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Fire Risk Assessment

Report

The Bonded Warehouse, Low Street, Panns Bank Sunderland

Carried out by: Mr. J. Stephenson On behalf of: University of Sunderland Dates of Assessment: 12th. January 2009

(This document requires to be reviewed at least annually)

“Regulatory Reform(Fire Safety) Order 2005 (The Order) John Stephenson and Associates. “Thorntree Farm”, 10 Russell Square, Seaton Burn, Newcastle upon Tyne. NE13 6HR

Tel.0191 2363735, Mobile 07960 262944. Fax 0191 2363735. e-mail [email protected]

REVIEW DATE NAME OF PERSON COMPLETING THE REVIEW

December 2011 M Swinburne

JOHN STEPHENSON AND ASSOCIATES

FIRE SAFETY/TRAINING CONSULTANTS

mailto:[email protected]

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The following parties agree and approve the content of the enclosed fire risk assessment: (1) On behalf of John Stephenson & Associates: John Stephenson Signature & Date ……………………………………………………… (2) On behalf of Facilities (Estates Services): Assistant Director Facilities (Estates Services) Signature & Date ……………………………………………………… (3) On behalf of Building Users: Assistant Director Facilities (Campus Services) Signature & Date ……………………………………………………… (4) On behalf of Health, Safety & Environment Team: Head of Health, Safety & Environment Signature & Date ………………………………………………………

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CONTENTS SECTION TITLE PAGE 1. Fire Risk Assessment Process 4 2. Statement of Fire Risk Assessment 4 3. Summary of Premises 5 4. Type of Building 6 5. Use of Premises 6 6. Named Responsible Persons 6 7. Summary of Risk Assessment Findings 7 8. Assessing the Individual Risks 8 9. Fire Safety Audit Checklist & Summary Fire Risk 10

Assessment Outcomes

10. Fire Risk Assessment & Action Plan 14

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1. Fire Risk Assessment Process: There are 5 key steps to fire risk assessment, as documented in ‘Fire safety risk assessment – sleeping accommodation’ (Department for Communities and Local Government Publications, 2006). Step 1 – Identify fire hazards: Identify:

Sources of ignition

Sources of fuel

Sources of oxygen Step 2 – Identify people at risk: Identify:

People in and around the premises

People especially at risk Step 3 – Evaluate, remove, reduce and protect from risk:

Evaluate the risk of a fire occurring

Evaluate the risk to people from fire

Remove or reduce fire hazards

Remove or reduce the risks to people o Detection and warning o Fire fighting o Escape routes o Lighting o Signs and notices o Maintenance

Step 4 – Record, plan, inform, instruct and train:

Record significant finding and action taken

Prepare an emergency plan

Inform and instruct relevant people; co-operate and co-ordinate with others

Provide training Step 5 – Review:

Keep assessment under review

Revise where necessary

2. Statement of Fire Risk Assessment: This risk assessment is made under the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. In addition to the existing control measures, completion of this risk assessment and the associated follow-up actions will ensure conformance with the standards set out in the BS 5588 series and the Department for Communities and Local Government publication: ‘Fire Safety Risk Assessment. Where appropriate and necessary the assessment included the consideration of sections 1-6, 8, 9, and 11 of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) and other legislation relevant to the premises.

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The risk assessment should be available for inspection or validation by any authorised person, and should be reviewed; Following a change of work practice, Following a significant change of staffing level, Following any structural or material change to the premises or processes conducted, Following any change in the fire precautions in the premises, Following any near miss or fire incident, At recommended intervals of no more than twelve months, * The hazards and/or risks identified (if any) in each section of this document increase the risk to life and/or property safety in and around the areas assessed. The additional controls, recommendations and actions given for each section in the action plan/summary section of the document should be dealt with accordingly to bring the assessed areas up to the required standard to reduce the risk to a level which is acceptable in the circumstances. Additionally, in accordance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, responsible persons must, among other things, ‘provide his employees with comprehensive and relevant information on the risks to them identified by the risk assessment, the preventative and protective measures taken and the procedures and measures, which are in place for serious and imminent danger. Before employing a young person the responsible person must, provide the parents of that young person with among other things, comprehensive and relevant information on the risks identified by the risk assessment, the preventative and protected measures taken and the procedures and measures, which are in place for serious and imminent danger. The responsible person must also co-operate with other relevant responsible persons (sharing the same occupancy) and inform them of relevant risks in his undertaking. References:

1. PAS 79 ‘Fire Risk Assessment – Guidance and recommended methodology’ (BSI) 2. Fire Safety risk assessments (ODPM) 3. Fire risk assessments (IOSH) 4. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 SI 1541

* See front of document for recommended review date.

3. Summary of Premises: Introduction Bonded Warehouse is a warehouse building that has been renovated to provide a shop and bar facility. General Information The occupancy levels tend to vary throughout the day and evening and can be occupied from early morning (shop and domestic staff) to late in the bar and function areas. The buildings have bar, shop function, office, along with the usual storage and toilet facilities. The building is protected by Automatic Fire Detection (Addressable/Zonal) and has Emergency Lighting and Fire

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Doors fitted throughout. All chemicals etc. have been COSHH assessed and procedures are in place for all aspects of the tasks carried out. The bins are kept locked in the garage until the day of collection.

4. Type of Building: At the time of assessment the construction of the building assessed was of traditional bricks, tiled roof and wood floors. Areas to be risk assessed: 634m2

5. Use of premises: At the time of assessment the building is used for student education. Occupancy: Staff, students and visitors Numbers employed: Staff?

Maximum numbers likely to resort to premises: - 250

6. Named Responsible Persons: (This section is to be kept updated and any changes recorded) Ultimate responsibility for the assessed premises lies with the Vice Chancellor via the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Resources). Nominated Building Manager for the assessed premises – Mike Wallbank deputy Linda Huxtable Note: Responsibility for complying with the “Order” rests with the “responsible person” in a workplace. This is the employer and any other person who may have control of any part of the premises, e.g. the occupier or owner. In all other premises the person or people in control of the premises will be responsible. If there is more than one responsible person in any type of premises (e.g. a multi occupied complex), all must take reasonable steps to co-operate and co-ordinate with each other. (“page 5 Guide to the Regulatory Reform Order 2005”).

7. Summary of Risk Assessment Findings:

1. Life Risk Medium 2. Building Risk Low 3. Standard of Fire Safety Management Good 4. Standard of Book and Record Keeping Satisfactory 5. Fire Training Records Good

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6. Occupants at Special Risk Disabled occupants: - as advised. Disabled members of the public may access premises without restrictions

7. Fire Loss Experience: None

The persons and property at risk is considered to be all persons and the whole building

for any fire incident. It is accepted that persons in the room and the immediate vicinity of the incident are at immediate risk.

8. Assessing the Individual Risks: In order to assign priority to the risks identified, assessors must determine how likely the threat posed by each hazard is to happen. The simplest method of carrying out this prioritisation exercise is through the use of the matrix below. In this matrix, assessors need firstly to determine how serious the hazard is (is it life threatening or merely an annoyance). This allows the assessor to place the hazard on the severity scale of the matrix (Low – Very High), running an imaginary line vertically from this placement gives one series of reference points. Assessors now need to determine the probability of the threat actually happening (is it likely to happen almost daily, or is it unlikely to ever happen). Once this probability has been determined an imaginary line can be horizontally run from the identified probability on the left of the matrix to where it meets the imaginary vertical line already run from the severity scale. Where the two lines cross gives the resultant prioritisation for action to be taken (see Risk Matrix). Key to Assessment of Risk and Recommendations for Action Risks have been assigned the following categories:- Low – whilst a risk exists the existing arrangements provide adequate control, however additional cost-effective controls may be considered to further improve organisational confidence Medium – the existing arrangements provide some measure of control, however additional cost-effective controls should be considered to provide the necessary organisational confidence High – the existing arrangements are below the accepted standards and additional controls are required to be implemented to achieve the necessary standards Very High - the existing arrangements are below the accepted standards and immediate additional controls are required to be implemented to achieve the necessary standards Actions within the Plan, have been assigned the following categories:- Urgent – indicates that the action is required, because the current arrangements do not meet required standards and pose a foreseeable risk to life and/or property if not addressed Required – indicates that the actions are necessary to achieve legislative standards, and should be included within an appropriate programme of work

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Strongly recommended and recommended – indicates that the actions reflect good practice, or are considered to be appropriate cost-effective actions which will further reduce the risk to life and property. What individuals are at risk within these premises? Staff, visitors, members of the public,

Risk Matrix:

Likelihood

Very Likely Could occur on a daily basis, or at least more than once per week

4 8 12 16

Likely Could occur more than once a month.

3 6 9 12

Unlikely Could occur within a year

2 4 6 8

Remote Only likely to occur once in a lifetime

1 2 3 4

Low negligible or light smoke inhalation

only

Medium light to heavy

smoke inhalation

High heavy smoke

inhalation & risk of burns

Very High risk of serious injury or death

Severity

Risk Rating & Action Priority Key:

RISK LEVEL: ACTION PRIORITY:

Very High Risk Immediate action to be completed (Required urgently)

High Risk Action to be completed promptly, preferably within 3 months (Required)

Medium Risk Action to be completed, preferably within 6 months (Strongly recommended)

Low Risk Action to be completed within 12 months (Recommended)

Low Risk No action required

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Action Responsibilities Key: Responsible Party

Responsible Manager Types of Actions Arising From FRAs

Facilities Assistant Director Facilities (Estate Services)

Infrastructure & technical fire systems

Faculties / Services

HS&E Strategic Leader / Designated Building Manager

Building user issues

HS&E Team Head of Health, Safety & Environment

Organisational & procedural arrangements

What individuals are at risk within these premises? University staff, students, visitors, members of the public, contractors (both site based & non-site based)

9. Fire Safety Audit Checklist & Summary Risk Assessment Outcomes Name of Organisation: University of Sunderland

Address of Premises: Low Street, Panns Bank, Sunderland

Building Number/Name and/or Department: The Bonded Warehouse

Date of Audit: 13th. January 2009 Audit undertaken by: Mr. J. Stephenson

NA Yes No Q Risk

1 FIRE PRECAUTIONS: REGULATORY REFORM (Fire Safety) ORDER 2005 (a) Have appropriate risk assessments been carried out in accordance with the

requirements of these regulations? √

(b) Have the assessments been properly recorded? √

(c) Have all necessary risk reduction/risk control measures been introduced? √

(d) Have staff been trained/retrained to provide for these measures? √

(e) Have risk reduction/risk control measures been monitored to ensure suitability and effectiveness?

√

(f) Are there procedures in place to ensure that the risk assessment is reviewed periodically or sooner if alterations are made to the premises, etc?

√

(g) Is there a plan of the premises indicating escape routes, location of fire fighting equipment, alarm system information, emergency lighting, risk storage areas Mains services switch gear etc.

√

2 FIRE PREVENTION – GENERAL

(a) Is there a system for controlling the quantities, safe use and storage of combustible and/or flammable substances (materials, liquids and gases) on the premises?

√

(b) Is the above system and its controls operating properly?

√

(c) Is the workplace clean and tidy with combustible waste materials and rubbish placed in designated containers?

√

(d) Is waste and rubbish collected regularly and placed in safe and secure receptacles outside the premises?

√

(e) Are all designated ‘smoking’ areas clearly indicated? √

(f) Do smoking areas have suitable facilities for the disposal of smoking materials which are emptied regularly?

√

(g) Are "No Smoking" rules rigorously enforced? √

(h) Are employees working in high-risk areas (eg areas where ‘hot’ processes or flammable/combustible liquids/gases are used) aware of the risks and the safety procedures to adopt?

√

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NA Yes No Q Risk

(i) Is all upholstered furniture in good condition?

√

(j) Prior to leaving the premises, are all rooms and areas inspected to check for fire risks and that electrical appliances have been switched off?

√

(k) Have appropriate measures been taken to reduce the risk of arson? √

(l) Have all staff received basic fire prevention instruction? √

(m) Do staff understand the need to report any potential fire hazards? √

(n) Do staff understand the role of self-closing and other fire-resisting doors (ie the need to keep them closed and free of obstruction to ensure that they will control the spread of fire and smoke)?

√

(o) Are all fire-resisting and smoke-stop doors, especially those on hold-open devices, closed at night?

√

(p) If any permit-to-work systems are in place, are they operated correctly at all times?

√

3 FIRE PREVENTION - ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION, APPLIANCES, ETC

(a) Have all electrical systems and equipment been tested in accordance with the provisions of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989?

√

(b) Are records regarding regular testing of installation, equipment and portable appliances up to date?

√

(c) Is flexible electrical cable used safely (e.g. use kept to a minimum and only short lengths used)?

√

(d) Is there NO evidence of overloading of electrical circuits? √

(e) Is electrical equipment (e.g. light bulbs / fittings and any electrical heating appliances) kept well away from combustible materials?

√

(f) Are staff aware that only trained personnel authorised by management can make repairs or alterations to electrical systems and equipment?

√

(g) Where appropriate is there protection from lightning? √

4 FIRE PREVENTION – HEATING AND COOKING APPLIANCES, ETC

(a) Are all heating appliances safe (e.g. securely fixed in position, suitably guarded, and with an adequate clear space free of storage of any kind)?

√

(b) Are all cooking appliances safe (e.g. securely fixed in position, properly maintained and used only for their originally intended purpose)?

√

(c) Are arrangements for liquid/gaseous fuel supplies for heating and cooking equipment adequate (e.g. easily accessible with well marked shut-off valves)?

√

(d) Are appropriately qualified/registered contractors used to carry out all installation and maintenance of liquid/gaseous fuel supply equipment?

√

(e) Are staff aware that only trained personnel authorised by management can make repairs or alterations to liquid/gaseous fuel-fired equipment and fuel supply systems?

√

5 BUILDINGS, PLANT AND MACHINERY

(a) Are all fire/smoke barriers in good condition (e.g. with any openings for pipes ducts, etc properly protected by provision of fire-resisting materials or fire dampers?)

√

(b) Are fire dampers tested regularly for correct operation and results recorded? √

(c) Are there proper systems and procedures in place to control work on new buildings and/or alterations, repairs and decoration of premises, such that no fire hazards are introduced?

√

6 ESCAPE FACILITIES

(a) Are fire exits sufficient (i.e. a sufficient number and of sufficient width) to enable the people present in any and all areas to evacuate safely?

√

(b) Do all final exits lead to a place of safety? √

(c) Are all fire exits readily available? √

(d) Are all final exits and intermediate doors easily operable from the inside without the use of a key?

√

(e) Are all corridors, gangways and stairways forming part of escape routes free from obstruction and not used for storage?

√

(f) Are floor and stairway surfaces in good condition and free from tripping and slipping hazards (including any external stairs and paths)?

√

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NA Yes No Q Risk

(g) Are fire-resisting and smoke-stop doors in good condition, with fully operating self-closing devices and the doors closing fully onto rebates?

√

(h) Do all doors on escape routes open in the direction of travel? √

(i) Are all escape routes provided with adequate lighting at all times when building is occupied.

√

(j) Is adequate emergency lighting provided and is it fully tested monthly(in house) and serviceable? (SEE 12ii )

√

(k) Have appropriate provisions been made for the safety of persons with disabilities, e.g. assistance, refuges?

√

11 FIRE SERVICE FACILITIES AND LIAISON

(a) Is there adequate access to the site and all buildings to enable Fire Brigade vehicles to get close enough for fire-fighting and rescue purposes?

√

(b) Are all fire hydrants in the vicinity clearly indicated and accessible? √

(c) Is the Fire Brigade familiar with the premises? √

7 FIRE ACTION AND EMERGENCY EVACUATION

(a) Are there clearly defined written fire action and emergency evacuation procedures, including provision for role calls?

√

(b) Are there “PEEPS” (Personal emergency evacuation plan) in place and are they adequate and reviewed?

√

(c) Are all employees fully aware of these procedures and their own particular duties and responsibilities in the event of an evacuation?

√

(d) Are suitable ‘Fire Action’ notices prominently displayed around the premises (including on the room side of all hotel and similar bedroom doors)?

√

(e) Have appropriate staff been instructed to summon the fire brigade for all fires, no matter how small?

√

(f) Are there sufficient fire wardens available to provide for all working hours (including lunch and tea breaks) taking into account holidays and sick leave?

√

(g) Have appropriate arrangements been made for dealing with those who are not normally on the premises (e.g. visitors and contractors)?

√

(h) Are the fire evacuation assembly areas in safe locations, clear of the building and away from fire brigade vehicle access and parking?

√

(i) Are there alternative evacuation areas available in the event that the nominated ones are not available?

√

(j) Are emergency evacuation drills carried out at least once per year? √

(k) There are NO young persons employed (for definition see page 132 of guide) √

8 FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEMS

(a) Can a fire alarm be raised without placing anyone in danger? √

(b) Is the fire alarm system in full working order? √

(c) Are there fire alarm call points located adjacent to every exit from each floor and from each building?

√

(d) Are all alarm call points unobstructed and clearly visible? √

(e) Are the audible signals from the fire alarm operated weekly and clearly audible throughout the premises?

√

9 FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

(a) Is there adequate provision of portable fire extinguishers which are of suitable type for the fire risks where they are positioned?

√

(b) Are all portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets suitably located, positioned on brackets securely fixed to the wall and available for immediate use (not obstructed or hidden)?

√

(c) Are the locations of all portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets clearly identifiable even without the provision of appropriate signs?

√

10 NOTICES AND SIGNS.

(a) Are appropriate notices and signs of the type 'Fire Door Keep Closed' provided on all visible sides of all fire-resisting and smoke-stop doors?

√

(b) Are appropriate 'pictogram' notices provided on all fire exit doors and routes such that at least one sign is always visible for all points on an exit route?

√

(c) Do all ‘panic bar' fire exit doors have suitably positioned 'Push Bar to Open' signs? Do all ‘panic bar', ‘push pad’ fire exit doors have suitably positioned, current standard 'Push Bar to Open' , ‘Push Pad to Open’ signs?

√

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NA Yes No Q Risk

(d) Have the Fire Authority for the area been informed of any hazardous materials or other issues which may pose a threat during fire fighting operations e.g. Biochemical, radiation etc.?

√

(e) Have environmental risks from fire occurring been assessed? √

12 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE BY QUALIFIED PERSON/COMPANY

(a) Are the required regular tests and maintenance carried out on.

(i) fire detection and alarm systems? √

(ii) emergency lighting systems? √

(iii) fire extinguishers? √

(iv) automatic sprinkler systems? √

(v) other fixed suppression systems installed? √

(vi) smoke and smoke/heat control systems? √

(vii) automatic closing doors, shutters, etc? √

(viii) emergency generators? √

(ix) evacuation and fire-fighting lifts? √

13 RECORDS

(a) Is a dedicated (in-house) record kept in the Fire Management File of:

(i) fire alarm actuations, servicing and tests, √

(ii) emergency light tests, servicing and checks, √

(iii) staff fire safety training, √

(iv) fire evacuation drills √

(v) fire extinguisher/hose reels checks and tests, √

(vi) servicing and testing of the fixed fire fighting installations provided, √

(vii) means of escape checks, √

(viii) tests of automatic door release mechanisms, √

(ix) tests of acoustic door holding devices, (Dorgard) √

(x) tests of automatic, mechanical ventilation systems, √

(xi) portable electrical appliance tests, √

(xii) checks of any portable lamps or torches. √

Are copies of the fire risk assessment and the emergency action plan kept in a safe place away from the premises?

√

Actions Summary Table:

Action Risk Rating

Number of Actions

Very High 0

High 1

Medium 13

Low 10

Low – no action required 75

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FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT and ACTION PLAN

Observation Risk Level

Remedial Action Recommended HS&E Strategic

leader

Lead Coordinator

Target Completion

Date

Comments

1. FIRE PRECAUTIONS: REGULATORY REFORM ORDER (Fire Safety) ORDER 2005 (a) Appropriate risk assessments have not been carried out in accordance with the requirements of these regulations.

M Ensure a fire risk assessment is carried out, that it is recorded and a copy kept in the Fire Safety Management File, a further copy should be held be held in a place of safety from the premises.

HS&E Team

Malcolm Swinburne

Assessment and review process in place

(g) There was no plan of the premises indicating Fire Safety related information

L A plan of the premises should be provided which should indicate all fire safety features relating to the building this would include:- Escape routes, lines of fire resistance, fire alarm and emergency lighting, signs and notices, fire fighting equipment, service shut off points and any specific risk areas.

Facilities Strategic lead

No Progress

2. FIRE PREVENTION - GENERAL

b) The system for controlling the quantities, safe use and storage of combustible and/or flammable substances (materials, liquids and gases) on the premises is not effective/operating correctly. Observations:

M Review and amend the system, make all relevant staff aware of the changes during training.

Student Union Strategic lead

At the time of assessment it could not be established if the curtains on the stairs were flame retardant.

M Investigate the same and if they do not conform to current standards, replace or treat with a flame retardant substance.


There are items being stored in the circulation spaces in the back shop.

M This area is only ever used by staff with the maximum number being three. The stored items for this number of people will not hinder the use of the spaces and non of the items were stored nears potential heat sources.


(k) There is no Arson Prevention policy in place.

M Create an Arson Prevention procedure. The procedure should be incorporated in Normal Operating Procedures, be recorded in a Fire Safety Management File and form part of Staff Fire Safety Training.

HS&E Team

Not completed yet due to other priorities

(l) Staff have not received basic fire prevention instruction.

M Implement a Staff Fire Safety Training programme and ensure basic Fire Safety Training is incorporated in induction training for new staff. (See appendix Fire Safety Training)


(n) Staff do not appear to understand the role of self-closing and other fire-resisting doors (ie the need to keep them closed and free of obstruction to ensure that they will

M Review Staff Fire Safety Training and implement a programme of training. Follow-up training should be implemented at regular intervals. (See appendix Fire Safety Training)


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control the spread of fire and smoke) Observations:

Office. The door self closing device had been disconnected.

M This was repaired immediately. If the door must be kept open for health and safety reasons then this must only be achieved by the use of a recognised hold open device that will release automatically upon the fire alarm sounding.


The door between the shop and the storage area was wedged open

M If the door must be kept open for health and safety reasons then this must only be achieved by the use of a recognised hold open device that will release automatically upon the fire alarm sounding. This is true of any doors in the premises. Educate staff. Monitor.


3. FIRE PREVENTION - ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION, APPLIANCES, ETC

(b) Records regarding regular testing of installation, equipment and portable appliances are not up to date.

M Up to date test records should be kept regarding all electrical equipment. A system of recording should be designed and implemented. The records should be kept with the Fire Safety Management File and should be the subject of regular review. There should be managerial control on electrical items of equipment, which are brought into the premises by members of staff. All such items should be included in the periodic electrical safety testing, which takes place/is recommended. This should be carried out before permission for the use of the items is given. Student equipment should be subject to PAT testing unless evidence is presented proving that the equipment is under twelve months old or has been tested.


4. FIRE PREVENTION – HEATING AND COOKING APPLIANCES, ETC

(c) Arrangements for liquid/gaseous fuel supplies for heating and cooking equipment appeared inadequate.

L Such equipment should be easily accessible and have well marked shut-off valves. A review of access and marking should be undertaken by a suitably qualified person and any recommendations in the ensuing report implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File.


Full survey yet to be carried out.

The shut off valves were not clearly marked. L Supply and fix the same. Facilities Strategic lead

5. BUILDINGS, PLANT AND MACHINERY

(a) Fire/smoke barriers appeared to be in a M A survey of the condition of Fire/smoke barriers should be carried out Facilities Full survey yet to be carried

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state of disrepair.

Observations:

by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations or repairs mentioned in the ensuing report should be implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File

Strategic lead

out.

At the time of assessment several ceiling tiles were found to be missing.

M Replace the same.


“

Plant room – There are two small holes in the corners of the plant room that lead into the terraced accommodation next door.

M Make good the same with an intumescent material Facilities Strategic lead

“

(b) No evidence was available to show that fire dampers were tested regularly for correct operation.

M Provide such evidence or have all dampers tested and then design and implement a system for the regular testing and recording of results of fire dampers. The system should be incorporated in Normal Operating Procedures, be recorded in a Fire Safety Management File and form part of Staff Fire Safety Training.


“

6. ESCAPE FACILITIES

(e) Corridors and or stairways forming part of escape routes were not free from obstruction and storage.

M Refuse, combustible storage and obstructions should not be allowed to accumulate in any of the staircases and exit routes in the premises. Clear and direct exit routes should be maintained. Items which pose a potential fire hazard or those which could cause an obstruction should not be located in corridors or stairways. Items not be stored on means of escape routes include:- electrical equipments, such as photocopiers, portable heaters of any type, heaters which have unprotected naked flames or radiant bars, fixed heaters using a gas supply cylinder, where the cylinder is within the escape route, oil-fuelled heaters or boilers, cooking appliances, upholstered furniture, coat racks, temporarily stored items including items in transit, eg furniture, beds, laundry, waste bins etc, lighting using naked flames, gas boilers, pipes, meters or other fittings ( except those permitted in the standards supporting the building regulations and installed in accordance with the ‘Gas Safety Regulations). Electrical equipment (other than normal lighting, emergency escape lighting, fire alarm systems, or equipment associated with a security system, designated smoking areas.


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Observation:

The designated smoking area is at present just outside of the fire exit doors leading from the function room.

M Relocate the smoking area to a point past the escape gates.


(g) Fire-resisting and smoke-stop doors in the premises in do not conform with current standards, some had badly operating self-closing devices with doors not closing fully onto rebates, non were fitted with cold smoke seals. A spot check of the doors identified the following:- Observation:

M A survey of Fire Resistant doors should be carried out by a suitably qualified person to ensure such doors comply with current regulations. Any defects / repairs / replacement identified should be carried out and a programme of regular inspection, repair and maintenance implemented.



Reception – Function room – There is an excessive gap between the double doors leading to the stairs.

M Make good the same. Facilities Strategic lead


7.FIRE ACTION AND EMERGENCY EVACUATION

(d) Suitable ‘Fire Action’ notices were not prominently displayed around the premises.

L A survey of the provision of Fire Action notices should be undertaken by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations in the ensuing report should implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File.


(j) There was no evidence to prove that emergency evacuation drills are carried out at least once per year.

H Fire Evacuation drills should be carried out at least once per year. The drill should be observed and comments recorded in writing regarding any shortcomings. The drill forms part of the Staff Fire Safety Training and the record should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File. Any shortcomings identified should be rectified.


8. FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEMS

(a) A fire alarm cannot be raised in the following areas without placing anyone in danger. Observations:

M The Fire alarm provision in these areas should be reviewed by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations mentioned in the ensuing report should be implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File



Due to the past smoking laws heat detectors were installed to cut out false alarms. This surprisingly is mirrored in the lift room.

M Heat detectors not in risk rooms are to be replaced by smoke detectors.


“

It could not be established if the sound system and the live music system is linked into the fire alarm system to cut off the

M Investigate the same.


“

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same on the actuation of the fire alarm.

There is no visual warning devices in the café or function room areas.

M Consider the provision of the same.


“

It was not known if the magnetic lock on the escape gates functions when the fire alarm is actuated.

M Test the same when the fire alarm is tested. Record in the Fire Management File.


“

(b) The fire alarm system did not appear to be in the full working order. Observation:

M An inspection and test of the Fire Alarm system should be undertaken by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations mentioned in the ensuing report should be implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File


“

There was no evidence to prove that the fire alarm system is periodically serviced by a qualified person/company.

M Provide the same or have the system serviced. Facilities Strategic lead

“

9. FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

(a) The provision of portable fire extinguishers of suitable type for the fire risks where they are positioned adequate appears inadequate in the following areas. Observations:

M The portable fire extinguisher provision in these areas should be reviewed by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations mentioned in the ensuing report should be implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File. .


“

The Water extinguisher adjacent to the door is obstructed by due to the counter being re-located.

M Re-locate the same to make it readily available Facilities Strategic lead

“

There is no provision of CO2 extinguishers in the shop.

M Provide the same and locate behind the counter.

Facilities Phil Marsh

“

Café Bar – There is no CO2 provision in this area.

M Provide the same and locate and wall mount behind the bar beside the water extinguisher.


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The water extinguisher behind the bar is not wall mounted.

M Wall mount the same.


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Kitchen – The Fire Blanket is too near to the risk it is covering.

M Re-locate the same to beside the door Facilities Strategic lead

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There is no Wet Chemical extinguisher to cover the frying ranges

M Provide and fit the same.


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Function area – The Foam Spray extinguisher is prone to vandalism in its present location.

M Relocate the same to behind the bar adjacent to the CO2 ext.


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There is no Foam Spray Ext. at the Stairhead or Main Entrance.

M Provide and fit the same. Facilities Strategic lead

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(b) Are all portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets suitably located, positioned on brackets securely fixed to the wall and available for immediate use (not obstructed or hidden)?

L Fix/re-fix/re-hang portable fire extinguishers on wall mounted brackets to the corner of the landing below. They will then not be directly in the way of people using the escape route. Remove obstructions and maintain fire extinguishers clear of obstruction.


10. NOTICES AND SIGNS.

(b) Appropriate 'pictogram' notices were not provided on all fire exit doors and routes such that at least one sign is always visible for all points on an exit route.

L The signage provision should conform to current standards. Provision of signs on exit doors and routes should be surveyed by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations mentioned in the ensuing report should be implemented. A copy of the report should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File. Upgrade the signage and include the route to the ground floor bar/café. And should include the external route via the automatic gate.


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(c) Not All ‘panic bar'/push pad” fire exit doors have suitably positioned 'Push Bar/pad to Open' signs.

L Provide push bar/pad notices on all doors fitted with push bar facilities. Notices should conform to current standards. Provide the same on the double doors from the bar.


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(d) listed are the deficiencies in signage which should be rectified. Observations:

L A review of the fire safety signage provided should be undertaken by a suitably qualified person. Any recommendations should be implemented and a copy of any report and action taken should be kept in the Fire Safety Management file.


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Double doors from Bar - Fire Exit Keep Clear.

L Provide and fit the same. Facilities Strategic lead

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Lift Action. L Provide and fit the same. Facilities Strategic lead

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Lift room – Dry Powder ext. ID/Loc. L Provide and fit the same. Facilities Strategic lead

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All Services (gas and electrics). L Provide and fit the same. Facilities Strategic lead

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11. FIRE SERVICE FACILITIES AND LIAISON

12. TESTING and MAINTENANCE

(a) There was no evidence at the time of assessment to show that the required regular tests and maintenance had been carried out on:-

M Facilities Strategic lead

(ii) Emergency lighting systems. M Whilst there is evidence of a bi-annual full test and inspection of the emergency light system. There is no evidence that a system for weekly visual inspection of the emergency light fittings for correct operation and cleanliness which is recorded has been implemented. Or a monthly test to simulate a failure of the supply and show that each lamp illuminated and which is recorded. Such a system should be devised and implemented.


Ongoing discussions resource issues

13. RECORDS

(a) There was no evidence at the time of the assessment that dedicated records of the following were being kept:-


(i) fire alarm actuations, servicing and weekly tests.

L Records of fire alarm actuations, reason for actuation, weekly testing and annual or interim testing and maintenance records must be kept in the Fire Safety Management File


(iii) Staff fire safety training L All staff Fire safety training including induction, fire awareness, fire warden/marshal and refresher training should be recorded and should include the names of those taking part, the content and the person /company responsible for delivery. The records should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File.


(iv) Fire evacuation drills L Fire evacuation drills should be carried out a minimum of once per year. The date, time, numbers involved, time to evacuate and any evaluation reports must be recorded. The records should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File.


(vii) Means of escape checks. L Records of all periodic checks made on the means of escape should be kept in the Fire Safety Management File.


Fire Risk Assessment Report - DocuShare · 1 Fire Risk Assessment Report The Bonded Warehouse, Low...

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