The Role of Routine Inspections in Fire Saftey Compliance
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to make sure they’re always in good working order. This includes monthly visual inspections to confirm that extinguishers are easily accessible, stored away from any obstructions, and undamaged.
Pressure gauges should always show the correct pressure levels, and any damage or tampering should be identified as soon as possible. They’ll need annual servicing to make sure they stay functional, safe, and ready to protect lives in case of an emergency.
Fire Doors
Fire door inspections should be done every six months to confirm that fire doors function properly on escape routes. Doors need to close fully into the rebate with gaps of less than 4mm and latch securely to prevent smoke and flames from spreading – giving people the best chance of escape in a fire emergency.
Smoke seals and intumescent strips should be checked for damage, and hinges, handles, and self-closing mechanisms need to be tested to make sure they work properly.
There must be no obstructions which could prevent a fire door from closing completely, as they play a crucial role in protecting lives during a fire.
Fire Alarms
Fire alarm systems need to be tested weekly by activating a manual call point and making sure that alarm sounders are audible throughout the premises. Battery backups should be checked and replaced if necessary to make sure everyone in the building is alerted quickly in case of a fire emergency.
If your premises has an automatic fire detection system in place, it needs to align with your evacuation plan, provide clear fire warnings, be regularly tested by a qualified professional, and connect to a central control room if applicable.
New systems must be designed and installed by a competent person, following BS 5839-1 or the latest relevant standard.
Emergency Lighting
To make sure occupants have visibility during power failures, emergency lighting needs to undergo monthly functional tests, and any flickering or faulty lights should be replaced immediately.
A full-duration test needs to be conducted annually to verify the system’s effectiveness, because reliable emergency lighting is vital for guiding occupants safely out of a building if there’s fire and smoke present.
Escape Routes and Signage
Emergency exits must always remain clear of obstructions and exit routes should be clearly marked with visible fire safety signage to help people evacuate safely.
Emergency lighting must be available if there is a power outage to light up pathways, changes of direction or levels/stairs and any firefighting equipment, so that everyone can find their way to safety quickly, even if the main lights go out.
Sprinkler and Suppression Systems
Sprinkler systems need to undergo quarterly testing to confirm they function correctly, which includes checking pipes and nozzles for leaks or blockages.
Regular professional maintenance (following manufacturer guidelines) is necessary to make sure they operate effectively in an emergency, helping to control fires and protect lives.
It’s also important that you have a plan in place in case the systems don’t work as expected.
Fire Risk Assessments
A fire risk assessment is a crucial step in safeguarding lives – it should be reviewed at least annually to ensure it is kept up to date, or whenever significant changes happen to or in your premises.
Fire safety assessments identify potential fire risks, help put proper safety measures in place and confirm that evacuation plans are up to date and effective.
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