Why smart home technology is now a business fire safety issue

Smart home devices and related technologies are no longer confined to houses. Many workplaces, offices, serviced apartments and multi-occupied buildings now include smart plugs, chargers, e-bike storage, networked heating controls and battery systems. These devices can introduce new ignition sources, overloaded circuits and uncertified imports that increase the likelihood of electrical fires. Recent UK investigations and product recalls have shown persistent risks from low-cost plug-in devices and unsafe chargers sold online. (which.co.uk, theguardian.com)

For building managers and Responsible Persons, that means a wider range of hazards to spot in a standard Fire Risk Assessment. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 still applies, and recent guidance and updates to the Building Safety Act emphasise that Responsible Persons must account for changes in their premises, including new electrical or battery storage risks. (legislation.gov.uk, gov.uk)

Key hazards to watch for in 2025

Smart plugs and uncertified chargers
Low-cost smart plugs and “eco” devices can fail electrically and overheat. Which? and enforcement bodies continue to flag non-compliant units on major marketplaces. These items may cause fires or electric shock. (which.co.uk)

Lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices
E-bikes, e-scooters and spare battery packs present a significant and documented fire risk when charging, stored incorrectly or fitted with non‑standard components. In 2024 OPSS recorded hundreds of fires involving these products. The NFCC’s Charge Safe campaign gives clear operational advice for charging and storage. (gov.uk, nfcc.org.uk)

Networked devices and cyber risks
Smart systems often depend on networked connections and cloud services. Poorly secured remote access or unauthorised updates can degrade alarm reliability or allow tampering with detection systems. Recent updates to fire alarm standards now include guidance on cyber security and remote access. (internationalfireandsafetyjournal.com, bsigroup.com)

Overloaded circuits and shared charging areas
Multiple chargers or device docks on a single socket, improper extension use, and charging in communal escape routes create serious ignition and escape hazards. HSE guidance on electrical safety at work remains directly relevant. (hse.gov.uk)

Legal duties and standards you must consider

If you are the Responsible Person, you must carry out a suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessment and act on its findings. You must also review your assessment when there is a significant change to the building or its use — such as installing communal e-bike charging or permitting non-work smart devices on site. GOV.UK guidance and the Fire Safety Order make these duties clear. (gov.uk, legislation.gov.uk)

In addition, updated technical standards matter. BS 5839-1:2025 revises recommendations for detection, installation, maintenance and now explicitly addresses cyber security and system modifications. Where smart technology affects detection, alarm or evacuation arrangements, your systems and procedures must align with the revised standards. (shop-checkout.bsigroup.com, knowledge.bsigroup.com)

Carry out a focused smart-technology fire risk review

First, extend your existing Fire Risk Assessment to capture smart-device hazards. This short review should:

Identify all devices that plug into your building’s electrical systems, including staff and tenant-owned items stored or charged on-site. Map communal charging zones, cycle stores and plant rooms where batteries are used or stored. Check whether any third-party installers or tenants have added battery infrastructure or EV chargers without formal sign-off.

Total Safe can help you expand an FRA to include smart device risks and produce a clear action plan. For a full FRA or for help updating your documentation, consider booking a specialist review with Total Safe’s fire risk assessment team. (totalsafeuk.com)

Practical steps to reduce smart-device fire risk

Restrict where batteries and e-mobility devices are charged
Prohibit charging on escape routes and in communal corridors. Provide designated, ventilated charging rooms or external charging points that keep batteries away from people’s sleeping and escape areas. NFCC guidance on e-bike and e-scooter charging offers practical wording for policies and resident communications. (nfcc.org.uk)

Insist on certified chargers and reputable supply chains
Only allow chargers and replacement batteries that meet recognised safety standards. Advise tenants and staff to avoid low-cost, uncertified devices sold on unregulated marketplaces. Government and consumer watchdog reports underline the ongoing hazards from illegal products. (which.co.uk, gov.uk)

Improve detection and alarms where battery charging occurs
Fit appropriate automatic detection in rooms where batteries charge. The 2025 BS 5839-1 standard emphasises correct detector types and includes new siting and system requirements for non-domestic premises. Speak to your fire alarm provider about whether your system needs upgrading or reconfiguration where new risks are present. (shop-checkout.bsigroup.com)

Manage loads and avoid socket overuse
Perform electrical inspections and PAT testing of workplace appliances and communal chargers. Ensure circuits serving charging zones are correctly rated, protected, and labelled. Book a PAT testing programme to keep portable devices and chargers inspected regularly. Total Safe provides PAT testing and electrical safety services for businesses across Essex. (totalsafeuk.com, hse.gov.uk)

Implement safe storage and disposal
Store spare batteries in cool, ventilated locations and use certified containers for damaged packs. Provide clear guidance on how tenants should dispose of old lithium batteries through local recycling schemes rather than household bins. NFCC and OPSS guidance outline disposal and mitigation approaches. (nfcc.org.uk, gov.uk)

Train staff and tenants on charging safety and emergency steps
Run short, focused training so staff recognise overheating, swelling, strange smells or hissing from batteries and know to evacuate and call 999 rather than attempt to fight a battery fire. Provide written guidance and signage for common charging areas.

Technical controls and upgrades to consider

Upgrade or review your fire alarm system
If smart devices change where fires may start, you might need revised detector layouts or additional zones. BS 5839-1:2025 contains updated recommendations on detector selection and system modifications; you should discuss any changes with a competent fire alarm installer. (shop-checkout.bsigroup.com)

Install heat detection in specific spaces
For some charging rooms, heat detection may still be appropriate, but the new standard recommends smoke detection in many sleeping areas and tighter controls on deviations. Always assess detector type against the space and the expected hazard. (knowledge.bsigroup.com)

Consider containment and suppression for high-risk stores
Where multiple large batteries are stored for business use, passive fire separation and automatic suppression can reduce escalation. Fire stopping, compartmentation and suppression should be specified by a qualified consultant and installed to recognised standards. Total Safe offers fire stopping and suppression services tailored to commercial premises. (totalsafeuk.com)

Policy, documentation and tenant communications

Update your policies and tenancy agreements
Make charging and storage rules clear in tenancy terms and building use policies. Require tenants or contractors to declare any battery systems or charging equipment and to provide safety certificates where relevant.

Record changes in your fire safety logbook
Document all new device types, communal charging installations, PAT testing results, electrical inspections and risk mitigations. The Fire Safety Order requires you to keep records where five or more people occupy the premises and to review your FRA after significant changes. (legislation.gov.uk, totalsafeuk.com)

Provide clear resident and staff guidance
Share simple, actionable advice: use manufacturer chargers, do not leave batteries charging unattended overnight, and report damaged batteries immediately. NFCC campaign materials can be adapted for tenant newsletters and noticeboards. (nfcc.org.uk)

How Total Safe can help your Essex business

Total Safe offers a joined-up service to identify, mitigate and manage smart-technology fire risks. We can:

Carry out an extended Fire Risk Assessment that includes smart-device hazards. Provide PAT testing for portable devices and chargers. Survey your electrical distribution and advise on load separation for charging areas. Upgrade or maintain fire alarm systems in line with BS 5839-1:2025 recommendations. Supply fire stopping, suppression and resident guidance to reduce escalation.

For a site visit or to discuss a bespoke plan, contact our fire risk assessment or fire alarm teams. (totalsafeuk.com)

Next steps checklist for Essex businesses (quick)

Audit devices and charging locations this month.

Arrange PAT testing and an electrical safety inspection within 3 months.

Prohibit charging on escape routes and in communal corridors immediately.

Consult your alarm installer on detector siting if you have communal charging rooms.

Update your Fire Risk Assessment and records and communicate the rules to tenants and staff.

If you need help at any stage, Total Safe can provide survey, testing and remedial work to get you compliant and safer. (totalsafeuk.com)

Conclusion

Smart home technology delivers convenience, but it also brings a new and growing set of fire risks that businesses and landlords in Essex must address in 2025. By updating your Fire Risk Assessment, enforcing safe charging and storage rules, insisting on certified equipment, and aligning detection and alarm systems with the latest standards, you reduce the chance of fire and ensure compliance with legal duties. For many organisations, the practical route is to combine policy changes with technical upgrades and regular testing. Total Safe can help you apply these measures quickly and pragmatically so you protect people, property and business continuity. (gov.uk, shop-checkout.bsigroup.com)

Q: What is the single most important immediate action for a building manager?

A: Stop charging batteries on escape routes and in communal corridors and communicate the rule to tenants and staff. Then schedule a focused review of charging locations and PAT testing. (nfcc.org.uk, totalsafeuk.com)

Q: Do I need to change my fire alarm system because of smart devices?

A: Not always, but if charging points or battery stores are newly introduced you should review detector types and siting with a competent installer. The 2025 BS 5839-1 update contains relevant guidance on modifications and cyber-secure remote access. (shop-checkout.bsigroup.com)

Q: Are smart plugs legal to use in commercial premises?

A: Only if they are certified to appropriate electrical safety standards. Many low-cost “eco” plugs have been found illegal and potentially dangerous; avoid untested devices from unregulated marketplaces. (which.co.uk)

Q: Who should I contact to extend my Fire Risk Assessment to cover smart device risks?

A: Contact Total Safe’s fire risk assessment team to arrange a site visit and a tailored FRA that includes smart-device hazards and remediation options. (totalsafeuk.com)

Q: Where can I read official UK guidance on fire safety duties and e-bike risks?

A: See the GOV.UK collection on fire safety for Responsible Persons and NFCC guidance on e-bikes and e-scooters for practical charging and storage advice. (gov.uk, nfcc.org.uk)

Further reading and resources: use the GOV.UK guidance on fire safety responsibilities, the NFCC Charge Safe materials and the updated BS 5839-1 standard for technical details. For help with PAT testing or an FRA, contact Total Safe’s PAT testing team or book a fire risk assessment through our services. GOV.UK fire safety guidance for Responsible Persons. NFCC e-bike and e-scooter fire safety guidance. BSI announcement on BS 5839-1:2025. Total Safe Fire Risk Assessment services. Total Safe PAT testing and electrical safety.