DS301 Scheme Launch
BAFE has announced the launch of the DS301 scheme, organised in conjuntion with NAPIT, providing a new route to third-party certification for contractors working on Grade D fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises.
The scheme is now available through BAFE and has been developed following an extensive two-year consultation and development process, involving industry stakeholders and technical specialists, including significant input from Rely on Fire Check’s Christopher Carvell.
Scope and purpose of BAFE DS301
BAFE DS301 has been designed to assess the competence of organisations undertaking the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises in accordance with BS 5839-6, specifically Grade D systems.
The scheme aligns with current British Standards and recognised industry best practice, supporting compliance with the latest revision of BS 5839-6, the Code of Practice for fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises.
Focus on organisational and individual competence
Reflecting the increased emphasis on competence and accountability following the Grenfell Tower fire, BAFE DS301 places particular scrutiny on both organisational capability and individual responsibility.
To achieve third-party certification and BAFE registration under the scheme, organisations must demonstrate effective control of two key personnel roles:
- Principal Duty Holder – the individual appointed by the organisation with overall responsibility for maintaining standards, safety, and compliance across all fire detection and fire alarm system activities.
- Qualified Supervisor – a competent individual who meets the requirements of the BAFE DS301 Scheme and who, on a day-to-day basis, is responsible for the safety, technical standard, and quality of work undertaken.
A key responsibility of the qualified supervisor is to ensure that all operatives carrying out fire detection and fire alarm work are competent, appropriately supervised, and working in line with scheme and standard requirements.
BAFE commentary
Chris Auger, Director of Schemes at BAFE, commented:
“The roles of principal duty holder and qualified supervisor for the BAFE DS301 Scheme are crucial when it comes to upholding the quality and competency of those delivering these services. Dame Judith Hackitt and subsequent Working Groups have highlighted the importance of both organisational and individual responsibility, which has been directly incorporated into the competency criteria for the scheme. This provides a transparent chain of responsibility, supporting the ‘golden thread’ of key information.”
He added:
“We’re delighted to officially announce the BAFE DS301 Scheme, with NAPIT confirmed as the first licensed certification body. NAPIT will be delivering assessments for organisations registered within this scope for the electrotechnical sector.”
Responding on behalf of NAPIT, Justin Maltby-Smith, Technical Schemes Development Manager, said:
“NAPIT is delighted to have developed the new DS301 Scheme in conjunction with BAFE. The scheme will help raise standards within the domestic electrical sector for organisations carrying out design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of BS 5839-6 Grade D fire detection and fire alarm systems.”
He continued:
“BS 5839-6 was fully revised in 2019 and amended in 2020. It is essential that work on Grade D systems is carried out in full compliance with the current British Standard. Achieving third-party certification demonstrates an organisation’s competence and commitment to delivering compliant, high-quality work that protects people in their homes.”
The BAFE DS301 Scheme Document is now available on the BAFE Website www.bafe.org.uk/become-bafe-registered/bafe-ds301-assessment-and-registration-process
