Hello 

 

I have been advised that I must have a smoke detector in every  cupboard irrregardless   of the  cupboards  contents that measures over 1m2. We are a care home for the elderly 

If your Fire Risk Assessment states a Category L1 fire alarm system is required then this is correct.

The official government guidance (also referred to by Enforcers & Courts) points to care homes needing an L1 system if they are larger, particularly those accommodating  more than ten residents above the ground floor, or where a significant proportion of the residents are dependant upon staff assistance to escape in the event of a fire.

Other smaller lower risk homes can have an L2 system where there is more risk based flexibility as to the use of detection in certain rooms.