Can we block one of five fire exits?

[Guest DavidB]

Hi Guys, I hope you can settle an ongoing workplace battle. We have a venue with a capacity of under 400 people. 2 main entrance/exit ways plus 5 fire exits. We use a freestanding folding screen to "block" one of the fire exit during performance times and for artiste loading purposes. The screen is 2 meters away from the exit although blocking its path. We have 4 other fire exits which is already more than adequate. Does my manager have a case against a blocked fire exit in the circumstances? Any help you can give would be a blessing.

[Tom Sutton]

David do you have an up to date Fire Risk Assessment for the premises and is this why you say " We have 4 other fire exits which is already more than adequate." or do you have other reason for making this statement? Without a lot more information, like width, type and location of doors, type of construction use of premises and others questions it is impossible to give a definitive answer. Without detailed plans and a physical inspection you cannot be certain.

You could check out the DCLG guides at http://www.communities.gov.uk/fire/firesafety/firesafetylaw/ and pick the one that corresponds with your premises.

[Guest DavidB]

Hi Tom

Many thanks for your reply and yes we have everything up to date. The doors in question have been added since we were "passed" as a venue and so we know they are above what is required. The links you sent should help poke us in the right direction and a call out inspection will be undertaken. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.

David

[Tom Sutton]

Thanks for getting back Dave and it does look that you should be fine all you need to do is to review you Fire Risk Assessment and consider your proposals in the review. It should be recorded if more than five persons are employed and be ready, if the Fire service comes a calling. :angry: