{ "meta": { "title": "Inspection, testing and maintenance frequencies for buildings in England", "scope": "England only. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different legislation and are not covered.", "generated": "2026-10-05", "regime_count": 28, "verification": "Every task and legal statement is supported by at least one source fetched over HTTPS and read on the date shown. Quotes are verbatim and 25 words or fewer. See compliance-sources.md for the verification log. A second, independent verification pass re-fetched every source and re-read the legislation on 5 October 2026. Intervals taken from British Standards were checked against published summaries of those standards by trade bodies and government guidance, because the standards themselves are paid publications.", "basis_types": { "law": "Legislation says you must do this, at this interval where one is given.", "standard": "A British Standard recommends it. Following the standard is the usual way to show the general legal duty has been met, but the interval is not itself law.", "guidance": "A regulator, government department or industry body recommends it." }, "schema_notes": { "interval": "Object with 'every' and 'unit' (week, month or year), or null where there is no fixed interval.", "interval_note": "Optional. Explains a null, maximum, typical or event-driven interval.", "interval_range": "Optional. 'min' and 'max' intervals where the source gives a range.", "condition": "Optional. The building type, system type or usage band the task applies to.", "confidence_reason": "One sentence explaining the confidence rating.", "sources[].edition": "Edition or date of the source as fetched.", "delivered_by": "gemini, building-services, clean-ducts or null. Null means no AMPM Group company clearly offers the service on its own website.", "delivered_note": "Optional. Shown beside delivered_by where the group company arranges the work through a vetted specialist rather than its own engineers." }, "disclaimer": "General information, not legal advice. Frequencies can be changed by a fire risk assessment, a competent person's findings, manufacturers' instructions, insurers or a lease. Check the current edition of any standard before relying on it.", "url": "https://ampm.co.uk/compliance/", "data_url": "https://ampm.co.uk/compliance/data.json", "publisher": "AMPM Group Limited", "attribution": "AMPM Group (2026). Inspection, testing and maintenance frequencies for buildings in England. https://ampm.co.uk/compliance/ (checked 5 October 2026).", "licence": "You may quote, link to and reuse this dataset, in whole or in part, provided you credit AMPM Group and link to https://ampm.co.uk/compliance/. Quotations from legislation, standards and guidance remain the copyright of their publishers and are reproduced as short extracts with a link to each source. No warranty is given: see the disclaimer." }, "regimes": [ { "slug": "fire-alarm-testing", "system": "Fire detection and alarm systems", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should a fire alarm be tested and serviced?", "short_answer": "Test the fire alarm every week from a different manual call point, and have a competent contractor inspect and service it about every six months. BS 5839-1:2025 accepts a service visit any time between five and seven months after the last one.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Weekly user test from a manual call point, using a different call point each week", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Premises management or nominated staff", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5839-1 recommends a weekly test from a different manual call point each week, recorded in the log book. Home Office guidance says the same.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Inspection and servicing by a competent fire alarm contractor", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent fire alarm contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5839-1:2025 recommends inspection and servicing visits at intervals of approximately six months. A visit between five and seven months after the previous one is acceptable.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s4", "s5", "s6" ], "interval_note": "Approximately every 6 months: each visit may fall between 5 and 7 months after the last" }, { "task": "Monthly routine check of fire detection and alarm systems in the common parts", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment, which includes common-parts fire detection and alarm systems.", "source_ids": [ "s7", "s8" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person to keep fire safety equipment under a suitable system of maintenance, in efficient working order and in good repair. The Order does not set test or service intervals. In high-rise residential buildings, regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 adds a legal duty to carry out monthly routine checks of fire detection and alarm systems in the common parts.", "standard": "BS 5839-1:2025, the code of practice for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. It replaced BS 5839-1:2017.", "evidence": [ "Fire alarm log book with each weekly test and the call point used", "Inspection and servicing certificate or report for each service visit", "Records of faults, false alarms and remedial work", "In high-rise residential buildings: the record of monthly checks, kept available to residents" ], "notes": "The weekly test and the six-monthly service are recommendations of the British Standard, not legal requirements in themselves: following them is the usual way to show the legal maintenance duty has been met. The 2017 edition said the gap between services should not exceed six months; the 2025 edition changed this to approximately six months with a five to seven month window. Department for Education guidance for schools describes the contractor element as quarterly and annual inspections and tests; this dataset follows the wording of BS 5839-1:2025 as quoted by the Fire Industry Association.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Technical Bulletin: User Responsibilities, fire detection and fire alarm systems", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/static/78735893-4bf9-4966-a634d9be4a857fcf/Technical-Bulletin-User-Responsibilities.pdf", "edition": "Version 1, November 2023", "supports": "BS 5839-1 weekly test by premises management, using a different manual call point each week, recorded in the log book", "quote": "Every week, during normal working hours, a different manual call point should be activated", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Home Office guidance repeats the weekly call point test", "quote": "Fire alarm systems should be tested using a different manual alarm call point each week", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Guidance Note: Guide to the changes in BS 5839-1:2025", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/static/77c28e9f-486e-4b96-a82e4bb37f4f3882/Guide-to-the-changes-in-BS-5839-1-2025.pdf", "edition": "Version 1, June 2025", "supports": "Wording of BS 5839-1:2025 clause 43.2.1 on the service interval", "quote": "Successive inspection and servicing visits should be undertaken at intervals of approximately 6 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Guidance Note: Guide to the changes in BS 5839-1:2025", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/static/77c28e9f-486e-4b96-a82e4bb37f4f3882/Guide-to-the-changes-in-BS-5839-1-2025.pdf", "edition": "Version 1, June 2025", "supports": "The five to seven month tolerance in BS 5839-1:2025", "quote": "any time between 5 months and 7 months after the previous inspection, test and service", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Home Office checklist lists contractor inspection under six-monthly checks", "quote": "Fire alarm systems should be inspected and tested by a competent contractor", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Six-monthly servicing in blocks of flats where a system is provided", "quote": "Periodic servicing should be undertaken at least once every six months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Essential fire-fighting equipment includes common-parts fire detection and alarm systems", "quote": "fire detection and fire alarm systems including any detectors linked to ancillary equipment such as smoke control systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Schools guidance words the contractor element differently", "quote": "The system should also be subject to quarterly and annual inspections and tests by a competent person.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Standard wording quoted directly by the FIA and matched by three government guides. One sector guide (DfE, schools) words the service pattern differently.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/fire-alarm-service-maintenance/" }, { "slug": "emergency-lighting-testing", "system": "Emergency lighting", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should emergency lighting be tested?", "short_answer": "Carry out a short functional test every month and a full rated duration test, usually three hours, once a year. BS 5266-1:2025 also recommends verifying light levels when the system is installed and every five years after that.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Monthly short functional test of every emergency luminaire and exit sign", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5266-1 and BS EN 50172 (also published as BS 5266-8) recommend a monthly functional test. Home Office guidance repeats it.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Annual full rated duration test (usually three hours)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5266-1 and BS EN 50172 recommend a full rated duration test once a year. Home Office guidance says competent contractors should carry it out.", "source_ids": [ "s4", "s5", "s6" ] }, { "task": "Photometric verification of light levels", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent emergency lighting specialist", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5266-1:2025 recommends photometric verification when the system is installed and every five years thereafter.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ] }, { "task": "More detailed condition test including a three hour battery test", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Department for Education guidance calls a six-monthly detailed test good practice for schools. This goes beyond the British Standard baseline.", "source_ids": [ "s9" ], "condition": "Schools (Department for Education guidance)" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires emergency lighting provided for fire safety to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. The Order sets no test interval. HSE guidance in L24, published with the Approved Code of Practice to the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, also lists emergency lighting as equipment that needs a system of maintenance.", "standard": "BS 5266-1:2025 (emergency lighting of premises, in effect from 31 October 2025, replacing the 2016 edition), used with BS EN 50172:2024 and BS EN 1838:2024.", "evidence": [ "Emergency lighting log book with each monthly test", "Annual full duration test report or certificate", "Photometric verification record", "Records of failed luminaires and the repairs made" ], "notes": "Monthly and annual tests are British Standard recommendations, not explicit legal requirements. Plan the annual test for a time of low risk: batteries need time to recharge afterwards, and government guidance warns against leaving a building without escape lighting while they do. The flats guide notes that each fitting needs manual testing unless the lighting is of the self-testing type. The checklist in the government's 2006 offices and shops guide also lists a six-monthly test.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Monthly functional test of all emergency escape lighting units", "quote": "A functional test of all emergency escape lighting units should be carried out", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Monthly functional test in blocks of flats; cites BS 5266-8", "quote": "A monthly, functional test using a suitable test facility", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Emergency Lighting and Safety Services webinar: questions and answers", "publisher": "Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)", "url": "https://electrical.theiet.org/bs-7671-18th-edition-wiring-regulations/faqs/webinar-questions-and-answers/emergency-lighting-and-safety-services-webinar/", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The monthly test is clause 7.2.3 of BS EN 50172", "quote": "If we refer to BS EN 50172 Clause 7.2.3 (Monthly)", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Annual full duration discharge test", "quote": "A full duration discharge test once a year", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "A guide to making your small block of flats safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire-accessible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Annual full three hour duration test by competent contractors", "quote": "Engage competent contractors to carry out a full (three hours) duration test on the emergency lighting", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Annual inspection and test by a competent contractor", "quote": "Emergency escape lighting should be inspected and tested by a competent contractor", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "BS 5266-1 Emergency lighting: notable changes in the 2025 edition", "publisher": "NICEIC", "url": "https://niceic.com/newsletter/bs-5266-1-emergency-lighting/", "edition": "Covers BS 5266-1:2025, in effect 31 October 2025", "supports": "BS 5266-1:2025 recommends photometric verification initially and every five years", "quote": "this verification takes place initially and every five years thereafter", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "BS 5266-1 Emergency lighting: notable changes in the 2025 edition", "publisher": "NICEIC", "url": "https://niceic.com/newsletter/bs-5266-1-emergency-lighting/", "edition": "Covers BS 5266-1:2025, in effect 31 October 2025", "supports": "BS 5266-1:2025 replaced the 2016 edition", "quote": "superseding the previous 2016 edition which is now withdrawn", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Schools guidance asks for a more detailed test every six months", "quote": "It is good practice to conduct a more detailed condition test every 6 months, including a 3-hour battery test.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Workplace health, safety and welfare: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L24)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l24.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2013", "supports": "HSE guidance in L24 (paragraph 46) lists emergency lighting as equipment needing a system of maintenance", "quote": "Examples of equipment and devices which require a system of maintenance include", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "Fire safety risk assessment: offices and shops", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-risk-assessment-offices-and-shops/fire-safety-risk-assessment-offices-and-shops-accessible", "edition": "First published 5 June 2006; page last updated 12 September 2023. Predates current editions of the standards it cites", "supports": "The 2006 guide's checklist lists a six-monthly escape lighting test", "quote": "Do all luminaires operate on test for one third of their rated value?", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Monthly and annual routine confirmed in three government guides and an IET reference to the standard clause; the 2025 edition changes are confirmed by NICEIC.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/emergency-lighting/" }, { "slug": "fire-door-inspections", "system": "Fire doors (communal and flat entrance doors)", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often do fire doors need to be inspected?", "short_answer": "In blocks of flats over 11 metres high, the law requires communal fire doors to be checked at least every 3 months and flat entrance doors at least every 12 months on a best endeavours basis. In other buildings there is no fixed legal interval: government guidance treats a six-monthly inspection as good practice.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Check all fire doors in communal areas, including that self-closing devices work", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 10(6) of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires checks at least every 3 months.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s3" ], "condition": "Buildings with 2 or more homes that are above 11 metres in height" }, { "task": "Check flat entrance doors, including self-closing devices (best endeavours)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 10(4) of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires the responsible person to use best endeavours to check flat entrance doors at least every 12 months, and to record attempts where access is refused.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ], "condition": "Buildings with 2 or more homes that are above 11 metres in height" }, { "task": "Inspect fire doors for damage, fit in the frame and effective self-closing", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or competent fire door inspector", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Home Office guidance lists a six-monthly fire door check, and the purpose-built flats guide calls six-monthly inspection good practice. No law fixes this interval.", "source_ids": [ "s4", "s6", "s7" ], "condition": "Other premises, including blocks of flats of 11 metres or less" }, { "task": "Check that fire doors on stairways close effectively on their self-closers", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Home Office guidance for small non-domestic premises lists this as a weekly check.", "source_ids": [ "s5" ], "condition": "Small non-domestic premises" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 10 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, in force since 23 January 2023, sets the quarterly and annual checks for residential buildings with two or more homes above 11 metres. In every building covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17 requires fire doors to be maintained in efficient working order and good repair, but sets no interval.", "standard": "BS 8214 gives advice on the routine inspection and maintenance of timber fire doors. It is cited by the government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats.", "evidence": [ "Fire door register listing each doorset", "Dated records of quarterly and annual checks, including self-closer checks", "Record of the steps taken to gain access to flats where entry was not granted", "Defect and remedial work records" ], "notes": "The 11 metre threshold is measured to the top storey. The quarterly and annual checks under regulation 10 are simple checks, not a full fire door survey: where damage is found, a more detailed inspection by a specialist may be needed. Flat entrance doors are in scope of the Fire Safety Order regardless of building height. Regulation 10 also requires the responsible person to give residents information about fire doors when they move in and at least once every 12 months. That duty applies to every building with two or more homes and shared escape routes, whatever its height.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 10: Fire doors", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/10", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Quarterly checks of communal fire doors in residential buildings above 11 metres", "quote": "must undertake checks of any fire doors in communal areas of the building at least every 3 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 10: Fire doors", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/10", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Annual best endeavours checks of flat entrance doors above 11 metres", "quote": "must use best endeavours to undertake checks of fire doors at the entrances of individual domestic premises in the building at least every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Fact sheet: Fire doors (regulation 10)", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-england-regulations-2022/fact-sheet-fire-doors-regulation-10", "edition": "Updated 24 July 2023", "supports": "Home Office summary of the duty and its start date of 23 January 2023", "quote": "undertake quarterly checks of all fire doors", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Six-monthly condition check of fire doors in small non-domestic premises", "quote": "Fire doors should be checked to make sure they remain in good condition, are not damaged, and remain a good fit in their frames", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Weekly check that stairway fire doors close properly", "quote": "Fire-resisting doors fitted to stairways should be checked to ensure that they close effectively", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Six-monthly inspection as good practice in blocks of flats; cites BS 8214", "quote": "Good practice is to inspect timber fire-resisting doorsets on a six monthly basis", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "A guide to making your small block of flats safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire-accessible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Six-monthly check of communal fire doors in small blocks of flats", "quote": "Check all fire doors, other than flat entrance doors, to ensure that they are undamaged and are effectively self-closing", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety measures", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 10: Fire doors", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/10", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Information about fire doors must be given to all residents every 12 months", "quote": "to all residents of domestic premises within the building, within each period of 12 months beginning with the date these Regulations come into force", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Legal intervals taken from the regulation text; guidance intervals confirmed in three government guides.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/passive/fire-doors/" }, { "slug": "fire-extinguisher-servicing", "system": "Fire extinguishers", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should fire extinguishers be serviced?", "short_answer": "Have every extinguisher given a basic service by a competent technician once a year, and look them over at least once a month. BS 5306-3 also calls for an extended service about every five years, with CO2 extinguishers overhauled every ten years.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Visual check that each extinguisher is in place, undamaged and at the correct pressure", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Home Office guidance lists a monthly visual check. The FIA advises routine visual inspections weekly or monthly.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Basic service by a competent extinguisher technician", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent extinguisher technician", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5306-3 recommends that all extinguishers are inspected by a competent person at least annually.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s4", "s5", "s6" ] }, { "task": "Extended service, including discharge, internal inspection and refill", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent extinguisher technician", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5306-3 recommends extended servicing broadly every five years for stored pressure extinguishers such as water, foam, powder and wet chemical types.", "source_ids": [ "s8", "s4" ], "condition": "Water, foam, powder and wet chemical extinguishers" }, { "task": "Overhaul, including hydraulic pressure test of the cylinder and a new valve", "interval": { "every": 10, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent extinguisher technician", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5306-3 recommends that CO2 extinguishers are overhauled at ten year intervals.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ], "condition": "CO2 extinguishers" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires fire-fighting equipment to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. The Order sets no service interval.", "standard": "BS 5306-3:2017, the code of practice for commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers.", "evidence": [ "Service label on each extinguisher showing the last service date", "Annual service report or certificate from the technician", "Monthly visual check log", "Extinguisher asset list with type, location and age" ], "notes": "The annual service and the five and ten year intervals come from the British Standard, not from legislation. The FIA describes the intervals as broadly annual and broadly five-yearly. Some manufacturers set their own servicing instructions, which should also be followed.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Monthly visual check by the user", "quote": "Carry out a visual check of all fire extinguishers", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Signs Your Fire Extinguisher Needs Replacing", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/signs-your-fire-extinguisher-needs-replacing.html", "edition": "Published 29 April 2026", "supports": "FIA advice on routine visual inspections", "quote": "Routine visual inspections should be carried out regularly, for example weekly or monthly.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Signs Your Fire Extinguisher Needs Replacing", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/signs-your-fire-extinguisher-needs-replacing.html", "edition": "Published 29 April 2026", "supports": "BS 5306-3 annual inspection by a competent person", "quote": "All extinguishers should be inspected by a competent person at least annually in accordance with the recommendation of BS 5306-3", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "FIA Short Guide to BS 5306-3:2017", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/static/uploaded/cb3f79c2-e864-41c8-9a0e8aee95e5677f.pdf", "edition": "Version 1, November 2017", "supports": "BS 5306-3:2017 system of annual basic and five-yearly extended servicing", "quote": "the system of (broadly annual) basic servicing and (broadly five-yearly) extended servicing by competent persons", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Annual inspection and test by a competent contractor", "quote": "Fire extinguishers should be inspected and tested by a competent contractor", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Twelve-monthly inspection and maintenance; cites BS 5306-3", "quote": "they should be inspected and maintained every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Signs Your Fire Extinguisher Needs Replacing", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/signs-your-fire-extinguisher-needs-replacing.html", "edition": "Published 29 April 2026", "supports": "Ten year overhaul of CO2 extinguishers", "quote": "extinguishers require overhaul at 10-year intervals", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Signs Your Fire Extinguisher Needs Replacing", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/signs-your-fire-extinguisher-needs-replacing.html", "edition": "Published 29 April 2026", "supports": "Five-yearly extended servicing of stored pressure extinguishers", "quote": "Stored pressure extinguishers, such as water, foam, powder, and wet chemical types, require periodic extended servicing.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Annual service confirmed by the FIA quoting BS 5306-3 and by government guides. The five-yearly extended service is stated in two FIA documents and the ten-yearly CO2 overhaul in one; the standard itself was not read.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/fire-extinguishers/" }, { "slug": "dry-wet-riser-testing", "system": "Dry and wet rising mains", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should dry risers and wet risers be tested?", "short_answer": "Inspect rising mains every six months and have them tested once a year, as BS 9990 recommends. In high-rise residential buildings the law also requires a monthly routine check of riser inlets and outlets.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Inspection of the fire main, including outlets, landing valves, padlocks and straps", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or riser contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 9990 recommends that fire mains are inspected every six months, as stated in the government-hosted flats guide and in fire and rescue service guidance.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Annual test of the rising main (a pressure test for dry risers)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Specialist riser contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 9990 recommends that fire mains are tested every 12 months. Testing involves pressurising the main and normally needs a specialist contractor.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Monthly routine check of rising main inlets and outlets", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of key fire-fighting equipment, which includes inlets and outlets for dry and wet rising mains.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s4" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 38 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires facilities provided for the use or protection of fire-fighters, such as rising mains, to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. It sets no interval. In high-rise residential buildings, regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks and the reporting of faults that cannot be fixed within 24 hours to the fire and rescue service.", "standard": "BS 9990 (non-automatic fire-fighting systems in buildings). The current edition is BS 9990:2015.", "evidence": [ "Six-monthly inspection records", "Annual test certificate", "In high-rise residential buildings: the record of monthly checks, kept available to residents", "Fault reports sent to the fire and rescue service" ], "notes": "The six-monthly and annual intervals are British Standard recommendations. The government-hosted flats guide that states them dates from 2011 and cites the 2006 edition of BS 9990; an Avon Fire and Rescue Service log book published in 2024 gives the same periods.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Six-monthly inspection and annual test of fire mains; cites BS 9990", "quote": "Fire mains need to be inspected every six months and tested every 12 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire Safety Log Book: Non-Domestic Commercial Premises", "publisher": "Avon Fire and Rescue Service", "url": "https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AFRS-Fire-Log-Book-Non-Domestic-Commercial-Premises-2024.pdf", "edition": "2024 edition", "supports": "A fire and rescue service log book gives the same periods and cites BS 9990", "quote": "6 months for inspection", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 6: Floor plans and building plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/6", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Key fire-fighting equipment includes rising main inlets and outlets", "quote": "(c) outlets for dry-rising mains; (d) outlets for wet-rising mains; (e) smoke control systems; (f) suppression systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Faults that cannot be fixed within 24 hours must be reported to the fire and rescue service", "quote": "cannot be rectified within a 24-hour period beginning with the time the fault is identified", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 38: Maintenance of measures provided for protection of fire-fighters", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/38", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to maintain facilities provided for fire-fighters", "quote": "provided in respect of the premises for the use by or protection of fire-fighters", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Advice on inspections of high-rise residential buildings", "publisher": "Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service", "url": "https://manchesterfire.gov.uk/media/tnrltymd/gmfrs-advice-inspections-of-high-rise-residential-buildings-july-23.pdf", "edition": "July 2023", "supports": "Confirms BS 9990:2015 as the current edition", "quote": "BS 9990:2015 Non automatic fire-fighting systems in buildings. Code of practice", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Two authoritative sources agree on the BS 9990 periods; the monthly check is taken from the regulation text.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/", "delivered_note": "Arranged by Gemini AMPM through a vetted specialist contractor." }, { "slug": "sprinkler-system-maintenance", "system": "Sprinkler systems", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should a sprinkler system be tested and serviced?", "short_answer": "It depends on the type of system. Commercial systems to BS EN 12845 follow a layered routine: weekly and monthly tests, a quarterly service, then six-monthly, yearly, three-yearly and ten-yearly tasks. Residential systems to BS 9251 need an annual inspection by the installer.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Weekly tests: alarms, pump or engine start, air compressors, isolating valve positions and frost protection", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Trained and competent member of staff, or the sprinkler contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets a weekly test routine, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s8" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Monthly checks: battery levels and water storage tank security", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Trained and competent member of staff, or the sprinkler contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets a monthly check routine, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Quarterly service: review of hazard, pipework and supports, water supply flow tests, stop valves and flow switches", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Sprinkler installer or specialist maintenance contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets a quarterly routine service, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Six-monthly tasks: alternate system changeover and check of the electrical signal to the fire brigade", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Sprinkler installer or specialist maintenance contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets six-monthly tasks, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Annual service: pumps, engine, tank float valves and valve inspection", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Sprinkler installer or specialist maintenance contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets an annual service, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s5" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Three-yearly inspection of tanks, valves and non-return valves", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Sprinkler installer or specialist maintenance contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 12845 sets three-yearly tasks, as summarised by BAFSA.", "source_ids": [ "s6" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Drain, clean and internally examine water storage tanks", "interval": { "every": 10, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent person", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BAFSA states that storage tanks should be cleaned and examined internally at least once every ten years.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ], "condition": "Commercial and industrial systems to BS EN 12845" }, { "task": "Annual inspection by the installer", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Sprinkler installer", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BAFSA states that residential systems to BS 9251 need an annual inspection by the installer, with simple in-house checks in between.", "source_ids": [ "s9", "s10" ], "condition": "Residential and domestic systems to BS 9251" }, { "task": "Monthly routine check of the suppression system", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of key fire-fighting equipment, which includes suppression systems.", "source_ids": [ "s11", "s12" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires fire suppression equipment to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. It sets no intervals. In high-rise residential buildings, regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 adds monthly routine checks of suppression systems.", "standard": "BS EN 12845 (automatic sprinkler systems: design, installation and maintenance) for commercial and industrial systems, or the LPC Rules; BS 9251 for residential and domestic systems.", "evidence": [ "Sprinkler log book with weekly and monthly test entries", "Quarterly, six-monthly and annual service reports", "Tank inspection and cleaning records", "Service reports from a third-party certificated sprinkler contractor" ], "notes": "The routine is set by the standard the system was designed to, so check the system documentation before fixing a calendar. BAFSA also lists sprinkler head performance testing at intervals set by the rules the system was designed to. All intervals here are standard recommendations, not legal requirements. The routine shown is BAFSA's published summary, not the text of the standard. BAFSA's 2024 guide refers to the commercial standard as BS EN 12845-1, so confirm the edition and the full routine with your sprinkler contractor.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "BAFSA summary of weekly tests under BS EN 12845", "quote": "Weekly: Testing alarms, Pump/engine test", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Monthly checks", "quote": "Monthly: Battery level checks, Water Storage tank security", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Quarterly routine service", "quote": "Quarterly: Review of hazard, Inspection of pipework/supports, Water supply flow tests, Exercise stop valves, Test flow switches", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Six-monthly tasks", "quote": "Check electrical signal to Fire brigade", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Annual service tasks", "quote": "Annually: Pump service, Check tank ball float valves, Engine service, Valve service/inspection", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Three-yearly inspection of tanks and valves", "quote": "3 Yearly: Inspect tanks, All valves & non return valves, Inspection, service and overhaul as necessary", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Ten-yearly internal tank clean and examination", "quote": "All storage tanks should be cleaned and examined internally by a competent person at least once every ten years.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "BIF 16B: Sprinkler System Maintenance to BS EN 12845", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF16b.pdf", "edition": "September 2020", "supports": "Weekly tests may be done by a competent owner; servicing by the installer or similar", "quote": "there is no reason why weekly test procedures cannot be carried out by the owner", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Sprinkler Protected Buildings: A Guide for Responsible Persons and Duty Holders", "publisher": "British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)", "url": "https://www.bafsa.org.uk/assets/Downloads/BIF_SprinklerProtectedBuildings.pdf", "edition": "August 2024", "supports": "Residential BS 9251 systems need an annual inspection by the installer", "quote": "require simple ‘in house’ maintenance except for an annual inspection which should be undertaken by the installer", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Government-hosted guide points to BS EN 12845 and BS 9251 for servicing", "quote": "Further guidance on testing and servicing of sprinkler systems can be found in BS EN 12845 or, in the case of domestic sprinklers, BS 9251.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 6: Floor plans and building plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/6", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Key fire-fighting equipment includes suppression systems", "quote": "(c) outlets for dry-rising mains; (d) outlets for wet-rising mains; (e) smoke control systems; (f) suppression systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s13", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "The legal monthly check is taken from the regulation text, but the BS EN 12845 and BS 9251 routines rest on one trade association's summaries (BAFSA, 2020 and 2024); the standards themselves were not read.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/", "delivered_note": "Arranged by Gemini AMPM through a vetted specialist contractor." }, { "slug": "smoke-control-aov-testing", "system": "Smoke control and smoke ventilation (AOVs)", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should smoke vents (AOVs) and smoke control systems be tested?", "short_answer": "Test the system regularly in-house and have it maintained by a specialist at least once a year. The Smoke Control Association, citing BS 9999, recommends weekly actuation tests so that every zone is proved at least once every three months, plus six-monthly maintenance. Older government guidance for blocks of flats describes a monthly test of AOVs.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Weekly actuation test, rotating zones so that every zone is tested at least once every three months", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Building's competent person", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 9999 Annex I recommends weekly tests, with the actuation of all zones simulated at least once every three months, as quoted by the Smoke Control Association.", "source_ids": [ "s1" ] }, { "task": "Monthly test of AOVs using the manual controls", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats says AOVs should be tested once a month using the manual controls.", "source_ids": [ "s4", "s7" ], "condition": "Blocks of flats (older government guidance)" }, { "task": "Monthly routine check of smoke control systems", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of key fire-fighting equipment, which includes smoke control systems.", "source_ids": [ "s8", "s9" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes" }, { "task": "Six-monthly inspection and maintenance by a competent maintainer", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent smoke control maintainer", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The Smoke Control Association and its manufacturer members recommend six-monthly inspection and maintenance.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ] }, { "task": "Annual maintenance check, including detectors, controls and performance against the design", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Certified smoke control contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The Smoke Control Association says the annual maintenance check should be done by a certified organisation. Government guidance for flats says detectors and controls linked to AOVs should be tested at least once a year.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s5", "s6" ] } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires smoke control systems to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. It sets no interval. In high-rise residential buildings, regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of smoke control systems.", "standard": "BS 9999:2017 (Annex I, as quoted by the Smoke Control Association), with BS 7346-8:2013 and the BS EN 12101 series for smoke and heat control systems.", "evidence": [ "Smoke control system log book with each weekly or monthly test", "Six-monthly and annual maintenance reports", "Annual maintenance certificate", "In high-rise residential buildings: the record of monthly checks, kept available to residents" ], "notes": "Sources differ on the in-house test frequency. The Smoke Control Association's current guidance, quoting BS 9999, describes weekly tests with every zone proved within three months. The 2011 guide to purpose-built blocks of flats, repeated in a 2024 fire service log book, describes a monthly test of AOVs. Both are shown: follow the system's design documentation and the manufacturer's instructions. The flats guide adds that smoke extract and pressurisation systems are normally serviced at least annually and may need monthly or more frequent functional tests where they protect the means of escape.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Guidance on Maintenance of Smoke Control Equipment", "publisher": "Smoke Control Association (hosted by FETA)", "url": "https://feta.co.uk/client/files/FETA/Committee%20Minutes/HEVAC/Guidance_on_Maintenance_of_Smoke_Control_Equipment_v17.pdf", "edition": "Version 1.1; cites BS 9991:2024 and BS 9999:2017", "supports": "BS 9999 Annex I: weekly tests, with every zone actuated at least once every three months", "quote": "the actuation of all zones within a smoke control system should be simulated at least once every three months, with tests run each week", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Guidance on Maintenance of Smoke Control Equipment", "publisher": "Smoke Control Association (hosted by FETA)", "url": "https://feta.co.uk/client/files/FETA/Committee%20Minutes/HEVAC/Guidance_on_Maintenance_of_Smoke_Control_Equipment_v17.pdf", "edition": "Version 1.1; cites BS 9991:2024 and BS 9999:2017", "supports": "SCA recommendation of six-monthly inspection and maintenance", "quote": "recommend that 6 monthly inspection and maintenance should be carried out", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Guidance on Maintenance of Smoke Control Equipment", "publisher": "Smoke Control Association (hosted by FETA)", "url": "https://feta.co.uk/client/files/FETA/Committee%20Minutes/HEVAC/Guidance_on_Maintenance_of_Smoke_Control_Equipment_v17.pdf", "edition": "Version 1.1; cites BS 9991:2024 and BS 9999:2017", "supports": "Annual maintenance check by a certified organisation", "quote": "The Annual Maintenance check should be carried out by a certified organisation.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Monthly test of AOVs using the manual controls in blocks of flats", "quote": "AOVs and electrically operated OVs should be tested once a month for correct operation using the manual controls provided", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Annual test of detectors and controls linked to AOVs", "quote": "Testing smoke detectors and controls associated with AOVs should take place at least once a year", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "A guide to making your small block of flats safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire-accessible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Annual contractor test of automatic opening vents in small blocks of flats", "quote": "If automatic opening smoke vents are fitted, engage competent contractors to test their operation", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "A guide to making your small block of flats safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire-accessible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Monthly check that manual smoke vents open easily", "quote": "Check that windows or vents used for ventilation of smoke can be easily opened", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 6: Floor plans and building plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/6", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Key fire-fighting equipment includes smoke control systems", "quote": "(c) outlets for dry-rising mains; (d) outlets for wet-rising mains; (e) smoke control systems; (f) suppression systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Authoritative sources disagree on the in-house test frequency (weekly under BS 9999 as quoted by the SCA; monthly in older government guidance).", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/ventilation/aov-smoke-extract/" }, { "slug": "fire-damper-testing", "system": "Fire and smoke dampers", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should fire dampers be tested?", "short_answer": "At least once a year. BS 9999:2017 recommends that all fire dampers are tested by a competent person when installed and at least annually, and more often where the air is dusty or polluted.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Test every fire and smoke damper (drop test or actuation), clean and lubricate, and record with photographs", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent fire damper specialist", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 9999:2017 recommends that all fire dampers are tested by a competent person on completion of installation and at least annually, as stated by BESA.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s3" ] }, { "task": "More frequent testing of dampers in dust-laden or polluted airstreams", "interval": null, "who": "Competent fire damper specialist", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 9999 recommends that dampers in dust-laden and similar atmospheres are tested much more frequently, at periods suited to the degree of pollution.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ], "condition": "Dampers in dusty or polluted systems", "interval_note": "More often than annually, at a period suited to the degree of pollution" }, { "task": "Test all fire and smoke dampers as part of the annual verification of ventilation systems", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent person under the healthcare ventilation regime", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Health Technical Memorandum 03-01 Part B says all fire and smoke dampers should be tested as part of the annual verification unless local policy dictates otherwise.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "Healthcare premises" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires fire dampers that form part of a building's fire precautions to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. The Order sets no test interval.", "standard": "BS 9999:2017 (fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings). BESA's DW145 and VH001 give industry guidance on installing and maintaining dampers.", "evidence": [ "Damper asset register showing the location and type of each damper", "Annual test report with before, during and after photographs of each damper", "List of dampers that could not be accessed, with the remedial plan", "Records of repairs and replacements" ], "notes": "Sources differ. The 2011 guide to purpose-built blocks of flats, repeated in a 2024 fire service log book, allows two years between tests for dampers operated by fusible links and one year for spring-operated dampers. BESA states that BS 9999:2017 recommends at least annual testing for all fire dampers, and NHS guidance says the same for healthcare. This dataset shows the annual figure because it reflects the current edition of the standard. The annual test is a British Standard recommendation, not an explicit legal requirement.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Fire Damper Testing Requirements And UK Compliance Standards", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/fire-damper-testing-requirements-uk", "edition": "Published 19 December 2025", "supports": "BESA statement of the BS 9999:2017 testing frequency", "quote": "all fire dampers must be tested by a competent person on completion of installation and at least annually thereafter", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "VH001 Fire and Smoke Damper Maintenance, Version 3", "publisher": "BESA (copy hosted by Swiftclean, a BESA member)", "url": "https://www.swiftclean.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/VH001-Fire-and-Smoke-Damper-Maintenance-Version-3.pdf", "edition": "Version 3, August 2022. BESA says a version 4 now exists", "supports": "BESA VH001 quotation of BS 9999 on dusty atmospheres", "quote": "fire dampers situated in dust-laden and similar atmospheres should be tested much more frequently, at periods suited to the degree of pollution", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "VH001 Fire and Smoke Damper Maintenance, Version 3", "publisher": "BESA (copy hosted by Swiftclean, a BESA member)", "url": "https://www.swiftclean.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/VH001-Fire-and-Smoke-Damper-Maintenance-Version-3.pdf", "edition": "Version 3, August 2022. BESA says a version 4 now exists", "supports": "BESA VH001 quotation of BS 9999 on annual testing", "quote": "Arrangements should be made for all fire dampers to be tested* by a competent person on completion of the installation and at least annually", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Health Technical Memorandum 03-01: Specialised ventilation for healthcare premises, Part B", "publisher": "NHS England", "url": "https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HTM0301-PartB-accessible-F6.pdf", "edition": "2021", "supports": "NHS guidance: dampers tested as part of annual verification", "quote": "All fire and smoke dampers should be tested as part of the annual verification unless the local policy dictates otherwise.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Older guidance allowing two years for fusible link dampers", "quote": "this should be undertaken at least once every two years for those operated by fusible links", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fire Safety Log Book: Non-Domestic Commercial Premises", "publisher": "Avon Fire and Rescue Service", "url": "https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AFRS-Fire-Log-Book-Non-Domestic-Commercial-Premises-2024.pdf", "edition": "2024 edition", "supports": "A 2024 fire service log book repeats the two year figure", "quote": "2 years as a minimum for fusible link operated.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Authoritative sources disagree: older government-hosted guidance and a 2024 fire service log book allow two years for fusible link dampers; BESA and NHS guidance say annual.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/ventilation/fire-damper-testing/" }, { "slug": "gas-suppression-servicing", "system": "Gaseous fire suppression systems (including room integrity testing)", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should a gas fire suppression system be serviced and the room integrity tested?", "short_answer": "Have the system serviced by a specialist at least every six months and repeat the room integrity test every 12 months. Systems that use F-gas extinguishing agents must also be inspected often enough to meet the F-gas leak check rules.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Service visit by a suppression specialist, including a check that pressure relief vents are free to operate", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent gaseous suppression contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Fire Industry Association guidance refers to servicing and maintenance procedures at least every six months.", "source_ids": [ "s1" ] }, { "task": "Room integrity test and hold time calculation", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent room integrity tester", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "The Fire Industry Association says BS EN 15004 and ISO 14520 call for the room integrity test and hold time calculation to be repeated annually unless there is documentary evidence that the enclosure has not changed.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s3" ] }, { "task": "F-gas leak checks on systems that contain fluorinated extinguishing agents", "interval": null, "who": "F-gas certified technician", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 4 of the assimilated F-gas Regulation requires leak checks at intervals set by the charge. For fire protection equipment the duty is treated as met if the system is inspected to ISO 14520 or EN 15004 at least that often.", "source_ids": [ "s4", "s5" ], "condition": "Systems containing 5 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more of F-gas", "interval_note": "Every 12, 6 or 3 months depending on the charge: see the F-gas leak checks entry" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires suppression systems provided for fire safety to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. It sets no service interval. Where the extinguishing agent is a fluorinated gas, article 4 of the assimilated F-gas Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 also requires leak checks.", "standard": "BS EN 15004 and ISO 14520, the standards for gaseous fire extinguishing systems that the Fire Industry Association and the F-gas Regulation both refer to.", "evidence": [ "Service report for each visit", "Annual room integrity test certificate with the calculated hold time", "F-gas leak check records where applicable", "Records of any changes to the protected room since the last integrity test" ], "notes": "The six-monthly service figure comes from Fire Industry Association guidance rather than a direct public quotation of BS EN 15004, and both FIA documents are several years old (2012 and 2019). The room integrity test matters because, if the gas leaks out of the room too quickly, the fire can reignite.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Guidance on the pressure relief and post discharge venting of enclosures protected by gaseous fire fighting systems", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/static/uploaded/fab220fa-3bd8-4410-82d584549e0e2877.pdf", "edition": "Issue 2, March 2012", "supports": "FIA guidance refers to servicing at least every six months", "quote": "During servicing and maintenance procedures (at least every six months) the following should be checked", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Guidance for Gas Fire Protection Systems: the room integrity test", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/guidance-for-gas-fire-protection-systems-the-room-integrity-test.html", "edition": "Published 15 March 2019", "supports": "Room integrity test every 12 months", "quote": "The test needs to be carried out every 12 months as part of a maintenance schedule.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Guidance for Gas Fire Protection Systems: the room integrity test", "publisher": "Fire Industry Association", "url": "https://www.fia.uk.com/news/blogs/guidance-for-gas-fire-protection-systems-the-room-integrity-test.html", "edition": "Published 15 March 2019", "supports": "Annual repeat is required by ISO 14520 and EN 15004 unless the enclosure is documented as unchanged", "quote": "the room integrity test and the hold time calculation is repeated annually", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "F-gas leak check duty is met for fire protection equipment inspected to ISO 14520 or EN 15004 at the required frequency", "quote": "the existing inspection regime meets ISO 14520 or EN 15004 standards", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Checking F gas equipment for leaks", "publisher": "Environment Agency and Defra (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/checking-f-gas-equipment-for-leaks", "edition": "Published 21 August 2019", "supports": "F-gas leak check rules apply to stationary fire protection equipment", "quote": "stationary fire protection equipment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Service interval rests on FIA guidance from 2012 and 2019, not a direct statement of the current BS EN 15004 text.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/gas/maintenance-servicing/" }, { "slug": "evacuation-alert-system-checks", "system": "Evacuation alert systems (BS 8629)", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should an evacuation alert system be checked?", "short_answer": "In high-rise residential buildings, the responsible person must check the evacuation alert system every month and keep a record that residents can see. Servicing by a competent contractor should follow BS 8629 and the manufacturer's instructions.", "applies_to": [ "residential-blocks" ], "hrb_only": true, "tasks": [ { "task": "Monthly routine check of the evacuation alert system, recorded and made available to residents", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment, which includes evacuation alert systems in the common parts.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s3" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes" }, { "task": "Report any fault that cannot be fixed within 24 hours to the local fire and rescue service, and report again when it is fixed", "interval": null, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7(3) of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "High-rise residential buildings only: at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, with 2 or more homes", "interval_note": "Event-driven: as soon as reasonably practicable, where a fault cannot be fixed within 24 hours of being found" }, { "task": "Inspection and servicing by a competent contractor", "interval": null, "who": "Competent evacuation alert system contractor", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 8629:2019+A1:2023 gives the maintenance recommendations. The servicing interval is not stated here because it could not be confirmed from an authoritative public source.", "source_ids": [ "s6" ], "interval_note": "Follow BS 8629 and the manufacturer's instructions; interval not verified" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires the responsible person for a high-rise residential building (at least 18 metres or seven storeys) to carry out monthly routine checks of evacuation alert systems in the common parts, to record them, and to report faults that cannot be fixed within 24 hours to the fire and rescue service. Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 also requires the system to be maintained in efficient working order.", "standard": "BS 8629:2019+A1:2023, the code of practice for evacuation alert systems for use by fire and rescue services in buildings containing flats.", "evidence": [ "Record of monthly checks, kept available to residents", "Service reports from the maintenance contractor", "Fault and rectification reports sent to the fire and rescue service" ], "notes": "An evacuation alert system is provided for use by the fire and rescue service. The routine check means confirming the equipment is in efficient working order and good repair, in line with the industry standard or the manufacturer's instructions. This entry is incomplete: public summaries of the BS 8629 servicing interval disagree (six-monthly in one manufacturer's guide, annual in a contractor's summary of the 2023 amendment), so no servicing interval is given.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Essential fire-fighting equipment includes evacuation alert systems in the common parts", "quote": "evacuation alert systems, (c) automatic door release mechanisms linked to fire alarm systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly checks must be recorded and the record made accessible to residents", "quote": "must make a record of the monthly checks undertaken pursuant to this regulation and make that record accessible to the residents of the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Faults not fixed within 24 hours must be reported to the fire and rescue service", "quote": "report the fault to the local fire and rescue authority by electronic means", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 3: Meaning of high-rise residential building", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/3", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Definition of a high-rise residential building", "quote": "is at least 18 metres above ground level; or (b) has at least seven storeys", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "BS 8629:2019+A1:2023 product page", "publisher": "British Standards Institution (BSI Knowledge)", "url": "https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/design-installation-commissioning-and-maintenance-of-evacuation-alert-systems-for-use-by-fire-and-rescue-services-in-buildings-containing-flats-code-of-practice", "edition": "Standard published 31 March 2023", "supports": "BS 8629 covers maintenance of evacuation alert systems; current edition is BS 8629:2019+A1:2023", "quote": "BS 8629 gives recommendations for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of evacuation alert systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "The legal monthly check is certain, but the BS 8629 servicing interval could not be verified: the only public summaries found are not authoritative and disagree.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/evacuation-alert-systems/" }, { "slug": "voice-alarm-testing", "system": "Voice alarm and public address (PAVA) systems", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should a voice alarm (PAVA) system be tested?", "short_answer": "Test it every week with the fire alarm, checking that the right message is broadcast and can be understood, and have a competent specialist carry out maintenance inspections every six and twelve months, as BS 5839-8:2023 recommends.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Weekly test with the fire alarm, confirming the correct message is broadcast in the correct zones and is understood", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Premises management or nominated staff", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5839-8:2023 recommends documented weekly testing by nominated staff, as stated by the Institute of Sound, Communications and Visual Engineers. The government offices and shops guide lists the same weekly check.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s5" ] }, { "task": "Six-monthly maintenance inspection by a competent organisation", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent voice alarm maintenance organisation", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5839-8:2023 recommends documented six-monthly maintenance inspections by a competent organisation, as stated by ISCVE.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s3" ] }, { "task": "Twelve-monthly maintenance inspection, including the annual checks", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent voice alarm maintenance organisation", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 5839-8:2023 recommends documented twelve-monthly maintenance inspections by a competent organisation, as stated by ISCVE.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s4" ] } ], "legal_basis": "Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a voice alarm system that forms part of the fire warning arrangements to be kept under a suitable system of maintenance and in efficient working order. The Order sets no test interval.", "standard": "BS 5839-8:2023, the code of practice for voice alarm systems. The previous edition was dated 2013.", "evidence": [ "Voice alarm log book with each weekly test", "Six-monthly and twelve-monthly maintenance inspection reports", "Records of faults and repairs" ], "notes": "The intervals are British Standard recommendations, not legal requirements. They are taken from the professional institute's guide to the 2023 standard and from the consultation draft of that standard: the published standard itself was not available to check. A public address system that is not relied on in an emergency is not a voice alarm system and is outside this entry.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Voice Alarm System Guide For Specifiers", "publisher": "Institute of Sound, Communications and Visual Engineers (ISCVE), copy hosted by Commercial Audio Solutions", "url": "https://commercialaudiosolutions.com/storage/uploads/file/3MMxQG/ISCVE%20VAS%20Guide%20for%20Specifiers.pdf", "edition": "Refers to BS 5839-8:2023", "supports": "Weekly testing by nominated staff under clause 39.1 of BS 5839-8:2023", "quote": "documented weekly testing of the VAS by nominated staff in accordance with clause 39.1 in BS 5839-8:2023", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Voice Alarm System Guide For Specifiers", "publisher": "Institute of Sound, Communications and Visual Engineers (ISCVE), copy hosted by Commercial Audio Solutions", "url": "https://commercialaudiosolutions.com/storage/uploads/file/3MMxQG/ISCVE%20VAS%20Guide%20for%20Specifiers.pdf", "edition": "Refers to BS 5839-8:2023", "supports": "Six and twelve monthly maintenance inspections under clauses 40.1 and 40.2", "quote": "documented 6 and 12 monthly maintenance inspections by a competent organisation", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Draft BS 5839-8 for public consultation (21 December 2021)", "publisher": "British Standards Institution draft, hosted by ISCVE", "url": "https://iscve.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/BS-5839-8-PUBLIC-CONSULTATION-.pdf", "edition": "Consultation draft, not the published BS 5839-8:2023", "supports": "Consultation draft of BS 5839-8: service tasks at intervals not exceeding six months", "quote": "At intervals not exceeding six months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Draft BS 5839-8 for public consultation (21 December 2021)", "publisher": "British Standards Institution draft, hosted by ISCVE", "url": "https://iscve.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/BS-5839-8-PUBLIC-CONSULTATION-.pdf", "edition": "Consultation draft, not the published BS 5839-8:2023", "supports": "Consultation draft of BS 5839-8: further tasks at intervals not exceeding 12 months", "quote": "At intervals not exceeding 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire safety risk assessment: offices and shops", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-risk-assessment-offices-and-shops/fire-safety-risk-assessment-offices-and-shops-accessible", "edition": "First published 5 June 2006; page last updated 12 September 2023. Predates current editions of the standards it cites", "supports": "Government fire risk assessment guide lists a weekly voice alarm check", "quote": "Do voice alarm systems work correctly? Was the message understood?", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 17: Maintenance", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The general legal duty to maintain fire safety equipment", "quote": "are subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Intervals confirmed only through the professional institute's summary (a copy hosted by a third party) and a consultation draft, not the published BS 5839-8:2023.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/fire/" }, { "slug": "firefighting-lift-and-equipment-checks", "system": "Firefighting lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "What monthly checks are required on firefighting lifts and fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings?", "short_answer": "In residential buildings of at least 18 metres or seven storeys, the responsible person must check lifts for firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment every month, keep a record residents can see, and tell the fire and rescue service about any fault that cannot be fixed within 24 hours. The secure information box must also be inspected at least once a year.", "applies_to": [ "residential-blocks" ], "hrb_only": true, "tasks": [ { "task": "Monthly routine check of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment, with a record made available to residents", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. Essential fire-fighting equipment covers rising main inlets and outlets, smoke control systems, suppression systems and, in the common parts, fire detection and alarm systems, evacuation alert systems and automatic door release mechanisms.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s3", "s5", "s6" ] }, { "task": "Report any fault that cannot be fixed within 24 hours to the local fire and rescue service, and report again when it is fixed", "interval": null, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 7(3) of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ], "interval_note": "Event-driven: as soon as reasonably practicable, where a fault cannot be fixed within 24 hours of being found" }, { "task": "Inspect the secure information box and confirm it is still accessible to the fire and rescue service, secure and able to hold the required documents", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 4(5) of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 requires the responsible person to inspect the secure information box at least annually.", "source_ids": [ "s9" ], "interval_note": "At least once a year" }, { "task": "Weekly operation of the fire-fighting lift override switch", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats describes weekly operation of override switches, citing BS 9999 for further guidance.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ] }, { "task": "Annual testing and maintenance of fire-fighting lifts", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent lift contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats describes annual testing and maintenance of fire-fighting lifts, citing BS 9999 for further guidance.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ] } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 7 of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, in force since 23 January 2023, requires monthly routine checks, a record accessible to residents, and electronic reporting of faults that cannot be fixed within 24 hours. It applies to high-rise residential buildings: those with two or more homes that are at least 18 metres above ground level or have at least seven storeys. Regulation 4 of the same regulations requires the secure information box to be inspected at least annually. Article 38 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 separately requires facilities for fire-fighters to be maintained in every building that has them.", "standard": "BS 9999 gives guidance on testing and servicing fire-fighting lifts, as cited by the government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats.", "evidence": [ "Dated record of each monthly check, available to residents", "Fault reports and rectification reports sent to the fire and rescue service", "Dated record of the annual secure information box inspection", "Lift maintenance and test records" ], "notes": "A routine check means confirming the lift or equipment is in efficient working order and good repair, in line with the relevant industry standard or the manufacturer's instructions. Lifts are also subject to thorough examination under LOLER where they are used at work: see the passenger and goods lifts entry. The weekly and annual lift tasks come from a 2011 guide; the monthly check is the legal minimum.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Monthly routine checks of essential fire-fighting equipment in high-rise residential buildings", "quote": "must undertake monthly routine checks of lifts for use by firefighters, evacuation lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment within the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Faults not fixed within 24 hours must be reported to the fire and rescue service", "quote": "cannot be rectified within a 24-hour period beginning with the time the fault is identified", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 7: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/7", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Record of monthly checks to be accessible to residents", "quote": "must make a record of the monthly checks undertaken pursuant to this regulation and make that record accessible to the residents of the building", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 3: Meaning of high-rise residential building", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/3", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Definition of a high-rise residential building", "quote": "is at least 18 metres above ground level; or (b) has at least seven storeys", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 6: Floor plans and building plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/6", "edition": "In force 23 January 2023", "supports": "Key fire-fighting equipment: rising main inlets and outlets, smoke control and suppression systems", "quote": "(c) outlets for dry-rising mains; (d) outlets for wet-rising mains; (e) smoke control systems; (f) suppression systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fact sheet: Lifts and essential fire-fighting equipment (regulation 7)", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-england-regulations-2022/fact-sheet-lifts-and-essential-fire-fighting-equipment-regulation-7", "edition": "Updated 24 July 2023", "supports": "Home Office fact sheet on the monthly checks", "quote": "Monthly checks will be recorded in a transparent way that is accessible to residents.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Good practice routine for fire-fighting lifts; cites BS 9999", "quote": "weekly operation of override switches and monthly inspections and annual testing and maintenance of the lifts", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 38: Maintenance of measures provided for protection of fire-fighters", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/38", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to maintain facilities provided for fire-fighters", "quote": "provided in respect of the premises for the use by or protection of fire-fighters", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regulation 4: Secure information box", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2022/547/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Annual inspection of the secure information box", "quote": "must inspect the secure information box at least annually and ensure that it continues to meet the requirements in paragraph (2)", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken directly from the regulation text and the Home Office fact sheet. The weekly and annual lift tasks come from a 2011 guide and are marked as guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "kitchen-extract-cleaning", "system": "Kitchen extract (grease) ductwork", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should kitchen extract ductwork be cleaned?", "short_answer": "It depends on how many hours a day the kitchen cooks. BESA's TR19 Grease sets minimum cleaning intervals of every 3 months for heavy use (12 to 16 hours a day), every 6 months for moderate use (6 to 12 hours) and every 12 months for light use (2 to 6 hours).", "applies_to": [ "offices", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Clean the entire kitchen extract system, including the canopy, fan and the full length of the ductwork", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent kitchen extract cleaning contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "BESA's TR19 Grease recommends cleaning every 3 months as a minimum for heavy use.", "source_ids": [ "s1" ], "condition": "Heavy use: 12 to 16 hours of cooking a day" }, { "task": "Clean the entire kitchen extract system, including the canopy, fan and the full length of the ductwork", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent kitchen extract cleaning contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "BESA's TR19 Grease recommends cleaning every 6 months as a minimum for moderate use.", "source_ids": [ "s2" ], "condition": "Moderate use: 6 to 12 hours of cooking a day" }, { "task": "Clean the entire kitchen extract system, including the canopy, fan and the full length of the ductwork", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent kitchen extract cleaning contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "BESA's TR19 Grease recommends cleaning every 12 months as a minimum for light use.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ], "condition": "Light use: 2 to 6 hours of cooking a day" } ], "legal_basis": "No law sets a cleaning interval. Regulation 5 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 requires mechanical ventilation systems in workplaces to be maintained, including cleaned as appropriate. BESA and government schools guidance both treat grease and cooking residue in extract ducts as a fire risk, to be managed alongside the fire risk assessment.", "standard": "TR19 Grease, a standalone specification produced in 2019 by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) for fire risk management of grease accumulation in kitchen extraction systems. It is an industry specification, not a British Standard.", "evidence": [ "Post-clean report with before and after photographs", "Grease thickness readings taken before and after cleaning", "Record of any sections that could not be accessed", "Cleaning certificate for the insurer" ], "notes": "These are minimum intervals. BESA says more frequent cleaning may be needed depending on the type of cooking and the findings of insurance and fire risk assessments, and that grease deposits should not exceed a mean of 200 microns between cleans. Many insurance policies require TR19 compliance, so check the policy wording.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "TR19 Grease heavy use interval", "quote": "Heavy-use kitchens (12-16 hours per day) should be cleaned every 3 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "TR19 Grease moderate use interval", "quote": "Moderate use (6-12 hours per day) every 6 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "TR19 Grease light use interval", "quote": "Light use (2-6 hours per day) every 12 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "The clean covers the whole system", "quote": "The cleaning process encompasses the entire ventilation system, including the canopy, fan, and the full length of the ductwork.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "What TR19 Grease is", "quote": "a standalone specification produced in 2019 specifically for fire risk management of grease accumulation within kitchen extraction systems", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "TR19 Grease deposit limit between cleans", "quote": "must be controlled so as not to exceed a mean average of 200 microns between scheduled cleans", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "TR19 Kitchen Extract Ventilation Cleaning For Fire Safety Compliance", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/kitchen-extract-system-cleaning", "edition": "Published 5 January 2026", "supports": "Insurers commonly require TR19 compliance", "quote": "Many insurance policies now explicitly require adherence to TR19 standards", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, regulation 5: Maintenance of workplace, and of equipment, devices and systems", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/3004/regulation/5", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to maintain and clean mechanical ventilation systems in workplaces", "quote": "shall be maintained (including cleaned as appropriate) in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Government schools guidance on kitchen extract ducts and filters", "quote": "they should be regularly cleaned or replaced in accordance with the maintenance or supplier recommendations", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Intervals stated by BESA, which writes and publishes TR19 Grease, so the statement is first hand. No second independent source was used and the specification itself was not read.", "delivered_by": "clean-ducts", "delivered_by_url": "https://cleanducts.co.uk/our-services/kitchen-extract-systems-2/" }, { "slug": "fire-risk-assessment-review", "system": "Fire risk assessment review", "group": "Fire and life safety", "question": "How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?", "short_answer": "The law says regularly, and whenever there is reason to think it is no longer valid or there has been a significant change. No fixed interval is set in law for the main assessment. Guidance for blocks of flats suggests a review every one to two years and a new assessment every three to four years, depending on risk. Since 6 April 2026, high-rise blocks of flats, and blocks over 11 metres that evacuate everyone at once, also have a legal 12 month review of residents' person-centred fire risk assessments and of the building emergency evacuation plan.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Review the fire risk assessment regularly, and whenever it may no longer be valid or there has been a significant change", "interval": null, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 9(3) of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires regular review but sets no interval.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ], "interval_note": "No fixed legal interval: regularly, and on any significant change to the premises, their use or the fire precautions" }, { "task": "Review the fire risk assessment", "interval": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person or competent fire risk assessor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The government-hosted guide to purpose-built blocks of flats suggests a review every two years might be sufficient for low-risk blocks.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ], "condition": "Low-risk, modern, low-rise blocks of flats (no more than three storeys, built in the last 20 years)" }, { "task": "Carry out a new fire risk assessment", "interval": { "every": 4, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent fire risk assessor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The same guide suggests a new assessment every four years for low-risk blocks.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ], "condition": "Low-risk, modern, low-rise blocks of flats (no more than three storeys, built in the last 20 years)" }, { "task": "Review the fire risk assessment", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person or competent fire risk assessor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The same guide suggests an annual review might be more appropriate for higher-risk blocks and blocks over four storeys.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "Higher-risk blocks of flats and blocks over four storeys" }, { "task": "Carry out a new fire risk assessment", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent fire risk assessor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The same guide suggests a new assessment every three years for higher-risk blocks and blocks over four storeys.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "Higher-risk blocks of flats and blocks over four storeys" }, { "task": "Review the fire risk assessment", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible body or competent fire risk assessor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Department for Education guidance says schools should consider reviewing the assessment annually, or at least every 3 years.", "source_ids": [ "s5" ], "condition": "Schools", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "max": { "every": 3, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Review each person-centred fire risk assessment and emergency evacuation statement", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9 of the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, in force since 6 April 2026, requires a review within 12 months and every 12 months after that, and sooner if the resident reasonably asks or the assessment needs amending.", "source_ids": [ "s6", "s7", "s10", "s11" ], "condition": "Blocks of flats (2 or more homes) of at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, or over 11 metres with a simultaneous evacuation strategy, where a resident who would need help to evacuate has had a person-centred fire risk assessment", "interval_note": "At least every 12 months, and sooner on request or if circumstances change" }, { "task": "Review the building emergency evacuation plan", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Responsible person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 13 of the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, in force since 6 April 2026, requires the plan to be reviewed within 12 months of being prepared and every 12 months after that, and whenever there is reason to believe it needs amending.", "source_ids": [ "s8", "s9", "s12", "s10", "s11" ], "condition": "Blocks of flats (2 or more homes) of at least 18 metres or 7 storeys, or over 11 metres with a simultaneous evacuation strategy", "interval_note": "At least every 12 months, and sooner if the plan needs amending" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 9 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person to make a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and to review it regularly so as to keep it up to date, particularly if there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid or there has been a significant change. A written record must be kept. Separately, the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, in force since 6 April 2026, require the responsible person for a specified residential building to review each person-centred fire risk assessment and emergency evacuation statement, and the building emergency evacuation plan, at least every 12 months.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the review interval. The interval is a risk-based judgement for the responsible person.", "evidence": [ "The current written fire risk assessment", "Dated review records showing what was checked and by whom", "Action plan showing which findings have been closed", "Details of the person who carried out or reviewed the assessment", "In buildings covered by the 2025 residential evacuation plans regulations: dated reviews of person-centred fire risk assessments, emergency evacuation statements and the building emergency evacuation plan" ], "notes": "There is no single correct interval for the main fire risk assessment. The purpose-built flats guide says a less frequent review may be acceptable where the common parts are closely managed and frequently inspected, and that in extreme cases an annual fire risk assessment might be appropriate. That guide dates from 2011 and is being revised by the Home Office. The 12 month reviews under the 2025 residential evacuation plans regulations are separate from the article 9 review and apply only to the buildings those regulations define.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 9: Risk assessment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The legal duty to review the fire risk assessment regularly", "quote": "Any such assessment must be reviewed by the responsible person regularly so as to keep it up to date", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Fire safety in the workplace: Fire risk assessments", "publisher": "GOV.UK", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-risk-assessments", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "GOV.UK summary of the duty, including the written record", "quote": "you must carry out and regularly review a fire risk assessment of the premises", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Suggested intervals for low-risk, modern, low-rise blocks", "quote": "a review every two years might be sufficient, with a new fire risk assessment completed every four years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats", "publisher": "Local Government Association, hosted by the Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e9def95b6524001af21bcc/Fire_Safety_in_Purpose_Built_Blocks_of_Flats_Guide-update.pdf", "edition": "Written 2011; GOV.UK page last updated 2 December 2024. The Home Office says it is no longer comprehensive and is being revised", "supports": "Suggested intervals for higher-risk blocks and blocks over four storeys", "quote": "an annual review might be more appropriate, with a new fire risk assessment every three years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Suggested review interval for schools", "quote": "Schools of any height should consider reviewing their assessment annually, or at least every 3 years.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 9: Review by the responsible person", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/9", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "First review of a person-centred fire risk assessment and emergency evacuation statement within 12 months", "quote": "no later than 12 months after the date on which the emergency evacuation statement was first recorded", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 9: Review by the responsible person", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/9", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "Further reviews every 12 months", "quote": "before the end of every period of 12 months thereafter", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 13: Building emergency evacuation plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/13", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to review the building emergency evacuation plan", "quote": "The responsible person must review the building emergency evacuation plan", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 13: Building emergency evacuation plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/13", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "First review of the building emergency evacuation plan within 12 months", "quote": "no later than 12 months after the date on which the plan is first prepared", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 3: Meaning of specified residential building", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/3", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "Which buildings are covered: 18 metres or 7 storeys, or over 11 metres with a simultaneous evacuation strategy", "quote": "is more than 11 metres in height above ground level and has a simultaneous evacuation strategy", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 1: Citation, commencement, extent and application", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/1", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "Commencement date", "quote": "These Regulations come into force on 6th April 2026.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, regulation 13: Building emergency evacuation plan", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2025/797/regulation/13", "edition": "In force 6 April 2026", "supports": "Further reviews of the building emergency evacuation plan every 12 months", "quote": "before the end of every period of 12 months thereafter", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Legal duties taken from the Order and the 2025 regulations; the guidance ranges are quoted directly and presented as ranges.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/passive/fire-risk-assessments/" }, { "slug": "higher-risk-building-safety-case", "system": "Building registration and safety case for higher-risk residential buildings", "group": "Governance", "question": "What are the registration and safety case duties for a higher-risk residential building?", "short_answer": "A residential building of at least 18 metres or 7 storeys with 2 or more homes must be registered with the Building Safety Regulator before anyone lives there. The principal accountable person must keep building safety risks assessed, keep the safety case report up to date, and apply for a building assessment certificate within 28 days of being told to.", "applies_to": [ "residential-blocks" ], "hrb_only": true, "tasks": [ { "task": "Register the building with the Building Safety Regulator before it is occupied", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Section 77 of the Building Safety Act 2022 makes it an offence for a higher-risk building to be occupied but not registered.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s3" ], "interval_note": "One-off, before occupation" }, { "task": "Give the regulator the structure and fire safety information (key building information)", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 20 of the Higher-Risk Buildings (Key Building Information etc.) (England) Regulations 2023 requires the key building information to be submitted within 28 days of the application to register. Building Safety Regulator guidance says the same.", "source_ids": [ "s16", "s4" ], "interval_note": "Within 28 days of applying to register" }, { "task": "Tell the regulator about changes to the registration details", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 4 of the Building Safety (Registration of Higher-Risk Buildings and Review of Decisions) (England) Regulations 2023 requires changes to registration information within 14 relevant days of becoming aware of them. Regulation 21 of the key building information regulations requires changes to that information within 28 days.", "source_ids": [ "s17", "s22", "s18", "s5", "s6" ], "interval_note": "Event-driven: within 14 relevant days (Christmas Day, Good Friday and bank holidays do not count) or 28 days of becoming aware of the change" }, { "task": "Assess building safety risks (spread of fire and structural failure), and reassess", "interval": null, "who": "Each accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Section 83 of the Building Safety Act 2022 requires an assessment as soon as reasonably practicable, then further assessments at regular intervals and whenever the current one may no longer be valid.", "source_ids": [ "s7", "s8" ], "interval_note": "No fixed legal interval: at regular intervals and when the assessment may no longer be valid" }, { "task": "Keep the safety case report up to date and tell the regulator about significant updates", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Section 85 of the Building Safety Act 2022 requires the report to be revised when necessary or appropriate. Regulator guidance says to tell BSR as soon as possible when it is updated for new or increased risks or further measures.", "source_ids": [ "s9", "s10" ], "interval_note": "No fixed interval: revise after each further risk assessment or new safety measure" }, { "task": "Apply for a building assessment certificate when directed by the regulator", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Section 79 of the Building Safety Act 2022 requires the application within 28 days of the regulator's direction.", "source_ids": [ "s11" ], "interval_note": "Within 28 days of the direction" }, { "task": "Expect reassessment of the building assessment certificate", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Building Safety Regulator, with the principal accountable person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "The regulator's guidance says it aims to reassess every 5 years, sooner in some cases. In July 2026 it announced changes to how certificates are called in.", "source_ids": [ "s12", "s14" ], "interval_note": "Regulator's stated aim, not a legal interval; process under review since July 2026" }, { "task": "Report safety occurrences to the regulator", "interval": null, "who": "Principal accountable person or accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 6 of the Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc) (England) Regulations 2023 requires a notice as soon as reasonably practicable and a report within 10 days of the occurrence coming to the accountable person's attention. Building Safety Regulator guidance describes this as 10 calendar days.", "source_ids": [ "s19", "s13" ], "interval_note": "Event-driven: notice as soon as reasonably practicable, report within 10 days" }, { "task": "Review the residents' engagement strategy", "interval": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Principal accountable person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 10 of the Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc) (England) Regulations 2023 requires a review at least every two years, and also after a consultation on the strategy, after a mandatory occurrence report and after significant material alterations to the building.", "source_ids": [ "s20", "s21" ], "interval_note": "At least every 2 years, and after certain events" } ], "legal_basis": "Part 4 of the Building Safety Act 2022 applies to occupied higher-risk buildings in England: residential buildings of at least 18 metres or 7 storeys with at least 2 residential units. Section 77 makes it an offence for such a building to be occupied without being registered. Sections 83 and 85 require accountable persons to assess building safety risks and the principal accountable person to prepare and revise a safety case report. Section 79 requires an application for a building assessment certificate within 28 days of the regulator's direction. Regulations made under the Act set the deadlines: 28 days for key building information, 14 relevant days or 28 days for changes, 10 days for a mandatory occurrence report, and a review of the residents' engagement strategy at least every two years.", "standard": "No British Standard sets these duties. The Building Safety Regulator's GOV.UK guidance explains how to meet them.", "evidence": [ "Registration confirmation and reference", "Key building information submission", "Building safety risk assessments", "Current safety case report with a log of revisions", "Building assessment certificate application and decision", "Mandatory occurrence notices and reports", "Resident engagement strategy" ], "notes": "These are governance duties with deadlines, not a maintenance frequency; the only recurring legal interval is the two-yearly review of the residents' engagement strategy. The regime is still settling: the Building Safety Regulator moved out of HSE to become a standalone body on 27 January 2026, and on 9 July 2026 it announced that it will only call in new building assessment certificate applications when necessary while it redesigns the process. Duties on accountable persons remain in force throughout. Hospitals, care homes, hotels, prisons, military premises and secure residential institutions are not registered under this regime.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Building Safety Act 2022, section 77: Occupation: registration requirement", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/section/77", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Offence if a higher-risk building is occupied but not registered", "quote": "commits an offence if the building is occupied but not registered", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Applying to register a high-rise residential building", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-register-a-high-rise-residential-building", "edition": "Last updated 25 March 2025", "supports": "Regulator guidance on registering before occupation", "quote": "It is an offence to allow residents to occupy an unregistered high-rise residential building.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Applying to register a high-rise residential building", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-register-a-high-rise-residential-building", "edition": "Last updated 25 March 2025", "supports": "Which buildings must be registered", "quote": "at least 7 floors or is at least 18 metres in height", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Applying to register a high-rise residential building", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-register-a-high-rise-residential-building", "edition": "Last updated 25 March 2025", "supports": "28 days to give structure and fire safety information after applying to register", "quote": "You have 28 days after submitting your registration application to give BSR more detailed information", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Applying to register a high-rise residential building", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-register-a-high-rise-residential-building", "edition": "Last updated 25 March 2025", "supports": "14 days to notify changes to the building summary and accountable persons", "quote": "you must tell BSR within 14 days of becoming aware of changes to the", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Applying to register a high-rise residential building", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-register-a-high-rise-residential-building", "edition": "Last updated 25 March 2025", "supports": "28 days to notify changes to structure or fire safety information", "quote": "You must tell BSR within 28 days of becoming aware of any changes to the building’s structure or fire safety information", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Building Safety Act 2022, section 83: Assessment of building safety risks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/section/83", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Duty to assess building safety risks", "quote": "must as soon as reasonably practicable after the relevant time assess the building safety risks", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Building Safety Act 2022, section 83: Assessment of building safety risks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/section/83", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Further assessments at regular intervals and when the assessment may no longer be valid", "quote": "(a) at regular intervals, (b) at any time that the accountable person has reason to suspect that the current assessment is no longer valid", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Building Safety Act 2022, section 85: Safety case report", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/section/85", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Duty to revise the safety case report", "quote": "must revise a safety case report if they consider it necessary or appropriate to do so", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Preparing a safety case report", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/preparing-a-safety-case-report", "edition": "Last updated 6 December 2024", "supports": "Regulator guidance: tell BSR when the safety case report is updated for new or increased risks", "quote": "You must tell BSR as soon as possible if you update your safety case report to include", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Building Safety Act 2022, section 79: Duty to apply for building assessment certificate", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/section/79", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "28 days to apply for a building assessment certificate once directed", "quote": "must make the application within the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the direction is given", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "Preparing a building assessment certificate application", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/preparing-a-building-assessment-certificate-application", "edition": "Last updated 1 April 2026", "supports": "Regulator's stated aim to reassess every 5 years", "quote": "BSR aims to reassess a building’s BAC every 5 years.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s13", "title": "Submitting mandatory occurrence notices and reports", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/submitting-mandatory-occurrence-notices-and-reports", "edition": "Last updated 4 September 2025", "supports": "Mandatory occurrence reporting timescales", "quote": "report within 10 calendar days of the safety occurrence being identified", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s14", "title": "BSR to introduce more proportionate and targeted approach for higher-risk building assessments", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator and MHCLG (GOV.UK press release)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bsr-to-introduce-more-proportionate-and-targeted-approach-for-higher-risk-building-assessments", "edition": "Published 9 July 2026", "supports": "July 2026 announcement that the certificate process is being changed", "quote": "only call in new applications when necessary until improved processes are agreed and communicated to duty holders", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s15", "title": "BSR becomes standalone body in landmark step towards single construction regulator", "publisher": "Building Safety Regulator and MHCLG (GOV.UK press release)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bsr-becomes-standalone-body-in-landmark-step-towards-single-construction-regulator", "edition": "Published 27 January 2026", "supports": "The regulator left HSE and became a standalone body on 27 January 2026", "quote": "has today (27 January 2026) officially moved to a standalone organisation", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s16", "title": "Higher-Risk Buildings (Key Building Information etc.) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 20", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/396/regulation/20", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal deadline: key building information within 28 days of applying to register", "quote": "The key building information for a higher-risk building must be submitted within 28 days of the PAP submitting an application for registration", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s17", "title": "Building Safety (Registration of Higher-Risk Buildings and Review of Decisions) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 4: Updating information", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/315/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal deadline: changes to registration information within 14 relevant days", "quote": "within the period of 14 relevant days beginning with the day that the PAP becomes aware of a change", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s18", "title": "Higher-Risk Buildings (Key Building Information etc.) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 21", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/396/regulation/21", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal deadline: changes to key building information within 28 days", "quote": "The PAP must notify the regulator of any change to the key building information within 28 days of the PAP becoming aware of the change.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s19", "title": "Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 6: Mandatory reporting requirements", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/907/regulation/6", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal deadline: mandatory occurrence report within 10 days", "quote": "within the period of 10 days beginning with the day on which the safety occurrence came to the AP’s attention", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s20", "title": "Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 10: Residents' engagement strategy", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/907/regulation/10", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal interval: review of the residents' engagement strategy at least every two years", "quote": "at least every two years, and in any event within a reasonable period following the conclusion of a consultation", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s21", "title": "Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 10: Residents' engagement strategy", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/907/regulation/10", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty on the principal accountable person to review the strategy", "quote": "the PAP must review the residents’ engagement strategy", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s22", "title": "Building Safety (Registration of Higher-Risk Buildings and Review of Decisions) (England) Regulations 2023, regulation 1: Citation, commencement and interpretation", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/315/regulation/1", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Meaning of relevant day", "quote": "means any day other than Christmas Day, Good Friday or a day which is a bank holiday", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Legal duties and deadlines are taken from the Act and the regulations made under it, but the building assessment certificate process and its five-year reassessment aim are under review following the July 2026 announcement.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "fixed-wiring-eicr", "system": "Fixed wiring inspection (EICR)", "group": "Electrical", "question": "How often is a fixed wiring inspection (EICR) required?", "short_answer": "For rented homes in England the law sets a maximum of 5 years between inspections. For workplaces there is no fixed legal interval: the usual benchmark is every 5 years for commercial premises and every 3 years for industrial premises, adjusted by the inspector to suit the installation.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Inspect and test the electrical installation and obtain a report (EICR)", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Landlord, using a qualified and competent inspector", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 3 of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 requires inspection and testing at intervals of no more than 5 years, or sooner if the last report says so. The regulations were extended to social housing in 2025, which is when they took their current title.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s3" ], "condition": "Rented homes in England (private and social)", "interval_note": "Maximum of 5 years, or earlier if the previous report sets an earlier date" }, { "task": "Periodic inspection and test (EICR)", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent electrical inspector", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "No legal interval. The Electrical Contractors' Association gives five years as the typical period for commercial, educational and certain residential premises; IET Guidance Note 3 gives recommended initial frequencies. The inspector sets the next date.", "source_ids": [ "s6", "s8", "s5" ], "condition": "Commercial and educational premises, and non-domestic residential premises", "interval_note": "Typical period; the inspector may recommend a shorter interval" }, { "task": "Periodic inspection and test (EICR)", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent electrical inspector", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "No legal interval. The Electrical Contractors' Association gives three years as the typical period for industrial, agricultural and public buildings and sports and leisure facilities.", "source_ids": [ "s7", "s8", "s5" ], "condition": "Industrial, agricultural and public buildings, sports and leisure facilities", "interval_note": "Typical period; the inspector may recommend a shorter interval" }, { "task": "Inspection and test of the electrical installation", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent electrical contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Home Office fire safety guidance says the installation should be inspected and tested by a competent person at least every five years. The guides use the word must, but no legislation fixes this interval for workplaces or common parts.", "source_ids": [ "s9", "s12" ], "condition": "Small non-domestic premises and the common parts of small blocks of flats" }, { "task": "Periodic inspection and test", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent electrical inspector", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Electrical Safety First gives one year as the interval for swimming pools.", "source_ids": [ "s10" ], "condition": "Swimming pools" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 4(2) of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 requires electrical systems to be maintained so as to prevent danger, so far as is reasonably practicable. It does not say how often they must be inspected. For rented homes in England, the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 (extended to social housing, and renamed, in 2025) require inspection and testing at intervals of no more than 5 years.", "standard": "BS 7671 (the IET Wiring Regulations) sets how periodic inspection and testing is done; Amendment 4 (BS 7671:2018+A4:2026) was published on 15 April 2026. IET Guidance Note 3, Table 3.2, gives recommended initial frequencies of inspection.", "evidence": [ "Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for each inspection", "Evidence that C1, C2 and FI observations have been remedied", "Record of the next inspection date recommended by the inspector", "For rented homes: proof the report was given to tenants within 28 days" ], "notes": "Outside rented housing, the five and three year figures are recommendations, not law, and they are starting points for new installations: the inspector should set the next inspection date from the condition, use and environment of the installation. Local authority licensing conditions can require shorter intervals. HSE's test is that installations should be tested often enough that there is little chance of deterioration leading to danger. For social housing tenancies granted before 1 December 2025, the first inspection and test under the extended regulations has to be done before 1 November 2026.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, regulation 3: Duties of landlords in relation to electrical installations etc.", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/312/regulation/3", "edition": "Revised text, as amended in 2025 to cover the social rented sector", "supports": "Legal maximum of 5 years for rented homes", "quote": "at intervals of no more than 5 years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance", "edition": "Published 1 November 2025", "supports": "Government guidance on the five year duty", "quote": "inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every 5 years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance", "edition": "Published 1 November 2025", "supports": "The 2020 regulations were extended to social housing in 2025", "quote": "The original 2020 regulations were updated in 2025 to include the social rented sector", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, regulation 4: Systems, work activities and protective equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1989/635/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The legal duty to maintain electrical systems so as to prevent danger", "quote": "all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Electrical safety: frequently asked questions", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/faq.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE: no fixed interval for workplace installations", "quote": "Electrical installations should be tested often enough that there is little chance of deterioration leading to danger.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "The Employer's Legal Duties to maintain Safe Electrical Installations", "publisher": "Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA)", "url": "https://www.eca.co.uk/getattachment/914505f1-a487-4f0e-a4df-1d8c815309e4/A73167-ECA-Informative-Technical-Guide_NoCrops-(1).pdf", "edition": "Undated guide, as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Typical five year period for commercial premises", "quote": "five years for commercial, educational and certain residential premises (not domestic)", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "The Employer's Legal Duties to maintain Safe Electrical Installations", "publisher": "Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA)", "url": "https://www.eca.co.uk/getattachment/914505f1-a487-4f0e-a4df-1d8c815309e4/A73167-ECA-Informative-Technical-Guide_NoCrops-(1).pdf", "edition": "Undated guide, as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Typical three year period for industrial premises", "quote": "three years for industrial, agricultural and public buildings, sports and leisure facilities", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Inspection and Testing FAQs (BS 7671 guidance)", "publisher": "Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)", "url": "https://electrical.theiet.org/bs-7671-18th-edition-wiring-regulations/faqs/inspection-and-testing-faqs/", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "IET: Guidance Note 3 Table 3.2 frequencies are recommendations, not law", "quote": "It’s important to note that these are recommendations and not legal requirements", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Home Office fire safety guidance: at least every five years in small non-domestic premises", "quote": "must be subject to inspection and test by a competent person at least every five years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Periodic inspection and testing", "publisher": "Electrical Safety First", "url": "https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/find-a-registered-electrician/periodic-inspection-and-testing/", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Electrical Safety First: annual inspection for swimming pools", "quote": "1 year for a swimming pool", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Understanding BS 7671:2018 + Amendment 4:2026 IET Wiring Regulations update", "publisher": "NICEIC", "url": "https://niceic.com/amendment-four/", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "BS 7671 Amendment 4 was published on 15 April 2026", "quote": "officially titled BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, was published on 15 April 2026", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "A guide to making your small block of flats safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire-accessible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Home Office fire safety guidance: common parts of small blocks of flats, at least every five years", "quote": "The electrical installation in the common parts must be subject to inspection and test by a competent person", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s13", "title": "Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance", "edition": "Published 1 November 2025", "supports": "Transitional deadline for social tenancies granted before 1 December 2025", "quote": "Ensure electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified person before 1 November 2026.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s14", "title": "Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, regulation 3E: Transitional provision for certain tenancies granted before 1st December 2025", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/312/regulation/3E", "edition": "Inserted in 2025; in force 1 May 2026", "supports": "The transitional rule applies to social tenancies granted before 1 December 2025", "quote": "applies in relation to specified tenancies that were granted before 1st December 2025 under which the landlord is a registered provider", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Legal interval taken from the regulations and government guidance. The typical workplace periods come from one trade body's guide (the ECA) and match the Home Office's five year figure for small premises, with the IET confirming they are not statutory.", "delivered_by": "building-services", "delivered_by_url": "https://www.ampmbuilding.services/maintenance/" }, { "slug": "portable-appliance-testing", "system": "Portable appliance testing (PAT)", "group": "Electrical", "question": "How often is PAT testing required?", "short_answer": "There is no legal requirement to PAT test every year. The law requires electrical equipment to be maintained so that it is safe, and HSE suggests risk-based intervals: in offices and similar low-risk places, some items need no testing at all, while earthed equipment such as kettles may need a combined inspection and test every one to two years. The exception is social housing in England, where landlords must have the electrical equipment they provide to tenants checked at least every 5 years.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Formal visual inspection", "interval": null, "who": "Trained member of staff or competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG236 Table 1 suggests a formal visual inspection every 6 months to 1 year for earthed (Class I) equipment such as kettles, some floor cleaners and irons.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s3" ], "condition": "Earthed (Class I) equipment in low-risk environments", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "max": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Combined inspection and test (PAT)", "interval": null, "who": "Competent person with suitable test equipment", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG236 Table 1 suggests a combined inspection and test every 1 to 2 years for earthed (Class I) equipment such as kettles, some floor cleaners and irons.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s4" ], "condition": "Earthed (Class I) equipment in low-risk environments", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "max": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Formal visual inspection (no test needed)", "interval": null, "who": "Trained member of staff or competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG236 Table 1 suggests a formal visual inspection every 6 months to 1 year for hand-held double insulated equipment, with no portable appliance test.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s6" ], "condition": "Hand-held double insulated (Class II) equipment", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "max": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Formal visual inspection (no test needed if double insulated; otherwise test up to every 5 years)", "interval": null, "who": "Trained member of staff or competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG236 Table 1 suggests a formal visual inspection every 2 to 4 years for desktop computers, screens, photocopiers and other equipment that is rarely moved.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s3" ], "condition": "Desktop computers, screens, photocopiers and double insulated equipment that is not hand-held", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" }, "max": { "every": 4, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Formal visual inspection and, where the equipment is earthed, combined inspection and test", "interval": null, "who": "Trained member of staff or competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG236 Table 1 suggests visual inspection every 6 months to 4 years and testing every 1 to 5 years for cables, leads, plugs and extension leads, depending on the equipment they serve.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s3", "s4" ], "condition": "Cables, leads, plugs and mains extension leads", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "max": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Check (visual inspection, testing or both) each item of electrical equipment the landlord provides", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Registered provider of social housing, using a qualified person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 3B of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 requires registered providers of social housing to have the electrical equipment they provide under a tenancy checked at intervals of no more than 5 years, or sooner if the last record says so.", "source_ids": [ "s8", "s9", "s10" ], "condition": "Social housing in England: electrical equipment provided by the landlord under the tenancy", "interval_note": "Maximum of 5 years, or earlier if the previous record sets an earlier date" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 4(2) of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 requires electrical equipment to be maintained so as to prevent danger. HSE states that the regulations do not make inspection or testing of appliances a legal requirement and do not require it to be done annually. The exception is social housing in England: regulation 3B of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 requires registered providers to have electrical equipment they provide under a tenancy checked by a qualified person at intervals of no more than 5 years.", "standard": "The IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (fifth edition), which Home Office fire safety guidance refers to. HSE's INDG236 and HSG107 give the regulator's guidance.", "evidence": [ "A written maintenance plan showing the interval chosen for each type of equipment", "Records of formal visual inspections and tests (HSE says these are useful but not legally required)", "Labels on tested equipment (useful but not legally required)", "Records of faulty equipment removed from use", "For social landlords: the in-service inspection and testing record for each item of equipment provided, showing the next check date" ], "notes": "The intervals are HSE's suggested initial intervals for low-risk environments such as offices, shops and parts of hotels and care homes. Equipment used in harsher places, such as construction sites and workshops, needs more frequent checks. HSE advises adjusting the interval up or down as results come in. Battery-operated and extra low voltage equipment needs no inspection or testing under HSE's table. The social housing duty covers equipment the landlord supplies, such as cookers and fridges, not tenants' own appliances. For social tenancies granted before 1 December 2025 the first check has to be done before 1 November 2026.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, regulation 4: Systems, work activities and protective equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1989/635/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The legal duty to maintain electrical systems so as to prevent danger", "quote": "all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Portable appliance testing (PAT): frequently asked questions", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/faq-portable-appliance-testing.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE: the law does not say how or how often", "quote": "It does not say how this should be done or how often.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Maintaining portable electric equipment in low-risk environments (INDG236 rev3)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf", "edition": "Published September 2013", "supports": "HSE suggested range for formal visual inspections", "quote": "visually inspected at initial intervals which could be between six months and four years, depending on the type of equipment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Maintaining portable electric equipment in low-risk environments (INDG236 rev3)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf", "edition": "Published September 2013", "supports": "HSE suggested range for portable appliance tests on earthed equipment", "quote": "have a portable appliance test (including leads) at initial intervals which could be between one and five years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Maintaining portable electric equipment in low-risk environments (INDG236 rev3)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf", "edition": "Published September 2013", "supports": "Table 1 of INDG236 sets out suggested initial intervals by equipment type", "quote": "Table 1 Suggested initial intervals for checking portable electrical equipment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Maintaining portable electric equipment in low-risk environments (INDG236 rev3)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf", "edition": "Published September 2013", "supports": "Double insulated (Class II) equipment does not need a portable appliance test", "quote": "It will not need a portable appliance test", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "A guide to making your small non-domestic premises safe from fire", "publisher": "Home Office (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire/a-guide-to-making-your-small-non-domestic-premises-safe-from-fire-accesible", "edition": "Updated 20 January 2025. Guidance issued under article 50 of the Fire Safety Order", "supports": "Home Office guidance refers to the IET Code of Practice", "quote": "in accordance with the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, regulation 3B: Duties of registered providers for safety and checking of electrical equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/312/regulation/3B", "edition": "Inserted in 2025; fully in force from 1 May 2026", "supports": "Social landlords' legal duty to have the electrical equipment they provide checked at regular intervals", "quote": "each item of relevant equipment provided in residential premises occupied under a specified tenancy is checked at regular intervals by a qualified person", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector and Social Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, regulation 3B: Duties of registered providers for safety and checking of electrical equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/312/regulation/3B", "edition": "Inserted in 2025; fully in force from 1 May 2026", "supports": "Regular intervals means no more than 5 years", "quote": "at intervals of no more than 5 years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance", "edition": "Published 1 November 2025", "supports": "Government guidance on the five year equipment check for social landlords", "quote": "Social landlords must also have the electrical equipment that they provide under the tenancy checked by a qualified person at least every 5 years.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-and-social-rented-sectors-guidance", "edition": "Published 1 November 2025", "supports": "Transitional deadline for social tenancies granted before 1 December 2025", "quote": "Ensure electrical equipment is checked by a qualified person before 1 November 2026.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken directly from HSE's leaflet and web guidance, and from the regulation text for the social housing duty.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "lightning-protection-testing", "system": "Lightning protection systems", "group": "Electrical", "question": "How often should a lightning protection system be tested?", "short_answer": "At least once a year. BS EN 62305 is cited by the IET and by government schools guidance as recommending inspection and testing at least every 12 months, and the trade body ATLAS advises a visual inspection every six months for critical structures.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Visual inspection and electrical test of the whole system by a lightning protection specialist", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent lightning protection specialist", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS EN 62305 recommends that lightning protection systems are visually inspected and electrically tested at least every 12 months, as stated by the IET and by Department for Education guidance.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ] }, { "task": "Visual inspection between annual tests", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent lightning protection specialist", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "ATLAS advises that buildings classed as critical structures should have the system visually inspected every six months.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ], "condition": "Critical structures, as defined by the standard (for example buildings with sensitive systems or large numbers of people)" } ], "legal_basis": "No legislation sets a test interval for lightning protection. The frequency comes from the British Standard, and following it is the usual way to show that the system has been properly maintained.", "standard": "BS EN 62305 (protection against lightning). The four parts were reissued as BS EN IEC 62305:2024 and published by BSI in February 2025.", "evidence": [ "Annual test and inspection certificate with earth resistance readings", "Schedule of defects and remedial work", "System drawings or a record of the conductor and earth positions" ], "notes": "The published statements of the annual interval refer to the earlier edition of BS EN 62305. The standard was reissued in 2024 and this dataset could not confirm from a free authoritative source that the inspection intervals are unchanged, so treat the annual figure as the established benchmark and ask your specialist to confirm it against the current edition. ATLAS says existing systems do not need immediate changes because standards are not applied retrospectively.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Lightning Protection and Foundation Earthing webinar: questions and answers", "publisher": "Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)", "url": "https://electrical.theiet.org/bs-7671-18th-edition-wiring-regulations/faqs/webinar-questions-and-answers/lightning-protection-and-foundation-earthing-webinar/", "edition": "Webinar held 16 February 2021", "supports": "IET statement of the BS EN 62305 inspection and test interval", "quote": "all systems should be visually inspected and electrically tested every 12 months as a minimum", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Government schools guidance on the BS EN 62305 interval", "quote": "recommends that all lightning protection systems are inspected and tested at least annually", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Inspect and Protect campaign", "publisher": "Association of Technical Lightning and Access Specialists (ATLAS)", "url": "https://atlas.org.uk/inspect-protect/", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "ATLAS: six-monthly visual inspection and annual electrical test for critical structures", "quote": "should have their lightning protection system visually inspected every six months with electrical testing performed once a year", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "International lightning protection standard BS EN IEC 62305 updated", "publisher": "Association of Technical Lightning and Access Specialists (ATLAS)", "url": "https://atlas.org.uk/international-lightning-protection-standard-bs-en-iec-62305-updated/", "edition": "Published 25 February 2025", "supports": "The standard was reissued as BS EN IEC 62305:2024", "quote": "BSI published the updated UK lightning protection standards", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "International lightning protection standard BS EN IEC 62305 updated", "publisher": "Association of Technical Lightning and Access Specialists (ATLAS)", "url": "https://atlas.org.uk/international-lightning-protection-standard-bs-en-iec-62305-updated/", "edition": "Published 25 February 2025", "supports": "Existing systems do not need immediate changes", "quote": "Standards are not applied retrospectively, so existing lightning protection systems do not require any immediate changes.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "The annual interval is well attested but the sources refer to the edition before BS EN IEC 62305:2024; the current text could not be checked.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "gas-safety-checks", "system": "Gas appliance safety checks", "group": "Mechanical, gas and pressure", "question": "How often do gas appliances need a safety check?", "short_answer": "Landlords must have every gas appliance and flue they provide checked for safety at least every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer. In workplaces the law requires gas appliances to be kept in a safe condition without fixing an interval: regular maintenance, normally at least once a year, is the accepted practice.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Gas safety check of every appliance and flue provided by the landlord, with a record", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Landlord, using a Gas Safe registered engineer", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 36 of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 requires a safety check at intervals of not more than 12 months.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s3" ], "condition": "Rented residential accommodation, including communal appliances serving it" }, { "task": "Service gas appliances and flues", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Gas Safe registered engineer", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE says appliances should be serviced in line with the manufacturer's instructions and, if these are not available, recommends annual servicing.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "condition": "Landlords' appliances, where the manufacturer's instructions are not available" }, { "task": "Planned maintenance and safety checks of gas appliances, pipework and flues", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Employer or person in control, using a Gas Safe registered engineer", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Regulation 35 requires workplace gas appliances to be kept in a safe condition but sets no interval. HSE guidance in L56 says effective maintenance usually involves an ongoing programme of regular inspections, and Department for Education guidance calls at least annual checks good practice.", "source_ids": [ "s5", "s6", "s7", "s8" ], "condition": "Workplaces and other non-domestic premises", "interval_note": "No legal interval; at least annually is accepted good practice" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 36 of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 requires landlords to have gas appliances and flues checked for safety at intervals of not more than 12 months and to keep and issue a record. Regulation 35 requires every employer to ensure that gas appliances, installation pipework and flues at places of work they control are maintained in a safe condition; it does not set an interval.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the legal interval. HSE's Approved Code of Practice L56 (fifth edition, 2018) gives the regulator's guidance on meeting the regulations.", "evidence": [ "Landlord's gas safety record for each check, kept until two further checks have been carried out (at least two years)", "Proof that tenants received the record within 28 days", "Service and maintenance reports for workplace appliances and plant", "The engineer's Gas Safe registration details for the type of work" ], "notes": "For landlords, the annual check is a legal requirement. For workplaces, the annual figure is good practice, not law: the legal test is that appliances are kept in a safe condition, and manufacturers' instructions may set a different period. HSE notes that installation pipework is not covered by the annual landlord's check and recommends asking the engineer to test it for soundness at the same visit.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, regulation 36: Duties of landlords", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2451/regulation/36", "edition": "Revised text, as amended in 2018", "supports": "Landlords' legal duty: safety check at intervals of not more than 12 months", "quote": "at intervals of not more than 12 months since it was last checked for safety", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Landlords: Gas safety checks, what needs them?", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/landlords/safetycheckswhat.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE: annual gas safety check of all appliances and flues the landlord provides", "quote": "All permanent and portable gas appliances and flues in the property require an annual gas safety check.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Landlords: Gas safety check records and what to keep", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/landlords/gassaferecord.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Record to be given to existing tenants within 28 days", "quote": "You must provide existing tenants with a copy of the gas safety check record within 28 days of the check being completed.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Landlords: Maintenance of gas appliances and flues", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/landlords/gasappliances.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE recommendation on servicing where no manufacturer's instructions are available", "quote": "we recommend that they are serviced annually, unless your Gas Safe registered engineer advises you otherwise", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, regulation 35: Duties of employers and self-employed persons", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2451/regulation/35", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Employers' legal duty to keep gas appliances, pipework and flues in a safe condition", "quote": "is maintained in a safe condition so as to prevent risk of injury to any person", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Safety in the installation and use of gas systems and appliances: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L56)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l56.pdf", "edition": "Fifth edition, 2018", "supports": "HSE guidance on regulation 35 in L56 (paragraph 296) on what effective maintenance involves", "quote": "Effective maintenance of appliances usually involves an ongoing programme of regular/periodic inspections, together with any necessary remedial work.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Gas safety for employers", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/employers.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE advice to employers", "quote": "Ensure that your gas pipework, appliances and flues are regularly maintained.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Government schools guidance: at least annual checks are good practice", "quote": "It is good practice to have at least annual gas safety checks of appliances and associated pipework.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulations and HSE guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "pressure-systems-examination", "system": "Pressure systems (written scheme of examination)", "group": "Mechanical, gas and pressure", "question": "How often do pressure systems need to be examined?", "short_answer": "As often as the written scheme of examination says. The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 require a written scheme, drawn up or certified by a competent person, to be in place before the system is used, and the scheme sets the examination interval for each part.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Have a written scheme of examination drawn up or certified by a competent person", "interval": null, "who": "User of the installed system (or owner of a mobile system)", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 8 of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 prohibits operating the system without a written scheme.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s3" ], "interval_note": "One-off, before first use; keep the scheme under review" }, { "task": "Examination of the system by a competent person in accordance with the written scheme", "interval": null, "who": "Competent person (often an engineering inspection body)", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9 of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 requires examination within the intervals specified in the scheme. The regulations do not fix the interval.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s4" ], "interval_note": "Interval is set by the written scheme for each part of the system" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulations 8 and 9 of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 require the user of an installed pressure system to have a written scheme of examination and to have the system examined by a competent person within the intervals the scheme specifies. The regulations do not set a universal interval.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the interval. HSE's Approved Code of Practice L122 and leaflets INDG261 and INDG178 explain the regulations.", "evidence": [ "The written scheme of examination", "The competent person's report of each examination", "Records of repairs or modifications", "Maintenance records (routine maintenance is separate from the statutory examination)" ], "notes": "HSE's guidance gives steam boilers as an example of a system that needs a written scheme. Whether other plant is in scope depends on its contents and pressure, so ask a competent person. HSE describes the examination as being like an MOT: a statutory check, not a substitute for routine maintenance.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000, regulation 8: Written scheme of examination", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2000/128/regulation/8", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to have a written scheme before the system is operated", "quote": "unless he has a written scheme for the periodic examination, by a competent person", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000, regulation 9: Examination in accordance with the written scheme", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2000/128/regulation/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to have the system examined within the intervals in the scheme", "quote": "are examined by a competent person within the intervals specified in the scheme", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR) web page", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pressure-systems/pssr.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE summary of the duty", "quote": "a written scheme of examination (WSE) must be in place, and an examination undertaken", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Pressure systems: A brief guide to safety (INDG261 rev2)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg261.pdf", "edition": "Published November 2012", "supports": "The scheme sets the nature and frequency of examinations", "quote": "The written scheme must specify the nature and frequency of examinations", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulations and HSE guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "lift-thorough-examination", "system": "Passenger and goods lifts (thorough examination)", "group": "Mechanical, gas and pressure", "question": "How often do lifts need a thorough examination under LOLER?", "short_answer": "Under LOLER, a lift provided for use at work that carries people must be thoroughly examined at least every 6 months, and a goods-only lift at least every 12 months, unless a competent person has drawn up an examination scheme that sets different intervals.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Thorough examination by a competent person", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent person, sufficiently independent of the lift's routine maintenance", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9(3) of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998: at least every 6 months for lifting equipment for lifting persons.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s4" ], "condition": "Passenger lifts and any lift used to carry people, where the lift is provided for use at work" }, { "task": "Thorough examination by a competent person", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9(3) of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998: at least every 12 months for other lifting equipment.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s3" ], "condition": "Lifts that only carry goods, where the lift is provided for use at work" }, { "task": "Thorough examination after exceptional circumstances, such as damage, failure or a long period out of use", "interval": null, "who": "Competent person", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9(3) of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 requires examination each time exceptional circumstances liable to jeopardise safety have occurred.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s3" ], "interval_note": "Event-driven" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 9 of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) requires lifting equipment used at work to be thoroughly examined at least every 6 months if it lifts people and at least every 12 months otherwise, or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the legal interval. HSE's leaflet INDG339 gives guidance for lift owners.", "evidence": [ "Report of thorough examination for each lift, showing the date of the next examination", "Records of defects notified and the action taken", "Lift maintenance records (maintenance is separate from thorough examination)" ], "notes": "LOLER applies to lifts provided for use at work. HSE's guidance says owners of lifts used mainly by members of the public may find the same regime helps them meet their general health and safety duties. Routine servicing does not replace the thorough examination, and HSE advises that the person who maintains the lift should not also carry out the examination.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, regulation 9: Thorough examination and inspection", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2307/regulation/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Six-monthly examination for equipment that lifts people", "quote": "in the case of lifting equipment for lifting persons or an accessory for lifting, at least every 6 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, regulation 9: Thorough examination and inspection", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2307/regulation/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Twelve-monthly examination for other lifting equipment", "quote": "in the case of other lifting equipment, at least every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Thorough examination and testing of lifts: Simple guidance for lift owners (INDG339 rev1)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg339.pdf", "edition": "Revised January 2008", "supports": "HSE guidance for lift owners", "quote": "every 12 months if it only carries loads, or in accordance with an examination scheme", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Thorough examination and testing of lifts: Simple guidance for lift owners (INDG339 rev1)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg339.pdf", "edition": "Revised January 2008", "supports": "LOLER applies to lifts provided for use in work activities", "quote": "Regulation 9 of LOLER requires that all lifts provided for use in work activities are thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Thorough examination and testing of lifts: Simple guidance for lift owners (INDG339 rev1)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg339.pdf", "edition": "Revised January 2008", "supports": "HSE on lifts used mainly by the public", "quote": "If you are the owner of a lift used primarily by members of the public, you may also find this guidance helps you to comply", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulation text and HSE guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "air-conditioning-inspection-tm44", "system": "Air conditioning energy inspections (TM44)", "group": "Ventilation and air", "question": "How often is a TM44 air conditioning inspection required?", "short_answer": "At least every five years, for any air conditioning system with an effective rated output of more than 12kW. The inspection must be carried out by an accredited energy assessor.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Air conditioning inspection by an accredited energy assessor, with a report", "interval": { "every": 5, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Person who controls the operation of the system, using an accredited energy assessor", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 18 of the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 requires inspection at regular intervals not exceeding five years.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s3" ], "condition": "Systems with an effective rated output of more than 12kW, counting together units under the same control" } ], "legal_basis": "Part 4 of the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 applies to air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of more than 12kW. Regulation 18 requires the person who controls the system to have its accessible parts inspected by an energy assessor at regular intervals not exceeding five years.", "standard": "CIBSE TM44 (Inspection of air conditioning systems) is the inspection methodology that the government guidance draws on. It is guidance on how to inspect, not the source of the five year interval.", "evidence": [ "Air conditioning inspection report lodged on the national register", "Report reference number", "Maintenance records made available to the assessor" ], "notes": "The 12kW threshold counts together individual units that are under one person's control, so a building with many small split systems can be in scope. A new system must have its first inspection within five years of being put into service. This is an energy efficiency inspection: it does not replace routine servicing or F-gas leak checks. The government consulted in 2024 and 2025 on reforming the energy performance of buildings regime, including air conditioning inspection reports. A partial response was published in January 2026 and a further response is due, so check for changes. The regulation text was unchanged on 5 October 2026.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012, regulation 18: Inspections of air-conditioning systems", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/3118/regulation/18", "edition": "Revised text, as amended in 2015", "supports": "Legal duty: inspection at intervals not exceeding five years", "quote": "inspected by an energy assessor at regular intervals not exceeding five years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012, regulation 17: Application and interpretation of Part 4", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/3118/regulation/17", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The duty applies to systems of more than 12kW", "quote": "This Part applies to air-conditioning systems with an effective rated output of more than 12kW.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "A guide to air conditioning inspections in buildings", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/air-conditioning-inspections-for-buildings/a-guide-to-air-conditioning-inspections", "edition": "Updated 18 September 2024", "supports": "Government guidance on the five year interval", "quote": "The inspections must be no more than five years apart.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "A guide to air conditioning inspections in buildings", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/air-conditioning-inspections-for-buildings/a-guide-to-air-conditioning-inspections", "edition": "Updated 18 September 2024", "supports": "Units under one control are added together", "quote": "whose combined effective rated output is more than 12kW", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime (consultation and partial government response)", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/reforms-to-the-energy-performance-of-buildings-regime", "edition": "Published 4 December 2024; last updated 9 March 2026", "supports": "The consultation covered air conditioning inspection reports", "quote": "strengthening the quality of air conditioning inspection reports", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime (consultation and partial government response)", "publisher": "Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/reforms-to-the-energy-performance-of-buildings-regime", "edition": "Published 4 December 2024; last updated 9 March 2026", "supports": "A further government response is still to come", "quote": "A further response covering the remaining parts of the consultation will be published in 2026.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulation text and government guidance.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/ventilation/air-conditioning/" }, { "slug": "f-gas-leak-checks", "system": "F-gas leak checks on air conditioning, refrigeration and heat pumps", "group": "Ventilation and air", "question": "How often must F-gas leak checks be carried out?", "short_answer": "It depends on the refrigerant charge, measured in tonnes of CO2 equivalent: at least every 12 months for 5 to under 50 tonnes, every 6 months for 50 to under 500 tonnes and every 3 months for 500 tonnes or more. A fixed leak detection system doubles each interval.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Leak check by a certified technician", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Operator of the equipment, using an F-gas certified technician", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 4(3)(a) of the assimilated F-gas Regulation: at least every 12 months, or every 24 months where a leak detection system is installed.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s4", "s11", "s5", "s6" ], "condition": "Equipment containing 5 to less than 50 tonnes CO2 equivalent of F-gas" }, { "task": "Leak check by a certified technician", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Operator of the equipment, using an F-gas certified technician", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 4(3)(b) of the assimilated F-gas Regulation: at least every six months, or every 12 months where a leak detection system is installed.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s4", "s6" ], "condition": "Equipment containing 50 to less than 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent of F-gas" }, { "task": "Leak check by a certified technician", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Operator of the equipment, using an F-gas certified technician", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 4(3)(c) of the assimilated F-gas Regulation: at least every three months, or every six months where a leak detection system is installed. Article 5 requires a leak detection system on equipment of this size.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s4", "s10", "s7" ], "condition": "Equipment containing 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more of F-gas", "interval_note": "Every 3 months, or every 6 months with the leak detection system that article 5 requires" }, { "task": "Check the automatic leak detection system", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "F-gas certified technician", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Article 5(3) of the assimilated F-gas Regulation requires leakage detection systems to be checked at least once every 12 months.", "source_ids": [ "s9", "s8" ], "condition": "Equipment that must have a leak detection system (500 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more)" } ], "legal_basis": "Article 4 of Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases, which remains part of the law in Great Britain, requires operators of stationary refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pump and fire protection equipment containing 5 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more of F-gas to have it checked for leaks at set intervals. The Environment Agency enforces the rules in England.", "standard": "None. The intervals are set in legislation.", "evidence": [ "F-gas equipment records showing each leak check and its result", "Details of the certified technician or company that did the check", "Records of leaks found, repairs and the follow-up check within one month" ], "notes": "The trigger is the CO2 equivalent of the charge, not its weight, so the same weight of different refrigerants falls into different bands: government guidance gives 5 tonnes CO2 equivalent as about 2.4kg of R410A or 1.3kg of R404A. Hermetically sealed equipment is exempt below 10 tonnes CO2 equivalent. If a leak is found it must be repaired as soon as possible and rechecked within a month.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal interval for 5 to under 50 tonnes CO2 equivalent", "quote": "at least every 12 months; or where a leakage detection system is installed, at least every 24 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal interval for 50 to under 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent", "quote": "at least every six months or, where a leakage detection system is installed, at least every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal interval for 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more", "quote": "at least every three months or, where a leakage detection system is installed, at least every six months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "The operator's duty to have equipment checked for leaks", "quote": "shall ensure that the equipment is checked for leaks", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Checking F gas equipment for leaks", "publisher": "Environment Agency and Defra (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/checking-f-gas-equipment-for-leaks", "edition": "Published 21 August 2019", "supports": "Government table of leak check frequencies", "quote": "At least once every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Checking F gas equipment for leaks", "publisher": "Environment Agency and Defra (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/checking-f-gas-equipment-for-leaks", "edition": "Published 21 August 2019", "supports": "Leak detection doubles the permitted period", "quote": "If you install a system to automatically detect leaks, you can double the period of time allowed between leak checks.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Checking F gas equipment for leaks", "publisher": "Environment Agency and Defra (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/checking-f-gas-equipment-for-leaks", "edition": "Published 21 August 2019", "supports": "Leak detection is compulsory at 500 tonnes or more", "quote": "You must fit a leak detection system if your equipment contains F gas equivalent to 500 tonnes or more of carbon dioxide.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Checking F gas equipment for leaks", "publisher": "Environment Agency and Defra (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/checking-f-gas-equipment-for-leaks", "edition": "Published 21 August 2019", "supports": "Leak detection systems must themselves be checked", "quote": "every year on all other equipment containing F gas", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 5: Leakage detection systems", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/5", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to check leakage detection systems every 12 months", "quote": "shall ensure that leakage detection systems are checked at least once every 12 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 5: Leakage detection systems", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/5", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to fit a leakage detection system at 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more", "quote": "shall ensure that the equipment is provided with a leakage detection system which alerts the operator or a service company of any leakage", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (assimilated law), article 4: Leak checks", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2014/517/article/4", "edition": "UK version as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Leak checks must be carried out by certified persons", "quote": "the checks shall be carried out by natural persons certified in accordance with the rules provided for in Article 10", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the legislation text and government guidance.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/ventilation/air-conditioning/" }, { "slug": "ventilation-ductwork-hygiene", "system": "Ventilation hygiene (ductwork inspection and cleaning)", "group": "Ventilation and air", "question": "How often should ventilation ductwork be inspected and cleaned?", "short_answer": "Inspect general ventilation systems at least once a year and clean them when inspection shows it is needed. The law requires ventilation systems to be kept clean but sets no interval: BESA's TR19 Air and BS EN 15780 set the inspection rhythm according to how the building is used.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Inspect the ventilation system for cleanliness (visual assessment, deposit measurement and photographs)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent ventilation hygiene specialist", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "BESA says TR19 recommends that inspections should not exceed 12 month intervals for any system, and advises a baseline inspection every 12 months.", "source_ids": [ "s3", "s5" ] }, { "task": "Risk assessment survey of ductwork cleanliness to BS EN 15780", "interval": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent ventilation hygiene specialist", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BESA summarises BS EN 15780 as requiring inspections at least every two years in most facilities, and annually in higher-risk environments such as healthcare, laboratories and cleanrooms.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "interval_note": "At least every 2 years in most facilities; annually in higher-risk environments", "interval_range": { "min": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "max": { "every": 2, "unit": "year" } } }, { "task": "Clean ductwork and air handling plant when inspection shows deposits above the limit", "interval": null, "who": "Competent ventilation hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "BESA says cleaning is carried out as needed based on deposit levels or system condition. TR19 does not impose a fixed cleaning interval for general ventilation.", "source_ids": [ "s5" ], "interval_note": "Condition-based: when inspection results require it" }, { "task": "Visual inspection of every ventilation system", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent person under the healthcare ventilation regime", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Health Technical Memorandum 03-01 Part B says all ventilation systems must have at least a simple visual inspection annually.", "source_ids": [ "s6" ], "condition": "Healthcare premises" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 5 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 requires mechanical ventilation systems provided in workplaces to be maintained, including cleaned as appropriate, in efficient working order. HSE's Approved Code of Practice says they should be regularly and adequately cleaned, tested and maintained. No interval is set in law.", "standard": "BS EN 15780 (cleanliness of ventilation systems), which BESA says was updated in 2025, and BESA's TR19 Air specification, which aligns with it.", "evidence": [ "Inspection report with deposit thickness measurements and photographs", "Post-clean verification report where cleaning was done", "Record of access panels and any sections that could not be reached", "Entry in the planned maintenance schedule" ], "notes": "There is no single statutory figure. BS EN 15780 assigns each area a cleanliness quality class according to its use and sets inspection intervals by class; the class-by-class table is in the paywalled standard and is not reproduced here. BESA's published summaries give two figures (no more than 12 months under TR19; at least every two years under BS EN 15780 for most facilities), and both are shown. Kitchen extract systems follow the separate TR19 Grease intervals.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, regulation 5: Maintenance of workplace, and of equipment, devices and systems", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/3004/regulation/5", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to maintain and clean mechanical ventilation systems", "quote": "shall be maintained (including cleaned as appropriate) in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Workplace health, safety and welfare: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L24)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l24.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2013", "supports": "HSE's Approved Code of Practice on cleaning ventilation systems", "quote": "Mechanical ventilation systems (including air-conditioning systems) should be regularly and adequately cleaned.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "TR 19 Indoor Air Quality Standards For HVAC And Ventilation Systems", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/indoor-air-quality-hvac", "edition": "Published 2 December 2025", "supports": "BESA: TR19 inspections should not exceed 12 month intervals", "quote": "recommends that inspections should not exceed 12-month intervals for any system", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "TR 19 Indoor Air Quality Standards For HVAC And Ventilation Systems", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/indoor-air-quality-hvac", "edition": "Published 2 December 2025", "supports": "BESA summary of BS EN 15780 survey frequencies", "quote": "most facilities requiring inspections every two years minimum", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Duct Cleaning Best Practice For Meeting TR 19 Standards In HVAC", "publisher": "Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)", "url": "https://www.thebesa.com/besa-blogs/duct-cleaning-best-practice", "edition": "Published 18 December 2025", "supports": "BESA: baseline annual inspection, cleaning as needed", "quote": "A baseline inspection is typically advised every 12 months, with cleaning carried out as needed based on deposit levels or system condition.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Health Technical Memorandum 03-01: Specialised ventilation for healthcare premises, Part B", "publisher": "NHS England", "url": "https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HTM0301-PartB-accessible-F6.pdf", "edition": "2021", "supports": "NHS guidance: annual visual inspection of all ventilation systems in healthcare premises", "quote": "all ventilation systems must be subject to at least a simple visual inspection annually", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "BESA's public summaries give two different inspection figures, and the BS EN 15780 class table (updated in 2025) could not be checked.", "delivered_by": "clean-ducts", "delivered_by_url": "https://cleanducts.co.uk/our-services/air-ventilation-and-ductwork-cleaning/" }, { "slug": "lev-thorough-examination", "system": "Local exhaust ventilation (LEV)", "group": "Ventilation and air", "question": "How often does local exhaust ventilation (LEV) need a thorough examination and test?", "short_answer": "At least once every 14 months. This is a legal requirement under the COSHH Regulations, and a few listed processes need more frequent testing.", "applies_to": [ "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Thorough examination and test of each LEV system by a competent person", "interval": { "every": 14, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Employer, using a competent LEV examiner", "basis_type": "law", "basis": "Regulation 9(2) of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 requires thorough examination and testing at least once every 14 months, or more often for processes listed in Schedule 4.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2", "s4" ], "interval_note": "Maximum of 14 months; Schedule 4 of COSHH sets shorter intervals for certain processes" }, { "task": "Routine user checks of the LEV system (airflow indicators, hoods, ducts and filters)", "interval": null, "who": "Operators and supervisors", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's guidance describes daily checks by operators and weekly or monthly checks by supervisors, recorded in the system logbook.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ], "interval_note": "Daily, weekly and monthly checks as set out in the system's user manual and logbook" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 9 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 requires employers to maintain control measures in efficient working order and to have local exhaust ventilation thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months. HSE says the record must be kept for at least 5 years.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the interval: it is in legislation. HSE's HSG258 (Controlling airborne contaminants at work) is the main technical guidance.", "evidence": [ "Thorough examination and test report for each system, kept for at least 5 years", "LEV logbook with routine checks", "Commissioning report and user manual", "Test labels on hoods (recommended by HSE, not legally required)" ], "notes": "LEV is extraction that removes dust, fume or vapour at source, for example fume cupboards and workshop extraction in schools. HSE says most systems are examined and tested once a year, with 14 months as the legal maximum. HSE says more frequent testing may be needed where wear and tear could reduce performance sooner.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, regulation 9: Maintenance, examination and testing of control measures", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/2677/regulation/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty: thorough examination and test at least once every 14 months", "quote": "in the case of local exhaust ventilation plant, at least once every 14 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Local exhaust ventilation (LEV): frequently asked questions", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/lev/faqs.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE confirmation of the 14 month interval", "quote": "should also arrange a thorough examination and test at least every 14 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Local exhaust ventilation (LEV): frequently asked questions", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/lev/faqs.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Records must be kept for at least 5 years", "quote": "must keep this record for at least 5 years", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Clearing the air: A simple guide to buying and using local exhaust ventilation (INDG408 rev1)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg408.pdf", "edition": "Published January 2016", "supports": "HSE leaflet: usually done annually, with a legal maximum of 14 months", "quote": "legally, you are allowed no more than 14 months between tests", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Good estate management for schools: Health and safety", "publisher": "Department for Education (GOV.UK)", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-estate-management-for-schools/health-and-safety", "edition": "Updated 20 July 2026. Written for schools", "supports": "Government schools guidance on fume cupboards and workshop LEV", "quote": "They should be examined and tested at least every 14 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulation text and HSE guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "legionella-control", "system": "Legionella control in hot and cold water systems", "group": "Water", "question": "How often should legionella checks and risk assessments be carried out?", "short_answer": "There is no fixed legal interval for the risk assessment: it must be reviewed regularly and whenever it may no longer be valid. HSE's guidance sets the routine checks, including weekly flushing of little-used outlets, monthly temperature checks, quarterly shower head cleaning and annual tank inspections.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Review the legionella risk assessment", "interval": null, "who": "Dutyholder and appointed responsible person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's L8 (the Approved Code of Practice and guidance) says to review the assessment regularly and whenever there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid. It sets no fixed period.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ], "interval_note": "No fixed interval: regularly, and after changes to the water system, its use or the building" }, { "task": "Flush infrequently used outlets", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Responsible person or nominated staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1: weekly, or as indicated by the risk assessment.", "source_ids": [ "s3" ] }, { "task": "Check cold water temperatures at sentinel taps (below 20 degrees C within two minutes)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1 lists this check as monthly.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ] }, { "task": "Check hot water temperatures at sentinel points (at least 50 degrees C within one minute, 55 in healthcare)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1 lists this check as monthly.", "source_ids": [ "s5" ] }, { "task": "Check calorifier flow and return temperatures (flow at 60 degrees C, return not below 50)", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1 lists this check as monthly.", "source_ids": [ "s6" ] }, { "task": "Dismantle, clean and descale shower heads, hoses and spray taps", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Responsible person or water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1: quarterly, or as indicated by the rate of fouling or other risk factors.", "source_ids": [ "s7" ] }, { "task": "Inspect cold water storage tanks and carry out remedial work", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1 lists this inspection as annual.", "source_ids": [ "s8" ] }, { "task": "Inspect and clean calorifiers internally", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Water hygiene contractor", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1: annually, or as indicated by the rate of fouling.", "source_ids": [ "s9" ] }, { "task": "Maintain thermostatic mixing valves, including cleaning strainers and filters", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 2, Table 2.1: annually or on a frequency defined by the risk assessment.", "source_ids": [ "s10" ] }, { "task": "Weekly dip slide test of cooling system water", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "week" }, "who": "Water treatment provider or trained staff", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 1 says cooling system water should be tested weekly using dip slides or similar.", "source_ids": [ "s12" ], "condition": "Buildings with cooling towers or evaporative condensers" }, { "task": "Legionella sampling of cooling system water", "interval": { "every": 3, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Water treatment provider", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSG274 Part 1 says routine monitoring for legionella should be undertaken at least quarterly.", "source_ids": [ "s11" ], "condition": "Buildings with cooling towers or evaporative condensers" } ], "legal_basis": "The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 require employers and those in control of premises, including landlords, to assess and control the risk from legionella. HSE's Approved Code of Practice L8 explains how: identify and assess sources of risk, prepare a written scheme, implement and monitor it, keep records and appoint a responsible person. The law sets no test frequencies.", "standard": "HSE Approved Code of Practice L8 (fourth edition, 2013) and technical guidance HSG274 Parts 1 to 3. HSG274 was reissued in 2024, with changes to Part 1 (cooling systems) only.", "evidence": [ "Current legionella risk assessment with review dates", "Written scheme of control", "Temperature monitoring and flushing logs", "Tank, calorifier and shower cleaning records", "Laboratory sample results, where sampling is done", "Records kept for at least five years" ], "notes": "The frequencies are HSE guidance, not law, and each one can be varied by the risk assessment: healthcare and care settings usually need tighter controls. HSG274 says legionella sampling of hot and cold water systems should be carried out where there is doubt about the control regime or where the recommended temperatures are not being consistently achieved. Cooling towers need weekly dip slides and at least quarterly legionella samples.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: The control of legionella bacteria in water systems. Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L8)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l8.pdf", "edition": "Fourth edition, 2013", "supports": "Review of the risk assessment: regularly and when no longer valid", "quote": "Arrange to review the assessment regularly and specifically whenever there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: The control of legionella bacteria in water systems. Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L8)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l8.pdf", "edition": "Fourth edition, 2013", "supports": "What dutyholders must do to comply", "quote": "To comply with their legal duties, dutyholders should", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Weekly flushing of infrequently used outlets (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Weekly, or as indicated by the risk assessment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Monthly cold water temperature check at sentinel taps (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Check temperatures at sentinel taps (typically those nearest to and furthest from the cold tank", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Monthly hot water temperature check at sentinel points (Table 2.1)", "quote": "take temperatures at sentinel points (nearest outlet, furthest outlet and long branches to outlets)", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Monthly calorifier flow and return temperature check (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Check calorifier return temperatures (not below 50 °C)", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Quarterly cleaning and descaling of showers and spray taps (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Quarterly or as indicated by the rate of fouling or other risk factors", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s8", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Annual inspection of cold water storage tanks (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Inspect cold water storage tanks and carry out remedial work where necessary", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s9", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Annual internal inspection and cleaning of calorifiers (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Annually, or as indicated by the rate of fouling", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s10", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 2: hot and cold water systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf", "edition": "First published 2014; reissued 2024 (the 2024 second edition updated Part 1 only)", "supports": "Annual maintenance of thermostatic mixing valves (Table 2.1)", "quote": "Annually or on a frequency defined by the risk assessment", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s11", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 1: evaporative cooling systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part1.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2024", "supports": "Cooling towers: legionella sampling at least quarterly", "quote": "Routine monitoring, specifically for the presence of legionella, should be undertaken at least quarterly.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s12", "title": "Legionnaires' disease: Technical guidance HSG274 Part 1: evaporative cooling systems", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part1.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2024", "supports": "Cooling towers: weekly dip slides", "quote": "Cooling system water should be tested weekly, using dip slides (or similar).", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken directly from HSE's L8 and Table 2.1 of HSG274 Part 2.", "delivered_by": "gemini", "delivered_by_url": "https://geminiampm.co.uk/ventilation/water-hygiene/" }, { "slug": "asbestos-management", "system": "Asbestos management (re-inspection)", "group": "Building fabric and access", "question": "How often should asbestos be re-inspected and the management plan reviewed?", "short_answer": "Review the asbestos management plan at least every 12 months, and inspect known or presumed asbestos materials periodically to check their condition. HSE guidance says the gap between condition checks would not be expected to be more than 12 months in most cases.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Review the asbestos management plan, register and drawings", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Dutyholder", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Regulation 4 requires review at regular intervals. HSE's Approved Code of Practice L143 says the plan should be reviewed every 12 months as a minimum, and sooner if circumstances change.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s4", "s3" ] }, { "task": "Re-inspect known or presumed asbestos-containing materials and record their condition", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Dutyholder, using a competent person", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "Regulation 4 requires the condition of asbestos to be monitored. HSE guidance says the period between checks depends on the material, its location and activity nearby, and would not be expected to be more than 12 months in most cases.", "source_ids": [ "s2", "s5", "s6", "s7" ], "interval_note": "At least every 12 months in most cases; more often for materials in busy or vulnerable locations" } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places a duty to manage asbestos on the dutyholder for non-domestic premises and the common parts of multi-occupied residential buildings. The dutyholder must assess whether asbestos is present, keep a written plan, monitor the condition of asbestos, and review and revise the plan at regular intervals. The regulation does not fix the interval.", "standard": "No British Standard sets the interval. HSE's Approved Code of Practice L143 (second edition, 2013) and its web guidance on the duty to manage give the regulator's position.", "evidence": [ "Asbestos register, kept up to date", "Asbestos management plan with dated reviews", "Re-inspection reports with photographs and condition scores", "Records of information given to contractors and the emergency services" ], "notes": "The 12 month review of the plan comes from HSE's Approved Code of Practice, which has special legal status: if you follow it you will normally be doing enough to comply. The re-inspection interval is risk-based. HSE's older guide HSG227 notes that materials in remote, unoccupied areas may need inspecting only once every 12 months or less often, while those in busy areas need more frequent checks.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, regulation 4: Duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/632/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to review the management plan at regular intervals", "quote": "the plan is reviewed and revised at regular intervals", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, regulation 4: Duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/632/regulation/4", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Legal duty to monitor the condition of asbestos", "quote": "monitoring the condition of any asbestos or any substance containing or suspected of containing asbestos", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "The duty to manage asbestos in buildings: Overview", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/duty/index.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "HSE: review the plan every 12 months or sooner", "quote": "monitor it and review it every 12 months or sooner if necessary", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Managing and working with asbestos: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L143)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l143.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2013", "supports": "Approved Code of Practice: plan reviewed every 12 months as a minimum", "quote": "As a minimum, the management plan, including records and drawings, should be reviewed every 12 months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Managing and working with asbestos: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L143)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l143.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2013", "supports": "Inspection frequency depends on location and other factors", "quote": "The frequency of inspection will depend on the location of the ACMs and other factors which could affect their condition", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "The duty to manage asbestos: Write your asbestos management plan and monitor it", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/duty/asbestos-management-plan.htm", "edition": "Page as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Asbestos in good condition must be regularly inspected", "quote": "All ACMs in good condition must be regularly inspected to check that they remain in a good condition.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s7", "title": "A comprehensive guide to managing asbestos in premises (HSG227)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg227.pdf", "edition": "Published 2002; still listed in the HSE catalogue", "supports": "HSE guide: monitoring interval not expected to exceed 12 months in most cases", "quote": "would not be expected to be more than 12 months in most cases", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "high", "confidence_reason": "Taken from the regulation text, HSE's Approved Code of Practice and HSE web guidance.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null }, { "slug": "fall-arrest-anchor-testing", "system": "Fall-arrest anchors and personal fall protection equipment", "group": "Building fabric and access", "question": "How often should fall-arrest anchor points and eyebolts be tested?", "short_answer": "Anchor devices used for fall arrest should be examined by a competent person at least every 12 months, and those used for rope access or for raising and lowering a person at least every 6 months. HSE also recommends a detailed inspection of harnesses and lanyards at least every 6 months.", "applies_to": [ "offices", "residential-blocks", "healthcare", "education", "retail-leisure", "industrial" ], "hrb_only": false, "tasks": [ { "task": "Periodic examination of fall-arrest anchor devices by a competent person", "interval": { "every": 1, "unit": "year" }, "who": "Competent anchor examiner", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 7883 recommends periodic examination at intervals of no more than 12 months for fall-arrest anchor devices, as stated by the Work at Height Safety Association.", "source_ids": [ "s1" ], "condition": "Anchor devices and eyebolts used for fall arrest or restraint" }, { "task": "Periodic examination of anchors used for rope access or for raising and lowering people", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent anchor examiner", "basis_type": "standard", "basis": "BS 7883 recommends examination at intervals of no more than 6 months for rope access anchors. LOLER sets the same 6 month interval for equipment used to lift people.", "source_ids": [ "s1", "s2" ], "condition": "Anchors used for rope access or to raise or lower a person" }, { "task": "Detailed inspection of harnesses, lanyards and other webbing or rope equipment", "interval": { "every": 6, "unit": "month" }, "who": "Competent person appointed by the employer", "basis_type": "guidance", "basis": "HSE's INDG367 recommends a detailed inspection at least every six months, and at least every three months for frequently used lanyards in arduous conditions.", "source_ids": [ "s4" ] } ], "legal_basis": "Regulation 12 of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 requires work equipment exposed to conditions that cause deterioration to be inspected at suitable intervals and after exceptional circumstances. It sets no fixed interval. Where an anchor is used for rope access or to raise or lower a person at work, regulation 9 of LOLER requires thorough examination at least every 6 months, unless an examination scheme sets a different interval. HSE guidance in L24, published with the workplace Approved Code of Practice, lists anchorage points for safety harnesses as equipment needing a system of maintenance.", "standard": "BS 7883 (personal fall protection equipment: anchor systems). The current edition is BS 7883:2019; the published interval statement found refers to the 2005 edition.", "evidence": [ "Anchor system technical file and layout drawing", "Periodic examination report for each anchor, with test results", "Tag or label on each anchor showing the next examination date", "Inspection records for harnesses and lanyards" ], "notes": "The 12 and 6 month anchor intervals are British Standard recommendations, taken from a trade association note that refers to BS 7883:2005. BS 7883 was substantially revised in 2019 and this dataset could not confirm from a free authoritative source that the intervals are unchanged, so ask your examiner to confirm them against the current edition. WAHSA notes that infrequently used anchors may be used only if they have been examined within the last 12 months, or 6 months for rope access.", "sources": [ { "id": "s1", "title": "Technical Guidance Note 3: Guidance on inspecting eyebolts used for personal fall protection purposes", "publisher": "Work at Height Safety Association (WAHSA)", "url": "https://www.wahsa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/TGN03-GUIDANCE-ON-INSPECTING-EYEBOLTS-USED-FOR-PERSONAL-FALL-PROTECTION-PURPOSES.pdf", "edition": "Refers to BS 7883:2005, since replaced by BS 7883:2019", "supports": "WAHSA statement of the BS 7883 periodic examination intervals", "quote": "at intervals of no more than 12 months for fall arrest devices and 6 months for rope access devices", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s2", "title": "Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, regulation 9: Thorough examination and inspection", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2307/regulation/9", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "LOLER: equipment for lifting persons examined at least every 6 months", "quote": "in the case of lifting equipment for lifting persons or an accessory for lifting, at least every 6 months", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s3", "title": "Work at Height Regulations 2005, regulation 12: Inspection of work equipment", "publisher": "legislation.gov.uk (The National Archives)", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/735/regulation/12", "edition": "Revised text as shown on 5 October 2026", "supports": "Work at Height Regulations: inspection at suitable intervals", "quote": "at suitable intervals; and (b) each time that exceptional circumstances which are liable to jeopardise the safety of the work equipment have occurred", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s4", "title": "Inspecting fall arrest equipment made from webbing or rope (INDG367)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg367.pdf", "edition": "First published September 2002", "supports": "HSE: detailed inspection of webbing and rope fall arrest equipment at least every six months", "quote": "It is recommended that there is a detailed inspection at least every six months.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s5", "title": "Workplace health, safety and welfare: Approved Code of Practice and guidance (L24)", "publisher": "Health and Safety Executive", "url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l24.pdf", "edition": "Second edition, 2013", "supports": "HSE guidance in L24 (paragraph 46) lists harness anchorage points as needing a system of maintenance", "quote": "anchorage points for safety harnesses", "fetched": "2026-10-05" }, { "id": "s6", "title": "Introduction to BS 7883:2019", "publisher": "British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) Height Safety Group", "url": "https://www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BSIF-BS-7883-Overview-HR.pdf", "edition": "Overview of the 2019 edition", "supports": "BS 7883:2019 is the current edition and extended the inspection categories", "quote": "This revised standard has extended inspection requirements to cover inspection prior to use, periodic, interim and supplementary inspections.", "fetched": "2026-10-05" } ], "confidence": "medium", "confidence_reason": "Anchor intervals come from a trade association note based on the superseded 2005 edition of BS 7883; the 2019 edition could not be checked.", "delivered_by": null, "delivered_by_url": null } ] }