Fire & Safety


Why electricians are expanding into fire safety


As building systems become more integrated and regulations tighten, electricians are increasingly installing fire safety systems.


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haun Scott, applications engineer at Advanced, explains the key drivers behind the shiſt and why training is more critical than ever.


The role of electricians is evolving. Traditionally focused on power, lighting and containment, electricians are increasingly moving into other areas, such as fire safety, driven by technology, regulation and overlapping skillsets. For electrical wholesalers, contractors and manufacturers, this offers a new opportunity. However, fire safety products differ from standard electrical products as they are life safety solutions with stricter installation and compliance requirements.


The evolution


Modern fire detection and alarm systems have evolved; they are no longer standalone systems. There are now integrated systems that are reliant on electrical infrastructure. From addressable fire alarm panels, such as Advanced’s MxPro 5, to networked detection devices and integrated life safety systems, for example, Advanced’s SmokeGo smoke detection system, the technical demands align closely with the skills electricians already possess.


As buildings become smarter, fire systems are also increasingly integrated with other services such as security, access control and building management systems (BMS). This aligns with electricians’ expertise in wiring, system integration and fault-finding, making fire system installation a natural extension of low-voltage work.


Diversification


Another key driver for electricians is the need to diversify. The electrical contracting market is competitive, and margins in traditional areas can be tight. Expanding into fire safety allows contractors to offer a more comprehensive service, increasing both their value to clients and their revenue potential.


Low-voltage systems, including fire alarms, CCTV and access control, are often a logical addition to an electrician’s portfolio. Customers increasingly prefer working with a single contractor who can manage multiple systems, rather than needing to coordinate several specialists. As a result,


28 | electrical wholesaler June 2026


“Fire safety products differ from standard electrical products, as they are life safety solutions with stricter installation and compliance requirements.”


electricians who can competently install and maintain fire detection systems are in a strong position to win more work.


Regulation


Legislation has also played a significant role. In the UK, the Grenfell Inquiry transformed the fire safety landscape with the subsequent publication of the amended Approved Document B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations, the introduction of the Building Safety Act and the Building Safety Regulator. This has led to stricter requirements around fire detection, alarm systems, evacuation alert systems, such as Advanced’s EvacGo, and emergency lighting. Meanwhile, standards such as BS 5839 set out clear expectations for system design, installation and maintenance. Compliance is not optional, and responsibility often falls on those installing and commissioning the systems. For electricians working on-site, it makes sense for them to take


on work, provided they have appropriate training. Growing demand


At the same time, demand for fire safety equipment continues to grow. New build, refurbishments, and retrofitted projects all require compliant fire safety solutions. Additionally, the rise of smarter, more flexible technologies, such as wireless and hybrid systems, is making installation more accessible in a wider range of environments.


For electricians, this means more opportunities. However, it also means greater responsibility. Fire alarm systems are life safety systems, and mistakes can have serious consequences. Electrical competence alone is not enough; understanding system design, cause-and-effect programming and compliance are essential, making training critical.


Training


Electricians are well-positioned to move into fire safety, since installing fire alarm systems builds naturally on existing skills. It involves not only running cables and connecting devices, but also developing a strong understanding of system types, coverage requirements, standards and best practices.


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