole national
term for call challenging or call employer, if the workplace is to
accreditation body recognised by
verification). any extent under his control.
government to assess, against
b) Relation to any premises not internationally agreed standards,
FRS
falling in paragraph (a). organisations that provide
Fire and Rescue Service.
i) the person who has control of the certification, testing, inspection and
FSO premises (as occupier or otherwise) calibration services.
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) in connection with the carry on by
URN Unique Reference Number
Order 2005. him of a trade, business or other
The number, issued by an FRS,
undertaking (for profit or not).
Individual Domestic Premises by which an individual protected
ii) the owner, where the person in premises is uniquely recognised.
Fire Alarm Monitoring (social
control of the premises does not
or non-social)
have control in connection with the UwFS Unwanted Fire Signal
For the purposes of this Guidance,
carrying on by that person of trade, An UwFS is a false alarm from an
this is identified as any single property
business or other undertaking. automatic fire detection and fire alarm
dwelling used for private living
system that has been passed through
accommodation and not connected to
TSA Telecare Services to the FRS.
a common parts fire alarm system.
Association
The Telecare Services Association
PDA Pre-determined attendance
is the representative body for the
Specific number and type of each
Telecare industry within the UK.
appliance, specific equipment
required, together with such Junior,
TSP Telecare Service Provider
Senior and Principal Officers that are
Telecare Service Providers were
required to attend or be notified.
formally known as Social Alarm
Providers (SAP). It is a service that
Premises & site
enables people, especially older and
The context of a site, premises or
more vulnerable individuals, to live
building needs to be considered
independently in their own home. It can
in line with local FRS policies and
be as simple as the basic community
the specific circumstances and
alarm service, able to respond in an
configuration of the systems installed.
25
Appendix A - FAMOs and Remote Monitoring Relationships
Figure 3 - Fire alarm Monitoring organisation/Service provider/End user
Fire alarm and fire detection

system requiring monitoring
Compnay providing Compnay that provides

Compnay that only
maintenance and the monitoring to another Compnay that only
provides maintenance
monitoring as one FAMO (not necessarily provides monitoring
- no monitoring
package advising customer)
FAMO
D.1. Remote monitoring organisations the connection and monitoring of fire occupied and/or sufficient staff are
(FAMOs) do not often have a alarm systems. available to investigate an alarm
contract directly with the premises/ activation, it may be unnecessary
Responsible Person. In order to D.4. The FAMO role is more than just for the alarm signal to be passed to
appreciate the responsibilities the alarm monitoring, it is often integral the FAMO. This may unnecessarily
various parties have in the process to the fire strategy of premises and disrupt the business activity and put
of managing false alarms and UwFS, can play a vital part in an effective emergency services at risk during
the diagram above helps explain this emergency plan. The flexibility in the unnecessary emergency response.
aspect of the business model. monitoring services available is often In this circumstance it would be
under utilised. The CoP supports reasonable for the monitoring
D.2. This Guidance recognises there the range and flexibility of fire alarm company to provide a back-up to any
are various levels of influence which monitoring which should be tailored human failure during investigation
stakeholders in this relationship can to each unique premises. The CoP or if for example, call point or co-
exert on each other. FRS can directly also recognises the limitations of incidence detection increased the
influence the end user and FAMO. monitoring and managing fire alarm likelihood of fire.
The FAMO can directly influence systems.
the service provider and directly or D.6. Confirmation of the FAMOs
indirectly influence the end user and D.5. In monitoring building fire alarms, compliance with BS 5979 (or
the end user can directly influence FAMOs provide the valuable function equivalent) is achieved through
the service provider. The levels of of protecting property in the event certification by a United Kingdom
influence also dictate the ability to of fire in buildings outside normal Accreditation Service (UKAS)
educate each stakeholder in best working hours, when unoccupied Accredited 3rd Party Certification
practice of fire alarm management. and as back up to on-site filtering body with the scope for monitoring
arrangements. Serious consideration fire alarms. The FAMO is required
D.3. Fire Alarm Monitoring must be given to the times and levels to undergo a regular inspection
Organisations. FAMOs have the of monitoring occupied buildings. programme by a 3rd party certification
responsibility for the administration of For example, when a building is fully body to confirm compliance.
26
D.7. Service Providers. A Service D.12. CFOA strongly recommends D.18. Where systems are linked or
Provider (eg: system installer that FRS do not place additional possibly share a communications
or system maintainer) may be filtering or monitoring burdens on unit, it may be possible to identify
nominated to maintain the fire alarm FAMOs complying with this CoP. whether the premises are occupied.
system on behalf of the Responsible This information can be provided
Person. D.13. FRSs will promote the use to the FRS and allow additional
of 3rd Party Certification schemes supporting action, such as telephone
D.8. The Service Provider will arrange as one method that Responsible filtering to the site (see flow chart
connection to a FAMO incorporating Persons may use to help demonstrate - Figure 4). Such action would
the requirements of the Responsible competency. be agreed under the connection
Person and the requirements of the contract and be supported by the
FAMO, whilst ensuring the system is D.14. Example FAMO Approach.
Risk Assessment with appropriate
correctly maintained. Maintain the name and address of the
co-operation and agreement of the
premises plus a Hazards at Location
relevant parties.
D.9. End Users. The Responsible register where this has been supplied.
Person (as defined under the FSO) D.19. Agree and apply appropriate
has overall responsibility for the D.15. Employ a URN system. (Using
time limits to processes as necessary.
performance of the fire detection a URN system can offer a number
and fire alarm system, including the of advantages to both the FRS and D.20. Consider identifying and
prevention of false alarms and UwFS. the FAMO i.e. passing an emergency filtering false alarm calls from weekly
Where roles have been assigned call would be quicker as the correct testing and engineers maintenance
to complete the duties associated address/location has already been processes.
with the fire alarm system, the established. Having URNs may also
Responsible Person must ensure the enable better control over managing
tasks are undertaken by a Competent the databases; both at the FRS
Person. and the FAMO. URNs also provide
opportunity to enable electronic alarm
D.10. FRA. Fire and Rescue transfer).
Authorities are the statutory enforcing
authority for primary fire safety D.16. Hold details of a minimum of 2
legislation for most premises in key holders that can attend the site
England and Wales. within 20 minutes. Note key holders
must be trained to operate the fire
D.11. Fire Safety legislation requires alarm system.
the employer (or responsible person)
to carry out an assessment of the D.17. Be supplied with FRS feedback
risk from fire to employees and other on incident information i.e. fire or
people using the premises, and to false alarm. Systems with multiple
implement suitable control measures false alarms can be identified
to reduce the risk to an acceptable and referral can be made to the
level. This includes arrangements maintainer company in order to take
for summoning the Fire and Rescue remedial action.
Service.
27
Figure 4 - FAMO - Example approach to call handling
Fire alarm received
Is the Site showing

open or closed? Where
working in conjunction
Open with an intruder alarm Closed
Dont know Inform Fire Service
Telephone Site Inform keyholder
Site answers Close alarm
Apply call filtering process

as described in Annex 1 of
the Code of Practice Best
Practice for Summoning a
Fire Response via FAMOs
(Appendix B of this document)
28
21. Appendix B FAMO: Code of Practice
Available as a separate document.
29
30
31
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CFOA Guidance for the

Reduction of False Alarms

CFOA is a professional membership association

We provide independent and Postal Address Telephone Numbers

04 Foreword Industry & Partners

06 Introduction 24 Glossary and References

07 The Aims of this Guidance 26 Appendix A FAMOs and Remote Monitoring

10 Guidance Operation A Tool Kit Approach 26 Figure 3 Fire alarm Monitoring

15 Performance levels and the resolution process 28 Figure 4 FAMO Example

22 CFOA Guidance: Forms & Letters

22 CFOA Guidance: Access, Revision and Version Control

22 Advertising and use of FRS or CFOA Identity

23 Certification Schemes for Automatic Fire Detection

23 Certification Schemes for Alarm Receiving Centres

1 Foreword Chief Fire Officers' Association (CFOA)

2 Foreword Industry & Partners

6 Impact of False Alarms 7 Impact of Unwanted Fire Signals

9 Guidance Operation A Tool Kit Approach

Figure 1 Call filtering

Signal received via

Does the caller know

10 FRS Attendance Levels

12 Dealing with poor performance

Sending a standard letter to the

There is a report of fire.

20 Glossary and References

Figure 3 - Fire alarm Monitoring organisation/Service provider/End user

Fire alarm and fire detection

Compnay providing Compnay that provides

Fire alarm received

Is the Site showing

Dont know Inform Fire Service

Telephone Site Inform keyholder

Site answers Close alarm

Apply call filtering process

The Chief Fire Officers Association

Telephone: +44 (0) 1827 302300

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