Fire Alarm Panel Lights and Indicators Explained
Fire alarm panels use lights and indicators to communicate the status of the system. For many staff, these lights can seem confusing or intimidating, especially during an alarm or fault. Learning what the main indicators mean helps staff respond calmly and correctly.
Although every panel is slightly different, most follow similar colour conventions and terminology.
Common Fire Alarm Panel Lights
1. Power (Often Green)
A green light typically indicates that the system has power and is in a normal operating state. If the power light is off, there may be a power supply issue or the panel may be switched off, which is a serious concern.
2. Fire (Often Red)
A red “Fire” light indicates that the system has detected a fire condition. This is usually accompanied by:
- Sounders activating throughout the building
- Additional red indicators showing which zone or device has triggered
- Messages on the display showing the location
When the red fire light is on, the building’s fire procedures must be followed.
3. Fault (Often Yellow or Amber)
A yellow or amber “Fault” light indicates that something is wrong with the system. This might relate to:
- Detectors or call points
- Wiring or circuits
- Sounders or beacons
- Power supply or batteries
- Communication lines
Faults do not usually activate the building’s sounders, but they must not be ignored, as they can compromise the system.
4. Disabled or Isolated (Often Yellow)
A disabled or isolated light indicates that part of the system has been intentionally switched off or bypassed, such as a detector, zone, or sounder circuit. This should only be done by authorised personnel, following a clear procedure, and recorded in the fire logbook.
5. Test Mode
Some panels have a test indicator to show that the system is in a special mode for maintenance or weekly testing. This helps ensure that staff and occupants know the alarm may sound as part of a controlled test.
Panel Buzzer and Internal Sounder
In addition to lights, the fire alarm panel usually has an internal buzzer that sounds when there is a fire or fault. Staff can often silence this buzzer with a “Mute” or “Silence Buzzer” button, but doing so does not clear the condition; it simply stops the noise from the panel.
Reading Text Displays and Messages
Many modern panels include an LCD or digital display that provides more information, such as:
- “Fire – Zone 1 – Reception”
- “Fault – Sounder Circuit 2”
- “Mains Fail”
Trained staff should be able to read these messages, record them, and act according to site procedures.
Why Understanding Indicators Matters
During a real incident, hesitation and confusion can waste time. Staff who understand panel indicators can:
- Recognise immediately whether there is a fire or fault
- Identify the affected area
- Support fire wardens and emergency services
- Help ensure faults are reported and resolved quickly
Get Practical Training on Fire Alarm Panels
Our fire alarm training course uses real-life examples from common panels used in Ireland to explain lights, indicators, and text messages in simple terms. It is designed to give non-technical staff the confidence they need to handle alarms and faults calmly and correctly.
Enrol in Fire Alarm Training and learn how to read your panel