FireQual Award in Fundamentals of the Recommendations for Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems in Non-Domestic Buildings to BS 5839-1

Also available as FireQual Award in Fundamentals of the Recommendations for Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems in Non-Domestic Buildings to BS 5839-1 at SCQF Level 6

All our Fire Safety qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and Qualifications Scotland Accreditation.

610/3601/8:2025

FireQual Regulated Qualifications are recognised across the United Kingdom. UK Regulators have published a chart to demonstrate how Qualifications Can Cross Boundaries.

Qualification Information

Fire Doors

38 Hours

32 Hours

4 Hours

2 Hours

E-assessment, Multiple Choice Examination

18+

Who is this qualification suitable for?

This qualification is designed for individuals working in or entering the fire detection and alarm (FD&A) sector for non-domestic buildings, including:

Fire Detection and Alarm System Technicians
Electrical Contractors
Compliance Officers
Fire Safety Professionals
Anyone responsible for installing, maintaining, or certifying FD&A systems in commercial or public buildings

It is ideal for those seeking to demonstrate competence in accordance with BS 5839-1 and to progress into more specialised roles within the fire safety sector.

What does the Qualification Cover?

Candidates will gain the skills and knowledge to:

Understand the scope, definitions, and normative references of BS 5839-1
Identify and evaluate system components and monitoring requirements
Recognise system categories and their application to protected areas
Select and site fire detection devices and mitigate false alarms
Understand alarm signalling, accessibility, and staged alarm systems
Apply wiring, power supply, and control equipment recommendations
Follow installation and commissioning procedures
Conduct routine testing, maintenance, and documentation
Apply knowledge from annexes including certificates, logbooks, and battery calculations
Understand regulatory obligations and responsibilities of key stakeholders

Qualification Structure

This qualification consists of one mandatory unit:

Fundamentals of the Recommendations for Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems in Non-Domestic Buildings
Covers the essential principles, standards, and practices for FD&A systems in commercial and public buildings in accordance with BS 5839-1.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements.
However, candidates should be proficient in literacy, numeracy, and communication.

Progression Routes

There are no formal entry requirements.
However, candidates should be proficient in literacy, numeracy, and communication.

How do I achieve this qualification?

This qualification is currently available exclusively through FireQual Approved Training Centres. To enrol or learn more, please contact your local ATC on contact us.

Download Qualification Specification

Frequently Asked Questions

After completing your FireQual Qualification

My certificate hasn't arrived

Certificates are issued by FireQual after successful completion and verification. If a certificate hasn’t arrived, candidates should first check with their ATC, who can follow up with FireQual if needed.

Can my FireQual qualification be counted towards another one?

Some FireQual qualifications may allow Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). We also can offer variants of RPL such as Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) in some cases. Candidates should refer to the qualification specification and RPL policy on the FireQual website for details.

Does a FireQual qualification allow me to become BAFE registered?

FireQual consults with BAFE when designing qualifications, but BAFE registration is separate. Candidates should contact BAFE directly for scheme requirements.

Does my qualification expire or need renewing once obtained?

Some qualifications require refreshing after a set period to ensure they remain ‘fit for purpose’. This is outlined in the qualification specification.

I have used a training centre for a previous qualification, do I have to use the same one for further qualifications?

No, candidates can choose any of the ATC’s approved to deliver the qualification they wish to pursue.

Candidate Support

What is Qualifications Scotland Accreditation?

Qualifications Scotland Accreditation is the regulator of qualifications in Scotland. FireQual is recognised by Qualifications Scotland Accreditation to offer regulated qualifications.

What is Ofqual?

Ofqual is the regulator of qualifications in England. FireQual is recognised by Ofqual as an Awarding Organisation and meets its operational standards.

Are FireQual qualifications nationally recognised?

Yes, FireQual is recognised as an Awarding organisation by Ofqual and Qualifications Scotland Accreditation, ensuring national recognition and regulatory compliance. Its qualifications are regulated by them also and so are comparable to other regulated qualifications. This provides confidence for candidates and employers alike.

What do the different levels of qualification mean?

FireQual qualifications are levelled against the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) in Scotland and the Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) in England and Northern Ireland. These levels reflect the complexity and depth of learning and are directly comparable to other frameworks such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

Who is my training provider?

Your Approved Training Centre (ATC) and your point of contact is the company that you or your workplace registered with for your learning.