I am the building manager of a residential property. We have recently installed a new fire panel that has a direct link to the fire brigade. Should the fire services arrive out of hours they will have no access to the fire panel key, we have a locked box by the panel. Is it acceptable to have a ‘break glass for key’ unit with the key for the box?

thanks

The issue you will have is that should the FRS attend they cannot reset the alarm (assuming it’s a false alarm) due to litigation reasons. They will only investigate the origin of the alarm actuation. So a key holder(s) should be appointed and their contact information held by the alarm receiving centre. They then are duly contacted to reset the alarm. 

You can if you wish, you should have an on call keyholder as well if possible. Check your brigade's policy as some will not reset systems for premises any more.