M.G.C. Services Fire Risk Assessment · 2018. 1. 19. · NEBOSH Fire Safety and Risk Management....

M.G.C. Services Fire Risk

Assessment

conducted for

Company:

Tamar Housing - John Sparke House.

Tamar Housing - John Sparke House. 2

Disclaimer The assessors believe the information contained within this risk assessment report to be correct at

the time of printing. The assessors do not accept responsibility for any consequences arising from

the use of the information herein. The report is based on matters that were observed or came to the

attention of the assessors during the day of the assessment and should not be relied upon as an

exhaustive record of all possible risks or hazards that may exist or potential improvements that can

be made.

Confidentiality Statement In order to maintain the integrity and credibility of the risk assessment processes and to protect the

parties involved, it is understood that the assessors will not divulge to unauthorized persons any

information obtained during this risk assessment unless legally obligated to do so.


Table of Contents

M.G.C. Services Fire Risk Assessment .................................................................................................. 1 Disclaimer............................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Confidentiality Statement ................................................................................................................................................ 2

Site information...................................................................................................................................................... 5 1: Site Information ............................................................................................................................................................. 5 1a: Assessment Date ......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Risk level estimator ............................................................................................................................................... 7 2: Risk level estimator ...................................................................................................................................................... 7

Risk level estimator continued ............................................................................................................................ 8 2: Risk level estimator continued .................................................................................................................................. 8

Action plan .............................................................................................................................................................. 9 3: Action Plan ...................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Actions for section 9: Fire Hazards - Electrical........................................................................................................ 9 Actions for section 10: Fire Hazards - Smoking ...................................................................................................... 9 Actions for section 11: Fire Hazards - Arson ............................................................................................................ 9 Actions for section 12: Property Heating ................................................................................................................. 10 Actions for section 13: Cooking .................................................................................................................................. 10 Actions for section 14: Lightning Strike ................................................................................................................... 10 Actions for section 15: Housekeeping ....................................................................................................................... 10 Actions for section 16: Outside contractors ............................................................................................................. 10 Actions for section 17: Dangerous substances ........................................................................................................ 10 Actions for section 18: Other significant hazards - including process hazards impacting on fire

precautions ......................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Actions for section 19: Means of escape .................................................................................................................. 11 Actions for section 20: Compartmentation .............................................................................................................. 11 Actions for section 21: Fire safety signs and notices ............................................................................................ 11 Actions for section 22: Means of giving warning in case of fire ...................................................................... 11 Actions for section 23: Emergency lighting ............................................................................................................ 12 Actions for section 24: Manual fire extinguishing appliances ........................................................................... 12 Actions for section 25: Fire extinguishing and other fixed systems ................................................................ 12 Actions for section 26: Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements ................................... 12 Actions for section 27: Management of fire safety - training and drills ......................................................... 12 Actions for section 28: Testing and maintenance .................................................................................................. 12

General information - The premises & Occupants at risk of fire ........................................................... 13 4: General information - The premises ...................................................................................................................... 13 5: Occupants at risk of fire: ........................................................................................................................................... 14

Property fire loss experience, other relevant information, fire safety legislation ............................... 15 6: Property fire loss experience ................................................................................................................................... 15 7: Other relevant information ....................................................................................................................................... 15 8: Fire legislation .............................................................................................................................................................. 15

Fire hazards - Electrical .................................................................................................................................... 16 9: Fire hazards - Electrical............................................................................................................................................. 16

Fire hazards - Electrical .................................................................................................................................... 17 9: Fire hazards - Electrical............................................................................................................................................. 17

Fire hazards - Smoking ..................................................................................................................................... 18 10: Fire hazards - Smoking ........................................................................................................................................... 18

Fire hazard - Arson ............................................................................................................................................ 19 11: Fire hazard - Arson ................................................................................................................................................... 19


Property heating, cooking ................................................................................................................................. 20 12: Property heating ........................................................................................................................................................ 20 13: Cooking ........................................................................................................................................................................ 20

Lightning strike ................................................................................................................................................... 21 14: Lightning strike ......................................................................................................................................................... 21

House keeping ...................................................................................................................................................... 21 15: Housekeeping ............................................................................................................................................................. 21

Outside contractors, Dangerous substances, other significant hazards ................................................ 22 16: Outside contractors ................................................................................................................................................... 22 17: Dangerous substances .............................................................................................................................................. 22 18: Other significant hazards - including process hazards impacting on fire precautions ........................ 22

Means of escape ................................................................................................................................................... 23 19: Means of escape ........................................................................................................................................................ 23

Means of escape continued ............................................................................................................................... 24 19: Means of escape ........................................................................................................................................................ 24

Means of escape continued ............................................................................................................................... 25 19: Means of escape ........................................................................................................................................................ 25

Compartmentation ............................................................................................................................................. 26 20: Compartmentation .................................................................................................................................................... 26

Fire safety signs and notices ............................................................................................................................. 27 21: Fire safety signs and notices .................................................................................................................................. 27

Fire safety signs and notices ............................................................................................................................. 28 21: Fire safety signs and notices .................................................................................................................................. 28

Means of giving warning in case of fire ......................................................................................................... 29 22: Means of giving warning in case of fire ............................................................................................................ 29



Emergency lighting, Manual fire extinguishing appliances, other fixed systems ............................... 32 23: Emergency lighting .................................................................................................................................................. 32 24: Manual fire-extinguishing appliances ................................................................................................................ 32 25: Fire extinguishing and other fixed systems ...................................................................................................... 32

Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements .................................................................... 33 26: Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements ......................................................................... 33

Management of fire safety - training and drills........................................................................................... 34 27: Management of fire safety - training and drills ............................................................................................... 34

Testing and maintenance .................................................................................................................................. 35 28: Testing and maintenance ........................................................................................................................................ 35

Testing and maintenance continued ............................................................................................................... 36 28: Testing and maintenance cont. ............................................................................................................................. 36

Media from 2016 ................................................................................................................................................. 37


Site information

1: Site Information

1.1: Responsible person (as defined in

section 3 of the Regulatory Reform (fire

safety) Order 2005):

Tamar Housing Association.

1.2: Persons with "Duties under this order"

(section 5 of the Regulatory Reform (fire

safety) Order 2005) i.e. the person having

financial control of the premises:


1.3: Address of premises: John Spark House 14 New Street,

Plymouth.

PL1 2NE.

1.4: Person(s) consulted: Stuart Francis-Dubois, Tamar Housing.

1.5: Assessor:

Malcolm Cook AIIRSM

GLENHAZEL

194 Exeter Road

Kingsteignton

TQ12 3NJ.

T:01626 460045 M:07803 651 594 E:[email protected]

Competency:

Associate member of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management.

Fire Risk Assessments in Houses of Multiple Occupancy - Fire Service College 2007.

NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Safety & Health

NEBOSH Fire Safety and Risk Management.

Timber fire doors explained – Chiltern International Fire 2010. FRACS Technical day – Warrington Fire 2010. Intumescent products & their properties under fire – Lorient Polyproducts 2010. The FPA Fire Risk Assessments course (IFE approved) – Fire Service College 2011. FRACS Technical day – Warrington Fire 2011. Fire Risk Assessments – Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Academy 2011. Unit 1, Fire Detection and Design - The FIA July 2015.

Sprinkler systems technical update - The FPA May 2016.

Written with guidance from PAS 79, CLG relevant guidance documents and Approved Document B:

Fire Safety (volume 2) – Buildings other than dwelling houses.


1a: Assessment Date

1.6: Date of fire risk assessment: 16th October 2017.

1.6: Date of previous fire risk assessment: 22nd July 2016.

1.7: Suggested date for review (1): 15th October 2018.

(1) This fire risk assessment should be reviewed by a competent person by the date indicated above or at

such an earlier 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.


Risk level estimator

2: Risk level estimator

The following simple risk level estimator is based on a more general health and safety risk level

estimator of the type contained in BS 8800:

Potential consequences of fire - Slight harm Moderate harm Extreme harm

Likelihood of fire:-

Low Trivial risk Tolerable risk Moderate risk

Medium Tolerable risk Moderate risk Substantial risk

High Moderate risk Substantial risk Intolerable risk

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:

Medium

In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows:

Low: Unusually low likelihood of fire as a result 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

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 foreseeable 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: Tolerable


Risk level estimator continued

2: Risk level estimator continued

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:

Risk level : Action and timescale

Trivial : No action is required and no detailed records need be kept

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 be 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.

(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 implementing all recommendations contained in the following action plan.

Should the client choose not to implement any of the recommendations within this report then he shall

demonstrate how he has achieved a similar standard by alternative means. The fire risk assessment

should be reviewed regularly.)

Score (11/12) - 91% Tamar Housing - John Sparke House.

9

Action plan

3: Action Plan

Definition of priorities (where applicable):

● Immediate: Issues noted by the risk assessor that were communicated to the client during the assessment - to be corrected that day (the client stated action would be taken, results would not be

audited by the assessor).

● High: Issues noted that are critical for life safety and should be remediated as a priority. Timescales of action will vary depending on the scale and complexity of the works required.

Lower resource actions, such as improved housekeeping should be implemented as soon as possible.

● Medium: Issues noted are serious and should be remediated as soon as resource is available.

● Low: Issues noted that are not critical to life safety, however consistently poor performance is likely to impact on more critical systems – e.g. poor record keeping could allow life critical systems to fail without the responsible person being aware.

Actions for section 9: Fire Hazards - Electrical

The action below has been completed by: Date: 1

Priority: NONE

Actions for section 10: Fire Hazards - Smoking


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 11: Fire Hazards - Arson


Priority: NONE


10

Actions for section 12: Property Heating


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 13: Cooking


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 14: Lightning Strike


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 15: Housekeeping


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 16: Outside contractors


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 17: Dangerous substances


Priority: NONE


11

Actions for section 18: Other significant hazards - including process hazards

impacting on fire precautions


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 19: Means of escape


Priority: MEDIUM

*Dwelling doors to flats should contain

positive pressure self-closing devices so

that the door closes tightly onto the rebate.

Actions for section 20: Compartmentation


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 21: Fire safety signs and notices


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 22: Means of giving warning in case of fire


Priority:

LOW

22.6 In accordance with section 23.2.2(e) of BS

5839 Part 1:2103, on or adjacent the control

and indicating equipment, there should be a

diagrammatic representation of the building,

showing at least the building entrances, the

main circulation areas and the division into

zones.


12

Actions for section 23: Emergency lighting


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 24: Manual fire extinguishing appliances


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 25: Fire extinguishing and other fixed systems


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 26: Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 27: Management of fire safety - training and drills


Priority: NONE

Actions for section 28: Testing and maintenance


Priority: NONE


General information - The premises & Occupants at risk of fire

4: General information - The premises

4.1: Brief description of building: This building would appear to be of traditional block and render construction situated within the narrow confines of

New Street, Plymouth. Access into the purpose built

block of flats is via a single entrance door located on New

Street and leads into an entrance lobby situated at the base

of a single concrete stair. Located within the entrance is

the fire alarm control and indicating panel, a door that

leads out of the building toward flats 1 & 2, a fire door

that leads into a small corridor containing the electrical

distribution cupboard and the base of the single stair. The

concrete stair provides access to the first and second floor

landings, what appear to be fire doors open from the stair

onto concrete balconies partially exposed to the elements

that provide access to the various flats located on each

floor. The corridor and stair walls would appear to be of a

class 0 lining; concrete and painted.

The stair contains a manual electronic fire alarm system

and emergency lighting units; the flats would appear to

contain separate Grade D LD3 early warning systems.

Access for the fire and rescue service is possible although

likely to be slow due to the narrow access width and

traffic calming bollards within New Street.

Appendix 1 Appendix 2 Appendix 3 Appendix 4

4.1.1: Number of floors Ground, first and second floors.

4.2: Areas covered by assessment: All internal and external areas pertinent to the building.

4.3: Use of premises: Sleeping accommodation - general needs.


5: Occupants at risk of fire:

5.1: Approximate maximum number: There are 12 individual flats.

5.2: Approximate maximum number of

employees at any one time: One.

5.3: Sleeping occupants: Yes, potentially 24 if based on two per flat.

5.4: Disabled occupants: No visual evidence of walking devices or mobility scooters.

5.5: Occupants in remote areas and lone

workers: Potential for contractor and maintenance person within the

stair.

5.6: Young persons: None reported or witnessed.

5.7: Others: Members of the public using New Street, postal workers and delivery drivers.


15

Property fire loss experience, other relevant information, fire safety

legislation

Question Response Details

6: Property fire loss experience

Comments: None reported.

7: Other relevant information

Comments: None applicable.

8: Fire legislation

8.1: The Regulatory Reform (fire safety)

Order 2005 applies to these premises with

guidance taken from the:

Sleeping accommodation guidance notes, Approved

document B, LACoRS Guide

8.2: Enforced by: Devon and Somerset fire and rescue service

8.3: Other legislation that makes

significant requirements for fire

precautions in these premises (other than

the Building Regulations 2010)

Housing Act 2004

8.4: Appropriate liaison with fire and

rescue service Unknown


Fire hazards - Electrical


9: Fire hazards - Electrical

The Law: The current regulations for electrical installations are BS 7671: 2008 Requirements for

Electrical Installations (IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition). Compliance with these regulations and

the subsequent issue of certificates of conformity are not a specific requirement, but are invariably

needed by your insurance company. However, there is a statutory duty of care under the Electricity at

Work Regulations 1989 for all electrical installations in work places to be maintained as to be safe and

to prevent danger. It is likely therefore that in the event of an accident the authorities will look at the

wiring regulations as the benchmark for standards that should be adopted.

9.1: Reasonable measures taken to prevent

fires of an electrical origin? Yes

It would appear that an inspection regime

of the fixed electrical installations has been

addressed so as to further lower the risk of

fire from an electrical fault.

9.2: Fixed electrical installation

periodically inspected and tested? Yes

Mr. Stuart Francis-Dubois has provided

anecdotal evidence that indicates a rolling

plan of maintenance has now been

instigated.

Appendix 5 Appendix 6


Fire hazards - Electrical


9: Fire hazards - Electrical

9.3: Portable appliance testing carried out?

Yes

There were no portable appliances

witnessed within the communal areas at the

time of assessment, however it is

understood that the caretaker has portable

equipment that is only 12 - 24 months old

and is soon to be subject to portable

appliance testing.

9.4: Suitable policy regarding the use of

personal electrical appliances? N/A

9.5: Suitable limitation of trailing leads and

adapters? Yes A power lead was emanating through the

letterbox of flat 12 during 2016 and has

now been removed.



Fire hazards - Smoking


10: Fire hazards - Smoking

The Law: The Smokefree (Signs) Regulations 2007 came into force on 1st July 2007 and were amended

in 2012.

“Entrance” means an entrance for use by persons; “smoke-free premises” means all public places and workplaces which are smoke-free by virtue of section 2 or 4 of the Act, other than those that are exempt by virtue of regulations made under section 3

of the Act.

“The Act” is in relation to The Health Act 2006 that requires all smoke free premises to display appropriate signage including Churches, Listed Buildings & Art Galleries.

10.1: Reasonable measures taken to

prevent fires as a result of smoking? Yes

10.2: Smoking prohibited in the building?

No

Smoking is permitted within "the building"

as individual residents are allowed to

smoke within their flats; smoking is not

permitted within the enclosed communal

areas.

10.3: Suitable arrangements for those who

wish to smoke? Yes

The small garden area located in the

vicinity of flats 1 & 2 would appear to be

the area chosen to smoke and then dispense

of spent cigarettes.

Appendix 9

10.4: Adequate signage displayed?

Yes

In accordance with section 6(1) of the

Health Act 2006 and the Smoke free

(signs) Regulations 2012, there is currently

signage displayed.

10.5: No smoking policy appeared to be

observed at the time of inspection?

Yes

There did not appear to be any evidence of

smoking within the internal common parts

of the building at the time of assessment,

although clear evidence indicates persons

are smoking within the external shared

areas.


Fire hazard - Arson


11: Fire hazard - Arson

11.1: Does basic security against arson by

outsiders appear reasonable? Yes

The property would appear to be secure

with regard to unwanted persons; access

was possible via a trade button although a

dedicated key is required after the trade

function ceases.

11.2: Is there an absence of unnecessary

fire load in close proximity to the premises

or available for ignition by outsiders? Yes

There was no evidence to suggest an

unnecessary fire load accessible to

outsiders, however please see the

comments within the housekeeping section

of this report.

11.3: If provided, are wheelie bins secured

in place with lockable lids? N/A

Domestic bins have been provided by the

local authority and are stored within the

rear yard so they are not on view to the

general public or opportune arsonist.

Appendix 10

11.4: Has there been any history of

vandalism or arson attempts in the

surrounding area? No

None reported.

11.5: Are there any pallets or skips stored

within 10m of the building? No There were no skips or pallets located

within close proximity of the building at

the time of assessment.


20

Property heating, cooking


12: Property heating

12.1: Is the use of portable heaters avoided

as far as practicable? N/A

There are no heating systems within the

communal areas.

12.2: If portable heaters are used:

12.2.1: Is the use of the more hazardous

type (e.g. radiant bar fires or LPG

appliances) avoided? N/A

12.2.2: Are suitable measures taken to

minimise the hazard of ignition of

combustible materials? N/A

12.3: Are fixed heating installations subject

to regular maintenance? N/A

13: Cooking

13.1: Is commercial or communal cooking

carried out on site? No All cooking is undertaken within the

individual flats, there are no shared

kitchens.

13.2: If applicable, are filters changed and

ductwork cleaned regularly? N/A

13.3: Are there any deep fat fryers within

the kitchen? N/A

13.4: Are there suitable means of fighting

the fire?

(A 6Lt Wet Chemical should cover 75Lt of

cooking oil)

N/A


Lightning strike


14: Lightning strike

14.1: Does the building have a lightning

protection system? N/A Due to the height and location of the

building it is felt that a lightning protection

system is not required.

14.2: If so, is it regularly maintained? N/A

House keeping


15: Housekeeping

15.1 Is the standard of housekeeping

adequate? Yes Generally the housekeeping standard

throughout the communal area was very

good,

15.2: Combustible materials appear to be

separated from ignition sources? Yes

A new lock has been fitted to the electrical

cupboard to prevent unwanted access.

15.3: Avoidance of unnecessary

accumulation of combustible materials or

waste? Yes

No significant findings.

15.4: Appropriate storage of hazardous

materials? N/A

No hazardous materials witnessed during

this assessment.


Outside contractors, Dangerous substances, other significant hazards


16: Outside contractors

16.1: Are fire safety conditions imposed on

outside contractors? Yes

Tamar Housing Association has a control

of contractor’s policy with regard to the selection and use of approved trade

persons.

17: Dangerous substances

17.1: Are substances classed as dangerous

under the Dangerous Substances and

Explosive Regulations 2002 used or stored

at the property?

N/A

None witnessed or reported.

17.2: If 'yes' has a suitable risk assessment

been conducted under DSEAR 2002? N/A

18: Other significant hazards - including process hazards impacting on fire

precautions

18.1: Are there any other significant

hazards? No No significant findings.


Means of escape


19: Means of escape

19.1: Is it considered that the building is

provided with reasonable means of escape

in case of fire? Yes

The escape route within this premise is felt

not to be long or complicated and leads as

direct as possible to the final exit.

19.2: Is there adequate design of escape

routes (i.e. not through rooms of high risk

or adjacent buildings)?

Yes

The escape route from flat 8 passes the

dwelling door and opening window of flat

7, the window is situated at a height of

1.1m from the balcony floor; the same

design is true for the escape route from flat

12, this height complies with the current

building regulations with regard to balcony

escape routes.

Appendix 16

19.3: Is there adequate provision of exits? Yes

It is felt that due to the projected low

number of persons within the building the

current provision would be adequate.

19.4: Exits easily and immediately

operable where necessary? Yes The final exits within the building were

quickly and safely operated without the

need for a key or a code.



Means of escape continued


19: Means of escape

19.5: Fire exits open in direction of travel?

N/A

Whilst it is appreciated that wherever

possible exit doors should ideally open in

the direction of travel, there are less than

60 persons within the building and as such

the current guidance would indicate exit

doors do not have to open in the direction

of travel.

19.6: Satisfactory means for securing

exits? Yes The final exit/s were not secured by means

of a lock, bolt or other device that required

a key or a code to safely operate.

19.7: Reasonable distances of travel where

there is a single direction of travel?

(Travel distances were measured using a

BOSCH DLE50 laser device) Yes

As a representative example, a travel

distance of 4m was measured from the

dwelling door of flat 9 across the balcony

to the fire door opening onto the escape

stair; a distance of approximately 13m was

measured down the stair to the entrance

door that serves as the final exit away from

the building.

19.8: Reasonable distances of travel where

there are alternative means of escape? N/A


Means of escape continued


19: Means of escape

19.9: Suitable protection of escape routes?

(*)

Yes*

Whilst it was noted that the dwelling doors

to each of the flats open onto an exposed

balcony to the elements, thus allowing

smoke to dissipate, the dwelling door to

flat 8 was wedged open (due to the high

temperatures experienced during this

assessment). This practice (difficult to

police) can allow for the spread of smoke

and hot gases to flats situated above such

as those experience during the Lakanal

House, London incident of 2009.

Appendix 19

19.10: Escape routes un-obstructed? Yes

The escape route provided along the

balcony from flats 11 & 12 is no longer

restricted


19.11: It is considered that the building is

provided with reasonable means and

arrangements for escape for disabled

people?

Yes

(*) Significant source of ignition and/or fuel on escape route, 30-minute fire-rated route/protected

staircase.


Compartmentation


20: Compartmentation

20.1: Is it considered that

compartmentation is of a reasonable

standard? Yes

There did not appear to be any breaches

within the escape stair walls or ceilings

likely to allow for fire spread.

20.2: Escape routes protected (smoke/heat

seals & fire doors)?

N/A

There do appear to be fire doors fitted to

the escape stair however none of the

dwelling doors open onto stair. The

dwelling doors would appear to be of solid

wood construction containing intumescent

devices and it is recommended that either

the housing officer assigned to this block,

or the caretaker check each of the dwelling

door' self-closing device.

20.3: Fire doors close fully on to rebate? Yes

20.4: Service openings fire stopped? N/A

20.5: Service cupboards constructed in

suitable fire resisting materials? Yes

The electrical distribution cupboard would

appear to be constructed to a suitable fire-

resisting standard; concrete walls, ceiling

and fitted with what appears to be an FD

30 door.

20.6: As far as can 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 of fire? (*)(**)

N/A

None fitted or required.

(*) Based on visual inspection of readily accessible areas, with a degree of sampling where appropriate.

(**) A full investigation of the design of HVAC systems is outside the scope of this fire risk assessment.


Fire safety signs and notices


21: Fire safety signs and notices

21.1: Are there completed fire action

notices displayed? Yes There are now fire action notices

prominently displayed in order to identify

the action to be taken in the event of fire.

Appendix 22

21.2: Are there escape signs installed to

indicate alternative routes? Yes Even though the route is considered to be

of a simple nature, suitable escape route

signage has been installed.

Appendix 23

21.3: Are there Fire Door Keep Shut signs

on both sides of the door, if applicable? Yes

Suitable signage was located on the fire

doors within the stair.

Appendix 24


Fire safety signs and notices


21: Fire safety signs and notices

21.4: Are there Fire Door Keep Locked

signs if applicable? Yes

There is currently signage on the door to

the electrical distribution cupboard.

Appendix 25

21.5: Are there signs to warn attending fire

crews of danger (electrical intakes, gas,

oxygen etc.)? Yes

There is currently electrical hazard signage

located on the door to the electrical

distribution cupboard so as to warn fire

crews of the potential danger.

Appendix 26

21.6: Is there a suitable fire assembly point

identified? N/A

Residents are likely to assemble within

New Street.

21.7: Are there any other issues with any

signage relating to fire? No No significant findings.


Means of giving warning in case of fire


22: Means of giving warning in case of fire

22.1: Reasonable manually operated

electrical fire alarm system? Yes

There would appear to be an electronic

early warning system conforming to a

category M installed within the escape

stair.

Appendix 27

22.2: Automatic fire detection provided

appropriate to risk?

N/A

The presence of an early warning system in

the form of smoke or heat detection is felt

not to be required within the common parts

of a purpose built block of flats, the

individual flats open onto an area that vents

to the open air, the single escape stair does

not contain any of the dwelling doors.

Appendix 28





22.3: Can the alarm be heard over

background noise? Yes Due to the location of the sounders it is felt

likely that the fire alarm could be heard

throughout the building,


22.4 Remote transmission of alarm

signals? N/A

22.5: Facility to indicate all zones in a state

of fire simultaneously? Yes The current Firedex 2202 control and

indicating equipment does have the facility

to display all zones.

Appendix 31





22.6: Zone plans displayed for attending

fire crews? No

Whilst it is appreciated that the building

would appear of simple layout, there is no

zone list or diagrammatic representation of

the building to assist fire crews should the

fire not be obvious.

Appendix 32

Action:

22.6 In accordance with section 23.2.2(e) of BS 5839 Part 1:2103, on or adjacent the control and

indicating equipment, there should be a diagrammatic representation of the building, showing at least the

building entrances, the main circulation areas and the division into zones.

22.7: Any false signals recorded and action

taken? Yes

Any false actuation would be dealt with via


22.8: Any automated devices linked to the

fire alarm system (roller shutters, air-con

etc.)? N/A


Emergency lighting, Manual fire extinguishing appliances, other fixed

systems


23: Emergency lighting

23.1: Is there a reasonable standard of

emergency escape lighting system

provided (internal & external) (*)? Yes

There would appear to be a suitable

number of non-maintained emergency

lighting units within the escape staircase so

as to aid persons in their escape during the

failure of the normal lighting system.


(*) Based on visual inspection, but no test of luminance levels or verification of full compliance with

relevant British Standards carried out.

24: Manual fire-extinguishing appliances

24.1: Firefighting equipment installed

appropriate to risk? N/A

The provision of fire-fighting equipment

within a block of this nature is not felt to

be practicable and may encourage residents

to stay and put themselves in danger.

24.2: Are all fire-extinguishing appliances

readily accessible? N/A

25: Fire extinguishing and other fixed systems

25.1: Are there any systems in place (gas

suppression, sprinklers etc.)? N/A


25.2: Suitable provision of fire fighter

switch (es) (for high voltage luminous tube

signs, lifts etc.)? N/A



Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements


26: Management of fire safety - procedures and arrangements

26.1: Fire safety is managed by: Tamar Housing Association.

26.2: Competent person(s): Tamar Housing Association.

26.3: Appropriate fire procedures in place? Yes

Suitable fire action notice is now displayed within the common area.

26.4: Suitable arrangements for

summoning the fire and rescue service? Yes

26.5: Are there suitable written

arrangements to meet the fire and rescue

service on arrival and provide relevant

information, including that relating to

hazards to fire fighters?

N/A

Non-staffed building.

26.6: Are there suitable arrangements for

ensuring that the premises have been

evacuated? N/A

It is understood that the property has been

constructed in accordance with building

regulations so that each apartment is

designed as a compartment, as such only

persons within the flat of origin would

evacuate.

26.7: Is there a suitable assembly point? N/A

There would appear to be a suitable large

area for an assembly point, however no

location identified within writing.

26.8: Have you produced Personal

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

(PEEPS)? N/A

26.9: Persons nominated and trained to

assist with evacuation? N/A

26.10: Routine in-house inspections of fire

precautions (e.g. In the course of health &

safety inspections)? Yes


Management of fire safety - training and drills


27: Management of fire safety - training and drills

27.1: Are all staff given adequate fire

safety training in induction? Yes Tamar Housing Association does have a

comprehensive induction process for its

entire staff.

27.2: Persons nominated and trained to use

fire-extinguishing appliances? N/A

It is felt not practicable to install fire-

fighting equipment within this building.

27.3: Are all staff given adequate periodic

"refresher training" at suitable intervals? Yes

Tamar Housing Association provides a

comprehensive induction programme that

includes fire safety within all its properties

that is regularly refreshed.

27.4: Staff training/information includes

fire risks in the premises? Yes


action in the event of a fire? Yes


action on hearing the fire alarm? N/A


method of operation of manual call points? N/A


means for summoning the fire and rescue

service? Yes

27.9: Are all staff with special

responsibilities (e.g. fire wardens) given

additional training? N/A

No staff permanently based at this

property.

27.10: Are fire drills carried out at

appropriate intervals? N/A Due to the nature of the building being

residential it is felt not practicable to

undertake fire drills.


Testing and maintenance


28: Testing and maintenance

28.1: Weekly testing of the fire alarm

system? Yes There was evidence available to indicate

that the caretaker, Nick Gordon undertakes

weekly tests of the fire alarm system.

Appendix 35

28.2: Servicing of the fire alarm system? Yes

Mr. Stuart Francis-Dubois provided

anecdotal information that indicates a

servicing regime has been instigated.

28.3: Monthly testing of the emergency

escape lighting? Yes

There was evidence available to indicate

that the caretaker, Nick Gordon undertakes

a monthly test of the emergency lighting

system.

Appendix 36


Testing and maintenance continued


28: Testing and maintenance cont.

28.4: Annual servicing of the emergency

lighting? Yes Mr. Stuart Francis-Dubois provided

anecdotal information that indicates a

servicing regime has been instigated.

28.5: Monthly check of the fire-

extinguishing appliances? N/A


28.6: Annual maintenance of fire-

extinguishing appliances? N/A

28.7: Periodic inspection of external escape

staircases and gangways? N/A

28.8: Six-monthly inspection and annual

testing of rising mains? N/A

28.9: Weekly and monthly testing, six

monthly and annual testing of firefighting

lifts?

N/A

28.10: Monthly and annual inspection of

all fire doors? Yes

Appendix 37

28.11: Routine checks of final exit doors

and/or security fastenings? Yes The entrance and exit door is used on a

daily basis; as such any defect will be

quickly reported and rectified.

28.12: Other relevant inspections or tests;

Smoke vents, Refuge points, Sprinkler

systems (25yr head test), Gas systems etc. N/A

28.13: Is a fire logbook kept on site? Yes

A sheet is located within the communal

area and is used to record the testing and

maintenance undertaken by the caretaker.


Media from 2016






Appendix 37

DisclaimerConfidentiality StatementSite informationRisk level estimatorRisk level estimator continuedAction planGeneral information - The premises & Occupants at risk of fireProperty fire loss experience, other relevant information, fire safety legislationFire hazards - ElectricalFire hazards - ElectricalFire hazards - SmokingFire hazard - ArsonProperty heating, cookingLightning strikeHouse keepingOutside contractors, Dangerous substances, other significant hazardsMeans of escapeMeans of escape continuedMeans of escape continuedCompartmentationFire safety signs and noticesFire safety signs and noticesMeans of giving warning in case of fireMeans of giving warning in case of fireMeans of giving warning in case of fireEmergency lighting, Manual fire extinguishing appliances, other fixed systemsManagement of fire safety - procedures and arrangementsManagement of fire safety - training and drillsTesting and maintenanceTesting and maintenance continuedMedia from 2016

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