James@WhiteRose

Hi When undertaking fire risk asssessments in purpose built flats you take into consideration the fire stopping, compartmentation etc of the lobby's & protected stairways. My question is determining the fire resistance of the walls & ceilings where required especially where stay put policies are in force and rely on it. Apart from the obvious breaches of their integrity would the only way to be 100% certain to recommend a survey be carried out? I know it is extra expense but in light of recent events could it be deemed as reasonable? Many Thanks

Hi Regarding the headteacher instructing the alarm teacher to just turn the visual alarm displays off that's not really an option as in your buildings circumstances they are required as per BS5839. The engineer/ alarm company should also have known this and advised on solutions such as using vads with a flash rate of 3hz or less (also in the standards) which would be unlikely to result in seizures occurring. More info can be gained via this document: http://www.redbooklive.com/download/pdf/CoP-0001.pdf Although more aimed at the engineer it gives useful info and I would advise the head teacher to pass it on to the company he uses for his alarm maintenance for their own reference rather them just disabling them. Will be a damn sight cheaper than 9k to install these too! James

It would also be worth checking with your insurers to see if they have any specific requirements. The last thing you want is to go for a Category M which as mentioned would meet the legal requirements only for your insurer to say its not adequate enough for them to insure. You should also follow the guidance and recommendations of your FRA.

It all depends on what is written in the lease. If it states it is the responsibility of the Landlord it is down to them to ensure everything is in order, if not the responsibility lays with you as the responsible person. It can also be a combination of the 2 both yourself and the landlord. It is important that you are clear with exactly who is responsible. That been said even if the Landlord has taken responsibility that will normally cover FRA's, Fire fighting equipment & alarms etc. The training of your staff and ensuring everyone inc. visitors knows exactly what to do in the event of a fire will normally be down to yourself as the responsible person.