Ms

[Guest Lynn Mackay]

I am the building manager of a residential property. We have recently installed a new fire panel that has a direct link to the fire brigade. Should the fire services arrive out of hours they will have no access to the fire panel key, we have a locked box by the panel. Is it acceptable to have a ‘break glass for key’ unit with the key for the box?

thanks

[Hyperion]

The issue you will have is that should the FRS attend they cannot reset the alarm (assuming it’s a false alarm) due to litigation reasons. They will only investigate the origin of the alarm actuation. So a key holder(s) should be appointed and their contact information held by the alarm receiving centre. They then are duly contacted to reset the alarm. 

[AnthonyB]

You can if you wish, you should have an on call keyholder as well if possible. Check your brigade's policy as some will not reset systems for premises any more.