New For May & June 2025
- Paul Elcock
- Jun 5
- 4 min read
British Standard BS5839-1:2025 Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for buildings
The newly released BS 5839-1:2025 is a vital update to the British Standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic buildings. It plays a critical role in ensuring life safety, protecting property, and maintaining compliance with UK fire safety legislation. For fire alarm system designers and engineers, staying current with this standard isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Updates in BS 5839-1:2025 address advancements in technology, changes in installation methods, and the need for clearer guidance based on industry feedback. Key revisions include recommendations for system design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance, all aimed at minimising false alarms and enhancing system reliability.
For engineers, adhering to the current version ensures their work aligns with legal requirements and best practices. Using older standards could lead to non-compliant installations, safety hazards, and potential legal issues.
In a competitive market, demonstrating knowledge of BS 5839-1:2025 gives professionals a technical and commercial edge. Owning a copy not only supports compliance and competence but also builds client trust. For anyone involved in fire alarm systems, this standard is an essential tool of the trade.
Fire Alarm Logbook (2025)
A fire alarm logbook is a critical document required for the compliant handover and ongoing maintenance of any fire detection and alarm system, as outlined in BS 5839-1:2025. It serves as the official record of system commissioning, routine testing, maintenance, and any faults or false alarms.
For electricians and fire alarm engineers, providing a complete and accurate logbook at handover demonstrates professional standards and ensures the responsible person can fulfil their legal duties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order. Without it, there's no clear evidence that the system has been tested, maintained, or is functioning correctly.
The logbook is not just paperwork, it’s a vital part of ensuring life safety and legal compliance. It supports accountability, simplifies fault tracing, and ensures maintenance is carried out at required intervals. Supplying a compliant logbook isn't just best practice, it's a requirement that protects clients and professionals alike.
Fire Alarm Notice S/A Label
BS 5839-1:2025 introduces a new requirement under Clause 14.22 for systems that automatically transmit fire alarm signals to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). A clear “False Alarm Notice” label must now be placed on or near the Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE). This is to warn users against incorrectly activating a fire signal that could unnecessarily summon the fire and rescue service. For electricians, fire alarm engineers, and wholesalers, supplying or fitting this label is now part of a compliant installation, helping reduce false alarms and maintain professional standards.
IET Guide to Temporary Electrical Systems 2nd
The IET Guide to Temporary Electrical Systems, 2nd Edition is an essential resource for electricians working in the fast-paced and varied world of temporary power. Covering the design, management, and deployment of temporary electrical systems, it supports compliance with BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 and BS 7909:2023. The guide is particularly valuable for installations at exhibitions, agricultural shows, concerts, festivals, film and TV sets, and temporary structures, where safe, reliable power is critical.
As the events industry gears up for seasonal demand, especially during the summer months, the need for robust temporary power systems rises sharply. Festivals and large-scale outdoor gatherings often require rapid deployment of complex systems that must be both compliant and resilient under pressure. This guide goes beyond just regulations, it addresses practical challenges such as stage set-ups, equipment testing, and venue-specific considerations.
With the increase in temporary installations during peak seasons, electricians must be equipped with the latest technical knowledge to meet client expectations and legal responsibilities. The updated edition of this guide ensures professionals can deliver safe, high-quality solutions that stand up to real-world demands, making it a must-have for those working in event power and temporary electrical systems.
IET Guide to Domestic Electrical Energy Storage Systems
The IET Guide to Domestic Electrical Energy Storage Systems is a vital new resource for electricians and installers navigating the growing demand for home battery storage. With energy efficiency and sustainability becoming top priorities for homeowners, this guide offers clear, hands-on advice for planning, installing, and maintaining domestic energy storage systems.
It covers key topics including system benefits and limitations, permissions and consents, electrical design, fire and electrical safety, system schematics, data communications, inspection, and user guidance. Designed to be used alongside the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems and BS 7671, it gives professionals the confidence to install systems that are safe, compliant, and future-ready.
As more households turn to renewable technologies like solar panels and time-of-use tariffs, battery storage systems are becoming a smart and essential upgrade. For training providers, certification bodies, and contractors, this guide provides a reliable reference to support quality installations and ongoing maintenance.
Whether you’re an experienced electrician or a new entrant to the industry, this publication ensures you're equipped with the latest best practice, helping you meet growing consumer demand and contribute to the UK’s low-carbon future.
For more information, please email us at enquiries@docs-store.co.uk
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