The modular approach allows more than one company to be involved in providing the installation. It enables a certificate to be issued for the whole system, based on modular certification by providers at each level. This approach was developed to reflect the way the way in which the fire detection and alarm industry operates.
SSAIB operates this scheme under licence from BAFE, in accordance with their standards SP 203. The aim of the modular approach is to ensure that providers can only gain certification for those modules in which they can demonstrate appropriate levels of competence, process control and adequate recourses to effectively undertake work within their scope of accreditation.
The need for certificated fire detection and alarms systems is ever expanding as changes introduced under the new Fire Safety Order and the Chief Fire Officers Association's (CFOA) Policy for remotely monitored fire alarm systems are progressively introduced.
The CFOA Policy became effective on 1st April 2005 and will be fully enforced by 1st April 2008. It requires the issue of a unique reference number (URN) for all remotely monitored fire alarm (RMFA) systems that are routed though an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) prior to being passed to the Fire and Rescue Service. The RMFA must have a URN and all systems and ARCs must be subject to appropriate certification. All services providers will need to be Third Party Certificated.
The Fire Safety Order places increased emphasis on risk assessment carried out by, or on behalf of, the 'Responsible Person' in an organisation. Employers will ultimately be responsible for safety in the workplace and for the systems upon which it is dependent. Increasingly, assurance will come in the form of certification issued by Third Party Certificated providers of fire alarm and detection systems.
Given the above, Third Party Certification is not just desirable but essential for all professional fire alarm systems providers. SSAIB certification demonstrates that you operate a well managed and ethical business. We can keep you informed of changes within this sector, plus you will have access to technical experts who will be able to help you to interpret standards, regulations and systems requirements.
For more information on fire alarm systems certification download a leaflet or request an enquiry pack using the links below, alternatively Contact the office directly.
Download a scheme leaflet
Request an Enquiry Pack
Scheme Modules
Systems Design - the designer(s) will be named and have clear authority for the project and its compliance with standards, interfaces with other elements of building services, structures and connection to electrical supplies. Comprehensive design records shall be maintained and available to those responsible for other modules. Provision for design input must continue until the project is commissioned and a Certificate of Compliance issued.
Installation - The installer shall demonstrate competence and an ability to meet the requirements of all relevant standards and codes of practice. In addition, a comprehensive understanding of electrical, mechanical and other safety issues relevant to the installation is required. Comprehensive installation records must also be maintained, with clear notification that the installation is considered complete and is certificated. Installation records must be available to other module suppliers.
Commissioning and Handover - Those responsible for this phase must demonstrate an in-depth understanding of all aspects of the equipment that is to be tested, commissioned and handed over. Comprehensive test, commissioning and configuration records shall be kept and made available to other module suppliers.
Maintenance – A provider should demonstrate its competence to maintain the installed equipment and understand the specified requirements. The provider must have adequate resource to undertake the maintenance work to which it is committed. Comprehensive records of the maintenance programme and work undertaken must be kept.
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