Routine fire safety tasks
Made simple
Identifying the required frequency of routine fire safety tasks isn’t straightforward. The information can be found in various guidance documents and British Standards, some of which are only available as priced publications.
For this reason we’ve done the hard work for you by compiling a summary guide: fire safety management - routine tasks. The document is designed to ensure that all your responsibilities are clearly laid out, whether you’re managing blocks of flats, houses in multiple occupation or commercial properties.
How to use it?
The document has been set out in a table format, which is comprised of five columns headed “Topic” , “Standards which apply” , “Summary of requirements” , “Frequency” and “Competency required” .
The idea is that on any given subject you can quickly see what needs to be done, when and by whom. For example, a fire risk assessment must be completed by a competent assessor for any non-domestic premises. It must be reviewed periodically and if it becomes out of date.
Tip. Use the information in our document to populate your database, spreadsheet or other system you use to ensure that routine management tasks are undertaken on time.
What’s covered?
On the left hand side of the table we have listed documents, equipment and facilities which require regular attention.
It starts with fire risk assessments, fire arrangements and procedures; testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems, emergency lighting and escape routes. It also describes the requirements for several types of fire fighting equipment: (1) fire extinguishers, fire blankets and hosereels; (2) sprinklers; and (3) fire mains. For this equipment there is a range of routine tasks including weekly checks and periodic maintenance.
Further on we have given details relating to protective equipment such as fire-resisting doors and shutters, lightning protection, smoke ventilation and fire separating structures and devices. If you have special facilities for fire fighters, you will find the details you require here.
In addition our list covers fire prevention activities such as the cleaning of kitchen extraction and the maintenance of electrical, gas and oil-fired equipment.
Tip. Gas and oil-fired equipment require annual safety checks. You will need to use GasSafe and OFTEC registered engineers for these tasks.
Procedures
The last part of our document examines the need for formal fire inspections, training and drills. Training, for example, is generally to be undertaken once per year and drills every six months.
For a copy of our fire safety management - routine tasks document, visit http://tipsandadvice-healthandsafety.co.uk/download (HS 16.13.05).
Create your profile to unlock this advice and many more.