Mobility Scooter Internal storage.

[Mark Wilson]

A recent FRA has raised a substantial action concerning the internal storage/charging of 2 mobility scooters in a communal lounge. The property is a specialist housing scheme. There is currently auto fire detection, extinguishers, Fd30s doors and 30min fire rated ceiling's and walls with 24/7 staffing. Can anyone advise if there is a a safe amount of scooters that could be stored in this room and if it is a requirement that an external store must be provided? Charging is also restricted to daytime only. Any advice appreciated.

[AnthonyB]

The official guidance is here: https://www.nationalfirechiefs.org.uk/write/MediaUploads/NFCC Guidance publications/Protection/09062018_NFCC_Mobility_Scooter_Guidance_Final.pdf

A lounge that is a separate sub compartment from the escape routes as you describe is far better than being on the corridors or stairs, but is still not ideal - a purpose built area is always preferred. This may not be practicable of course, which is where true risk assessment comes in - as I haven't been and assessed your premises I can't say for sure it's tolerable or that there is no viable alternative, but it's certainly not the worst location I've seen.