How often should a workplace fire alarm be tested?
By Joe Cooper. Last reviewed 26 October 2026.
Short answer: A weekly test is the common routine: operate one manual call point, using a different one each week, check the alarm is audible in all areas, reset the panel and write down the result. Your fire risk assessment and alarm engineer set the schedule for your system, and the system still needs servicing by a competent person.
How to run the weekly test
- Tell staff the test is about to happen so nobody mistakes it for a real alarm.
- Operate one manual call point with the test key, using a different call point each week.
- Check the alarm can be heard in every area, including toilets, stockrooms and upstairs.
- Reset the call point and the panel, and check the panel shows no faults.
- Record the date, the call point you used, who ran the test and the result.
Vary the time
If you have shift workers, run the test at different times so each shift hears the alarm over a period. Most people should recognise the sound.
Professional servicing
The weekly test is a basic check you can do yourself. The system itself needs servicing by a competent person, commonly every six months, and your fire risk assessment or alarm engineer sets the schedule for your system. Keep the service certificates with your logs.
If the test fails
Write down exactly what failed, tell everyone affected, and arrange a repair straight away. Decide what interim measures you need while the system is out, such as extra checks or a fire watch. Your risk assessment should say what to do.
General information based on GOV.UK guidance and common practice. It is not legal advice or a fire risk assessment. Sources: GOV.UK, Fire safety in the workplace and equipment, drills and training.