Fire Alarm & Security Questions Answered

Practical answers about fire detection, maintenance, security systems and school lockdown for premises in Manchester and the North West.

Based in Cheadle, RMEC answers common questions about fire alarm and security systems for premises across Manchester, Stockport, Trafford, Salford, Tameside and the wider North West.

BAFE & SSAIB registered (CHES122)

4 November 2026 — Manual Call Points: Compliance, Signs and Siting

4 November 2026 — Types of Fire Detection and Their Benefits

4 November 2026 — Multi-Sensor Detectors: Benefits and Day/Night Modes

3 November 2026 — What Is a Disabled Refuge System?

How EVC works, when it is needed, and what to expect from installation.

27 October 2026 — Fire Alarm Servicing: What Checks Are Done?

Weekly tests, six-monthly inspections and annual checks explained.

Fire alarm installation

What does a fire alarm installation include?

A typical installation includes a site survey, system design, supply of equipment, installation, commissioning and handover documentation. We design systems to BS 5839 for commercial and education premises.

How long does a fire alarm installation take?

Timescales depend on building size and complexity. A small commercial premises may take a few days; larger or multi-building sites take longer. We provide a clear programme after the survey.

Do you install addressable and conventional systems?

Yes. Addressable systems identify the exact device in alarm and suit larger or more complex buildings. Conventional systems identify zones and are often used on smaller sites.

Fire alarm maintenance

How often should a fire alarm be serviced?

BS 5839 recommends regular servicing by a competent person. Most commercial systems need inspection and testing at least every six months, with weekly user tests in between.

What does a maintenance visit cover?

A typical visit includes panel checks, detector and call-point testing, sounder checks, battery and power supply inspection, and a written report. We leave clear records after every visit.

Do you offer maintenance contracts?

Yes. We provide planned maintenance contracts for fire alarm systems across Manchester, Cheadle, Stockport and the North West. Contracts can also cover security systems and disabled refuge.

Security systems and CCTV

What security systems do you install?

We design and install intruder alarms, CCTV and access control for commercial, education and industrial premises. Systems can be standalone or integrated.

Can CCTV be monitored remotely?

Yes. Many of the systems we install allow authorised users to view cameras remotely via a secure connection. We discuss monitoring options during the design stage.

Are you Paxton registered?

Yes. We are Paxton registered installers for access control systems. This means we have completed their training and can design and install Paxton systems.

School lockdown systems

What is a school lockdown system?

A lockdown (or invacuation) system alerts staff and pupils to stay inside and secure the building. It uses a distinct sound and/or voice message so it is not confused with the fire alarm.

Is a lockdown system relevant for Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law requires certain premises to have procedures to protect people from the risk of a terrorist attack. A clear lockdown system is one practical measure many schools are considering.

Can a lockdown system work alongside the fire alarm?

Yes. Most schools add a separate lockdown alert that operates independently of the fire system so the two signals cannot be confused.

Disabled refuge and EVC

What is a disabled refuge system?

Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) systems provide two-way communication between refuge areas and a master station. They help people who cannot use stairs to call for assistance during an evacuation.

Do you service EVC systems?

Yes. We design, install and maintain disabled refuge systems to BS 5839-9. Maintenance includes testing outstations, master stations and batteries.

General questions

Are you BAFE and SSAIB registered?

Yes. RMEC is BAFE and SSAIB registered (registration CHES122). This provides independent assurance that our fire protection work is carried out to recognised standards.

What areas do you cover?

We are based in Cheadle and cover Manchester, Stockport, Trafford, Salford, Tameside, Altrincham, Oldham, Saddleworth and the wider North West.

How do I get a quote?

Call 0161 241 0211 or use the contact form on our website. We will arrange a survey if needed and provide clear options and pricing.

Need advice on your system?
Speak to our team on 0161 241 0211 or request a quote.

Areas We Cover

We provide fire and security services across Greater Manchester and the North West.

Have a question about your premises?

We design, install and maintain fire and security systems across Manchester and the North West.