Student Accommodation used as Hotel

[Guest Tommy]

Hi All, 

Just looking for a some advice with evacuation strategies. 

I am conducting an FRA on student accommodation designed to a stay put policy, the accommodation is being used as a hotel during summer months when students are away. 

I have ensured that additional measures are in place within the purpose built flats such as; 

- EEL  escape route corridors within flat clusters. 

- Directional Signage. 

- Fire Action Notices with floor plan on each sleeping room door.

My question is, can a hotel have a stay put policy?  assuming that compartmentation is suitable and the building has been engineered to allow for a stay put.

[AnthonyB]

Not normally, as they are built for evacuation, it's an unusual situation, but the point of the current legislation is functional so as long as you can demonstrate that it would operate safely you could in theory justify it.

[Guest Tommy]

I agree Anthony and I really appreciate the response. 

Thank you.

[Lyledunn]

Bet you it ain’t a hotel! It is just student accommodation being let to the general public and I would say that is likely that the general public will have a much more responsible attitude than the erstwhile occupants. A hotel would require tourist board approval, planning and building control consent for change of use. 

[Guest Tommy]

You are correct, it is being let to the general public and is not advertised as a hotel.