Final answer:
Employers must ensure that fire detectors are regularly cleaned of contaminants to remain functional. Substances like dry-cleaning solvent residues may interfere with their operation, and routine maintenance is key to preventing hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
The employer shall assure that fire detectors that need to be cleaned of contaminants in order to be fully operational are cleaned at regular periodic intervals. In a health and safety context, this responsibility involves maintaining equipment to prevent hazards, such as fires. Effective fire extinguisher systems and detectors are critical to ensure rapid response in the event of a fire. Regular cleaning and maintenance remove substances like dry-cleaning solvent residues or particles from foaming plastics that could inhibit detector functionality. Indeed, as per the provided reference, proactive measures such as regular maintenance programs are essential for preventing system failures, including the growth of biofilms within air conditioning systems which might compromise air quality and pose health risks.