Compartmentation

[Paul B]

Hi All

In a multi occupied premises consisting of multiple units rented out to individual businesses would you need compartmentation between each unit? And if so how many minutes?

The purpose groups are 3 and 6. The units are not ancillary to each other and are totally independent businesses but share common escape routes and fire detection system.

Many thanks.

[Mike North]

There should be 60 minute separating occupies 

[AnthonyB]

However, if an existing building with a common alarm system and simultaneous evacuation you are fine. A new build would indeed require 60 minutes and usually then doesn't need linked alarms.

[Paul B]

Thanks both for your help. It is an existing building that has undergone change over the years, there is indeed a common alarm system and simultaneous  evacuation. I suppose the most important element is ensuring all shared common escape routes have a minimum of 30 minutes separation? 

[AnthonyB]

On 01/03/2024 at 11:57, Paul B said:

Thanks both for your help. It is an existing building that has undergone change over the years, there is indeed a common alarm system and simultaneous  evacuation. I suppose the most important element is ensuring all shared common escape routes have a minimum of 30 minutes separation? 

Yes, at least a notional 30 minutes usually