BS 5839-1:2025: Why cyber security is now essential for modern fire alarm systems

Nicholas Whiting, VP Alarm Signalling, AddSecure UK, explains why the updated code of practice reflects the growing need to protect both the physical and digital resilience of modern fire alarm systems

The updated BS 5839-1:2025 code of practice reflects the increasing connectivity of fire alarm systems, introducing stronger guidance on remote access, signalling resilience and system security. As fire alarm technology evolves, cyber security is becoming a core part of protecting life safety and ensuring resilient fire detection.

How BS 5839-1:2025 is reshaping fire alarm best practice

Introduced in 2025, BS 5839-1:2025 replaced the previous 2017 edition, marking a significant evolution in how the fire alarm sector approaches the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire alarm systems in non-domestic buildings. While the standard remains a code of practice rather than a new regulatory requirement, it reflects the growing complexity of connected fire alarm environments and highlights the increasing importance of cyber security alongside fire safety.

As the industry approaches a year since the publication of BS 5839-1:2025, the updated guidance offers valuable lessons on how fire safety and cyber security are becoming increasingly interconnected.

For many years, BS 5839-1 has provided the fire and alarm industry with a framework for good practice. The 2025 revision builds on this by improving fire safety guidance, strengthening detection requirements in higher-risk areas and incorporating lessons learned from major incidents, including Grenfell Tower. The revised code also introduces clearer expectations around documentation, false alarm reduction and protecting vulnerable building occupants.

Key changes for Category L and Category P fire alarm systems

Under BS 5839-1:2025, Category L systems, which prioritise life safety, should use smoke or multi-sensor detectors as the default in sleeping accommodation. Zone plans are now considered essential in multi-zone installations and must be verified for accuracy during maintenance.

For residential care premises, the updated guidance recommends automatic transmission of fire signals to alarm receiving centres, recognising that the absence of remote monitoring is no longer considered acceptable. Meanwhile, Category P systems, designed to protect property, include refreshed guidance on detector positioning around structural obstacles, simplified manual call point distances and enhanced signalling requirements. These include alarm signal transmission within 120 seconds and reporting catastrophic loss of both signalling paths within 31 minutes for dual-path systems.

Why cyber security is now part of fire alarm system design

Perhaps the most significant development within BS 5839-1:2025 is its recognition that fire alarm systems are no longer standalone installations. Modern systems are increasingly integrated into wider building networks, communicate over IP infrastructure and can often be accessed remotely for diagnostics and maintenance.

While these capabilities deliver operational benefits, they also introduce cyber security risks that were largely absent from traditional fire alarm systems. Any system capable of remote access presents the potential for unauthorised interference if appropriate safeguards are not in place.

Historically, engineers were required to attend site to diagnose faults or carry out maintenance. Today’s connected systems allow faster fault identification, earlier notification of issues and, in some cases, remote servicing. However, BS 5839-1:2025 makes it clear that improved functionality must be matched by appropriate security measures.

Although the guidance stops short of mandating specific cyber security controls, it outlines best practice for securing remote access. This includes using secure authentication before connections are established and ensuring equipment used to facilitate remote access is housed within locked cabinets or tamper-resistant enclosures. Whether systems communicate via IP or mobile networks, the revised code reinforces the importance of protecting remote access against unauthorised activity.

Strengthening signalling resilience under BS 5839-1:2025

The updated standard also places greater emphasis on signalling resilience, recognising that reliable communication is fundamental to effective fire protection.

For property protection systems, alarm signals should be transmitted within 120 seconds, while life safety systems are expected to achieve even shorter transmission times due to their higher-risk nature. Dual-path signalling devices must report catastrophic loss of both communication paths within 31 minutes (DP2) for Category P systems, helping ensure faults are detected and escalated promptly.

Dual-path radio systems may be used where they satisfy the reporting requirements for DP2 and DP3. For Category L systems, however, catastrophic failures should be reported within three minutes (DP4), with alarm signals transmitted within 90 seconds. DP3 dual-radio systems should only be used where a documented variation justifies their installation, such as where a fixed IP connection is not technically feasible.

These requirements demonstrate that signalling resilience extends beyond the fire alarm panel itself. As remotely monitored systems become increasingly common, installers are relying more heavily on manufacturers and signalling providers to deliver secure, resilient infrastructure capable of meeting the expectations set out in BS 5839-1:2025.

Training and future resilience

Alongside technological improvements, the revised standard also recognises the importance of ongoing competence. Modern fire alarm systems are active, connected assets that require continual management rather than one-off installation. The guidance recommends that installers invest in continuous professional development to ensure their knowledge evolves alongside increasingly sophisticated systems.

As fire alarm technology continues to become more connected, remotely managed and integrated within wider building management systems, cyber security is no longer a separate consideration. BS 5839-1:2025 demonstrates that protecting connected fire alarm systems now requires both physical and digital resilience. The updated code of practice reflects an industry where fire safety and cyber security are becoming inseparable, requiring manufacturers, installers and building owners to consider both as part of delivering resilient life safety systems.

Fire safety equipment market to hit US$96.3 billion as smart protection systems gain ground

According to Persistence Market research, the global fire safety equipment market is forecast to grow from US$64.1 billion in 2026 to US$96.3 billion by 2033, driven by stricter safety rules, rapid urban development and growing demand for smart protection systems.

High-rise buildings, data centres, healthcare sites, transport hubs and industrial facilities are increasing fire-risk exposure worldwide. In response, governments and building owners are investing more heavily in alarms, detectors, sprinklers and emergency communication systems.

Smart city projects are also reshaping the sector, with connected sensors and central monitoring platforms helping facility managers detect hazards earlier and coordinate faster emergency responses.

Key takeaways

  • The market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.0% between 2026 and 2033.
  • Active smart protection systems are set to lead the market with around 62% revenue share.
  • North America remains the largest regional market, while Asia Pacific is forecast to grow fastest.
  • IoT-enabled detectors, cloud-connected alarms and AI-based monitoring are becoming increasingly important.
  • Data centres, battery energy storage sites and smart infrastructure projects are creating new opportunities for suppliers.

Businesses are moving beyond conventional equipment and adopting intelligent systems that combine detection, monitoring, analytics and automated response. These tools can reduce false alarms, support predictive maintenance and improve visibility across large facilities.

North America leads the market thanks to strict regulation, strong insurance compliance and widespread use of advanced life-safety systems. Asia Pacific is expected to see the fastest growth as urbanisation, industrial expansion and updated fire safety standards accelerate demand in countries including China and India.

Major companies in the space include Honeywell International, Johnson Controls, Siemens Building Technologies, Robert Bosch GmbH and Eaton Corporation. Their strategies are increasingly focused on connected platforms, predictive analytics and integrated building safety solutions.

As buildings become smarter and fire safety requirements tighten, demand for advanced detection, suppression and monitoring systems is expected to keep rising through 2033.

Professional safety campaign targets inland water risks to reduce accidental drowning

National fire chiefs highlight male accidental drowning risks

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched its annual Be Water Aware campaign to address data showing that over 80% of accidental drowning victims in the UK are male.

Running from 27 April to 3 May, the initiative warns that 1,604 people died in accidental water incidents between 2019 and 2024.

Statistics reveal that approximately half of these individuals did not intend to enter the water.

Slips, trips and falls are cited as leading causes of these fatalities.

Over 50% of these incidents took place in inland waters including rivers, lakes and canals.

Gavin Ellis, NFCC Drowning Prevention lead, said: “Most people would be surprised to hear how many lives are lost simply because people were spending time in and around water.

“These incidents can happen without warning, and something as simple as a slip near the water’s edge can have serious consequences, particularly when cold water shock takes effect.

“We know that males make up the majority of those those who lose their lives in these incidents, which is why it is so important that this message reaches them.

“This is not just about risk-taking behaviour.

“These are often everyday situations that can quickly lead to serious outcomes, which is why it is important to stay alert around water, even in familiar settings.

“As the weather improves, fire services across the country, alongside colleagues in HM Coastguard and the RNLI, can face large numbers of calls to help people in difficulty in water.

“We want people to enjoy being outdoors, but to be mindful of the risks around water, particularly at this time of year.”

Operational data reveals impact of cold water shock

London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that 40% of its water-related callouts occur between May and August.

The brigade has attended more than 1,500 water incidents in the last five years, with 103 non-suicide drowning fatalities recorded in the capital.

Data indicates that 28% of these incidents are concentrated in the riverside boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Southwark, Lambeth and Richmond.

LFB recently attended a fatal incident in the River Brent where a woman and a boy died despite rescue efforts by crews.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection Pam Oparaocha said: “Our thoughts are with the family and their loved ones following this tragedy and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“Sadly, over 100 people have died in non-suicide related drownings in London over the last five years, so this Be Water Aware Week we want to remind Londoners about the real and immediate dangers of open water.

“We know that the warmer weather can tempt people to cool off in rivers, reservoirs and lakes, but even in hot weather most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.

“Many Londoners are not aware that despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth – all of which could prove fatal.

“If you are planning to swim outdoors, do so only in designated areas and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.

“If you see someone else in difficulty, don’t enter the water yourself.

“Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”

Safety advice for the public includes following the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Float to Live technique by tilting the head back and maintaining calm breathing.

Why Fire Aware sees a step change in safety attitudes

Supply chain safety shifts toward Fire Aware standards

Supply chains are increasingly adopting rigorous fire safety processes to protect public safety across multiple sectors according to the membership body Fire Aware.

The organisation noted a behavioural change as both large and small companies implement measures to ensure the safety of people using buildings and urban spaces.

Fire Aware CEO Gavin Skelly said: “As we move about to talk to those companies and groups with products and services in fire safety, we are seeing a step change in their attitude to fire safety.

“Even in those companies who don’t necessarily have a fire safety competence requirement but still hold a duty of care.

“They want to commit to doing the right thing and make sure their part in the fire safety supply chain is fit for purpose.

“They recognise that this is more than a job, fire safety is a vocation.”

Professional obligations and the Fire Aware code of conduct

Skelly explained that all parties involved in the design, construction, management, maintenance and letting of the built environment have a fire safety obligation.

This responsibility applies even if the specific business does not focus directly on fire specialisms.

“Many are joining us as members because they want to sign up to our code of conduct which binds us all together,” Skelly added.

“Their membership is a sign of intent to protect people through a combination of competence and behavioral performance.

“After all, it is people’s lives we are talking about.”

The independent Building Safety Regulator (BSR) recently began promoting higher standards and competence following calls for cultural change from Dame Judith Hackitt.

Focus on vulnerable sectors and moral responsibility

Hospitality and healthcare represent sectors particularly vulnerable to fire risk due to the presence of customers and elderly or vulnerable people.

Fire Aware continues to highlight the moral responsibility of designers, developers, asset owners and managers within the supply chain.

The organisation utilizes a series of charters and a moral code of conduct to influence how member companies uphold their duty of care.

This membership body serves the built environment to ensure stakeholders work and trade responsibly in the interest of general public safety.

Britannia Fire supports UK’s new PFAS incineration capacity review

Environmental Audit Committee report highlights Britannia Fire waste concerns

The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has published a report on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) calling for the Government to restrict non-essential uses of these chemicals across the United Kingdom.

Andy Spence, Managing Director of Britannia Fire, welcomed the findings following his address to the EAC in the House of Commons during June 2025.

Spence explained: “I welcome today’s report which reflects the thorough and focussed approach taken by the EAC.

“In June last year I was invited to address the EAC in the House of Commons to provide an industry viewpoint on the challenges facing the fire safety industry in achieving a smooth transition away from PFAS firefighting foams.

“The MPs listened carefully to my concerns and have highlighted them within the report, in particular the issue of impending bottlenecks and rising costs for the disposal of PFAS foam waste, with only two approved PFAS incinerating facilities currently operational in the UK.”

The cross-party committee warned that the current incineration capacity is insufficient to handle the expected volume of hazardous waste.

National remediation fund proposed for PFAS cleanup

The EAC report recommends that the Government should apply a polluter pays principle and consult on a national PFAS Remediation Fund by March 2027.

Toby Perkins MP, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, stated: “Our report calls for the Government to phase out PFAS uses that are clearly non-essential, such as in kitchen equipment and school uniforms, and to take a precautionary approach to approving new PFAS.

“Rather than waiting for proof that a chemical is harmful before banning it, companies should need approval before they introduce a new PFAS substance.”

Spence noted: “I agree wholeheartedly with the findings that urgent action needs to be taken.

“The UK is lagging behind Europe in restricting the use of PFAS.

“We haven’t kept pace and need to catch up.

“We eagerly await the recommendations from the Health and Safety Executive following a six month consultation on proposed restrictions of PFAS in firefighting foam and hope that swift action to phase them out follows soon after.

“Although the phasing out of PFAS for some essential applications may be challenging, banning PFAS foams in fire extinguishers is an easy win.

“There are PFAS-free foam alternatives already available as effective and affordable replacements, such as Britannia Fire’s P50 ECO model, introduced to the market back in 2024.

“Responsible customers are already beginning to make the switch, which is bringing the issue of safe disposal of PFAS foams to the foreground.”

The committee suggests a phased restriction on non-essential consumer products starting from 2027.

PlanRadar research reveals technology investment influences construction staff retention

PlanRadar research identifies technology as a factor in staff retention

Research from PlanRadar indicates that over half of construction professionals are more likely to remain with their current organisation if it increases investment in AI and technology.

One in four respondents reported they would be significantly more likely to stay with an employer that prioritises digital tools.

The study found that nearly half of participants have no current plans to invest in digital tools with AI capabilities despite the potential impact on talent retention.

Attracting and retaining experienced project management talent is currently a critical priority for the construction industry.

UK professionals prioritise data security and accuracy

Data from the UK market shows that 57% of professionals cite accuracy and trust as their primary concern when using AI tools for project management.

Data privacy and security represent a top-tier concern for 29% of UK respondents.

Fear of job displacement ranks last among global concerns and was cited by only 6% of participants.

Nearly half of the respondents spend more than 11 hours per week on tasks they believe AI could streamline.

Among those already using AI-integrated tools, two-thirds report saving at least two hours per week on each project.

Rob Norton, UK Director at PlanRadar, commented: “We’ve reached a point in UK construction where a pay rise alone just isn’t enough to keep hold of your best people.

“Project managers are exhausted by administrative tasks that effectively wipe out a full day of their week.

“They don’t want AI to do their jobs for them; they want it to clear the paperwork off their desks so they can focus on high-value project delivery.

“If firms keep ignoring that, they’re going to lose their most experienced leaders to the competitors who are actually willing to modernise these outdated manual processes.”

Growth in project management demand shapes technology adoption

Ibrahim Imam, Co-Founder and CEO of PlanRadar, said: “Construction professionals are spending more than a full working day every week on tasks that AI is already proving it can dramatically reduce.

“This is an unnecessary drain on some of the most experienced people in the industry.

“Our research shows that professionals are not fearful of AI, quite the opposite, more than half say investment in AI tools would make them more likely to stay with their employer.

“In a market where experienced project management talent is increasingly difficult to attract and retain, organisations that fail to invest in the tools their people need are taking a risk they may not fully appreciate.”

The Project Management Institute (PMI) estimates the construction industry will require nearly 2.5 million additional project professionals by 2035.

Sander van de Rijdt, Co-Founder and CEO of PlanRadar, added: “Construction professionals are not resistant to AI, they are asking for something very reasonable: tools they can trust, with outputs they can rely on and confidence that their project data stays protected.

“At PlanRadar we believe that trust in AI cannot be an afterthought.

“Construction professionals manage sensitive project data every day, so any AI working with that information must meet the highest standards for protection, compliance and user control.

“That expectation is shaping how we are developing AI, with these principles built in from the outset.”

The Deloitte 2026 Engineering and Construction Industry Outlook notes that construction wages have risen 4.2% year-on-year as firms compete for talent.

Euralarm requests longer transition periods for life safety systems

Euralarm warns of safety gaps in Digital Networks Act

Euralarm published a position paper in April 2026 addressing Article 5.4 of the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA) to highlight concerns regarding network technology migration timelines for life-safety services.

The trade association stated that the currently proposed two-year notice period for decommissioning existing network technologies is insufficient for the fire and security sectors.

Millions of installed devices across Europe including fire alarm transmission systems and social alarms rely on public electronic communications networks to transmit emergency signals.

These life-safety systems are being impacted as network operators progressively phase out older technologies in favour of modern alternatives.

Euralarm noted that transitions often require physical hardware replacement and product redesign alongside on-site installation and certification.

Completing these large-scale migrations within the suggested two-year window is described as operationally unrealistic.

Proposed seven year transition for Euralarm members

Euralarm calls for Article 5.4 to require notification at least seven years in advance when network changes lead to the discontinuation of services on existing devices.

A seven-year transition window allows industry providers to develop and certify replacement technologies while scaling manufacturing and supply chains.

The association explained: “Euralarm has published a position paper on Article 5.4 of the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA), welcoming the objective of improving transparency around network technology migrations while warning that the currently proposed two-year notice period is insufficient for life-safety services.”

“Fire safety, security and social alarm systems across Europe rely heavily on public electronic communications networks to transmit emergency signals.”

“Millions of installed devices – including fire alarm transmission systems, intruder alarms and telecare equipment for elderly and vulnerable citizens – depend on existing network technologies that are progressively being phased out.”

This timeframe supports the organisation of equipment replacement programmes and coordination of installations with building owners.

The extended period is intended to maintain uninterrupted services for vulnerable users and protect critical safety systems.

EU policymakers are urged to clarify the final text of the Digital Networks Act to ensure life-safety services are considered.

FireAngel warns of compliance gap in domestic installations

White Paper highlights institutional oversight while FireAngel identifies a compliance gap

The UK Government has published the Construction Products Reform White Paper to address failings in the safety and compliance of products used in the built environment following the Grenfell tragedy.

FireAngel welcomed the publication as a milestone in addressing regulatory gaps and institutional oversight.

The manufacturer asserts that policy reform requires a shift in installation competence to ensure resident safety.

Kate Guy, Business Unit Director at FireAngel, stated that the strategy aims to tackle loopholes that allowed unsafe products to enter the market.

FireAngel identifies compliance gap in Grade D installations

Guy warned that current industry practices frequently overlook the specific complexities of BS 5839-6 which is the British Standard for fire detection in domestic premises.

“Our own knowledge and recent initiatives highlight a significant “compliance gap” in the domestic fire safety sector, specifically regarding the installation of Grade D fire alarm systems.

“While general electrical competence is often assessed, the specifics of BS 5839-6, the British Standard for fire detection and Grade D fire alarm systems in domestic premises, are frequently overlooked.

“This means that the issued electrical certificate of “compliance” may not guarantee the necessary competence required of the electrical contractor.”

Industry shift toward verified competence

FireAngel launched the Pro Installer Network to provide trade professionals with tools to ensure every installation is compliant.

The initiative provides access to CPD training and a third-party verified design service.

It also includes a compliance labelling solution to support the trade ecosystem.

Kate Guy added: “The White Paper’s focus on “raising the bar” for non-compliance and a testing sector that “can be trusted” aligns perfectly with our mission.

“We believe that true safety requires a shift from “tick-box” exercises to a culture of verified competence.

“We must continue to place stakeholder accountability and resident safety at the core of every building.

“We support the government’s commitment to reducing systemic weaknesses to ensure the delivery of high-quality homes.

“Now is the time for the entire industry to embrace transformational cultural shifts and industry-wide reforms so that compliance is never treated as an optional extra.”

The manufacturer remains involved in the conversation regarding building safety regulations to support the delivery of high-quality homes.

Public protection or market competition? Fire services expand commercial roles amid governance scrutiny

As fire services expand commercial training and consultancy, important questions arise about the boundaries between duty to public protection, private markets and fair competition, writes Duncan J. White

Across many jurisdictions, fire and rescue services are facing a complex strategic dilemma: how to maintain operational capability and financial sustainability in an era of tightening public budgets.

One response gaining momentum is the expansion of commercially delivered services, ranging from specialist training and consultancy to fire risk assessments and event safety management.

While these activities can generate valuable revenue and broaden professional expertise, they also raise an important question for the sector: are fire and rescue services blurring the boundaries between the public and private sectors?

Traditionally, the role of fire and rescue services has been clearly defined.

Funded through taxation, their responsibility to protect life, property, and the environment through prevention, protection, and emergency response.

Commercial activity, by contrast, has historically been the domain of private fire safety consultancies, training providers, and risk management firms.

Yet financial pressures on public services have encouraged many fire authorities to explore new income streams that capitalise on their operational credibility and technical expertise.

Examples increasingly include accredited fire safety training for businesses, consultancy on complex risk environments such as petrochemical facilities, and event safety planning for major public gatherings.

Some services have even established dedicated trading arms or commercial subsidiaries.

Advocates argue this evolution is both logical and responsible.

Fire services possess highly specialised knowledge, real-world operational insight, and trusted reputations, assets that industry values.

When managed well, commercial activity can generate income that is reinvested in public protection while strengthening engagement with high-risk sectors.

However, the expansion of commercial services is not without controversy.

Private-sector fire safety professionals sometimes question whether publicly funded organisations should compete in markets where independent businesses already operate.

Concerns centre on potential competitive advantages if publicly funded infrastructure, training facilities, or institutional credibility indirectly support commercial offerings.

There are also deeper governance questions.

Fire and rescue services must ensure that commercial ventures never divert attention, personnel, or strategic focus away from statutory duties.

Transparent governance, clear financial separation, and robust accountability frameworks are therefore essential if public trust is to be preserved.

Yet the most important issue may not be whether fire services should participate in commercial markets at all.

The real question is whether the sector is prepared to define clear rules for doing so.

Without them, the risk is not simply market tension; it’s the dilution of roles.

If fire and rescue services are to engage in commercial activities, they must do so with clear guidelines: transparency on costs and subsidies, fair competition with private providers, and an unwavering commitment that public safety, not revenue generation, remains the primary mission.

The sector cannot afford ambiguity.

As financial pressures intensify and fire risk becomes more complex, the credibility of fire services will depend not only on how they respond to emergencies, but on how clearly they define the limits of their role in the marketplace.

Stay safe!

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

AEI Cables warns on cabling safety across electrical supply chain

AEI Cables commentary on cabling safety

AEI Cables has published commentary calling on the electrical supply chain to follow its duty of care on cabling safety during the current economic climate.

In its commentary, AEI Cables said specifiers, main contractors and installers are responsible for making sure cabling choices are relevant and safe for each application.

The company said Category 3 Control fire performance cables sit at the upper end of requirements.

These cables are designed to withstand heat and flames for up to 120 minutes.

AEI Cables said the cables support critical safety circuits in tall buildings, office spaces, hospitals, shopping malls and stadia.

The systems powered by these cables assist firefighting operations and support safe evacuation in life safety situations.

Fire performance requirements and standards

AEI Cables said recent legislation affecting electrical and fire safety includes the Building Safety Act 2022.

The Act sets new requirements for higher-risk buildings, defined here as those of at least 18 metres in height or at least seven storeys containing at least two residential units.

AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control as well as Category 2 Control.

Under BS8519, the code of practice contains six cable categories.

Three categories apply to power cables and three apply to control cables.

The categories cover survival times of 30, 60 or 120 minutes.

Dover sets out AEI Cables position

Stuart Dover, general manager of AEI Cables, said: “There are many challenges facing the electrical supply chain, not least the sheer amount of legislation and guidance being issued as well as tough trading conditions.

“At the same time, we must not forget our responsibilities to ensure the relevant cabling products and accessories are chosen for each project.

“Ultimately, we are talking about the safety of people moving about in large buildings.

“This goes beyond legislation.

“If in doubt, please seek guidance because the choice of cabling and level of fire performance is of paramount importance in the event of a fire.”

AEI Cables also said its products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB.

The company added that it holds approvals from organisations including Lloyds, the MoD and LUL, and works to international standards around the world.