New research shows 90% of false alarms are down to faulty apparatus

New research shows 90% of false alarms are down to faulty apparatus

New research from the Home Office shows 90% of false fire alarms incidents in 2020/2021 are down to faulty apparatus.

The research from the Home Office was collated from Fire and Rescue services across the country from the last financial year, and indicates just 2% of the incidents from automatic fire alarms were a result of an actual fire. Most of the false alarms could easily have been avoided with proper maintenance and ensuring the correct type of life safety product is installed for the environment in the first place.

Commenting on this latest report from the Home Office, Mr Shinsuke Kubo, Commercial Director for Hochiki Europe, Middle East, Africa and India said: “False alarms are a major problem across multiple industries, they have a significant impact on production and ultimately the economy. Building owners who choose to work with installers and manufacturers who understand that no two environments are the same will reap the benefits because the products recommended will be both fit for purpose and properly maintained.”

The London Fire Brigade have also issued advice for those responsible for managing property, as it is important to make sure the fire alarm system installed is carefully considered for the type of premises and the occupancy.

However, technology alone will not eliminate false alarms and other key factors must be considered including fire detection and fire alarm systems. If these are overlooked then reliability of the device can drop.

Mr Kubo added: “Multi-sensors could be the answer. For complex life safety installation projects which have multiple usage scenarios, or are adapted over time, using intelligent devices can really help reduce false alarms. Modern devices which detect heat, smoke and in some cases, CO, can learn from their environments from the moment of installation.

“Our ACD multi-sensor which uses the S.M.A.R.T. algorithm to continuously monitor its surroundings, is used by our customers across multiple sectors from university accommodation, housing associations, theatres, and schools – all of which have seen a reduction in false alarms.”