What regulations should you be following?

Fire

Fire alarm systems in the UK should be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained in accordance with the relevant British Standards. Commercial systems generally follow BS 5839-1, while domestic systems are covered by BS 5839-6. These standards provide guidance on detector positioning, system categories, alarm coverage, testing and ongoing servicing, helping ensure the system remains compliant, reliable and capable of protecting life and property.

CCTV

A CCTV installation should comply with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, particularly where cameras capture public areas or neighbouring properties. Cameras should be positioned appropriately, supported by clear CCTV signage, and configured to record only what is necessary.

Footage must be stored securely, retained only for a reasonable period, and accessible solely to authorised persons. For commercial premises, the system should also be designed and installed in line with relevant standards, such as BS EN 62676.

Security

Intruder alarm systems should be designed, installed, commissioned, and maintained in accordance with BS EN 50131 and the relevant UK implementation standards.

These standards define the requirements for system grading, equipment performance, installation practices, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring that alarm systems provide reliable protection while meeting current industry and insurance requirements.

Nurse Call

A nurse call system should be designed, installed and maintained to suit the needs of residents and staff, following the manufacturer’s instructions and relevant guidance such as HTM 08-03 and BS 8300-2 where applicable.

Care providers should ensure call points are accessible, alarms are clearly identified, backup power is provided, and the system is routinely tested and serviced to support their duties under CQC Regulation 12.

Access

Access control systems should be designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with the relevant British and European Standards, including BS EN 60839-11-1 and BS EN 50133 for electronic access control systems.

Where access-controlled doors form part of a means of escape or fire strategy, installations must also comply with the relevant fire safety legislation and building regulations to ensure occupants can exit safely in an emergency.

Cabling

General electrical and data cabling should comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and relevant standards, including BS 7671 for electrical installations and BS 6701 for telecommunications cabling.

Installations should use suitable cables, secure supports, correct segregation and appropriate fire-stopping, with domestic electrical work also meeting Part P of the Building Regulations.