fire risk assessment - microsoftbtckstorage.blob.core.windows.net/site1943/fire risk...the fire and...

Building Consultancy LtdCommercial & Domestic Building Consultants

13 Delves Road, Walsall, West Midlands. WS1 3JZ (No. 580708)(Tel / Fax): 01922 644843 (Mobile): 0779 5412360 / 0782 1644590

(Email): [email protected](Web): www.epcsurvf?yorswalsall.co.uk / www.ggbcl.co.uk

Fire Risk Assessment

137 Goldthorn TerraceWolverhampton. WV3 OED

,

FIRE RISK FORM 137 Goldthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton

GENERAL INFORMATION

1 THE PREMISES - 137 Goldthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton1.1 No. of floors -1.2 No of Blocks

Approx. floor area (m2

122m2

1.3 Brief details of construction Wails Generally solid brickworkGround, part timber suspended, part solid

Floors First, timber suspended

Second, timber suspendedRoof Dual pitched

Windows Timber casement1.4

1.5 Compartmentation vertical separation of the stairwellVertical and Horizontal separation of flats

1.6No of stairwells Single stair from ground - first floors, serving access to the first floor flat

Private stair from first floor (entrance to flat 137a) to the accommodation rooms on thesecond floor

1.7 Use of premises Private residential flats

1.8 Areas of flats

Ground floor flatUpper flat 'A1

Ground floor

First floorSecond Floor

27.9 m2

44.7 m2

41.5

G and G Building Consultancy Ltd November 2012 Page 1 of 15


1.9

1.10

-

22.1

2.22.3

2.4

vlaximum travel distance within a flat to the entrance door

Ground floor flat

hrstiloor, Hat z

Escape routes

gnoring the possible use of windows there is only one route for means ofescape which is from the flat entrance door to the common hallway

The maximum travel distance is from the front lounge, in the region of 5.5mr

The day room accommodation is located on the first floor, with the bedroomsocated on the second floor

The maximum travel distance on the first floor is from the utility room, leadingto the entrance door of the flat and the protected access route in the regionof 10.5mr

Egress from the second floor is by using the private stair down to the hall atfirst floor level and then leaving the flat onto the protected access route,horizontal travel of approximately 10mr plus the use of the stairs. However byextending the protection between the first and second floors the traveldistance is reduced to 7mr.

The floor layouts in this instance is a hybrid of Plan 12 as detailed in 'A guideto Fire Protection in Multi-Occupied Residential Properties' produced byhome stamp.The complication being the second floor, which makes the building threestories and in accordance with current legislation additional fire precautionsare necessary in terms of protecting the means of escape.

As the travel distance exceeds 9m, the precautions in the eventgreater than the adjoining buildings where the travel distance is7.5mr. More specifically additional fire doors are recommendedfloor.

of a fire areapprox.to the first

The obvious route in the event of a fire is from the individual flats, down thestairs from where there is a door at the front and rear of the property.

THE OCCUPANTSApproximate maximum number:Ground floor flat, 1 bedroom Ground floor

Upper flat, 2 bedrooms Second floorNo of residence, potentially using a single stair

No of residence, potentially using the front entrance as a means of escapeApproximate number of employees at any one time:Maximum number of members of public at any one time: Allowance for visitors (assume 2 per flat)

L.

L

6

6

N/Ai

For the purpose of the assessment it is assumed that all flats are occupiedAssociated times / hours of occupation:

at all times

It should be assumed that in the evening and overnight each flat will be fully occupied by the full-timeresidence and possible visitor. Therefore reasonable to assume a maximum number of people usingthe - main entrance in the event of an emergency

10



33.13.2

3.3

3.4

3.54

5

5.1

5.2

66.1

6.2

OCCUPANTS ESPECIALLY AT RISK FROM FIRESleeping occupants: as aboveDisabled occupants:

No wheelchair access to the First & Second floors, access into the ground floor flatwould require negotiating a three steps up to the main entrance

In our opinion it is reasonable to assume that there may be1 wheelchair user on theground floor

Occupants in remote areas and lone workers:

The flats are family residences, however in terms of egress there are noYoung persons: specific issues as it is assumed that very young children would not be in

the flats unattended by responsible people

Others (please state):

10

1

N/A

FIRE LOSS EXPERIENCEWe are not aware of a fire having occurred at the premises

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

The front entrance / exit opens leads onto a relatively narrow private foot path, leading onto Goldthorn Hill

The rear entrance / exit opens on to a car parking area which is the most likely entrance and egress route asthis leads to / from the carpark.

RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATIONThe following fire safety legislation applies to these premises:

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into effect in October 2006

The above legislation is enforced by:

The Fire and Rescue Authorities are the enforcing authorities for the Order, and as such can ask to inspectyour premises and see your Fire Risk Assessment. If there are found to be serious risks that are not beingmanaged, they have a statutory duty to enforce the Order. This can include issuing Enforcement Orders and,if necessary, taking you to court.

Tick

V

V


FIRE RISK FORM 137 Goidthorn lerrace, woivernampion

6.

RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION (continued)Other legislation that makes significant requirements for fire precautions in thesepremises (other than the Building Regulations 2010):BS 4422 Fire. Vocabulary. British Standards Institution.

BS PD 6512-3 Use of elements of structural fire protection with particular reference to the recommendationsgiven in BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design and construction of buildings. Guide to the fire performanceof glass. British Standards Institution.

BS EN 81 Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts. British Standards Institution.

BS 5041-1 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for landing valves for wet risers. British StandardsInstitution.

BS 5041-2 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for landing valves for dry risers. British StandardsInstitution

BS 5041-3 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for inlet breechings for dry riser inlets. BritishStandards Institution

BS 5041-4 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for boxes for landing valves for dry risers. BritishStandards Institution.

BS 5041-5 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for boxes for foam inlets and dry riser inlets. BritishStandards InstitutionBS 9990 Code of practice for non-automatic fire fighting systems in buildings. British Standards Institution.

BS 7944 Type 1 heavy duty fire blankets and type 2 heavy duty heat protective blankets. British StandardsInstitution.

BS EN 1869 Fire blankets. British Standards Institution. BS ISO 14520-1 Gaseous fire-extinguishingsystems. Physical properties and system design. General requirements. British Standards Institution

BS 5266-2 Emergency lighting. Code of practice for electrical low mounted way guidance systems foremergency use. British Standards Institution.

BS EN 60598-1 Luminaries. General requirements and tests. British Standards Institution. 138

BS 5499-1 Graphical symbols and signs. Safety signs, including fire safety signs. Specification for geometrichapes, colours and layout. British Standards Institution.

BS EN 1634-3 Fire resistance tests for door and shutter assemblies. Smoke control doors and shutters.British Standards Institution.

Draft BS EN 14637 Building hardware. Electrically controlled hold-open systems for fire/smoke doorssemblies. Requirements, test methods, application and maintenance. (Consultation document.) British

Standards InstitutionBS EN 45020 Standardisation and related activities. General vocabulary. British Standards Institution.

S0 13784-2 Reaction to fire tests for sandwich panel building systems. Part 2: test method for large rooms,ritish Standards Institution.

S 5268-4.2 Structural use of timber. Fire resistance of timber structures. Recommendations for calculatingre resistance of timber stud walls and joisted floor constructions. British Standards Institution.

Tick

V

V

V

V

V

V

V

V

V



FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION OR CONTROL

• • . • • • - . .1

7.17.27.37.47.57.67.7

88.18.28.38.48.58.6

99.1

9.2

9.3

ELECTRICAL SOURCES OF IGNITIONReasonable measures taken to prevent fires of electrical origin? More specifically:There were no records or evidence of periodic testing

Fixed installation periodically inspected and tested?Portable appliance testing (where appropriate) carried out?Suitable policy regarding the use of personal electrical appliances?Suitable limitation of trailing leads and adapters?

NoNoNoNo

No

Comments and hazards observed:The landlord / managing agent should instigate periodic flats on the landlords electrical installation

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants using electrical equipment, includingportable heaters. However tenants should be advice on the risk of old, damage electrical equipment andtrailing cables all of which increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

Where possible the managing agent should instigate periodic checks on the electrical installations to eachflat

SMOKINGReasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of smoking? More specifically:Smoking prohibited on the premises?Smoking prohibited in appropriate areas?Suitable arrangements for those who wish to smoke?This policy appeared to be observed at time of inspection?

No

NoNoNANA

Comments and hazards observed

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants who wish to smoke. However tenantsshould be advice on the risk of leaving naked flames etc. and that under no circumstances should smokedetectors, domestic or commercial be disconnected to avoid detection.

ARSONDoes basic security against arson by outsiders appear reasonable?

External doors where locked at the time of our inspections there an absence of unnecessary fire load in close proximity to premises or available forgnition by outsiders?

Comments and hazards observed:

Yes

Yes

None

10 PORTABLE HEATERS AND HEATING INSTALLATIONS10.1

10.2

10.3

Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as practicable? Not practical

Both flats have central heating served by gas fire with back boiler in the living roomf portable heaters are used:s the use of the more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or LPG appliances)avoided?

Are suitable measures taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of combustiblematerials?

Are fixed heating installations subject to regular maintenance?

NA

NA

No



10.4 Comments and hazards observed

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants using electrical equipment, includingportable heaters. However tenants and private owners should be advice on the risk of old, damage electricalequipment and trailing cables all of which increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

11 COOKING11.

11.2

11.3

1212.1

12.2

13

13.1

13.2

13.3

1414.1

14.2

14.3

14.4

Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of cooking?More specifically:Filters changed and ductwork cleaned regularly?Suitable extinguishing appliances available?

Yes

N/A

N/A


The landlord / managing agent have no control over cooking equipment or habits of the residence. Howevertenants should be advice on the risk of leaving cookers and naked flames unattended for any period of time.

LIGHTNINGDoes the premises have a lightening protection system? No

Comments and deficiencies observed:The building is not particularly high

HOUSEKEEPING

The only house keeping is the attendance ofIs the standard of housekeeping adequate? cleaning and maintenance staff as required.

There is no permanent/ full time staff on siteYes

More specifically:Combustible materials appear to be separated from ignition sources?Avoidance of unnecessary accumulation of combustible materials or waste?Appropriate storage of hazardous materials?Avoidance of inappropriate storage of combustible materials?

NA

No

NA

NA


The space beneath the stairs on the ground floor is open and could easily be used tostore bulk items. Tenants' should be advised that the use of this space could increasethe risk of fire and obstruct the final exit door.

HAZARDS INTRODUCED BY OUTSIDE CONTRACTORS AND BUILDING WORKSAre fire safety conditions imposed on outside contractors?s there satisfactory control over works carried out on the premises by outsidecontractors (incl. "hot work" permits)?: there are in-house maintenance personnel, are precautions taken during "hot work"ncl. use of hot work permits?

Yes

Yes

N/A

Comments



1115.1

15.2

15.3

16

16.1

16.2

DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES

Are the general fire precautions adequate to address the hazards associated withdangerous substances used or stored within the premises?If 15.1 applies, has a specific risk assessment been carried out, as required by theDangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002?

Comments

N/A

N/A

None

OTHER SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARDS THAT WARRANT CONSIDERATION INCLUDING PROCESSHAZARDS THAT IMPACT ON GENERAL FIRE PRECAUTIONS

Hazards: None

Comments and deficiencies observed:

Refer to item 1 3.3 above

FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES17

17.117.2

17.3

17.4

MEANS OF ESCAPE FROM FIRE

It is considered that the premises is provided with reasonable means of escape in case of fire

More specifically:Adequate design of escape routes?Adequate provision of exits?Exits easily and immediately openable where necessary?Fire exits open in direction of escape where necessary?Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire exits?Satisfactory means of securing exits?Reasonable distances of travel:

Yes

Yesin part

NA

Yes

YesRefer to recommendations

Refer to section 1 of this reportWhere there is a single direction of travel?Where there are alternative means of escape?Suitable protection of escape routes?Suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms?Escape routes unobstructed?

t is considered that the premises is provided reasonable arrangements for means of escape fordisabled people.

There is no facilities / access for wheelchair usersground floor

Whilst not specifically design for wheelchair users,floor would be suitable for means of escape

above

the ground

YesNA

YesNo

No

Yes


tedroom and living room doors need to be upgraded or replaced

The basic design layout of the flat doesn't meet the requirements of present legislation

The front doors to both flats need to be upgraded

Reports on individual doors in given elsewhere in this report



18 MEASURES TO LIMIT FIRE SPREAD AND DEVELOPMENT18.1 It is considered that there is:

Compartmentation of a reasonable standardAs far as can be determined by a visual inspection the compartmentation been individual flats and betweenthe flats and the stair well are intact and provide the required SOminute fire resistance

Yessubject toconfirmation

18.2 As far as can reasonably be ascertained, fire dampers are provided as necessary to protect critical means ofiscape against passage of fire, smoke and combustion productions in the early stages of fire?

N

18.3 Comments and deficiencies observed: N

19 EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING19.1 Reasonable standard of emergency escape lighting system provided? N19.2 Comments and deficiencies observed:

An emergency light is located in the ground floor hallway, theemergency light on the first floor landing has been removed.

Refer to recommendations

20 FIRE SAFETY SIGNS AND NOTICES20.1 Reasonable standard of fire safety signs and notices? N20. Comments and deficiencies observed:


21 MEANS OF GIVING WARNING IN CASE OF FIRE21.1 Reasonable manually operated electrical fire alarm system provided?21.; Automatic fire detection provided? No21.3 Extent of automatic fire detection generally appropriate No21.4 Remote transmission of alarm signals? NA21.5 Comments and deficiencies observed:

Refer to recommendations22 MANUAL FIRE EXTINGUISHING APPLIANCES

22.1 Reasonable provision of portable fire extinguishers? _NoNoNo

22.2 Hose reels provided?22.3 Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily accessible?22.4 Comments and deficiencies observed: Fire blanket should be installed to each kitchen

23 RELEVANT AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS23.1 Type of system:

None23.2 lomments: None

24 OTHER RELEVANT FIXED SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT24.1 'ype of fixed system: None

24.2 Comments:24.3 iuitable provision of fire-fighters switches) for high voltage luminous tube signs, etc. NA

24.4 omments: None



MANAGEMENT OF FIRE SAFETY2eV PROCEDURES AND ARRANGEMENTS

25.1 Fire safety is managed by:

25.2In this instance it is not practical to have a nominated person responsible for evacuationof the individual flats

N

25.3 Appropriate fire procedures in place?More specifically:Are procedures in the event of fire appropriate and properly documented? NAre there suitable arrangements for summoning the fire and rescue service? NAre there suitable arrangements to meet the fire and rescue service on arrival andprovide relevant information incl. that relating to hazards to fire-fighters?

N

Are there suitable arrangements for ensuring that premises have been evacuated? JN_Ncs there a suitable fire assembly points)?

Are there adequate procedures for evacuation of any disabled people who are likely tobe present?

Nc

tomments

n this instance it is reasonable that the residence are responsible individually for the eviction of their own flat.

'he criteria's in this case is that there is no system in place to alert the residence of other flats in the event of a fire.

25.4 Persons nominated and trained to use fire extinguishing appliances? NAComments

No procedures or policy are in place refer to recommendations

25.5Persons nominated and trained to assist with evacuation, incl. evacuation of disabledpeople?

NA

omments


25.6Appropriate liaison with fire and rescue service (e.g. by fire and rescue service crewsvisiting for familiarisation visits)?

None

:omments


25.7Routine in-house inspections of fire precautions (e.g. in the course of health and safetyinspections)?

None

ommentsNo procedures or policy are in place refer to recommendations



26 TRAINING AND DRILLS26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction and training on induction? N/

Comments

26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic "refresher training" at suitable intervals? N/

Comments

26.3 Does all staff training provide information, instruction or training on the following:Fire risks in the premises? NAThe fire safety measures on the premises? N/

Action in the event of fire? N/

Action on hearing the fire alarm signal? NAMethod of operation of manual call points? NALocation and use of fire extinguishers? NAMeans for summoning the fire and rescue service? NA

Identity of persons nominated to assist with evacuation? NAIdentity of persons nominated to use fire extinguishing appliances? NA

tommentsThere is no staff on site

If the fire escape is to be retained, tenants should be trained on it's use

26.4 Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire wardens) given additional training? NAlomments

No staff on site, as such there are no policies in place

26.5 Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals? NA:omments


26.6 When the employees of another employer work in the premises:Is their employer given appropriate information (e.g. on fire risks and general fireprecautions)?

NA

Is it ensured that the employees are provided with adequate instructions andinformation?

NA

omments




27 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE27.1 Adequate maintenance of premises? Ye


27.2|Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire detection and alarm system?Comments and deficiencies observed:


27.3| Monthly and annual testing routines for emergency escape lighting?

Refer to recommendationsComments and deficiencies observed:

27.4 Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing appliances?Comments and deficiencies observed:

27.5 Periodic inspection of external escape staircases and gangways? NoComments and deficiencies observed:


27.6 Six-monthly inspection and annual testing of rising mains? NAComments and deficiencies observed:

27.7Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly inspection and annual testing of fire-fightinglifts?

NA


27.8| Weekly testing and periodic inspection of sprinkler installations? NAComments:

27.9 Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security fastenings? NoComments:

There are no fire doors at present

27.10 Annual inspection and test of lightning protection system? NA

Comments:



2\28.1

{RECORDSAppropriate records of:Fire training?Fire alarm tests?Emergency escape lighting tests?Maintenance and testing of other fire protection systems?

Comments:

2- • • - •

29.

29.2

NoNoNoNo

None

RECOMMENDATIONS

Layout

Under the new Building Regulations, blocks of flats built in accordance with these current regulations should havecompartmentation, smoke ventilation and sufficient protected routes, in combination with 'stand alone' smoke detectionwithin each flat, such as not to require smoke detection or a fire alarm system in the common parts.

The emphasis is on the requirement that the building conforms to CURRENT Building Regulations.

The Reaulatorv Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2007 - (RRO)

As a 'workplace', the common parts of blocks of flats should have a means of raising the alarm in the event of a fire.

However, with buildings that conform to the current Building Regulations this is not deemed a necessity as the commonparts should be clear of any flammable material and any fire would be expected to have started within a flat that has smokedetection to alert the flats occupants and sufficient compartmentation for a fire not to spread to other parts of the buildingand in particular the escape routes.

The layout means of escape is adequate, however to improve the overall situation we recommend that a smoke and heatdetection system be installed, interlinking the two flats for early warning.

The missing emergency lighting on the first floor should be reinstated.

The layout of the flat is indicated on the drawing in Appendix A, which shows doors that need to be replaced / upgraded toprovide the relevant fire resistance.

Ground floor FlatDoors

Living room

Bedroom

Kitchen

Bathroom

Store doors (2no)

ront / Flat entrance door

xisting Domestic alarms

Existing

Solid door, possibly fire resisting.This should be confirmed

Solid door


Solid door

Basic quality doors


The flat has independent batteryoperated smoke alarm located in thehall

Recommendation

No action required

No action required

Intumescing strips and smoke seals should befitted.

No action required

Doors should be replaced with SOmin fire resistingdoor and frames.

3erko or similar closer , intumescing strips andsmoke seals should be fitted.Locks should be thumb turn

This should be removed as part of the new firealarm system to avoid confusion



29.3 )ompartmentation

Floor, between ground and firstfloor

Construction unknownThe construction should be confirmed to ensurethat a minimum of SOminute fire protection is

provided

Stairwell ground - first floor

The stairs are open as such the onlycompartmentation is to the soffit ofthe stairs from the first floor to thesecond floor

The construction should be confirmed to ensurethat a minimum of SOminute fire protection isprovided



Upperflat'A'

29.4

29.5

29.6

Doors Existing Recommendation1 - - • - " . . - • - • - -..**,- . - - • . " - . , . - - • • . • • - _ ; . • ; - ' ' • : • - . - . • . - . ' - ' . . . . . " • :

Living room

Toilet

Kitchen

Utility

Flat entrance door

Bedroom doors (2no)

Bathroom

Existing Domestic alarms

Compartmentation


Panelled door, not fire rated




Panelled door

Danelled door

The flat has independent batteryoperated smoke alarm located in thefirst floor hall and second flooranding.

The building is terraced with partywalls on both sides extending to theunderside of the roof

Intumescing strips and smoke seals should befitted.

No action required

Replace door and door, use 44mm thick SOmin.Fire resisting door complete with intumescing strip,smoke seals and positive closer.

Replace door and door, use 44mm thick 30min.Fire resisting door complete with intumescing strip,smoke seals and positive closer.

3erko or similar closer , intumescing strips andsmoke seals should be fitted. Locks should bethumb turn

Replace door and door, use 44mm thick SOmin.:ire resisting door complete with intumescing strip,smoke seals and positive closer.

to action required

These should be removed as part of the new firealarm system to avoid confusion

No action required

:ront external door Final exit door to foot path

Panelled doorritted with dead lock with keyoperation

Door is adequate, however lock should be replacedwith thumb turn internally and key operationexternally

?ear external door Final exit door to car park

XGG style Rtted with dead lock and night latchDoor is adequate, however lock should be replacedwith thumb turn internally and key operationsxternally



29

29.6

29.7

29.8

29.9

Fire alarm system.Install

a

b

c

General design information on fire detection installations

Smoke alarms should normally be positioned in the circulation spaces between sleeping spaces andplaces where fires are most likely to start (e.g. kitchens and living rooms)

Where more than one smoke alarm is installed they should be linked

Smoke alarms should be sited so that:

Management

d

e

i

ii

iii

iv

V

vi

vii

there is a smoke alarm in the circulation space within 7.5m ofthe door to every habitable room;

where the kitchen area is not separated from the stairway orcirculation space by a door, there should be a compatibleinterlinked heat detector in the kitchen, in addition to whateversmoke alarms are needed in the circulation space(s);

Detectors should be ceiling mounted and at least 300mm fromwalls and light fittings

It should be possible to reach the smoke alarms to carry outroutine maintenance

Smoke alarms should not be fixed next to or directly aboveheaters or air conditioning outlets

They should not be fixed in bathrooms, showers, cookingareas or garages, or any other place where steam,condensation or fumes could give false alarms.

Smoke alarms should not be fitted in places that get very hotsuch as a boiler room), or very cold

An electrically operated fire alarm system should comply with BS 5839: Part 1 Firedetection and alarm systems for buildings, Code of practice for system design, installationand servicing.

An extract from part B of the current building regulation is included in Appendix B of thiseport for further information

f not already in place and documented: -

Residence should be informed of the risk of storing combustible materials in the stairwells, both in terms of obstruction andle presence of combustible materials which could start or fuel a fire

mergency lighting

ire Safety Signs and

enerally

Emergency lighting should be provided on each floor level of the stairwell and at the pointof egress

Emergency I ghting should be in accordance with BS5266: part 1 : 2005

NoticesDrovide 'Fire door keep locked' to the bin store door to BS5499:part1 :2000

azards introduced by outside contractors and building works

ny contractors employed should be competent to undertake the work involved and suitable references,

ualification certification and risk assessments should be provided by the contractor.

anagement personal should make the asbestos register available to contractors together with any other

levant maintenance / test certificates or records.


tj&(j Building Consultancy LtdCommercial ft Domestic Building Consultants

13 Delves Road, Walsall, West Midlands. WS1 3JZ (No. 580708)(Tel / Fax): 01922 644843 (Mobile): 0779 5412360 / 0782 1644590

(Email): [email protected](Web): www.epcsurveyorswalsall.co.uk / www.ggbcl.co.uk

Fire Risk Assessment

147 Goldthorn TerraceWolverhampton. WV3 OED

FIRE RISK FORM 147 Goidthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton

GENERAL INFORMATION

1 THE PREMISES - 147 Goidthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton

1.1 No. of floors -1.2 No of Blocks

Approx. floor area (m2)127.5m2

1.3 Brief details of constructionWalls Generally solid brickwork

Ground, part timber suspended, part solidFloors First, timber suspended

Second, timber suspended

Roof Dual pitched

Windows Timber casement

Fire escape Located at the rear from the first floor1.4

1.5 Compartmentation vertical separation of the stairwellVertical and Horizontal separation of flats

1.6 No of stairwells Single stair from ground - first floors, serving access to the first floor flat

Private stair from first floor (entrance to flat 147a) to the accommodation rooms on thesecond floor

1.7 Use of premises Private residential flats

1.8 Areas of flats

Ground floor flatUpper flat'A'

Ground floorFirst floor

Second Floor

30.3 m2

38.3 m2

42.4 m2

G and G Building Consultancy Ltd October 2012 Page 1 of 15


1,9

1.10

f,

2.1

2.2

2.3

Maximum travel distance within a flat to the entrance door

Ground floor flat

Hrst floor, Hat z

Escape roots

gnoring the possible use of windows there is only one root for means ofescape which is from the flat entrance door to the common hallway

The maximum travel distance is from the front lounge, in the region of 5.5mr

The day room accommodation is located on the first floor, with the bedroomsocated on the second floor

The maximum travel distance on the first floor is from the front lounge,leading to the entrance door of the flat and the protected access route in theregion of 7. Omr

Egress from the second floor is by using the private stair down to the hall atfirst floor level and then leaving the flat onto the protected access route,horizontal travel of approximately 10mr plus the use of the stairs. However byextending the protection between the first and second floors the traveldistance is reduced to 7mr.

The floor layouts in this instance is a hybrid between Plan 1 1 as detailed in'A guide to Fire Protection in Multi-Occupied Residential Properties' producedby home stamp.The complication being the second floor, which makes the building threestories and in accordance with current legislation additional fire precautionsare necessary in terms of protecting the means of escape.

The obvious route in the event of a fire is from the individual flats, down thestairs from where there is a door at the front and rear of the property.

THE OCCUPANTSApproximate maximum number:

Ground floor flat, 1 bedroom Ground floor 2

Upper flat, 2 bedrooms Second floor t

No of residence, potentially using asingle stair

No of residence, potentially usingthe front entrance as a means of 6escape

Approximate number of employees at any one time:

Not applicable 0Maximum number of members of public at any one time:

Allowance for visitors (assume 2 per flat) t



2.4 Associated times / hours of occupation:

For the purpose of the assessment it is assumedthat all flats are occupied at all times

It should be assumed that in the evening and overnighteach flat will be fully occupied by the full-time residenceand possible visitor.Therefore reasonable to assume a maximum number ofpeople using the - main entrance in the event of anemergency

10

OCCUPANTS ESPECIALLY AT RISK FROM FIRE3.1 Sleeping occupants: as above 103.2 Disabled occupants:

No wheelchair access to the First & Second floors, access into the ground floor flatwould require negotiating a three steps up to the main entrance

In our opinion it is reasonable to assume that there may be1 wheelchair user on theground floor

3.3 Occupants in remote areas and lone workers:

3.4 Young persons:The flats are family residences, however in terms of egress there are nospecific issues as it is assumed that very young children would not be inthe flats unattended by responsible people

3.5 Others (please state): N/AFIRE LOSS EXPERIENCEWe are not aware of a fire having occurred at the premises

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

5.1

5 y\.2

The front entrance / exit opens leads onto a relatively narrow private foot path, leading onto Goldthom Hill

The rear entrance / exit opens on to a car parking area which is the most likely entrance and egress route asthis leads to / from the carpark.

6 RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION Tick

6.1 The following fire safety legislation applies to these premises:

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into effect in October 2006

6.: The above legislation is enforced by:

The Fire and Rescue Authorities are the enforcing authorities for the Order, and as such can ask to inspectyour premises and see your Fire Risk Assessment. If there are found to be serious risks that are not beingmanaged, they have a statutory duty to enforce the Order. This can include issuing Enforcement Orders and,if necessary, taking you to court.



6.3

RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION (continued)Other legislation that makes significant requirements for fire precautions in thesepremises (other than the Building Regulations 2010):BS 4422 Fire. Vocabulary. British Standards Institution.

BS PD 6512-3 Use of elements of structural fire protection with particular reference to the recommendationsgiven in BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design and construction of buildings. Guide to the fire performanceof glass. British Standards Institution.BS EN 81 Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts. British Standards Institution.

BS 5041-1 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for landing valves for wet risers. British Standardsnstitution.

BS 5041-2 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for landing valves for dry risers. British Standardsnstitution

BS 5041-3 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for inlet breechings for dry riser inlets. BritishStandards Institution

BS 5041-4 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for boxes for landing valves for dry risers. BritishStandards Institution.

BS 5041-5 Fire hydrant systems equipment. Specification for boxes for foam inlets and dry riser inlets. BritishStandards Institution

BS 9990 Code of practice for non-automatic fire fighting systems in buildings. British Standards Institution.

BS 7944 Type 1 heavy duty fire blankets and type 2 heavy duty heat protective blankets. British StandardsInstitution.

BS EN 1869 Fire blankets. British Standards Institution. BS ISO 14520-1 Gaseous fire-extinguishingsystems. Physical properties and system design. General requirements. British Standards Institution

BS 5266-2 Emergency lighting. Code of practice for electrical low mounted way guidance systems foremergency use. British Standards Institution.

BS EN 60598-1 Luminaries. General requirements and tests. British Standards Institution. 138

BS 5499-1 Graphical symbols and signs, Safety signs, including fire safety signs. Specification for geometricshapes, colours and layout. British Standards Institution.

BS EN 1634-3 Fire resistance tests for door and shutter assemblies. Smoke control doors and shutters.British Standards Institution.

Draft BS EN 14637 Building hardware. Electrically controlled hold-open systems for fire/smoke doorassemblies. Requirements, test methods, application and maintenance. (Consultation document.) BritishStandards Institution

BS EN 45020 Standardisation and related activities. General vocabulary. British Standards Institution.

ISO 13784-2 Reaction to fire tests for sandwich panel building systems. Part 2: test method for large rooms.British Standards Institution.

BS 5268-4.2 Structural use of timber. Fire resistance of timber structures. Recommendations for calculatingfire resistance of timber stud walls and joisted floor constructions. British Standards Institution.

Tick

V

V

V

V

VV

V

V

III



FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION OR CONTROL

7

7.17.27.37.47.57.67.7

88.18.28.38.48.58.6

ELECTRICAL SOURCES OF IGNITIONReasonable measures taken to prevent fires of electrical origin? More specifically:There were no records or evidence of periodic testing

Fixed installation periodically inspected and tested?Portable appliance testing (where appropriate) carried out?Suitable policy regarding the use of personal electrical appliances?Suitable limitation of trailing leads and adapters?Comments and hazards observed:

NoNoNoNoNo

The landlord / managing agent should instigate periodic flats on the landlords electrical installation

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants using electrical equipment, includingportable heaters. However tenants should be advice on the risk of old, damage electrical equipment andtrailing cables all of which increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

Where possible the managing agent should instigate periodic checks on the electrical installations to eachflat

SMOKINGReasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of smoking? More specifically:Smoking prohibited on the premises?Smoking prohibited in appropriate areas?Suitable arrangements for those who wish to smoke?This policy appeared to be observed at time of inspection?

NoNo

No

NA

NA

Comments and hazards observed

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants who wish to smoke. However tenants

should be advice on the risk of leaving naked flames etc. and that under no circumstances should smoke

detectors, domestic or commercial be disconnected to avoid detection.

99.1

9.2

9.3

ARSONDoes basic security against arson by outsiders appear reasonable?

External doors where locked at the time of our inspection

Is there an absence of unnecessary fire load in close proximity to premises or available for

ignition by outsiders?


10 PORTABLE HEATERS AND HEATING INSTALLATIONS10.1

10.2

10.3

Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as practicable?

Yes

Yes

None

| Not practical

Both flats have electric storage heaters, the first floor also has a gas fire in the living room

In general terms where this type of heating is in place, tenants use alternative portable heating, thisimposes a greater risk of fire.

If portable heaters are used:

Is the use of the more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or LPG appliances)avoided?

Are suitable measures taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of combustiblematerials?

Are fixed heating installations subject to regular maintenance?

NA

NA

No



10.4 Comments and hazards observed

The landlord / managing agent have no control on individual occupants using electrical equipment, includingDortable heaters. However tenants and private owners should be advice on the risk of old, damage electricalequipment and trailing cables all of which increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

11 COOKING11.1

11.2

11.3

1212.112.2

13

13.1

13.2

13.3

1414.1

14.2

14.3

14.4

15

15.1

15.2

15.3

Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of cooking?More specifically:

-\\ters changed and ductwork cleaned regularly?Suitable extinguishing appliances available?

Yes

N/AN/A


The landlord / managing agent have no control over cooking equipment or habits of the residence. Howevertenants should be advice on the risk of leaving cookers and naked flames unattended for any period of time.

LIGHTNINGDoes the premises have a lightening protection system?

Comments and deficiencies observed:The building is not particularly high

No

HOUSEKEEPING

The only house keeping is the attendance ofIs the standard of housekeeping adequate? cleaning and maintenance staff as required.

There is no permanent/ full time staff on site

More specifically:Combustible materials appear to be separated from ignition sources?Avoidance of unnecessary accumulation of combustible materials or waste?Appropriate storage of hazardous materials?Avoidance of inappropriate storage of combustible materials?


Stair way and doors where clear at the time of the survey

Yes

NA

No

NA

NA

HAZARDS INTRODUCED BY OUTSIDE CONTRACTORS AND BUILDING WORKS

Are fire safety conditions imposed on outside contractors?Is there satisfactory control over works carried out on the premises by outsidecontractors (incl. "hot work" permits)?

If there are in-house maintenance personnel, are precautions taken during "hot work"incl. use of hot work permits?

Comments

Yes

Yes

N/A

DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES

Are the general fire precautions adequate to address the hazards associated withdangerous substances used or stored within the premises?

If 15.1 applies, has a specific risk assessment been carried out, as required by theDangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002?

Comments

N/A

N/A

None



16

16.1

16.2

OTHER SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARDS THAT WARRANT CONSIDERATION INCLUDING PROCESSHAZARDS THAT IMPACT ON GENERAL FIRE PRECAUTIONS

Hazards: None

Comments and deficiencies observed: None

FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES

17

17.117.2

17.3

17.4

MEANS OF ESCAPE FROM FIRE

It is considered that the premises is provided with reasonable means of escape in case of fireMore specifically:Adequate design of escape routes?Adequate provision of exits?Exits easily and immediately openable where necessary?

Fire exits open in direction of escape where necessary?

Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire exits?

Satisfactory means of securing exits?

Yes

Yes

in part

NA

Yes

Yes

Reasonable distances of travel: Refer to recommendations

Refer to section 1 of this report

Where there is a single direction of travel?

Where there are alternative means of escape?

Suitable protection of escape routes?

Suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms?

Escape routes unobstructed?

It is considered that the premises is provided reasonable arrangements for means of escape for

disabled people.

There is no facilities / access for wheelchair users aboveground floor

Whilst not specifically design for wheelchair users, the groundfloor would be suitable for means of escape"

Yes

NA

Yes

NA

No

Yes


Bedroom and living room doors need to be upgraded or replaced

The basic design layout of the flat doesn't meet the requirements of present legislation

The front doors to both flats need to be replaced

Reports on individual doors in given elsewhere in this report



1818.1

18.2

18.3

19

MEASURES TO LIMIT FIRE SPREAD AND DEVELOPMENT

It is considered that there is:Compartmentation of a reasonable standard

As far as can be determined by a visual inspection the Compartmentation been individual flats and betweenthe flats and the stair well are intact and provide the required SOminute fire resistance

As far as can reasonably be ascertained, fire dampers are provided as necessary to protect critical means ofescape against passage of fire, smoke and combustion productions in the early stages of fire?

Yessubject toconfirmation

NA

Comments and deficiencies observed: No

EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING

19.1 Reasonable standard of emergency escape lighting system provided? No

19.2

20


A single emergency light is located in the ground floor hallway,and additional fitting is required on the first floor


FIRE SAFETY SIGNS AND NOTICES

20.1 Reasonable standard of fire safety signs and notices? No20.2

2121121.221.321.421.5

2222.122.222.322.4

2323.1

23.2

2424.124.224.3

Comments and deficiencies observed:Refer to recommendations

MEANS OF GIVING WARNING IN CASE OF FIRE

Reasonable manually operated electrical fire alarm system provided?Automatic fire detection provided?Extent of automatic fire detection generally appropriateRemote transmission of alarm signals?

No

NoNA


MANUAL FIRE EXTINGUISHING APPLIANCES

Reasonable provision of portable fire extinguishers?

Hose reels provided?Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily accessible?Comments and deficiencies observed:

Fire blanket should be installed to each kitchen

No

No

No

RELEVANT AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

Type of system:

Comments:None

None

OTHER RELEVANT FIXED SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

Type of fixed system: None

Comments:Suitable provision of fire-fighters switches) for high voltage luminous tube signs, etc. NA



24.4 Comments: None

MANAGEMENT OF FIRE SAFETY

25 PROCEDURES AND ARRANGEMENTS

25; Fire safety is managed by:

25.2In this instance it is not practical to have a nominated person responsible for evacuationof the individual flats

NA

25.3 Appropriate fire procedures in place?More specifically:Are procedures in the event of fire appropriate and properly documented? NoAre there suitable arrangements for summoning the fire and rescue service? _No

NoAre there suitable arrangements to meet the fire and rescue service on arrival andprovide relevant information incl. that relating to hazards to fire-fighters?

Are there suitable arrangements for ensuring that premises have been evacuated? NoNoIs there a suitable fire assembly points)?

Are there adequate procedures for evacuation of any disabled people who are likely tobe present?

No

Comments

n this instance it is reasonable that the residence are responsible individually for the eviction of their own flat.

The criteria's in this case is that there is no system in place to alert the residence of other flats in the event of a fire.

25.4 Persons nominated and trained to use fire extinguishing appliances? NAComments


25.5Persons nominated and trained to assist with evacuation, incl. evacuation of disabledpeople? NA

Comments


25.6Appropriate liaison with fire and rescue service (e.g. by fire and rescue service crewsvisiting for familiarisation visits)? None

Comments


25.7Routine in-house inspections of fire precautions (e.g. in the course of health and safetyinspections)?

None

CommentsNo procedures or policy are in place refer to recommendations



26 TRAINING AND DRILLS26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction and training on induction? NA

Comments

26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic "refresher training" at suitable intervals? NAComments

26.3 Does all staff training provide information, instruction or training on the following:Fire risks in the premises? NA

"NAThe fire safety measures on the premises?Action in the event of fire? _NA

NAAction on hearing the fire alarm signal?Method of operation of manual call points? _NA

_NA

_NANA

Location and use of fire extinguishers?Means for summoning the fire and rescue service?Identity of persons nominated to assist with evacuation?Identity of persons nominated to use fire extinguishing appliances? NA

CommentsThere is no staff on site

If the fire escape is to be retained, tenants should be trained on it's use

26.4 Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire wardens) given additional training? NAComments


26.5 Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals? NAComments


26.6 When the employees of another employer work in the premises:Is their employer given appropriate information (e.g. on fire risks and general fireprecautions)?

NA

Is it ensured that the employees are provided with adequate instructions andinformation? NA

Comments




27 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE27.1 [Adequate maintenance of premises? Yes


27.2 Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire detection and alarm system? NA


27.3 Monthly and annual testing routines for emergency escape lighting? NA



27.4JAnnual maintenance of fire extinguishing appliances? NA


27.5| Periodic inspection of external escape staircases and gangways? No


27.61 Six-monthly inspection and annual testing of rising mains? NA


27.7Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly inspection and annual testing of fire-fightinglifts? NA


27.8 Weekly testing and periodic inspection of sprinkler installations? NA

Comments:

27.9|Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security fastenings? No

Comments:There are no fire doors at present

27.10 Annual inspection and test of lightning protection system? NA

Comments:


FIRE RISK FORM 147 Goldthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton28

28.1RECORDSAppropriate records of:Fire training?Fire alarm tests?Emergency escape lighting tests?Maintenance and testing of other fire protection systems?

NoNo

NoNo

Comments:

29 RECOMMENDATIONS

29.1 Layout

Under the new Building Regulations, blocks of flats built in accordance with these current regulations should havecompartmentation, smoke ventilation and sufficient protected routes, in combination with 'stand alone' smoke detectionwithin each flat, such as not to require smoke detection or a fire alarm system in the common parts.

The emphasis is on the requirement that the building conforms to CURRENT Building Regulations.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2007 - (RRO)

As a 'workplace', the common parts of blocks of flats should have a means of raising the alarm in the event of a fire.

However, with buildings that conform to the current Building Regulations this is not deemed a necessity as the commonparts should be clear of any flammable material and any fire would be expected to have started within a flat that has smokedetection to alert the flats occupants and sufficient compartmentation for a fire not to spread to other parts of the building andin particular the escape routes.

The layout means of escape is adequate, however to improve the overall situation we recommend that a smoke and heatdetection system be installed, interlinking the two flats for early warning.

Additional emergency lighting is required on the stir from the first floor

The layout of the flat is indicated on the drawing in Appendix A, which shows doors that need to be replaced / upgraded toprovide the relevant fire resistance.

29.2 Ground floor Flat

•

Doors

Living room

Bedroom

Kitchen

Bathroom

Store doors (2no)

Space above the store doors

Existing

Solid door, possibly fire resisting. Thisshould be confirmed

Solid door


Solid door

Basic quality doors

Open

Recommendation

Perko or similar closer , intumescing strips andsmoke seals should be fitted.

No action required


No action required

Doors should be replaced with 30min fire resistingdoor and frames.

Needs to be enclosed to provide 30miniute fireresistance



Front / Flat entrance doorSolid door, possibly fire resisting. Thisshould be confirmed

Perko or similar closer, intumescing strips andsmoke seals should be fitted.Locks should be thumb turn

Existing Domestic alarmsThe flat has independent batteryoperated smoke alarm located in thehall

This should be removed as part of the new firealarm system to avoid confusion

29.3 Compartmentation

Floor, between ground and firstfloor

Construction unknownThe construction should be confirmed to ensurethat a minimum of SOminute fire protection isprovided

Stairwell ground - first floor

The stairs are open as such the onlyCompartmentation is to the soffit ofthe stairs from the first floor to thesecond floor

The construction should be confirmed to ensurethat a minimum of SOminute fire protection isprovided



Upper flat 'A'

29.4

29.5

29.6

Doors

Living room

Corridor (bottom of stairs)

Toilet

Kitchen

Flat entrance door

Bedroom doors (2no)

Bathroom

Existing Domestic alarms

Compartmentation

Existing

Solid door,





Panelled door

Panelled door

None

The building is terraced with partywalls on both sides extending to theunderside of the roof

Recommendation

No action required


No action required

No action required

Perko or similar closer , intumescing strips andsmoke seals should be fitted.Locks should be thumb turn

Replace door and door, use 44mm thick 30min.Fire resisting door complete with intumescing strip,smoke seals and positive closer.

No action required

Refer below

No action required

Front external door Rnal exitdoor to foot path

Panelled door

Front external door Rnal exitdoor to foot path

2XGG style

Fitted with dead lock with keyoperation

Door is adequate, however lock should be replacedwith thumb turn internally and key operationexternally

Fitted with dead lock and night latchDoor is adequate, however lock should be replacedwith thumb turn internally and key operationexternally


FIRE RISK FORM

29.7

29.6

Fire alarm system.Install

a

b

c

147 Goldthorn Terrace, Wolverhampton

General design information on fire detection installations

Smoke alarms should normally be positioned in the circulation spaces between sleeping spaces andplaces where fires are most likely to start (e.g. kitchens and living rooms)Where more than one smoke alarm is installed they should be linked

Smoke alarms should be sited so that:

Management

d

e

i

ii

iii

iv

V

vi

vii

there is a smoke alarm in the circulation space within 7.5m ofthe door to every habitable room;

where the kitchen area is not separated from the stairway orcirculation space by a door, there should be a compatibleinterlinked heat detector in the kitchen, in addition to whateversmoke alarms are needed in the circulation space(s);

Detectors should be ceiling mounted and at least 300mm fromwalls and light fittings

It should be possible to reach the smoke alarms to carry outroutine maintenance

Smoke alarms should not be fixed next to or directly aboveheaters or air conditioning outlets

They should not be fixed in bathrooms, showers, cookingareas or garages, or any other place where steam,condensation or fumes could give false alarms.

Smoke alarms should not be fitted in places that get very hot(such as a boiler room), or very cold

An electrically operated fire alarm system should comply with BS 5839: Part 1 Firedetection and alarm systems for buildings, Code of practice for system design, installationand servicing.

An extract from part B of the current buildingtegulation is included in Appendix B of thisreport for further information

If not already in place and documented: -

Residence should be informed of the risk of storing combustible materials in the stairwells, both in terms of obstruction andthe presence of combustible materials which could start or fuel a fire

29.7

29.8

29.9

Emergency lightingEmergency lighting should be provided on each floor level of the stairwell and at the pointof egress

Emergency lighting should be in accordance with BS5266: part 1: 2005

Fire Safety Signs and NoticesGenerally Provide 'Fire door keep locked' to the bin store door to BS5499:part1:2000Hazards introduced by outside contractors and building worksAny contractors employed should be competent to undertake the work involved and suitable references,qualification certification and risk assessments should be provided by the contractor.Management personal should make the asbestos register available to contractors together with any otherrelevant maintenance / test certificates or records.


fire risk assessment - microsoftbtckstorage.blob.core.windows.net/site1943/fire risk...the fire and...

Documents