As of 2025, the fire safety industry has seen a significant development with the release of BS 5839-1:2025, the updated British Standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. This newly revised edition supersedes the previous BS 5839-1:2017 and brings with it a number of key changes that all duty holders—be they building managers, fire safety officers, contractors, or consultants—need to be aware of.

At Fireline UK, we’re committed to keeping our clients fully informed of industry updates and how they may affect the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire alarm systems. Below is a breakdown of the most important changes within the BS 5839-1:2025 update.

1. Automatic Monitoring Now Mandatory for Care Homes

One of the most notable updates appears in Clause 14.7, which now clearly states that fire alarm systems in residential care premises must be connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). While this was previously considered good practice, it is now a defined requirement within the standard.

This means that care homes must ensure their fire alarm signals are automatically transmitted to an ARC, providing faster response times from the emergency services and offering greater protection for vulnerable residents.

Why This Matters:

Care homes house individuals who may not be able to respond quickly or independently in the event of a fire. This measure addresses the need for early intervention and is likely to have a significant impact on resident safety.

2. Stricter Guidance on Variations

Clause 6 introduces new restrictions around where variations to the standard are not permissible. This section has been refined in response to investigations into fatal fire incidents where poor system design or unjustified deviations contributed to loss of life.

By explicitly listing the clauses where variations are now unacceptable, the new standard aims to limit flexibility in critical safety areas, ensuring that life-saving systems are not compromised in the name of convenience or cost-cutting.

3. Changes to Detector Type in Sleeping Areas

The new guidance reflects a shift in detector preferences within sleeping accommodation. The previous preference for heat detectors has now been revised.

BS 5839-1:2025 states that smoke detectors or other forms of automatic fire detection are now strongly recommended in sleeping rooms, as these provide faster detection and earlier warning—particularly crucial when occupants are asleep and less likely to notice developing fires.

This change is particularly relevant to:

• Hotels and hostels

• Student accommodation

• Residential care facilities

• Staff sleeping quarters in commercial premises

4. New Section on Extensions and Modifications

Section 7 is a newly added part of the standard and introduces important guidance around alterations to existing fire alarm systems. This includes:

• Adding or relocating detection zones

• Modifying control panels

• Replacing outdated components

• Inspecting systems following a fire incident

• Reviewing prolonged system disconnections

This addition will help ensure that any extension or modification maintains the integrity and effectiveness of the entire system and is carried out in line with the current standard—not simply according to the original installation.

5. Clearer Manual Call Point Guidelines

The new edition simplifies the siting and installation requirements for manual call points, making it easier for responsible persons to comply. The guidance now includes:

• More practical recommendations on spacing

• Specific advice on positioning at exits and in corridors

• Better clarity on visibility and accessibility

These refinements are designed to reduce ambiguity and make compliance more straightforward, while still maintaining the highest safety standards.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are responsible for fire alarm systems in a non-domestic setting—whether as a building owner, facilities manager, or fire safety professional—you must now ensure compliance with BS 5839-1:2025.

Failing to do so could leave your premises non-compliant and, more importantly, pose serious safety risks to occupants. This is particularly relevant if you manage care homes, sleeping accommodation, or any public building where fire safety is paramount.

How Fireline UK Can Help

At Fireline UK, we provide professional fire alarm system services in line with the latest British Standards. From design and installation, to maintenance and system upgrades, we stay ahead of regulatory changes so you don’t have to.

We can assist you with:

• ARC connectivity for care homes

• System audits to check for non-compliant variations

• Upgrades to detection systems in sleeping areas

• Assessments for system modifications and extensions

• Manual call point reviews and repositioning

Our qualified engineers will ensure your systems are safe, compliant, and tailored to your premises.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of BS 5839-1:2025 highlights the importance of continual improvement in fire safety. With a sharper focus on vulnerable environments, stricter variation rules, and modernised detection recommendations, this update represents a significant step forward in protecting lives and property.

If you’d like to ensure your fire alarm systems are compliant with the latest standards, contact Fireline UK today. Our expert team is here to help guide you through the updates and provide cost-effective, compliant solutions.