The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published a revised Fact File 38 providing clear guidance on the responsibilities of end users to organise effective Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), as required under the NFCC Policy on False Alarm Management.

Designed to support compliance with fire safety legislation, including the Fire Safety Order and Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations, the guidance explains what Fire and Rescue Services expect end users to have in place to reduce unwanted fire signals and maintain fire protection systems effectively.

At the core of the document is a practical maintenance checklist, helping end users keep accurate records of inspections, tests, training, and system documentation across fire alarms, emergency lighting, suppression systems, and associated life safety measures. The checklist also supports ongoing fire risk assessment reviews and readiness for F&RS inspection.

This concise, practical guide will assist dutyholders in understanding their obligations, improving system reliability, reducing false alarms, and working more effectively with competent fire safety professionals.