A loss of power for any length of time can put your business at risk, as automatic fire detection and alarm systems will stop working in premises that don’t have an alternative power supply.
This is particularly dangerous in care homes and other types of residential buildings.
Where fire detection and working alarms are considered essential to the safe use and occupancy of the premises, it is critical that the Responsible Person considers the consequences of a total fire alarm system failure.
In these circumstances, additional control measures must be implemented to provide adequate safety for the duration of the alarm system failure. Premises fire risk assessments should be reviewed to ensure they identify what emergency measures are appropriate.
The fire and rescue service is unable to provide specific advice on what is appropriate. It is recommended that you contact a qualified fire risk assessor for further advice.