Fire alarms save lives. In 2024/25, UK Fire and Rescue Services attended 603,942 incidents, including 142,494 fires (Gov.uk Fire Statistics). With regulations tightening under BS 5839 and Part P Building Regulations, skilled fire alarm installers are more in demand than ever.
At Learn Trade Skills, based in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire (Broxbourne area), we deliver fire alarm training to learners across Hertfordshire, Essex, North London, and the wider UK. Whether you’re local to us in Hertfordshire or travelling in from London, Essex, or Bedfordshire, our courses give you the hands-on skills to build a career in fire alarm installation.
The Two Sides of Fire Alarm Installation
I often explain to learners that fire alarm installation has two pillars—the installation side and the electrical side.
The Installation Side
This is the practical, hands-on craft:
- Designing systems with smoke, heat, or multi-sensor detectors.
- Positioning alarms and sounders for effective coverage.
- Running fire-resistant cables safely.
- Commissioning systems to BS 5839 standards.
👉 Our Domestic Fire Alarm Course, run at our Cheshunt training centre in Hertfordshire, teaches you how to install Grade D systems (BS 5839-6) for homes and HMOs. Many of our learners join us from Broxbourne, Waltham Cross, Enfield, and Essex.
The Electrical Side
This is where compliance and safety come in:
- Following the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671).
- Ensuring safe mains connections and battery backups.
- Integrating alarms with sprinklers, security, and emergency lighting.
- Meeting Part P Building Regulations.
👉 Our Commercial Fire Alarm Course prepares learners from Hertfordshire, North London, and beyond for BS 5839-1 systems, including schools, offices, and commercial buildings.
Domestic vs. Commercial Fire Alarm Courses
Domestic Fire Alarm Course (BS 5839-6)
- Ideal for beginners and small contractors.
- Popular with learners from Cheshunt, Broxbourne, Enfield, Harlow, and Essex.
- Covers Grade D systems (LD1, LD2, LD3).
Commercial Fire Alarm Course (BS 5839-1)
- Suited to qualified electricians and contractors.
- Attracts learners from Hertfordshire, North London, and Bedfordshire.
- Covers zoning, addressable panels, and advanced commissioning.
Why BAFE Certification Matters
Training gives you skills. Certification proves your competence.
The BAFE Register is the UK’s leading independent fire safety certification.
- SP203-1 covers commercial systems (BS 5839-1).
- DS301 covers domestic systems (BS 5839-6).
While not legally required (BAFE FAQ), I’ve seen how BAFE certification gives contractors credibility—particularly in areas like London, Hertfordshire, and Essex, where local authorities and housing providers increasingly expect it.