What procedure should I follow if I am dissatisfied with the service or testing of a fire alarm system or fire protection equipment?
This is a very complex question because a number of local, Provincial (or State), and professional agencies may be involved in approving or designating an individual (or company) to perform testing and service of life safety equipment. Filing a complaint with the servicing agency is the logical “first step”. Typically, deviations in testing procedures are not discovered until an inspection by the local fire prevention office or a verification/audit “uncovers” them, but it must be made clear that you cannot place 100% reliance on either of these methods. If you have concerns regarding a test or service performed by a fire protection company, contacting the professional association under which the technician (or service agency) may be certified is also an option. In British Columbia’s Lower Mainland (Vancouver and surrounding environs) this is ASTTBC. Technician discipline is handled through the Practice Review Board. The PRB has the authority to either handle the matter directly, or (if
