Manual Call Points: Compliance, Signs and Siting

Manual call points let people raise the alarm by hand. Under BS 5839 they must be correctly sited, signed and maintained. Poor siting or missing signs can affect compliance and increase false alarms.

Where call points should be fitted

BS 5839-1 recommends manual call points on escape routes, particularly near exits and at each storey exit. People should not have to travel more than about 45 metres to reach one (30 metres in higher-risk areas), measured along the route of travel.

• On escape routes and near final exits
• At storey exits in multi-storey buildings
• Positioned so they are obvious and not hidden by doors or furniture

Mounting height

Call points should be mounted so the centre of the frangible element is between 1.2 m and 1.6 m above finished floor level. This keeps them within reach for most people, including wheelchair users where the route allows.

They should not be so high that they are hard to reach, or so low that they are easily knocked.

Correct signs

Each call point should have a sign that identifies it as a fire alarm call point. Signs should be:

• Clear and legible
• Positioned so they can be seen when approaching the call point
• Consistent with the rest of the fire safety signage in the building

Missing or unclear signs are a common finding on fire risk assessments and service visits.

Protective covers

A protective cover (sometimes called a stoppers cover or lift cover) can reduce accidental or malicious activations. The user lifts the cover, then presses the call point.

• Benefits: fewer false alarms from knocks or casual presses; useful in schools, public areas and corridors
• Compliance: the cover must not prevent proper operation in an emergency — it should be easy to lift
• Signage: some covers include “Lift cover / Press here” instructions

Covers are especially useful where call points are in busy areas or where false alarms have been a problem.

Common compliance issues

• Call points missing from escape routes or too far apart
• Mounted too high or too low
• No sign, or a damaged sign
• Obstructed by furniture, displays or doors
• Not tested as part of the weekly user test

Maintenance

Call points should be included in the weekly user test (operate a different one each week where practical) and checked during professional servicing. Damaged elements, missing signs or stiff covers should be replaced or repaired.

If you are unsure whether your call points meet BS 5839, we can review siting, signs and covers as part of a survey or service visit. Contact us to arrange.

Fire detection systems · Fire alarm maintenance