Why Are Logbooks Important?

Records Matter

Without functional emergency lights, sudden darkness can occur in the event of a power-out and injuries would be inevitable. If your fire alarm system triggers with no good reason, it is clear maintenance is needed. A logbook is a professional reference about the testing of your installations and the results. Everything needs recording for the benefit of your staff and your productivity.

But Why?

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in England and Wales state the responsible person or competent person acting on their behalf must ensure the premises and any facilities, equipment and devices are under a maintenance system. Across the entire UK, an employee (nominated) or employer should ensure records are kept in case an accident happens and the employer needs evidence of functionality. On every site a logbook should be kept ready for examination by any authorised person. For your fire alarm system, your logbook should give basic details of the system – the person(s) responsible for the system and identification of equipment installed, together with the details of those responsible for the design, installation, and commissioning with maintenance arrangements.

These records should always have in them historical events that occurred on your system. While the employer is responsible for filling in the logbook and keeping it safe and secure, the installer must also review and add to your logbook. Logbooks are your humble safety net for insurance, British Standards and best practice for safety.

For more information about safety visit our testing page.