EDITOR’ S CHOICE
CHOOSING LIFE SAFETY EQUIPMENT
WHY COMPLIANCE STARTS WITH THE MANUFACTURER
Selecting fire alarms for residential properties is a life safety decision. Purchase price will always matter, but it should never outrank product conformity, traceability, reliability and ongoing manufacturer support, especially when consequences in compliance, maintenance and responsibility are at stake.
Conformity and certification
Domestic alarms must be fit for purpose and backed by official documentation. Aico’ s Ei3016 optical smoke alarm complies with BS EN 14604, and it’ s Ei3018 carbon monoxide alarm with BS EN 50291-1:2018, while the recommendations of BS 5839-6 should guide system design. Products from unverified imports, anonymous marketplaces or suppliers with little UK presence can carry avoidable risks: claims are hard to verify, instructions may be incomplete, and support is limited if something fails. Before specifying, check for an accountable UK supplier, verifiable certification, a Declaration of Performance, appropriate CE or UKCA markings, clear product identification, accessible instructions, published warranty arrangements and recognised third-party approval such as the BSI Kitemark.
Traceability
Serial numbers and QR codes allow a defective or underperforming product to be identified, assessed and replaced quickly, which is vital for life safety equipment.
Suitability and interlinking
A standard reference alone does not guarantee compliance. Smoke alarms suit hallways and sleeping areas, heat alarms are better in kitchens, and carbon monoxide protection is essential where fuel-burning appliances are present. Interlinked alarms should all sound when one activates, but only manufacturer-approved, compatible devices should be mixed, as unverified combinations risk unreliable communication and lost functionality.
Maintenance and records
Alarms must be tested, cleaned and replaced according to manufacturer guidance. Keep records of make, model, location, installation date, certification, commissioning details, test and fault history, and replacement dates. In the event of a fire, this evidence demonstrates a managed approach to safety.
Specifying established manufacturers reduces risk and supports a well-documented compliance position.
Looking beyond price
A cheap alarm offers little reassurance if it cannot be shown to be genuine, certified and suitable. Specifying established manufacturers reduces risk and supports a well-documented compliance position. With more than 60 years of expertise alongside parent company Ei Electronics, Aico offers testing, traceability and technical support that help specifiers choose with confidence.
For guidance on product selection, compatibility and installation, speak to Aico’ s technical support team, visit www. aico. co. uk / technical-support /
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