FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
Carried out at:
On behalf of:
32a Laurel Manor
Devonshire Road
Sutton SM2 5EJ.
Document date:
Document author:
Matthew Wood MinstLM
Registered as Fire Risk Assessor (Life Safety Stream) with the Institution of Fire Engineers 2009-2015
Hover over a section and click.
Section 2 - Findings from the Fire Risk Assessment7
Annex A - Photographic Section33
Annex C - Hot works Permit Brief (Generic)41
Annex C - A guide to Emergency Planning46
How to use this document
1. After the Introduction section (section 1), the next section in this report (Section 2) contains the Significant Findings found during the assessment; they identify the Hazards, Risks, Relevant persons, Control measures and Managerial procedures in place at the time of the assessment.
2. Once you have read through section 2 (Significant Findings), please continue on to section 3 (the Action Plan) this will list, along with a recommended priority status, the recommended actions that are required in order to reduce the perceived outcome risk evaluation.
3. Your attention is drawn throughout the document to the text highlighted in BOLD and RED, as these are the items of great concern. The Responsible person for the building must take all of the contents in the action plan seriouslyand must ensure that they act upon them immediately, noting down in this document where necessary, any action taken, planned to be addressed, or works carried out.
4. Please do not forget to record all the actions taken in the Action Plan section of this document and to inform all staff at all levels accordingly.
5. This is a LIVE document and should be treated accordingly; it may be used in a Court of law and therefore should be kept safely and preferably backed up electronically.
6. There may be hyperlinks (web based links that when you hover over them with the mouse will automatically take you to the web site address) embedded in this document, they will appear in blue text and underlined.
- Page 2 -
Section 1 - Introduction
Commentary:
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 - RR(FS)O came into force on the 1st October 2006 and amends and consolidates a significant number of areas of fire safety law that previously were in place such as the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997.
The order places a general duty of fire safety care on the "Responsible Person" (employers, occupiers and owners of almost all types of premises) and requires them to provide and maintain adequate fire precautions.
Note:
The same duty is also imposed on every person, other than the "Responsible Person" who has to any extent, control of the premises so far as the duty relates to matters within their control (this would normally include, the landlord and/or commercial managing agent)
Article 9 of the order imposes a requirement to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks to which "relevant persons" are exposed for the purpose of identifying the general fire precautions they need to take to comply with the requirements and prohibitions imposed on them by the Fire Safety Order (i.e. for the purpose of the Fire Safety Order "relevant persons" are any persons who is or may be lawfully on the premises, and also any person in the immediate vicinity of the premises who is at risk from a fire in the premises, other than fire-fighters at the time of a fire).
Methodology
The methodology used to carry out this fire risk assessment follows the guidance and recommended methodology set out in the 'Publicly Availably Specification' PAS 79(1).
The objective of using PAS 79 for the purpose of conducting a fire risk assessment is to provide a pragmatic and holistic approach towards assessment of fire prevention measures, fire protection measures and management of fire safety in buildings.The methodology is intended to determine the risk-proportionate fire precautions required to protect building occupants including employees, contractors, visitors and members of the public and to protect people in the immediate vicinity of the building.
Note: It is not intended to address protection of property (the building and its contents) or the environment, or to address protection of a business, process or activity against interruption.(1) Note: PAS 79 BSI: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment - Guidance and a Recommended Methodology
- Page 3 -
The concepts of fire hazard & fire risk
It is important that within the fire risk assessment process, confusion does not result from loose, inexact or conflicting use of the terminology fire hazard and fire risk
A "fire Hazard" is defined within this document as 'a source or situation with potential to result in a fire' (note: examples of fire hazards include ignition sources and accumulation of waste that could be subject to ignition) Thus, the presence of uncontrolled fire hazards affects likelihood of fire rather than the consequence of fire.
A "fire Risk" is defined within this document as "the combination of the likelihood and the consequences of fire" (note: the relevant consequences are those involving injury to people, as opposed to damage to property)
Thus, it is consistent with the broader concept of risk in the field of general health and safety.
The Principles & Scope of Fire Risk Assessments
The fire risk assessment process is a systematic and structured assessment of the fire risk in the relevant building for expressing the current level of fire risk, the adequacy of existing fire precautions and determining the need for, and nature of, any additional fire precautions.
Any additional fire precautions required are set out in the Action plan which forms part of this documented fire risk assessment.
Note: The objective of the 'Action Plan' is to set out measures that will ensure that the fire risk is reduced to, or maintained at, a tolerable or trivial level.
- Page4 -
Summary:
The purpose of this report is to provide an assessment of the risk to life from fire in these premises, and where appropriate to make recommendations to ensure compliance with the current fire safety legislation.
The report does not address the potential losses relating to the "risk to property of business continuity, due to fire."
This report has been compiled to our best belief and knowledge on information available at the time of the survey.
Errors & or omissions should be notified to Millwood Servicing Ltd within five working days of receipt of this document, otherwise no liability for any claim for consequential liability damage or loss however so caused will be accepted. Retention of title- this document remains the property of Millwood Servicing Ltd until full payment has been received.The preparation of this document is based upon the recommendations given in 'PAS 79:2012 fire risk assessment - Guidance and a recommended methodology' produced by the British Standards Institute.
- Page 5 -
Executive Summary:
This fire risk assessment has been carried out at the request of the clients' responsible representative following a willingness to continue to conform to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and having been inspected recently by London Fire Brigade who issued a Notice of Deficiencies Ref 21/210693/1.
The fire risk assessment was carried out with the assistance of Ted Eggs to allow access to all parts of the premises and provide relevant information where requested.
The following extracts from PAS 79:2012 from the BSI licensed to Millwood Servicing Ltd through CS Todd's & Associates, summarises the overall findings during the assessment and contains an action plan for suggested remedial works to be carried out in order to reduce the risks or lower the risk level found during assessment.
The photographic, supporting evidence & glossary sections contained towards the rear of the document will assist the reader in gaining a clearer understanding of the issues and concerns relating to this property and should be read in connection with the document.
Although photographs were taken during the assessment to enhance the observations made, care was taken to ensure that no images of staff or any other occupants in the building were made.
- Page 6 -
Section 2
Findings from the Fire Risk Assessment
REGULATORY REFORM (FIRE SAFETY) ORDER 2005
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
Responsible person (e.g. employer) or person having control of the premises:
Laurel Manor Management Ltd.
Address of premises:32a Laurel Manor
Devonshire Road
Sutton SM2 5EJ.
Person(s) consulted:Ted Eggs
Assesor:Matthew Wood
Date of fire risk assessment:02-12-2015
Suggested date for review: [1]02-01-2016
This fire risk assessment should be reviewed by a competent person by the date indicated above or at such time as there is reason to suspect that it is no longer valid, or if there has been a significant change in the matters to which it relates, or if a fire occurs, generally speaking it is recommended to review this document with every change or alteration of the People, Process or Premises.
- Page 7 -
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. THE PREMISES
1.1Area to be assessed:
All areas of the estate including the external grounds.
1.2 Brief details of construction and general description:
Laurel Manor comprises of five individual blocks of purpose built blocks (POB) of flats (some three storey and others four storey). Each block has its own dedicated front entrance, a protected escape stairs - electrical intake area under the stairs and secure access for gaining entrance into the building. The construction is typical of its time being 1974 of concrete and block work with aesthetical detail to the outside facing reveals.
1.3 Use of premises:
The property issued for domestic dwellings only and no commercial business is carried out on site.
2.0 The occupants at risk:
2.2Approximate maximum number of persons in the building at any one time:
The FRA takes in account only one block at a time as such maximum amount of persons that could be affected by a fire in a particular block is about 30, although due to the design of the block it is likely to consider a maximum of 4 persons in a flat being affected.
2.3 Maximum number of members of the staff at any one time: 0
3.0Additional occupants especially at risk from fire
3.1Making sleeping occupants: (4 per flat in the two bedroom flats)
3.2 Disabled occupants:
Unknown but it is assumed that any person with a mobility issue would be residing in a ground floor flat.
3.3Occupants in remote areas and lone workers: 0
3.4Young person's: 0
4.0Others: 0
- Page 8 -
5.Other relevant information
The client has requested the fire risk assessment in order to stay compliant with the current Fire Safety Order 2005
6.RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION
6.1The following fire safety legislation applies to these premises:
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
6.2The above legislation is enforced by:
The London Fire Brigade
Tel: 0208 555 1200
Email: Click here to contact LFB for details on Fire-safety
You are encouraged to liaise with your local fire brigade team to ensure familiarity with them in reference to you premises and occupants.
6.3Other legislation that makes significant requirements for fire precautions in these premises (other than the Building Regulations 2000):
.6.4The legislation to which 6.3/6.1 refers is enforced by:
None
6.5Comments:
None
- Page 9 -
Fire Hazards and their elimination or control
7Electrical sources of ignition
7.1Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of electrical origin?
Yes ✓No ?
7.2More specifically:
1) Fixed installation periodically inspected and tested?
Yes ?No ✓
2) Portable appliance testing carried out?
N/A ✓Yes ?No ?
3) Suitable Policy regarding the use of personal electrical appliances?
N/A ✓Yes ?No ?
4) Suitable limitation of trailing leads and adapters?
N/A ✓Yes ?No ?
Comments and hazards observed:
The Electrical Installation Condition Reports (formerly the Periodic Electrical Report -PIR) for the premise has not been carried out in recent years although all of the Consumer Units (CCUs) for the blocks have been recently changed in 2014 and the competent electrician upon completion would have provided a Minor Works certificate.
BS 7671 (the IET Wiring Regulations) sets the standards for electrical installation in the UK and many other countries. The IET co-publishes the Regulations with the British Standards Institution (BSI) and is the authority on electrical installation. A major update to the Regulations published in January 2015: BS 7671:2008 Incorporating Amendment 3:2015. This affects all users and contains updates that are vital to ensuring the safety of installers and consumers alike. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations Act 1989, it is a requirement to conduct an EICR every ten years in domestic premises.
See action plan 7.0
- Page 10 -
8. Smoking
8.1Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires because of smoking? Yes ✓No ? 8.2 More specifically: Smoking prohibited in the building? Yes ✓No ? Smoking prohibited in appropriate areas?
N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Suitable arrangements for those who wish to smoke?
Yes ✓No ? This policy appeared to be observed at time of inspection.
Yes ✓No ? Comments and hazards observed: Smoking is only permitted inside the flats in accordance with the No Smoking in a commercial premises law.
At the time of the assessment, there were no signs of smoking taking place in prohibited areas.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken 9.Arson [2] 9.1 Does basic security against arson by outsiders appear reasonable? Yes ✓No ? 9.2Is there an absence of unnecessary fire load in close proximity to the premises or available for ignition by outsiders? Yes ✓No ? Comments and hazards observed: There did not seem to be any issues in relation to a possible arson attack caused through fire loading outside of the building although a break-in could cause a deliberate fire to be set.
Further, all of the blocks have door entry systems installed to permit only authorised access to the flats. Therefore, no further action is to be taken [2] Reasonable only in the context of this fire risk assessment. If specific advice on security (including security against arson) is required, the advice of a security specialist should be obtained - Page 11 - 10. Portable Heaters & Installations 10.1 Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as practicable? N/A ✓Yes No ? 10.2 If portable heaters are used: Is the use of the more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or LPG appliances) avoided? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Are suitable measures taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of Combustible materials? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? 10.3 Are fixed heating installations subject to regular maintenance? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and hazards observed: The entire building is heated via individual central heating systems in each flat and therefore fall out of the remit of the FRA in the common parts.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken - Page 12 - 11.Cooking 11.1Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of cooking?
N/A ✓Yes ?No ? 11.2 More specifically: Filters changed and ductwork cleaned regularly? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Suitable extinguishing appliances available? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and hazards observed: There are no communal kitchens in the building and therefore the kitchens that are in the individual flats fall outside of this report. It would be prudent to remind all of the residents however, that kitchen fire safety is important and this link can be shared with all of the residents to provide assistance in this matter. See action plan 11.0
- Page 13 - 12.Lightning Protection System (LPS) 12.1Does the building have a lightning protection system? Yes ?No ✓ Comments and deficiencies observed: The building does not have an LPS system in place Therefore, no further action required 13.House keeping 13.1Is the standard of housekeeping adequate?
Yes ✓No ? 13.2More specifically: Combustible materials appear to be separated from ignition sources? Yes ✓No ? Avoidance of unnecessary accumulation of combustible materials or waste? Yes ✓No ? Appropriate storage of hazardous materials? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Avoidance of inappropriate storage of combustible materials?
Yes ✓No ? Comments and hazards observed: The housekeeping for the common parts of the building appeared to be in a very well kept manner in the escape routes including the exterior grounds and garages areas. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 14 - 14.Hazards Introduced by others. 14.1Are the fire safety procedures communicated to outside contractors, and guests? N/AYes ✓No ? 14.2Is there satisfactory control over works carried out in the building by outside contractors (including "hot work" permits)? N/AYes ✓No ? 14.3If there are in-house maintenance personnel, are suitable precautions taken during "hot work", including use of hot work permits? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: Prior to entering the premises as an outside contractor on the day of the visit, I was presented with verbal information regarding the Fire Safety Precautions and personal safety whilst in the building.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken 15.Dangerous Substances 15.1If dangerous substances are, or could be, used, has a risk assessment been carried out, as required by the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: There were no dangerous substances found stored or held in the building; a search of all the common parts was carried out and this was confirmed.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 16.OTHER SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARDS THAT WARRANT CONSIDERATION INCLUDING PROCESS HAZARDS INFLUENCING GENERAL FIRE PRECAUTIONS 16.1Hazards None found Comments and deficiencies observed: None found Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 15 - Fire Protection Measures 17Means of escape from fire 17.1Is it considered that the building is provided with reasonable means of escape in case of fire? Yes ✓No ? 17.2More specifically is there: (a) Adequate design of escape routes? Yes ✓No ? (b) Adequate provision of exits? Yes ✓No ? (c) Easily and immediately openable exits where necessary? Yes ✓No ? (d) Fire exits opening in the direction of escape where necessary? Yes ?No ✓ (e) An avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire exits where necessary? Yes ✓No ? (f) A satisfactory means for securing exits? Yes ✓No ? (g) Reasonable distances of travel, where: (h) There is a single direction of travel? Yes ✓No ? (i) There are alternative means of escape? Yes ✓No ? (j) There is enough protection of the escape routes Yes ✓No ? (k) There are suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? (l) Escape routes unobstructed? Yes ✓No ? - Page 16 - 17.3Is it considered that the building is provided with reasonable arrangements for means of escape for disabled people? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? Comments and deficiencies observed. There is one means of escape stairs per block and this was found to be within guidance regulations. There are no dead end corridors or unacceptable travelling distances. The staircase that serves all of the flats were found to be clear from obstruction and suitably wide enough to allow the required number of persons down to a place of ultimate safety. The front doors do open inwards but this does not pose an issue due to the amount of expected persons that are likely to pass through them as indicated in the earlier part of the document. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 17 - 18.Measures to limit fire spread 18.1 Is it considered that there is? 1. Compartmentalisation to a reasonable standard. [3] Yes ✓No ? 2. Reasonable limitation of linings that might promote fire spread and adequate fire stopping present. Yes ✓No ? 18.2As far as can reasonably be ascertained, fire dampers are provided as necessary to protect critical means of escape against passage of fire, smoke and combustion products in the early stages. N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: Fire doors: During the assessment, all of the communal fire doors and 1 x flat front door
were checked. The flat front door at no. 62 was found in a very good condition, of 44mm thickness and closed tightly into the frame. There were three flat front doors (see photographic section) that were not FD 30 doors and this need to be changed as a matter of urgency. All of the communal doors were found to be in a good condition, closing within the recommended 25 seconds and had overhead door closers fitted. Fire stopping: The visible fire stopping within the building that was assessed at the time of the audit was mostly found to be suitable and sufficient although a full independent audit was not carried out.
The electrical cupboards under the stairs were found to be concrete lined and had visible penetrations that were fire stopped. [4] Remedial works: At the time of the assessment the Management company - Laurel Manor Management Ltd were undergoing a 100 % fit out of new overhead fire doors to the flat front doors and the communal doors in order to maintain a safer and more reliable Protected Route. Once all of the fire doors have been fitted with new overhead door closers all of the doors should be inspected by a competent person to ensure that they close and operate in accordance with the current best practice guidance. See action plan 18.0 re the three non-compliant flat front doors.
[3] Based on a visual inspection of readily accessible areas, with a degree of sampling where appropriate. [4] A full investigation of the design of HVAC systems is outside the scope of this fire risk assessment. - Page 18 - 19.Emergency lighting 19.1 Reasonable standard of emergency escape lighting system provided. [5] Yes ?No ✓ Comments and deficiencies observed: Upon visual inspection, emergency lighting was not provided to the common escape stairs. however due to the front facing aspect of the stair cases there is sufficient borrowed light present during the day and there are lights fitted on timer lag switches for common daily use. It was noted however that currently the management company have enlisted Ansel Lighting to specify design and install (through an NICIEC) approved contractor the required emergency lighting fittings to ensure that the means of escape routes are illuminated in accordance with BS 5266-1:2011. See action plan 19.0 20.Fire Safety Signs & Notices 20.1 Reasonable standard of fire safety signs and notices? Yes ✓No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: The fire action signs in place in the building are of a style and fashion that do provide information of the action to take in the event of a fire although it would benefit from being updated to the current colours and pictograms in accordance with BS EN ISO 7010. See action plan 20.0. [5] Based on a visual inspection, but no test of luminance levels or verification of full compliance with relevant British Standards carried out. - Page 19 - 21.Fire alarm systems 21.1 Reasonable manually operated electrical fire alarm system provided? [6] Yes ✓No ? 21.2 Automatic fire detection provided. N/A ?Yes ✓No ? Throughout the buildingpart of the building only: 21.3Extent of automatic fire detection generally appropriate for the occupancy N/A ?Yes ✓No ? 21.4 Remote transmission of alarm signals. Yes ?No ✓ Comments and deficiencies observed: The facility for protecting the relevant persons in the premises is made of a Conventional fire alarm and detection system to a category LD3 Grade D in accordance with BS 5839-6.
The system comprises of one 230v interlinked smoke alarm per vestibule (smoke lobby outside the flats) along with one manual call point to manually raise the alarm and one 230v interlinked smoke detector on each landing in the means of escape stairs.
The system appeared to be in a good working order without any faults or beeping alarms found. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. [6] Based on visual inspection, but without any audibility tests or verification of full compliance with relevant British Standard carried out. - Page 20 - 22.Fire Extinguishers and appliances 22.1Reasonable provision of portable fire extinguisher's Yes ?No ✓ 22.2Hose reels provided. N/A ✓Yes ?No ? 22.3Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily accessible? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: There were no extinguishers found on site nor is there a need for any. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 21 - 23.1Type of system: Comments: There are none fitted Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 24.OTHER RELEVANT FIXED SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT [7] 24.1None Comments: N/A Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 24.3Suitable provision of fire-fighters switch ('s) for high voltage luminous tube signs, etc. N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: N/A Therefore, no further action is to be taken. [7] - Page 22 - Management of fire safety 25.PROCEDURES AND ARRANGEMENTS 25.1Fire safety is managed by: The Directors of the Laurel Manor Management company Ltd (LMM Ltd) [8] 25.2Competent person(s) appointed to assist in undertaking the preventive and protective measures (i.e. relevant general fire precautions)? Yes ✓No ? Comments: LMMLtd directors assist jointly with fire safety measures for the entire estate in this regard.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken 25.3Is there a suitable record of the fire safety arrangements? Yes ?No ✓ Comments: Whilst there is no legal requirement for keeping records on site, it is good practice to do so. See action plan 25.3 25.4Appropriate fire procedures in place? Yes ✓No ? More specifically: 1. Are procedures in the event of fire appropriate and properly documented? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? 2. Are there suitable arrangements for summoning the fire and rescue service? Yes ✓No ? 3. Are there suitable arrangements to meet the fire and rescue service on arrival and provide relevant information, including that relating to hazards to fire-fighters? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? 4. Are there suitable arrangements for ensuring that the premises have been evacuated? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? 5. Is there a suitable fire assembly point(s)? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? 6. Are there adequate procedures for evacuation of very young /old/ disabled or otherwise incapacitated persons who are likely to be present? Is there a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEPs) in place, and has it been recently reviewed? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: Due to the nature of the buildings and the occupancy profile, it is unlikely to suggest that at any given time an accurate account of the persons in the building could be provided. The fire policy for the building is a DEFEND IN PLACE policy whereby should a fire occur in a flat then the occupant would leave the flat immediately, raise the alarm by activating the manual call point adjacent to the flat and call the fire brigade closing the flat front door behind them; and this is a standard and well proven and successful policy for a purpose built block of flats. As such, this information should be provided to all residents and occupants of the blocks so that it is clear and not misunderstood. Therefore, no further action is required. - Page 23 - 25.5Are there persons nominated and trained to use fire-extinguishing appliances? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: As there are no staff on site, there is no requirement for training. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 25.6Are there persons nominated and trained to assist with evacuation, including evacuation of disabled people? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: The staff would be expected to self-evacuate. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 25.7Is there appropriate liaison with the fire and rescue service (FRS) (e.g. by fire and rescue service crews visiting for familiarization visits)? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? Comments: The London Fire Brigade have visited in the past and issued a Notice of Deficiencies, Ref 21/210693. All of the actions referred to in the notice have been address and works are continuing in order to improve the fire safety measures because of this request. See action plan 25.7 25.8Is there routine in-house inspections of fire precautions (e.g. in the course of health and safety inspections)? N/A ?Yes ✓No ? Comments: Millwood Servicing ltd have been appointed to carry out monthly routine checks of the premises and any issues are noted to the Management company. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 24 - - Page 25 - 26.Training and Drills 26.1Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction and training on induction? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: There are no staff on site therefore, no training is required. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 26.2Are all staff given adequate periodic refresher training at suitable intervals? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: As above Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 26.3Does all staff training provide information, instruction or training on the
following? Fire risks in the premises? Yes ?No ✓ The fire safety measures in the building? Yes ?No ✓ Action in the event of fire? Yes ?No ✓ Action on hearing the fire alarm signal? Yes ?No ✓ Method of operation of manual call points? Yes ?No ✓ Location and use of fire extinguishers? Yes ?No ✓ Means for summoning the fire and rescue Yes ?No ✓ Identity of persons nominated to assist with evacuation? Yes ?No ✓ Identity of persons nominated to use fire-extinguishing appliances Yes ?No ✓ Comments: None carried out as no staff on site Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 26 - 26.4Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire wardens) given additional training? Yes ?No ✓ Comments: As above Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 26.5Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals? Yes ?No ✓ Comments: None required Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 26.6When the employees of another employer work on the premises: Is their employer given appropriate information (e.g. on fire risks and general fire precautions)? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Is it ensured that the employees are provided with adequate instructions and information? N/AYes ✓No ? Comments: N/A Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 27 - 27.Testing & Maintenance 27.1Adequate maintenance of premises? Yes ✓No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: The premises seem to be in a reasonable condition with no obvious damage or defects found. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.2Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire detection and alarm system? Yes ✓No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: The fire alarm is believed to be tested but no records were found to demonstrate this. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.3Monthly and annual testing routines for emergency escape lighting? Yes ?No ✓ Comments and deficiencies observed: There are no Emergency Lights fitted at present but these are being installed in the immediate future. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.4Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing appliances? Yes ?No ✓ Comments and deficiencies observed: None fitted, so no maintenance required Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.5Periodic inspection of external / Internal escape staircases and gangways. N/AYes ✓No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: Millwood Servicing ltd have been appointed to carry out monthly routine checks of the premises and any issues are noted to the Management company.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.6Six monthly inspection and annual testing of rising mains? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: No system in place. Therefore, no further action required - Page 28 - 27.7Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly inspection and annual testing of firefighting lifts? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: The client does not use or is responsible for firefighting lifts
Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.8Weekly testing and periodic inspection of sprinkler installations? N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments and deficiencies observed: No system in place.
Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.9Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security fastenings. Yes ✓No ? Comments: Millwood Servicing ltd have been appointed to carry out monthly routine checks of the premises and any issues are noted to the Management company. Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.10Annual inspection and test of lightning protection N/A ✓Yes ?No ? Comments: N/A Therefore, no further action is to be taken. 27.11Other relevant inspections or tests: Comments: N/A Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 29 - 28.RECORDS 28.1Appropriate records of: Fire drills? Yes ?No ✓ Fire training? Yes ?No ✓ Fire alarm tests? Yes ✓No ? Emergency escape lighting tests? Yes ?No ✓ Maintenance and testing of other fire protection systems? Yes ?No ✓ PEEPS in place. Yes ?No ✓ Comments: There are no records currently kept on site.
It is recommended to record all of the following: o Emergency Light tests o Fire alarm tests o Escape route check o Fire door checks Therefore, no further action is to be taken. - Page 30 - FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT Taking into account the fire prevention measures observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the hazard from fire (likelihood of fire) at these premises is: LowMediumHigh In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows: Low:Unusually low likelihood of fire because of negligible potential sources of ignition. Medium:Normal fire hazards (e.g. potential ignition sources) for this type of occupancy, with fire hazards generally subject to appropriate controls (other than minor shortcomings). High:Lack of adequate controls applied to one or more significant fire hazards, such as to result in significant increase in likelihood of fire. Taking into account the nature of the building and the occupants, as well as the fire protection and procedural arrangements observed at the time of this fire risk assessment, it is considered that the consequences for life safety in the event of fire would be: Slight harmModerate harm ?Extreme harm ? In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows: Slight harm:Outbreak of fire unlikely to result in serious injury or death of any occupant (other than an occupant sleeping in a room in which a fire occurs). Moderate harm:Outbreak of fire could foreseeably result in injury (including serious injury) of one or more occupants, but it is unlikely to involve multiple fatalities. Extreme harm:Significant potential for serious injury or death of one or more occupants. Accordingly, it is considered that the risk to life from fire at these premises is: Trivial ?TolerableModerate ? Substantial ?Intolerable ? Comments: As such the following action plan should be implemented and signed
off to ensure the recommendations are carried out and the risk lowered. - Page 31 - A suitable risk-based control plan should involve effort and urgency that is
proportional to risk. The following risk-based control plan is based on one advocated by BS 8800 for general health and safety risks. Currently the outcome is defined as: Note that, although the purpose of this section is to place the fire risk in context, the above approach to fire risk assessment is subjective and for guidance only. All hazards and deficiencies identified in this report should be addressed by the implementation of all recommendations contained in the following action plan. The fire risk assessment should also be reviewed regularly. - Page 32 - Notes to the reader: It is considered that the following recommendations should be implemented in order to reduce fire risk to, or maintain it at, the following level. Trivial XTolerable Definition of priorities (where applicable): HIGH - Action recommended to be carried out within a 30 day period MED - Action recommended to be carried out within a 3 month period LOW - Action recommended to be carried out within a 6 month period Under the Electricity at Work regulations, the client is required to undertaken EICR in all of the blocks. This must be carried out by a competent person. There is no Emergency lighting in the building; Emergency Lighting should be installed in accordance with BS 5266-1:2011 by a competent person/ company. The current fire action notices are required to be updated to include relevant information, current BS ISO colours and pictograms. Record keeping should be kept for:
Routine testing of the emergency lights
Interlinked Smoke alarms
Routine checks on the premises. - Page 33 - - Page 34 - Ref 18.0: These flat doors are non-compliant and would not provide 30 minutes of fire integrity, therefore this could allow a fire to break out from the flat and compromise the safety of the adjacent occupants. Ref 20.0: The current fire action notices provides suitable information although for the action to take in the event of a fire. it would be of benefit if illustrated with the BS ISO 7010 colours and pictograms. Ref 18.0: The protected lobbies in all of the blocks are created through fire resisting Georgian Wire gazing elements fitted in solid wood frames from floor to ceiling.
In the means of escape stairs there is an additional 230v smoke alarm fitted on each landing. Ref 21.0: Each vestibule (smoke lobby) for the flats is protected by a mains linked 230v smoke alarm and manual call point. Ref 17.0: The means of escape stairs were found undamaged and unblocked - Page 35 - - Page 36 - Access Room means a room that forms the only escape route from an inner room. Accommodation Stair.
A stair, additional to that or those required for escape purposes, provided for the Convenience of occupants. Alternative Escape Routes.
Escape routes sufficiently separated by either direction or space, or by fire-resisting
Construction, to ensure that one is still available should the other be affected by fire. Alternative Exit One of two or more exits, each of which is separate from the other.
Automatic Release Mechanism.
A device that will allow a door held open by it to close automatically in the event of each or any one of the following: a. Detection of smoke by automatic apparatus suitable in nature, quality, and location b. Operation of a hand operated switch fitted in a suitable position c. Failure of electricity supply to the device, apparatus or switch d. Operation of the fire alarm system. Automatic Self- Closing Device.
A device, which is capable of closing the door from any angle and against any latch / lock, fitted to the door.
Note: Rising butt hinges do not meet the above criteria and are not acceptable. Borrowed Light. Light provided by an alternative means (normally from street lighting outside of the premises) Dead-End. An area, from which it is only possible to escape in one direction. Direct Distance. The shortest distance from any point within the floor area, measured within the external enclosures of the building, to the nearest storey exit ignoring walls, partitions and fittings, other than the enclosing walls/ partitions to protected stairways. Distance of Travel. Means the actual distance that a person needs to travel between any point in a building and the nearest storey exit. Doors, Fastenings. In general, doors on escape routes (whether or not the doors are fire doors), should either not be fitted with lock, latch or bolt fastenings, or they should only be fitted with simple fastenings that can be readily operated from the side approached by people making an escape. The operation of these fastenings should be readily apparent and without the use of a key and without having to manipulate more than one mechanism. This is not intended to prevent doors being fitted with hardware to allow them to be locked when the rooms are empty. There may also be situations such as hotel bedrooms where locks may be fitted that are operated from the outside by a key and from the inside by a knob or lever etc.
In buildings where security on final exit doors is an important consideration, such as in some Assembly and Recreation or Shop and Commercial uses, panic bolts may be used. In non-residential buildings it may also be appropriate to accept on some final exit doors locks for security that are used only when the building is empty. In these cases the emphasis for the safe use of these locks must be placed on management procedures. - Page 37 - Doors, Direction of Opening. The door of any doorway or exit should, if reasonably practicable, be hung to open in the direction of escape, and should always do so if the number of persons that might be expected to use the door at the time of a fire is more than 60. Note: With respect to industrial activities where there is a very high fire risk with potential for rapid fire growth, there will be a requirement for the door to open in the direction of escape for lower numbers than 60. Doors, Revolving and Automatic. Revolving doors, automatic doors, and turnstiles can obstruct the passage of persons escaping. Accordingly, they should not be placed across escape routes unless: a. They are to the required width and are automatic doors, and should either: i. Are arranged to fail safely to outward opening from any position of opening, or ii. Are provided with a monitored failsafe system for opening the doors if the mains supply fails, or iii. They fail safely to the open position in the event of power failure; or b. Non-automatic swing doors of the required width should be provided immediately adjacent to the revolving or automatic door or turnstile. Emergency Lighting. Means that part of the lighting system provided for use when the supply to the normal. Lighting fails so as to ensure that the MEANS OF ESCAPE can be safely and effectively used at all material times. Escape Route, Lighting. of All escape routes should have adequate artificial lighting. Lighting to escape stairs should be on a separate circuit from that supplying any other part of the escape route. Standards for the installation of a system of escape lighting are given in BS 5266: Part 1 Emergency lighting. Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises other than cinemas and certain other specified premises used for entertainment, and CP 1007 Maintained lighting for cinemas. Escape Route. A route forming that part of the means of escape from any point in a building to a final exit. Escape Routes, Unprotected and Protected. The unprotected part of an escape route is that part which a person has to traverse before reaching either the safety of a final exit or the comparative safety of a protected escape route, i.e. a protected corridor or protected stairway. Unprotected escape routes should be limited in extent so that people do not have to travel excessive distances while exposed to the immediate danger of fire and smoke.
Even with protected horizontal escape routes the distance to a final exit or protected stairway needs to be limited because the structure does not give protection indefinitely. Fire Door. A door or shutter, provided for the passage of persons, air or objects, which together with its frame and furniture as installed in a building, is intended (when closed) to resist the passage of fire and/or gaseous products of combustion, and is capable of meeting specified performance criteria to those ends. (It may have one or more leaves, and the term includes a cover or other form of protection to an opening in a fire-resisting wall or floor, or in a structure surrounding a protected shaft). All fire doors should have the appropriate performance under test to BS 476: Part 22, in terms of integrity for a period of minutes, e.g. FD30. A suffix (S) is added for doors where restricted smoke leakage/spread at ambient temperatures is needed.
There is no current Standard for smoke control doors, although a standard test has been laid down in BS 476 Part 31.1. All fire doors should be fitted with an automatic positive action self-closing device except for fire doors to cupboards and to service ducts, which are normally kept locked shut. - Page 38 - Final Exit. Means the termination of an escape route from a building giving direct access to a PLACE OF SAFETY Means the termination of an escape route from a building giving direct access to a PLACE OF SAFETY such as a street, passageway, walkway, or open space, and sited to ensure that persons can disperse safely from the vicinity of the building and the effects of fire.
PLACE OF SAFETY such as a street, passageway, walkway, or open space, and sited to ensure that persons can disperse safely from the vicinity of the building and the effects of fire.
Fire Resistance When planning fire precautions and MEANS OF ESCAPE in premises it is usual to have regard to the FIRE RESISTANCE of the elements of structure, e.g. walls, floors, doors etc. In some premises it may not always be possible to achieve the minimum standards set out. Therefore in such circumstances, compensating features are required such as a reduction in the DISTANCE OF TRAVEL or the provision of other fire safety installations.
The fire loading of a building or compartment is a way of establishing the potential severity of a hypothetical future fire. It is the heat output per unit floor area, often in kJ/m2, calculated from the calorific value of the materials present. Fire loading is used for evaluating industrial safety risks. An empty room with cement floor and ceiling, cinderblock walls, and no flammable materials would have approximately zero fire loading; any fire entering such a room from elsewhere will find nothing to feed on. However, nearly anything that makes a room useful (such as furniture, electrical appliances, or computer equipment), or attractive (such as wood paneling, acoustic tile, carpeting, curtains, or wall decorations), will increase the fire loading. Some usages inherently carry high fire loading as a side effect (an art gallery and studio, for example, is likely to contain large amounts of canvas, paints, solvents, and wooden framing). Buildings under construction or renovation tend to carry high fire loads in the form of construction materials, solvents, and fuel for generators. Fire/Smoke Stopping. Is a seal provided to close an imperfection of fit or design tolerance between elements or components to restrict the passage of fire, heat, and smoke. Inner Room. means a room from which escape is possible only by passing through an ACCESS ROOM. Intumescent. An intumescent is a substance that swells as a result of heat exposure, thus increasing in volume and decreasing in density. It can form many different applications from spay on paint, cold and hot seals in fire doors or mastic, collars and fire boarding for penetration sealing. Lifts, Evacuation. In general it is not appropriate to use lifts when there is a fire in the building because there is always the danger of people being trapped in a lift that has become immobilised as a result of the fire. However, in some circumstances a lift may be provided as part of a management plan for evacuating disabled persons. In such cases the lift installation needs to be appropriately sited and protected, and needs to contain a number of safety features that are intended to ensure that the lift remains usable for evacuation purposes during the fire. Guidance on the necessary measures is given in BS 5588: Part 8 Fire precautions in the design, construction, and use of buildings, Code of practice for means of escape for disabled people.
- Page 39 - Means of Escape. Is the structural means whereby a safe route is provided for persons to travel from any point in a building to a PLACE OF SAFETY beyond the building without the need for outside assistance. Means of Escape. Criteria for the basic principles for the design of means of escape are: a. There should be alternative means of escape from most situations; b. Where direct escape to a place of safety is not possible, it should be possible to reach a Place of relative safety, such as a protected stairway, which is on a route to an exit, within a reasonable travel distance. In such cases the means of escape will consist of two parts, the first being unprotected in accommodation and circulation areas, and the second in protected stairways (and in some circumstances protected corridors). The ultimate place of safety is the open air clear of the effects of the fire. However, in modern buildings, which are large and complex, reasonable safety may be reached within the building, provided suitable planning and protection measures are incorporated. Occupant Capacity: The occupant capacity of a room, storey, building, or part of a building is: a. The maximum number of persons it is designed to hold; or b. The number calculated by dividing the area of room or storey(s) (m2) by a floor space factor (m2 per person). Note: 'area' excludes stair enclosures, lifts, sanitary accommodation, and any other fixed part of the building structure (but counters and display units etc. should not be excluded). Place of Safety. Means a place beyond the building in which a person is no longer in danger from fire. Progressive Horizontal Evacuation (PHE). Other than small premises where residents can escape quickly and immediately to a place of total safety in the open air (Single stage evacuation), it is recommended that residential care homes and supported living accommodation use a PHE policy to safely evacuate the residents to a relative place of safety and then a place of total safety. The process of horizontal evacuation relies on the parts of the building that are used for sleeping accommodation being separated into smaller sub-compartments called protected areas. These are areas separated from each other on the same level by walls and doors that provide at least 30 minutes of fire and smoke resistance. Each protected area should have at least two
alternative exits to adjoining areas. If a fire occurs, residents can be moved away from the affected area to the adjoining protected area, where they are able to remain for a time in reasonable safety. Protected areas should be designed to provide: o Sufficient capacity to accommodate the number of occupants who will need to use them. o Progressive movement away from a fire via sequential adjoining protected areas. o Means for escape via stairway(s) should this become necessary. The number and size of the protected areas depends on a number of factors:
o The time it will take to evacuate people from the area of a fire to an adjacent protected area (see below); o The number of people to be evacuated; o The level of any mobility impairment; o The number of staff to assist in evacuation; o The fire protection arrangements; o Layout of the premises; and o Location and number of staircases; Each of the above factors will also influence the time needed to move the occupants from the fire area into the reasonable safety of an adjoining protected area. A simple assessment can be made to determine the time more accurately by conducting a simulated evacuation exercise, involving residents where possible, or volunteers acting as residents. A 'worst case scenario' should always be assumed to give an accurate reflection of the longest time it would take to evacuate. This is usually when the lowest number of staff are available (e.g. at night when residents are asleep). - Page 40 - Protected Corridor. Means a corridor, which is adequately protected from fire in adjoining accommodation by FIRE-RESISTING construction. Protected Lobby. Means a FIRE-RESISTING enclosure providing access to a PROTECTED STAIRWAY via two sets of FIRE-RESISTING self-closing doors and into which no rooms open, other than toilets or lifts. Protected Route. Means a route having an adequate degree of protection from fire including walls (other than any part that is an external wall of a building), doors, partitions, ceilings, and floors separating the route from the remainder of the building. Protected Stairways. Protected stairways are designed to provide virtually 'fire sterile' areas that lead to places of safety outside the building. Once inside a protected stairway, a person can be considered to be safe from immediate danger from flame and smoke. They can then proceed to a place of safety at their own pace. To enable this to be done, flames, smoke and gases must be excluded from these escape routes, as far as is reasonably possible, by fire-resisting structures or by an appropriate smoke control system, or by a combination of both these methods. - Page 41 - Protected Stairways Exits from every protected stairway should discharge: a. Directly to a final exit; or b. By way of a protected exit passageway to a final exit. Note: Doors may be situated in the enclosures to the passageway, and lobbies will be needed for these doorways if the main stairway is served by lobbies. Protected Stairways, Use of space within a protected stairway needs to be free of potential sources of fire. Consequently, facilities that may be incorporated in a protected stairway are limited to the following: a. Sanitary accommodation or washrooms, as long as the accommodation is not
used as a cloakroom. A gas water heater or sanitary towel incinerator may be installed in the accommodation but not any other gas appliance b. A lift well may be included in a protected stairway, if it is not a fire fighting stair c. A reception desk or enquiry office area at ground or access level, if it is not in the only stair serving the building, or part of the building. The reception or enquiry office area should not be more than 10m2 in area d. Cupboards enclosed with fire-resisting construction, if it is not in the only stair serving the building or part of the building. Responsible Person A "Responsible Person" is the employer in relation to the workplace or 'a person' who has control as occupier or otherwise in connection with the carrying on of a trade, business or other undertaking (for profit or not). The responsible person can also be the owner of the premises where the person in control does not have control in connection with the carrying on of a trade, business or other undertaking. In a multi tenanted building there will be "Responsible Persons", who will be from each of the tenancies and the Landlord/Owner or their representative having control over the common parts and plant room areas. Relevant Person: A "Relevant Person" is any person, including the responsible person, who is or may be lawfully on the premises. A relevant person may also be anyone in the immediate vicinity of the premises where the workplace is located, who could be at risk from a fire in the premises. Room: An enclosed space within a building that is not used solely as a circulation space. (The term includes not only conventional rooms, but also cupboards that are not fittings, and large spaces such as warehouses, and auditoria. The term does not include voids such as ducts, ceiling voids and roof spaces). Storey Exit: Means an exit through which persons are no longer at immediate risk from the effect of fire and includes a FINAL EXIT, an exit to a PROTECTED LOBBY or PROTECTED STAIRWAY.
(including an exit leading on to an external stairway), and an exit provided for MEANS OF ESCAPE through a COMPARTMENT WALL via which a FINAL EXIT can be reached. Note: A door in a compartment wall in an institutional building is considered as a storey exit for the purposes of B1, of the Building Regulations, if the building is planned for progressive horizontal evacuation. Width: The width of: a. A door (or doorway) is the clear width when the door is open; b. An escape route is the width at 1500mm above floor level when defined by walls or, elsewhere, the minimum width of passage available between any fixed obstructions; c. A stair is the clear width between the walls or balustrades. Notes: 1. Door hardware, handrails, and strings that do not intrude more than 100mm into these widths may be ignored. 2. The rails used for guiding a stair lift may be ignored when considering the width of a stair.2. The rails used for guiding a stair lift may be ignored when considering the width of a stair. However, it is important that the chair or carriage can be parked in a position that does not cause an obstruction to either the stair or landing. - Page 42 - - Page 43 - 1. Should only be undertaken if no satisfactory alternative method or location is available. 2. Risk assessments should be undertaken for all hot working activities as they pose significant risks, and should be used in conjunction with a hot work permit to ensure that the appropriate controls are applied. 3. Time must be taken to consider all associated risks highlighted and other specific risks relating to the site or location. 4. Those completing the relevant documentation must have sufficient knowledge, understanding, training and experience not only of the issues considered by the specific assessment but also any other risks in general. Practical Advice o Assess all combustible materials. o Provide Portable Fire Fighting Equipment PFFE, suitable to the risk. o Consider all Welding, cutting and grinding hazards. o Cover combustibles (Inc wooden floors etc.) o Sighting of tar boilers - cylinders at 3m and appropriate PFFE. o Personal Protective Equipment. o Revisit after one hour when the job is finished. - Page 44 - HOT WORK PERMIT ISSUING COMPANY: ....................................................................................................................................... SITE: ................................................................................................................................................................ PERMIT NO: ................................................................................................................................................. A: PROPOSAL (To be completed by the person responsible for carrying out the work) BUILDING: ........................................................................................................................................................ EXACT LOCATION OF PROPOSED WORK: ................................................................................................. NATURE OF HOT WORK TO BE UNDERTAKEN: ......................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ The above location has been examined and the precautions listed on the following page have been complied with as indicated. B: AGREEMENT: ................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ (To be completed by the company Fire Safety Officer or other nominated person) This Hot Work Permit is issued subject to the following conditions: TIME OF ISSUE OF PERMIT:............................................................................................................................ TIME OF EXPIRY OF PERMIT:............................................................................................................................ A FINAL FIRE CHECK OF THE WORK AREA SHALL BE MADE, NOT BEFORE: ........................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS REQUIRED:.......................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ SIGNATURE:..................................................................................................................................................... NAME (BLOCK CAPITALS):................................................................................................................................... DATE:................................................................................................................................................................ POSITION:....................................................................................................................................................... - Page 45 - FIRE WATCH (To be completed by the Site Manager/ in conjunction with the person responsible for the work before returning permit to the issuer). The work area and all adjacent areas to which sparks and heat might have spread (such as floors below and above and areas on other side of walls) have been inspected and found to be free of fire following completion of work. TIME INSPECTION COMPLETED:................................................................................................................ (This must be at least 1 hour after work was completed)
SIGNATURE:..................................................................................................................................................... NAME (BLOCK CAPITALS):................................................................................................................................... DATE:................................................................................................................................................................ POSITION:....................................................................................................................................................... * It is not desirable to issue permits for protracted periods. Fresh permits should be issued, for example, where work extends from morning to afternoon. NB: Where work is being carried out by a contractor, the issuer of the permit should ensure that the contractor has complied with the requirements prior to work being carried out, and should be satisfied that the area is free of fire when work is completed. - Page 46- HOT WORK PERMIT CHECKLIST EXAMPLE FIRE PROTECTION o Where sprinklers are installed, check that they have been isolated (in work area only). o Where fire detection systems are installed, that they have been isolated (in work areas only). o Ensure that a trained person, not directly involved with the work, will provide a continuous fire watch during the period of hot work and for at least one hour after it ceases in the work area, and those adjoining areas to which sparks and heat may spread. o Ensure that at least two suitable extinguishers or a hose reel are immediately available, and further ensure that all personnel undertaking the work and providing the fire watch are trained in their use. o Ensure that all personnel involved with the work, and providing the fire watch, are familiar with the means of escape and method of raising the alarm/calling the fire brigade. PRECAUTIONS WITHIN 10 METRES (MINIMUM) OF THE WORK Ensure that: o Combustible materials have been cleared from the area. Where materials cannot be removed, check that protection has been provided by non-combustible or purpose made blankets, drapes or screens. o Flammable liquids have been removed from the areas. o Floors have been swept clean. o Combustible floors have been covered with overlapping sheets of non-combustible, or wetted and liberally covered with sand, material. And that all openings and gaps (combustible floors or otherwise) are adequately covered. o Protection (non-combustible or purpose-made blankets, drapes or screen) has been provided for. o Walls, partitions and ceilings of combustible construction or surface finish o All holes and other openings in walls, partitions and ceilings through which sparks could pass. o Combustible materials have been moved away from the far side of walls or partitions where heat could be conducted, especially where these incorporate metal. o Enclosed equipment (tanks, containers, dust collectors etc.) has been emptied and tested, or is known to be free of flammable concentrations of vapour or dust. EQUIPMENT o Equipment for hot work has been checked and found in good repair. o Gas cylinders have been properly secured. (The person carrying out this check should tick the appropriate boxes) - Page 47- SITE FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION CHECKLIST SITE: .................................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ CHECKED BY: (Name)............................................................................................................................................ DATE:.................................................................. SIGNED: ................................................................................... As applicable 1. Fire Escape Routes Clear, Clean and Unobstructed: 2. Fire Alarms in working order: 3. Fire Extinguishers in position: 4. Fire Extinguishers in date and charged: 5. Fire Orders Displayed: 6. All routes to Fire Escapes unobstructed: 7. All persons on site induction trained: 8. Main site access and egress unobstructed: 9. Fire Service Inspections up to date: 10. Hot Work Permit system operating: COMMENTS: ...................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................ - Page 48- An 'emergency plan' must be prepared and its purpose is to ensure that all persons in the premises know what to do in case of any emergency, including a fire, so that the occupants can be safely evacuated. It is good practice to have a written emergency plan in any case. The 'emergency plan' should be based with consideration to this fire risk assessment and be available for your employees, their representatives, residents and the enforcing authority. Note: That although in small premises the emergency plan may be exactly the same as the fire action notices, in residential care premises, the 'emergency plan' will need to be more detailed. The 'emergency plan' should be appropriate for the premises and may include the following: 1. The means of warning if there is a fire. 2. What action staff/employees/visitors should take if they discover a fire 3. Details of how the evacuation of the premises should be carried out. 4. All individual/specific needs or risks associated with any individual resident, employee, contractor or visitor. 5. Identification and use of protected areas, refuges etc. used for horizontal and progressive evacuation. 6. The location of the approved assembly point, plus the procedures required to take a roll call ensuring that all persons are accounted for and for checking that the premises have been evacuated. 7. Identification of key escape routes, how people can gain access to them and escape from them in safety. 8. Arrangements in place for firefighting. 9. The duties and identities of staff/employees who have specific responsibilities e.g. fire wardens, fire marshals etc. 10. Arrangements for the safe evacuation of people who are identified as being especially at risk e.g. residents, those with disabilities, employees, contractors or visitors. 11. Which machines/processes/appliances/power supplies etc. that may need to be stopped or made safe if there is a fire, and the role of all persons responsible for this.
12. Any specific arrangements that have been made especially for high fire risk areas. 13. Contingency plans for when any of the safety systems are non-operable. 14. Details of how fire and rescue services will be called and the responsible person(s) for doing this. 15. Procedures that are in place for meeting the emergency services upon their arrival and passing information to them. 16. What training do employees or staff need and what arrangements to ensure that training is given on a regular basis. 17. Plan for the accommodation of any residents both during the fire, immediately after and long term and also the storage of any valuables etc. - Page 49- Principles of Prevention The principles are: Avoiding risks. Evaluating the risks which cannot be avoided. Combating the risks at source. Adapting to technical progress. Replacing the dangerous by the non-dangerous or less dangerous. Developing a coherent overall prevention policy which covers technology, organisation of work and the influence of factors relating to the working environment. Giving collective protective measures priority over individual protective measures; and Giving appropriate instructions to employees. Definition of a Dangerous Substance Any substance or preparation which meets the criteria in the approved classification and labelling guide for classification as a substance or preparation which is explosive, oxidising, extremely flammable, highly flammable or flammable, whether or not that substance or preparation is classified under the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2002 (CHIP) Regulations; A substance or preparation which, because of its chemical properties and the way it is used or is present in or on the premises creates a risk; and further: Any dust, whether in the form of solid particles or fibrous materials or otherwise, which can form an explosive mixture with air or, in itself, an explosive atmosphere. Definition of an Explosive Atmosphere A mixture, under atmospheric conditions, of air and one or more dangerous substances in the form of gases, vapours, mists or dusts in which, after ignition has occurred, combustion spreads to the entire unburned mixture. NOTE: Prior to commencing to use and/or store flammable liquids in a workplace, a risk assessment must be carried out by a competent person. Flammable liquids pose a fire and/or explosion risk and must not be stored on the premises until a suitable fire risk assessment has been undertaken. - Page 50- - Page 51- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 ISBN 0-11-072945-5. PAS 79 Fire Risk Assessments- Guidance and a recommended methodology PAS 79:2012 ISBN 978-0-580-76451-6. BS 7671:2008 Requirements for Electrical Installations IEE Wiring Regulations Seventeenth Edition ISBN 978-86341-844-0. Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres. Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002. Approved code of practice and guidance, L138. HSE Books, 2003.ISBN 0 7176 2203 7. Storage of full and empty LPG cylinders and cartridges. Code of practice 7. LP Gas Association, 2000. Available from LP Gas Association, Pavilion 16, Headlands Business Park, Salisbury Road, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3PB. Maintaining portable electrical equipment in offices and other low-risk environments, INDG236.HSE Books, 1996. (ISBN 0 7176 1272 4. Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (c 50). The Stationery Office, 1995. ISBN 0 10 545095 2.14 BS 8300: The design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people. Code of practice. British Standards Institution. ISBN 0 580 38438 1. BS 5839-1: 2013 Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings. Code of practice for system design, installation, commissioning and maintenance. British Standards Institution .ISBN 978058078332. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, SI 1992/3004. The Stationery Office, 1992. ISBN 0 11 025804 5. BS ISO 7010 Graphical symbols. Safety colours and safety signs. Registered safety signs. BS 9999 Code of practice for fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings. Approved Document B: Fire Safety ( Volume 2)-2010 Buildings other than dwelling houses ISBN 9781859463154. BS ISO 16069:2004 Graphical symbols. Safety signs. Safety way guidance systems (SWGS). End of Document
23.RELEVANT AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
DATA ON THIS PAGE WAS INCORPORATED INTO PAGE 24 OF THE FRA
Risk level Action and timescale
Trivial Limited action is required to maintain raise this standard.
Tolerable No major additional controls required. However, there might be a need for improvements that involve minor or limited cost.
Moderate It is essential that efforts are made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures should be implemented within a defined time period.Where moderate risk is associated with consequences that constitute extreme harm, further assessment might be required to establish more precisely the likelihood of harm as a basis for determining the priority for improved control measures.
Substantial Considerable resources might have to be allocated to reduce the risk. If the building is unoccupied, it should not be occupied until the risk has been reduced. If the building is occupied, urgent action should be taken.
Intolerable Building (or relevant area) should not be occupied until the risk is reduced.
Section 3 - ACTION PLAN
ACTION TO BE TAKEN PRIORITY ACTION BY WHOM DATE and SIGNATURE when action is taken Ref: 7.1 Electrical issues HIGH Ref: 11.0 cooking related concerns HIGH The Responsible Person / Premises Manager should provide Kitchen fire safety advice for the residents in order to prevent cooking or kitchen related fires from happening.
This link will help:-
http://www.london-fire.gov.uk/SafetyInTheKitchen.asp
Ref: 18.0 Compartmentation issues HIGH The three flat doors mentioned in the significant findings are required to be changed in order to provide a protected route for the remainder of the residents in the particular blocks. Ref: 19.0 Emergency lighting HIGH Ref: 20.0 Fire action notices MED Ref: 25.3 Record keeping MED
DATA ON THIS PAGE WAS INCORPORATED INTO PAGE 33 OF THE FRA
Section 3 -Annex A - Photographic Section
DATA ON THIS PAGE WAS INCORPORATED INTO PAGE 35 OF THE FRA
Section 3 -Annex B - Glossary
DATA ON THIS PAGE WAS INCORPORATED INTO PAGE 42 OF THE FRA
Section 3 - Annex C - Hot works Permit Brief (Generic)
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Annex C - A guide to Emergency Planning
Annex D - Clients' supporting documentation
Annex E- Supporting Guidance for reference