EAL Level 3 Award in the Commissioning, Handover and Servicing of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems to BS 5839-1

This Level 3 Award provides professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for the commissioning, handover, and servicing of fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises, fully aligned with the critical British Standard BS 5839-1.

Whether you’re an experienced fire sector engineer or a qualified electrician looking to expand into the fire safety industry, this course is designed to help you specialise and excel in one of the most vital areas of fire protection.

Course Overview

Throughout this qualification, you’ll gain the competence and confidence to:

• Commission fire detection and alarm systems in accordance with BS 5839-1

• Conduct handover procedures effectively and professionally

• Service and maintain systems to ensure ongoing compliance and performance

• Interpret and apply key aspects of the British Standard

• Meet the expectations of clients, insurers, and regulatory bodies

Summary of learning outcomes: 

• Understand the health and safety requirements applicable to fire detection and alarm systems

• Understand BS 5839 and relating industry guidance.  

• Understand the requirements for the inspection of fire detection and alarm systems

• Understand the testing procedures for a fire detection and alarm system.

• Understand the requirements in relation to the responsibility for the limitation of false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals

• Understand the documentation and handover process.

• Understand the periodic inspection and  servicing requirements for fire detection and alarm systems.

• Carry out the safe commissioning and handover of a fire detection and alarm system.

• Carry out the inspection and servicing of a fire detection and alarm system.

Assessment Criteria for Fire Detection and Alarm Systems Course

This course assesses learner competence across both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for working with fire detection and alarm systems. Successful completion requires achieving a Pass grade in all three mandatory assessment components.

Component 1: Controlled Written Examination (Closed Book)

This assessment component tests the learner's foundational knowledge and understanding of fire detection and alarm system principles, standards, and regulatory requirements.

Assessment Type: Controlled Written Examination (Closed Book)

Duration: 90 Minutes (1.5 hours)

Total Marks: 63 Marks

Number of Questions: 21 Questions

Pass Mark Requirement: 60% of total marks (38 Marks)

Permitted Materials: Calculator, blank paper, pens, pencil, rubber, ruler

Grading Outcome: Pass / Refer

Examination Rules

• Closed Book: No reference materials, notes, electronic devices (other than the approved calculator), or external aids are permitted.

• Security: All permitted materials will be checked by the invigilator prior to the start of the examination.

Component 2: Practical Assessment - Commissioning and Handover

This assessment evaluates the learner's ability to safely and competently execute the final stages of system installation, ensuring compliance and readiness for operation.

Assessment Type: Practical Performance Assessment

Topic: Carry out the safe commissioning and handover of a fire detection and alarm system.

Focus Areas:

Commissioning: Pre-commissioning checks, testing of all inputs (detectors, call points) and outputs (sounders, strobes), verification of zoning, system functionality, and compliance with design specifications and relevant standards.

Handover: Completion of mandatory documentation (e.g., commissioning certificates, logbook entries), demonstrating system operation to a representative, and explaining user responsibilities.

Grading Outcome: Pass / Refer

Success Criteria: Learner must demonstrate a methodical, compliant, and safe process, successfully completing all required documentation and operational checks.

Component 3: Practical Assessment - Inspection and Servicing

This assessment evaluates the learner's ability to maintain system integrity through routine inspection and servicing, identifying and correcting potential faults.

Assessment Type: Practical Performance Assessment

Topic: Carry out the inspection and servicing of a fire detection and alarm system.

Focus Areas

Inspection: Visual inspection of system components, verification of access/egress routes, checking for required signage, and confirming environmental suitability.

Servicing: Functional testing of various detector types, battery checks, signal path testing, documenting faults found, and completing service records/logbook.

Grading Outcome: Pass / Refer

Success Criteria: Learner must demonstrate adherence to servicing schedules and procedures, accurately identify faults, and complete all required administrative tasks to industry standards.

Overall Course Grading

To successfully complete the course and achieve a final Pass certification, the learner must achieve a Pass grade in ALL THREE assessment components (Written Examination, Commissioning Practical, and Inspection/Servicing Practical).

This qualification is widely recognised and can contribute toward the requirements for roles under BAFE SP203-1.



Course fee: £1150.00 + VAT

Course duration: 5 days

Why Choose LFS (London Fire and Security Training)?

Expert tutors with real-world experience in the fire and security industry

Hands-on, practical training designed around real-life systems and scenarios

Accredited EAL qualification recognised by leading fire safety organisations

Friendly support and guidance from start to finish