Fire Safety Guide

FSG
FIRE SAFETY GUIDE

GUIDE
EDITION 1
MARCH 1999
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Fire Safety Guide was facilitated by PACE

Central Advice Unit under the direction of the interdepartmental Joint
User Group.
The members of the Sub-Group formed to provide an oversight of the

drafting were:
Mr G Goodall The Scottish Office, HM Inspectorate of Fire

Services
Mr R Hinds Department of the Environment, Transport and

the Regions
Mr P Holmes The Court Service
Mr D Reaney The Buying Agency
Mr M Robinson Home Office, HM Inspectorate of Fire Services
Mr C Wright Benefits Agency
Mr S Ramsden PACE Central Advice Unit (Chairman)
Mr J Ioannou PACE Central Advice Unit
Mr T Ross PACE Central Advice Unit (Secretary)
The substantive drafting was undertaken by Mr P Wilkins of

Butler & Young Associates, 433 London Road, Croydon, CR0 3PF.
Telephone: 0181 680 1500, Facsimile: 0181 684 7020.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
INTRODUCTION (INT)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION (INT) INT 1.0

BACKGROUND INT 1.1
FIRE SAFETY GUIDE INT 1.2
PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE INT 1.3
STRUCTURE OF THE GUIDE INT 1.4
SYMBOLS USED INT 1.5
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS INT 1.6
DEFINITIONS INT 1.7
SOURCES OF FIRE SAFETY ADVICE INT 1.8
DEPARTMENTAL FIRE ADVISERS INT 1.9
ENFORCING AUTHORITY INT 1.10
LOCAL AUTHORITY FIRE SERVICE INT 1.11
CROWN FIRE STANDARDS INT 1.12
STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS INT 1.13
THE LAW (LAW)
CONTENTS
GOVERNMENT POLICY LAW 1.0
THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971 LAW 2.0

THE REQUIREMENTS LAW 2.1
WHEN IS A FIRE CERTIFICATE REQUIRED? LAW 2.2
OBTAINING A FIRE CERTIFICATE LAW 2.3
THE FIRE CERTIFICATE LAW 2.4
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? LAW 2.5
DEFINITION OF FACTORY, OFFICE, SHOP AND RAILWAY PREMISES ANNEX
LAW 2.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME Page 1
THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE)
REGULATIONS 1997 LAW 3.0
INTRODUCTION LAW 3.1
DEFINITION OF WORKPLACE LAW 3.2
REQUIREMENTS LAW 3.3
EXAMPLE PROFORMA FOR FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT ANNEX
LAW 3.0/1
OTHER LEGISLATION LAW 4.0

THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND THE HEALTH
AND SAFETY AT WORK (NI) ORDER 1978 LAW 4.1
MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK REGULATIONS 1999
AND MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK REGULATIONS
(NI) 1992 LAW 4.2
BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS LAW 4.3
THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS REGULATIONS 1999
(COMAH) AND THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS
REGULATIONS (NORTHERN IRELAND) 2000 LAW 4.4
THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS
1994 (COSHH) AND THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO
HEALTH REGULATIONS (NI) 1990 (AS AMENDED IN 1992 AND 1993) LAW 4.5
THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS 1994
AND THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS (NI)
1995 (CDM) LAW 4.6
PLANNING LEGISLATION LAW 4.7
CHILDREN ACT 1989 LAW 4.8
THE LICENSING ACT 1964 FOR ENGLAND AND WALES, THE LICENSING
(SCOTLAND) ACT 1976, THE LICENSING ACT (NORTHERN IRELAND)
ORDER 1990 LAW 4.9
PETROLEUM (CONSOLIDATION) ACT 1928 LAW 4.10
CINEMAS ACT 1985 LAW 4.11
THE FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS (FIRE SAFETY) REGULATIONS 1988 LAW 4.12
THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
REGULATIONS 1972 AND THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED
PETROLEUM GAS REGULATIONS (NI) 1975 LAW 4.13
Fire Safety Guide

Page 2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
OTHER LEGISLATION (CONT’D) LAW 4.0
THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGULATIONS 1996 LAW 4.14
THE HEALTH AND SAFETY (SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS) REGULATIONS 1996
AND THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGULATIONS (NI) 1996 LAW 4.15
MISCELLANEOUS LAW 4.16
MEANS OF ESCAPE (ESC)
CONTENTS
REQUIREMENTS ESC 1.0

BASIC REQUIREMENTS ESC 1.1
PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE ESC 1.2
PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE ESC 1.3
ESCAPE ROUTES ESC 2.0
FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION ESC 3.0

FIRE RESISTING DOORS ESC 3.1
FIRE RESISTING WALLS AND PARTITIONS ESC 3.2
FIRE RESISTING GLAZING ESC 3.3
PRESSURISED ESCAPE ROUTES ESC 4.0
ESCAPE LIGHTING ESC 5.0
FIRE EXIT SIGNS ESC 6.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? ESC 7.0
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS (WARN)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION WARN 1.0
REQUIREMENTS WARN 2.0

PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE WARN 2.1
PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE WARN 2.2
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE WARN 2.3
TYPES OF FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS WARN 3.0

ELECTRICAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS WARN 3.1
AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION WARN 3.2
MANUAL FIRE ALARMS WARN 3.3
FURTHER ADVICE WARN 3.4
UNWANTED ALARMS WARN 4.0

SAMPLE FIRE ALARM EVENT LOG ANNEX
WARN 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? WARN 5.0
MEANS OF FIGHTING FIRE (MFF)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION MFF 1.0
REQUIREMENTS MFF 2.0

PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE MFF 2.1
PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE MFF 2.2
STAFF AWARENESS MFF 2.3
SIGNAGE MFF 2.4
FIRE EQUIPMENT SALES PERSONS MFF 2.5
RECORDING, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE MFF 2.6
FIRE EQUIPMENT - SCHEDULE ANNEX
MFF 2.6/1
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE CLASSIFICATION MFF 3.0
CLASSES OF FIRES MFF 3.1
CLASS A FIRES MFF 3.2
CLASS B FIRES MFF 3.3
CLASS C FIRES MFF 3.4
CLASS D FIRES MFF 3.5
TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.0

WATER EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.1
FOAM EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.2
MULTI-PURPOSE FOAM EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.3
DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.4
MULTI-PURPOSE DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.5
CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.6
HALON EXTINGUISHERS MFF 4.7
HOSE REELS MFF 4.8
FIRE BLANKETS MFF 4.9
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? MFF 5.0
FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE (FAC)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION FAC 1.0
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE FAC 2.0
TYPES OF FACILITIES FAC 3.0

ACCESS FOR FIRE APPLIANCES FAC 3.1
FIRE FIGHTING STAIRWAYS AND LIFTS FAC 3.2
RISING MAINS FAC 3.3
FOAM INLETS FAC 3.4
HYDRANTS WITHIN THE BOUNDARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT FAC 3.5
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS FAC 3.6
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? FAC 4.0
Fire Safety Guide

TRAINING OF STAFF (TRNG)
CONTENTS
REQUIREMENTS TRNG 1.0

THE LAW TRNG 1.1
IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING TRNG 1.2
MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED TRNG 1.3
GUIDANCE ON TRAINING TRNG 2.0

FREQUENCY TRNG 2.1
WHAT SHOULD BE COVERED TRNG 2.2
FIRE DRILLS TRNG 3.0

FREQUENCY TRNG 3.1
WHAT SHOULD BE COVERED TRNG 3.2
SPECIFIC STAFF DUTIES TRNG 3.3
KEEPING OF RECORDS TRNG 4.0

EXAMPLE OF RECORD SHEET FOR INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING ANNEX
TRNG 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? TRNG 5.0
FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICES (NTCE)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION NTCE 1.0
LOCATION, STYLE AND CONTENT NTCE 2.0

LOCATION NTCE 2.1
STYLE NTCE 2.2
CONTENT NTCE 2.3
SPECIMEN FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICE NTCE 3.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? NTCE 4.0
Fire Safety Guide

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING AND THE PREVENTION OF FIRE (PREV)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION PREV 1.0
COMMON FIRE HAZARDS PREV 2.0

SMOKING PREV 2.1
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR PREV 3.0

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING PREV 3.1
STAFF AWARENESS PREV 4.0

FIRE HAZARDS PREV 4.1
FURNITURE, FURNISHINGS AND TEXTILES PREV 5.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? PREV 6.0
STAFF DUTIES AND AWARENESS (DUTY)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION DUTY 1.0
REQUIREMENTS DUTY 2.0

THE OFFICER IN CHARGE/PREMISES MANAGER (PM) DUTY 2.1
INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO) DUTY 2.2
FIRE SAFETY MANAGER (FSM) DUTY 2.3
FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS (F/AFWS) DUTY 2.4
FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE DUTY 2.5
STAFF AWARENESS DUTY 2.6
Fire Safety Guide

PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES DUTY 3.0
GENERAL DUTY 3.1
WHEELCHAIR USERS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH IMPAIRED MOBILITY DUTY 3.2
STAFF WITH IMPAIRED VISION DUTY 3.3
STAFF WITH IMPAIRED HEARING DUTY 3.4
STAFF WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES DUTY 3.5
STAFF WITH BREATHING DIFFICULTIES OR A HEART CONDITION DUTY 3.6
SOURCES OF ADVICE DUTY 4.0

LIST OF ORGANISATIONS ABLE TO GIVE ADVICE ON FACILITIES FOR PERSONS
WITH DISABILITIES ANNEX
DUTY 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? DUTY 5.0
FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE (EVAC)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION EVAC 1.0
REQUIREMENTS EVAC 2.0

THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971 AND THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS
(WORKPLACE) REGULATIONS 1997 EVAC 2.1
OTHER LEGISLATION EVAC 2.2
FIRE SAFETY PLAN EVAC 3.0
EMERGENCY PLAN EVAC 4.0
FIRE PROCEDURE EVAC 5.0

ACTION TO BE TAKEN EVAC 5.1
INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO) EVAC 5.2
FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS (F/AFW) EVAC 5.3
ACTION TO BE TAKEN IN CASE OF FIRE EVAC 6.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? EVAC 7.0
Fire Safety Guide

RECORDING FIRE LOSSES IN CIVIL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS (LOSS)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION LOSS 1.0
REQUIREMENTS LOSS 2.0

FIRE INCIDENT RECORDS LOSS 2.1
REPORTING LOSS 2.2
SAMPLE FIRE INCIDENT REPORT FORM ANNEX
LOSS 2.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? LOSS 3.0
INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE (INSP)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION INSP 1.0
FIRE SAFETY AUDITS INSP 2.0

POLICY INSP 2.1
FREQUENCY OF AUDITS INSP 2.2
MEANS OF ESCAPE INSP 3.0

WEEKLY CHECKS INSP 3.1
THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM INSP 4.0

SAMPLE RECORD SHEET ANNEX
INSP 4.0/1
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT INSP 5.0

HOSE REELS INSP 5.1
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS INSP 5.2
FIRE BLANKETS INSP 5.3
INSP 5.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING INSP 6.0
INSP 6.0/1
FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE INSP 7.0

SAMPLE RECORD SHEETS ANNEX
INSP 7.0/1
OTHER FIRE SAFETY FACILITIES INSP 8.0

SAMPLE RECORD SHEETS ANNEX
INSP 8.0/1
SCHEDULE OF TESTS INSP 9.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? INSP 10.0
WORKS AND ALTERATIONS TO BUILDINGS (WORK)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION WORK 1.0
REQUIREMENTS WORK 2.0

ALL PREMISES WORK 2.1
PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE WORK 2.2
PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE WORK 2.3
CROWN FIRE POLICY WORK 2.4
CONSULTATION WORK 2.5
STAFF AWARENESS WORK 2.6
CONTRACTORS WORK 3.0

STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS ENGAGED ON CROWN WORKS WORK 3.1
MEANS OF ESCAPE WORK 3.2
HAZARDS WORK 3.3
FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION WORK 3.4
THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM WORK 3.5
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? WORK 4.0
Fire Safety Guide

CANTEENS, KITCHENS AND MESS ROOMS (KIT)
CONTENTS
REQUIREMENTS KIT 1.0

STAFF INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING KIT 1.1
CLEANLINESS KIT 1.2
COOKING APPLIANCES KIT 1.3
IN CASE OF FIRE IN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT KIT 1.4
FABRICS KIT 1.5
ELECTRICAL APPARATUS KIT 1.6
MEANS OF ESCAPE KIT 1.7
FINAL INSPECTION AT END OF DAY KIT 1.8
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? KIT 2.0
HISTORIC BUILDINGS (HIST)
CONTENTS
GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS HIST 1.0
STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS OF BUILDINGS HIST 2.0
PLANNING AND PROCEDURE HIST 3.0
MAINTENANCE HIST 4.0
ALTERATIONS HIST 5.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? HIST 6.0
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME Page 11
SALVAGE (SALV)
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION SALV 1.0
PLANNING SALV 2.0
THE VALUE OF SALVAGE SALV 3.0

ACTUAL OR VISIBLE DAMAGE SALV 3.1
HIDDEN DAMAGE AND LOSS SALV 3.2
THE AIM OF SALVAGE SALV 4.0

MINIMISING LOSSES SALV 4.1
FIRE FIGHTERS' SALVAGE OPERATIONS SALV 4.2
THE EXTENT OF SALVAGE SALV 5.0

THE EXTENT SALV 5.1
SUCCESS OF SALVAGE SALV 5.2
DAMAGE CONTROL SALV 6.0

EFFECTIVE SALVAGE SALV 6.1
OPERATIONAL TEAMS SALV 6.2
STOCK REPLACEMENT SALV 6.3
ACTION DURING FIRE FIGHTING SALV 6.4
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? SALV 7.0
Fire Safety Guide

Page 12 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
INT 1.0 INTRODUCTION
INT 1.1 BACKGROUND
INT 1.2 FIRE SAFETY GUIDE
INT 1.3 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE
INT 1.4 STRUCTURE OF THE GUIDE
INT 1.5 SYMBOLS USED
INT 1.6 ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
INT 1.7 DEFINITIONS
INT 1.8 SOURCES OF FIRE SAFETY ADVICE
INT 1.9 DEPARTMENTAL FIRE ADVISERS
INT 1.10 ENFORCING AUTHORITY
INT 1.11 LOCAL AUTHORITY FIRE SERVICE
INT 1.12 CROWN FIRE STANDARDS
INT 1.13 STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.0 INTRODUCTION
INT 1.1 BACKGROUND
The Fire Safety Guide (FSG) was previously produced by Department

of Enviroment's (DoEs) Fire Branch as the DoE Fire Precautions Guide
and was last printed in 1991. The 1990s saw some dramatic
organisational changes in the way that the Government Estate is
managed, with Property Services Agency (PSAs) privatisation, the
disbanding of Property Holdings and the transfer of estate owning and
management responsibilities to Departments. The residual
responsibilities of the DoE Fire Branch, including the responsibility for
producing guidance for Departments were passed to Property
Advisors to the Civil Estate's (PACEs) Central Advice Unit (CAU).
Following these changes (and the coming into force of the Fire
Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997) it became clear that the
Fire Precautions Guide was due for a major review.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME INT 1.1
INT 1.2 FIRE SAFETY GUIDE
The FSG has been prepared at the request of Departments to assist

them in discharging their responsibilities in respect of fire safety for
properties which they manage. It updates and replaces the DOE Fire
Precautions Guide. The FSG is one in a series of Guides which are
being developed by PACEs CAU as a family of guidance documents
which include the Estates Services Guide (ESG), Premises Management
Guide (PMG) and Guide to the Appointment of Consultants and
Contractors (GACC). Substantial cross referencing exists between the
Guides and the reader is encouraged to refer to all Guides. The
production of the FSG was facilitated by PACE CAU under the
direction of the interdepartmental Joint User Group (JUG) consisting of
representatives from a range of property owning Departments. A sub-
group of JUG was formed to take forward the development of the
detailed drafting.
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
INT 1.3 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE
The FSG is intended to assist Premises Managers (PMs) in discharging

their Departments Statutory and Crown policy responsibilities with
regard to Fire Safety Management. It explains how fire safety legislation,
in particular the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and The Fire Precautions
(Workplace) Regulations 1997, apply to the Crown and details the
responsibilities imposed on Departments.
The FSG provides a one stop comprehensive document, which can

form the basis of a structured approach to fire safety management. It
additionally provides advice on preparing salvage plans, which can be
vital in reducing fire losses, particularly directed at PMs in historic
premises and other premises of national or strategic importance.
The FSG has been written specifically to assist informed lay persons. It
is in no way intended to be substituted for professional expertise from
Fire Advisers.
The FSG will be updated from time to time when necessary and the
CAU will publish Information Notes giving details of any important
changes.
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.3
INT 1.4 STRUCTURE OF THE GUIDE
The format of this Guide is similar to that of the others in the CAU
family of guides. Each main section is divided (where applicable) into
numbered subject sections, preceded by a contents page for that
subject. The subject sections are further divided into sub-sections
covering single topics.
The header shows an index card icon, listing the Main Section, Subject
Section and Topic Heading.
The footer to each page contains publishing information consisting of

the Issue Number, Date of Issue and Section or Sub-section number.
Wherever appropriate, each topic is concluded with a guidance section

entitled What Should You Do? (as PM). This section advises, for each
of the main points discussed in the foregoing main section the
professional expertise that may be required and the specific advice
which can be expected from appointed specialist advisers.
Where appropriate, tables or lists providing further information or

references are inserted as Annexes to the main section concerned.
These Annexes are listed on the contents page. The FSG has a
comprehensive index which will lead the reader to information on
specific subjects.
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.5 SYMBOLS USED
The right hand margin contains, where appropriate, symbols or icons

relating to the adjoining text as detailed below:
This icon is the cross-referencing code to other sections of the FSG

which contain related information. The icon will give the section ➧ LAW
acronym and the relevant sub-section number. Alternatively, the icon

may refer to other CAU Guides such as the ESG or the Guide to
Requirements for Office Buildings (ROB).
This crown icon denotes those areas where Crown Immunity or

exemption exists or where there are circumstances particular to the
Crown.
This icon indicates where particular care should be taken to ensure

that Departments, or their advisers, are taking relevant action to
avoid prejudicing their property and contractual interests.
▲
!
This icon indicates where extreme care should be taken to ensure
that Departments' statutory obligations are fulfilled, particularly with
respect to health and safety matters.
This icon indicates where a cross reference to other documents

(excluding PACE CAU guides), or further reading is made. &
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.6 ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
BCPG BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING GUIDE

CAU CENTRAL ADVICE UNIT
CFS CROWN FIRE STANDARDS
DUTY STAFF DUTIES AND AWARENESS
ESC MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESG ESTATES SERVICES GUIDE
EVAC FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
FAC FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE
F/AFW FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDEN
FPO FIRE PRECAUTIONS OFFICER
FSG FIRE SAFETY GUIDE
FSM FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
GACC GUIDE TO THE APPOINTMENT OF CONSULTANTS
AND CONTRACTORS
HIST HISTORIC BUILDINGS
ICO INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER
INSP INSPECTION TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
JUG JOINT USER GROUP
KIT CANTEENS, KITCHENS AND MESS ROOMS
LAW THE LAW
LOSS RECORDING FIRE LOSSES IN CIVIL GOVERNMENT
BUILDINGS
MFF MEANS FOR FIGHTING FIRE
NTCE FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICES
PACE PROPERTY ADVISERS TO THE CIVIL ESTATE
PM PREMISES MANAGER
PMG PREMISES MANAGEMENT GUIDE
PREV GOOD HOUSEKEEPING AND THE PREVENTION
OF FIRE
SALV SALVAGE
TRNG TRAINING OF STAFF
WARN FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS
WORK WORKS AND ALTERATIONS TO BUILDINGS
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.6
HOME Edition 1: March 1998
INT 1.7 DEFINITIONS
This Guide uses terms which have the following meanings:
BUILDING CONTROL A body or consultancy specifically employed

or OFFICER/AGENT/ contracted to ensure compliance with the
CONSULTANT Building Regulations/Standards.
COMPETENT PERSON A person, organisation or company having

the relevant skills, qualifications and
experience.
DEPARTMENTAL FIRE A fire safety specialist, either employed

ADVISER directly within a Government Department or
an external consultant under contract.
THE ENFORCING In England and Wales, Crown Premises

AUTHORITY Inspection Group (CPIG) of HM Fire
Services Inspectorate at the Home Office; in
Scotland, HM Inspectorate of Fire Services at
the Scottish Executive Justice Department; in
premises subject to Fire Certificates (Special
Premises) Regulations 1976, the Safety
Executive; or in Northern Ireland, the
Department of Economic Development.
FACILITIES MANAGER A specialist employed by a Department to

manage and maintain all or certain aspects of
the premises and/or building services.
FIRE SAFETY The person designated by the PM to have

MANAGER particular responsibility for fire safety within a
premises or series of premises (may also be
known as the Fire Precautions Officer).
PREMISES ADVISER A person or organisation with a duty to

provide technical, professional, legal or other
expert advice or support to the PM. Such a
person or body may be an in-house
professional or technical officer, a consultant,
a managing agent or a specialist contractor
used in a consulting role.
PREMISES The person with responsibility for premises

MANAGER (PM) management functions as described in the
FSG. Such a person may be known by other
names, depending upon the Department
concerned, e.g. Accommodation Manager,
Accommodation Officer, Facilities Manager,
etc.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME INT 1.7
INT 1.8 SOURCES OF FIRE SAFETY ADVICE
In fulfilling their fire safety obligations, PMs may obtain fire safety advice
from a number of sources, including:
• Departmental Fire Advisers; who may be in-house or external

consultants under contract;
• in England and Wales, the Crown Premises Inspection Group (CPIG)

of HM Fire Services Inspectorate at the Home Office; in Scotland,
the HM Inspectorate of Fire Services at the Scottish Executive
Justice Department or in Northern Ireland, the Fire Inspectorate of
the Department of Economic Development; and
• Local Authority Fire Services (in very limited circumstances - see the
Local Authority Fire Service section below).
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.8 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
INT 1.9 DEPARTMENTAL FIRE ADVISERS
In-house Fire Advisers will probably only exist in larger Departments or

Departments with significant fire safety responsibilities. Most
Departments will tend to have a contractual arrangement with fire
consultants for the provision of fire advice and support. Fire Safety
Managers should establish how to contact their Departmental Fire
Advisers. Departmental Fire Advisers may provide some or all of the
following services:
advice on fire safety measures to be taken to ensure compliance

with the fire safety aspects of the Building Regulations/Standards and
advice on other fire related legislation, including compliance with the
provisions of Fire Certificates and, if necessary with the Crown Fire
Standards;
fire risk assessments in compliance with the Fire Precautions

(Workplace) Regulations 1997;
fire Safety Audits;
general advice on loss prevention, loss limitation and fire safety;
fire safety training; and
advice on the testing and maintenance of fire safety provisions and

equipment.
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.10 ENFORCING AUTHORITY
The Enforcing Authorities will provide advice on compliance with

legislation and other matters relating to life safety. The contact points
for these organisations are given in LAW 2.3. ➧ LAW 2.3
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.10
INT 1.11 LOCAL AUTHORITY FIRE SERVICE
Local Authority Fire Services are required by the Fire Services Act 1947
for England, Scotland and Wales, (for Northern Ireland, the Fire
Services Order (NI) 1984) to have efficient arrangements for the
giving, when requested, of advice in respect of buildings and other
property in the area of fire and means of escape in case of fire. This
advice is normally provided free of charge. However, under the Local
Authority Supply of Goods and Services Act 1970, there is a
limitation to confine the activities of Local Authorities to those
statutory duties affecting the local community which they exist to
serve. Government Departments are not deemed to form part of
that local community and as such Local Authorities are not
resourced to provide Departments with advice on fire safety
matters. Fire safety advice should not, therefore be sought from
Local Authority Fire Brigades. The only situations where liaison or
contact with the Local Authority Fire Service is necessary are:
in non Crown owned, but part Crown occupied premises, where

they have the authority to inspect and certify all non Crown
occupations and relevant common areas and to issue a separate
Fire Certificate;
consultation with regard to access and facilities for the fire service
in new premises;
in entering all premises (including Crown owned) to obtain

information required for fire fighting purposes i.e. access for fire
appliances, water supplies for fire fighting and other facilities
provided for their use. It is recommended that Departments allow
this access; and
to enter any Crown premises for the purpose of fighting fire.
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.11
INT 1.12 CROWN FIRE STANDARDS
When undertaking new works, extensions, alterations and changes of

use, the Crown Fire Standards are available and may be adopted by
Departments. They are intended to complement the requirements of
legislation and provide guidance on enhanced measures for property
protection in the same way that guidance issued by the Loss Prevention
Council may be used in the private sector. Further information on
these standards may be obtained from CAU and is referred to in
WORK of this Guide.
➧ WORK
Fire Safety Guide

INT 1.13 STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS
When undertaking any works within Crown Buildings the document

Standard Fire Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works
(ISBN-0-11-753094-8) provides guidance on the precautions to be
taken by contractors during the works. This document is available from
The Stationery Office.
Fire Safety Guide

THE LAW
LAW 1.0 GOVERNMENT POLICY
LAW 2.0 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971

LAW 2.1 THE REQUIREMENTS
LAW 2.2 WHEN IS A FIRE CERTIFICATE REQUIRED?
LAW 2.3 OBTAINING A FIRE CERTIFICATE
LAW 2.4 THE FIRE CERTIFICATE
LAW 2.5 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
ANNEX DEFINITION OF FACTORY, OFFICE, SHOP AND RAILWAY PREMISES
LAW 2.0/1
LAW 3.0 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE)

REGULATIONS 1997 (AS AMENDED 1999)
LAW 3.1 INTRODUCTION
LAW 3.2 DEFINITION OF WORKPLACE
LAW 3.3 REQUIREMENTS
ANNEX EXAMPLE PROFORMA FOR FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
LAW 3.0/1
LAW 4.0 OTHER LEGISLATION

LAW 4.1 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND
THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK (NI) ORDER 1978
LAW 4.2 MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK REGULATIONS 1999
AND MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK REGULATIONS
(NI) 1992
LAW 4.3 BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS
LAW 4.4 THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS REGULATIONS 1999
(COMAH) AND THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS
REGULATIONS (NORTHERN IRELAND) 2000
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
HOME
LAW 4.5 THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS
1994 (COSHH) AND THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO
HEALTH REGULATIONS (NI) 1990 (AS AMENDED IN 1992 AND 1993)
LAW 4.6 THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS 1994
AND THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS
(NI) 1995 (CDM)
LAW 4.7 PLANNING LEGISLATION
LAW 4.8 CHILDREN ACT 1989
LAW 4.9 THE LICENSING ACT 1964 FOR ENGLAND AND WALES, THE LICENSING
(SCOTLAND) ACT 1976, THE LICENSING ACT (NORTHERN IRELAND)
ORDER 1990
LAW 4.10 PETROLEUM (CONSOLIDATION) ACT 1928
LAW 4.11 CINEMAS ACT 1985
LAW 4.12 THE FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS (FIRE SAFETY) REGULATIONS 1988
LAW 4.13 THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
REGULATIONS 1972 AND THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS REGULATIONS (NI) 1975
LAW 4.14 THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGULATIONS
1996
LAW 4.15 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY (SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS) REGULATIONS
1996
LAW 4.16 MISCELLANEOUS
Fire Safety Guide

HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
GOVERNMENT POLICY
THE LAW
LAW 1.0 GOVERNMENT POLICY
It is Government policy that the Crown complies with the substantive

requirements of fire legislation, although it is not bound by the
enforcement procedures. Departments are, therefore, responsible for
ensuring that their premises meet the requirements of fire legislation
such as the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions
(Workplace) Regulations 1997.
As for building regulations, it is Government policy that the Crown

complies with the substantive requirements of the Building Regulations
1991 in England and Wales, the Building Standards (Scotland)
Regulations 1990 in Scotland and the Building Regulations (Northern
Ireland) 1994 in Northern Ireland. Departments are therefore
PMG
responsible for having in place arrangements for compliance checking to
ensure that the Regulations are followed.
➧ MTCE 3.2
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998
HOME LAW 1.0
THE REQUIREMENTS
THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971
THE LAW
LAW 2.0 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971
LAW 2.1 THE REQUIREMENTS
The purpose of the Fire Precautions Act 1971 is to protect people from
the risk of fire. The Act works primarily through a fire certification
procedure. If premises are put to a designated use, e.g. as an office,
shop, railway premises, factory, hotel or boarding house, they may be
subject to Fire Certification, in which case the owners or occupiers will
need to apply for a Fire Certificate in accordance with the Act.
The Act places a responsibility on the occupier of a premises put to a

use designated by the Secretary of State or, for Ireland, the Department
of the Environment (NI), to apply for a Fire Certificate and to comply
with certain interim duties pending the issue of a certificate. The Act
then places a responsibility on the fire authority to inspect the premises
and to issue a Fire Certificate when it is satisfied that there are
adequate means for:
• escape;
• securing the availability of the means of escape;
• fighting a fire; and
• giving a warning in case of fire.
It is then the duty of the occupier/owner to maintain the conditions of

the Fire Certificate.
The Enforcing Authorities defined in the introduction to this guide are

responsible for enforcing the Act in Crown owned and/or Crown
▲
!
occupied premises. ➧ LAW 2.3
Under normal circumstances, the Local Fire Authority has no role in

certifying Crown owned or Crown occupied premises. The only
exception to this is premises of mixed occupation, i.e. Crown and non-
▲
!
Crown, where the Local Fire Authority may have a role in certifying the
non-Crown parts of the premises.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.1
WHEN IS A FIRE CERTIFICATE REQUIRED?
THE LAW
LAW 2.2 WHEN IS A FIRE CERTIFICATE REQUIRED?
Factories, Offices, Shops and Railway Premises are designated under the
Fire Precautions Act 1971. (See ANNEX LAW 2.0/1 for definition of
ANNEX
Factory, Office, Shop and Railway Premises). A Fire Certificate must be
applied for when, at any one time, more than 20 people are at work in ➧ LAW 2.0/1
the building or more than 10 elsewhere than on the ground floor. In
buildings of multiple occupation, a Fire Certificate is required when the
aggregate of people exceeds those numbers. Fire Certificates are also
required for factory premises where certain types or quantities of
explosive or highly flammable materials are stored or used in or under
those premises, regardless of the aggregate total of people at work,
unless the Enforcing Authority has determined otherwise.
Premises which require a Fire Certificate may be used provided that an

application for a certificate covering that use has been made. ▲
!
There are two conditions under which factories, offices or shops are
exempted from the need to hold a Fire Certificate. These are: ▲
!
• when a Fire Certificate would normally be required, but an
exemption has been granted under section 5A of the Fire
Precautions Act. This exemption may be granted by the Enforcing
Authority where there is a low risk to life within the premises; or
• where insufficient people are at work in the building or premises for

a certificate to be necessary.
It should be noted that all premises comprising a workplace are also

subject to the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 (and
subsequent amendments). (See LAW 3.0).
➧
 LAW 3.0
Fire Safety Guide

LAW 2.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
OBTAINING A FIRE CERTIFICATE
THE LAW
LAW 2.3 OBTAINING A FIRE CERTIFICATE
Application
An application for a Fire Certificate should be made prior to, or

immediately upon, occupation to:
England and Wales: HM Fire Service Inspectorate,

Crown Premises Inspection Group,
White Rose Court,
Oriental Road,
Woking,
Surrey, GU22 7PJ.
Telephone: 01483 776 263
Scotland: HM Inspector of Fire Services,

The Scottish Executive Justice Department,
Spur F1,
Saughton House,
Broomhouse Drive,
Edinburgh, EH11 3XD.
Telephone: 0131 244 2339
Northern Ireland: The Department of Economic Development,

Health & Safety Division,
83 Ladas Drive,
Belfast, BT6 9FJ.
Telephone: 01232 251 333
HSE: HSE,
The HSE Information Centre,
Broad Lane,
Sheffield, S3 7HQ.
Telephone: 0541 545 500
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.3
THE LAW
LAW 2.3 OBTAINING A FIRE CERTIFICATE (CONT'D)
The application should be made using the form FP1 (Rev.) which is
available from the above addresses. It should be noted that the
Enforcing Authority will require suitable plans of the premises or
building.
Note: The Enforcing Authorities should also be notified when

premises are vacated or disposed of. ➧

PMG
STAT 11.0
Who Should Apply
The application for a Fire Certificate or notification of any changes to

the premises where a certificate is in force should be made by either
the Landlord, Holder or Occupier.
The definition of occupant, holder or landlord is dependent on Crown

ownership or occupancy. Table 1 provides further guidance on who
should make the application or notification.
➧
 Table 1
Fire Safety Guide

THE LAW
Table 1 - Who should apply
Ownership Occupants Application for a Fire

Certificate should be made by
(A) (B) (C)
Crown Wholly occupied by single Crown Holder or Occupying

occupier Department
Crown Wholly occupied by 2 or more Holder

Crown occupiers
Crown Occupied by Crown Department(s) Holder

and non-Crown Departments
Crown Wholly occupied by single Occupier

non-Crown occupier
Crown Occupied by 2 or more Holder

non-Crown occupiers
Non- Wholly occupied by single Crown Holder

Crown occupier
Non- Wholly occupied by 2 or more Holder

Crown Crown occupiers
Non- Single lease, wholly occupied by Holder

Crown 2 or more Crown occupiers
Non- Wholly occupied by 2 or more Landlord

Crown Crown occupiers under separate
leases
Non- Partly occupied by Crown Landlord

Crown Departments, partly non-Crown
Notes: 1. For the purposes of the Fire Precautions Act 1971, the terms Landlord or
Holder have the meaning of Owner as regards responsibility under the Act.
2. This matrix does not apply to Northern Ireland where the Fire Inspector at
the Health and Safety Division of the Department of Economic Development
should be contacted.
3. Common areas in multi occupied premises i.e. Crown and Non-Crown may
be subject to the conditions of two fire certificates.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.3
THE LAW
Interim Duties
Section 5 (2A) of the Fire Precautions Act 1971 requires that, where an
application is made for a Fire Certificate with respect to any premises
and pending its issue, it is the duty of Occupiers to ensure that:
• the means of escape in case of fire with which the premises are
provided can be safely and effectively used whenever the building or
premises are occupied;
• the means for fighting fire with which the premises are provided are
maintained in efficient working order; and
• any persons employed to work in the premises receive instruction

or training in what to do in case of fire.
Fire exits and escape routes must be available for use and kept clear of
obstructions whenever the building or premises are occupied. Fire exit
signs and instructions must be clear and unambiguous.
Doors on escape routes must be easily openable without the use of a

key, digital lock code or swipe card and the opening mechanism should
be able to be operated by a single one-handed action.
Note: In certain circumstances, digital locks, swipe cards or other

access control system may be acceptable on escape routes.
Advice should be sought from the Departmental Fire Adviser
or the Enforcing Authority.
▲
!
The Fire Inspector
When the Enforcing Authority has received an application form and any
other information (including plans) it requires, a Fire Inspector will visit
the premises.
The Fire Inspector will inspect all parts of the premises to establish
whether the fire precautions are satisfactory and may make any
enquiries that are necessary for this purpose. The Inspector should be
provided with appropriate assistance and facilities.
On the basis of this inspection, the Enforcing Authority will decide

whether to issue a Fire Certificate or whether the premises may be
exempted from the requirement.
Fire Safety Guide

THE LAW
Unacceptable Fire Precautions
If the Enforcing Authority is not satisfied with the fire precautions in the
premises, it will inform the applicant in writing of the steps which it
requires to be taken. The applicant will be given a specific period within
which action must be taken to meet the requirements.
If, at the end of this period or such further time as may be allowed, the
Enforcing Authority is satisfied that the fire precautions are adequate, a
Fire Certificate will be issued.
If the Enforcing Authority is not satisfied about the action which has
been taken to upgrade the fire precautions in the premises and, in
consequence, is not able to issue a Fire Certificate, a Fire Certificate is
deemed to have been refused and the premises should not be
occupied.
Confidentiality
The Fire Precautions Act 1971 places a restriction on the Fire Inspector
regarding the extent to which any information obtained whilst on the
premises may be disclosed.
Information may only be disclosed for the purpose of legal proceedings

or arbitration or to an authority responsible for the enforcement of the
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.3 Page 5 of 5
THE FIRE CERTIFICATE
THE LAW
LAW 2.4 THE FIRE CERTIFICATE
Issuing a Fire Certificate
If, after receiving the Fire Inspectors report, the Enforcing Authority is
satisfied with fire safety arrangements, it will issue a Fire Certificate.
A Fire Certificate contains fire safety conditions which shall be

maintained by the occupiers, holder or landlord as appropriate. The
certificate is normally accompanied by plans that illustrate the means of
escape and other fire safety measures for the premises.
It should be noted that the Fire Certificate could become invalidated if

any material change were to take place without the prior agreement of
the Enforcing Authority. (See WORK). ➧ WORK
Contents of a Fire Certificate
A Fire Certificate is a document unique to the premises. It will contain

at least the following information:
the use(s) of the premises covered by the Fire Certificate;
the means of escape in case of fire;
the methods for ensuring that the means of escape can be safely
and effectively used whenever the building or premises are
occupied, e.g. fire exit signs and escape lighting;
the type, number and location of the fire fighting equipment;
the type, number and location of the fire alarms; and
in the case of factories, any explosive or highly flammable materials

which may be stored or used in or under the premises.
The Enforcing Authority may (and normally will) additionally

incorporate any of the following requirements into the Fire Certificate:
that all the above measures are maintained properly; ➧ INSP
that employees are given appropriate training in what to do in case

of fire and records are kept of that training; and ➧ TRNG
that the number of people who may be in the premises at any one
time does not exceed any limit specified by the Enforcing Authority.
Fire Safety Guide

LAW 2.4 Page 1 of 3 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
THE LAW
LAW 2.4 THE FIRE CERTIFICATE (CONT'D)
The certificate may also specify other fire precautions which should be
observed. ▲
!
Failure by the Crown to comply with any condition of a Fire Certificate
issued under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 is not an offence. However,
although the Crown cannot be prosecuted under this Act, individual
Crown employees are not exempt from prosecution under the Health
and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Where to keep the Fire Certificate
The Fire Certificate relates to the premises. It is not personal to the

applicant or the Holder or occupier of the premises. It is a legal
requirement that the fire certificate is kept on the premises and be
made available for reference or inspection.
Changes affecting a Fire Certificate
Once a certificate is issued, any of the following proposed changes

should be notified to the Enforcing Authority, in writing, for approval
prior to the change taking effect:

➧ WORK
• making a material extension or material structural alteration to the

premises;
• making a material alteration to the internal arrangement of the

premises or to the furniture; and
• in the case of factory premises, intending to begin to store or use

explosive or highly flammable materials or materially increasing the
extent of such storage.
The expression ‘material’ has been defined as any alterations that will
make the means of escape or related fire precautions inadequate. It is
unlikely to apply with regard to internal decorations and in most cases
▲
!
will not apply when furniture is replaced. If in any doubt, the
Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted.
The Enforcing Authority may, at its discretion, reinspect any premises or

building issued with a Fire Certificate to determine whether conditions
have changed and that all the conditions of the Fire Certificate are
▲
!
being met.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.4
THE LAW
LAW 2.4 THE FIRE CERTIFICATE (CONT'D)
The current policy of the Enforcing Authorities is that all certificated

premises will be reinspected at a frequency appropriate to the risk. This
frequency may vary from one year in the case of high risk premises to 5
or more years in the case of lower risk premises with a good standard
of fire safety management. It is normally the policy of individual
departments to arrange for their own (non-statutory) fire safety audits
to be carried out on a more frequent basis. For example, a normal risk

➧ INSP 2.2
office building should be audited every 2 years. See INSP 2.2 of this
Guide for recommendations regarding the frequency of these audits.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
THE LAW
1. Establish whether a Fire Certificate is required for your premises.
2. Establish whether a Fire Certificate or Notice of Exemption has

been issued to your premises.
3. Where a Fire Certificate or Notice of Exemption is held, ensure the

Enforcing Authority is notified in advance of any proposed
alterations.
4. Where a Fire Certificate is required, but not held, ensure that an

application is made in the prescribed form and ensure the interim
duties are complied with pending the issue of a certificate.
5. Where a Fire Certificate is held, ensure the conditions of the

certificate are complied with and that a copy of the certificate is
held on site.
6. Ensure that the requirements of the Fire Precautions (Workplace)

Regulations 1997 (as amended 1999) are also complied with. (See
LAW 3.0)
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 2.5
ANNEX LAW 2.0/1
THE LAW
DEFINITION OF FACTORY, OFFICE, SHOP AND RAILWAY

PREMISES
In order to interpret the actual use of the building or premises for the
purpose of this Guide, PMs will need legal definitions for factories,
offices, shops or railway premises. These definitions are as follows:
Factory Premises means premises (that is to say buildings or parts of

buildings) constituting, or forming part of, a factory within the meaning
of Section 175 of the Factories Act 1961 and premises to which
Sections 123(1) and 124 of that Act (application to electrical stations
and institutions) apply. The definition includes a wide range of premises
in which persons are employed in manual labour.
Office premises means office premises within the meaning of Section

1 of the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act 1963 and premises
deemed to be offices for the purposes of that Act. This includes
buildings, or parts of buildings, the sole or principal use of which
includes the purposes of administration, clerical work, handling money,
telephone and telegraph operating, writing, drawing and the editorial
preparation of matter for publication.
Shop premises means shop premises within the meaning of the

Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act 1963 and premises deemed to
be shop premises for the purposes of that Act. This includes shops,
other buildings or parts of buildings where the sole or principal use is
carrying on there of retail trade or business (including the sale of food
and drink for immediate consumption), buildings occupied by
wholesalers where goods are kept for sale, and buildings where
members of the public take goods for repair or treatment. It includes
certain type of covered markets, in particular converted shop premises
and buildings which have been adapted to house semi-permanent stalls;
but it excludes from the definition of shop premises those where the
market is held by virtue of a grant from the Crown or under statutory
authority.
Railway premises means railway premises within the meaning of the

Factory, Office, Shop and Railway Premises Act 1963 or premises
deemed to be such premises for the purposes of the Act, e.g. signal
boxes and buildings in stations and goods yards where people are at
work, and structures such as railway platforms. The definition does not,
however, apply to underground railway stations to which special fire
precaution regulations under Section 12 of the Fire Precautions Act
1971 apply.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME ANNEX LAW 2.0/1
INTRODUCTION
THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE) REGULATIONS 1997 (AS AMENDED 1999)
THE LAW
LAW 3.0 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE)

REGULATIONS 1997 (AS AMENDED 1999)
LAW 3.1 INTRODUCTION
The Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997, which came into

force on 1st December 1997, implement the general fire safety
provisions of the European Framework and Workplace Directives.
The Regulations apply to any workplace where staff are employed.

However, a small number of workplaces are excepted from the
Regulations and these exceptions are given in Regulation 3(5).
The Regulations provide for minimum fire safety standards in places

where people work (including shared areas and facilities and the means
of access to the workplace). The primary responsibility for ensuring
compliance lies with the employer. Where the employer does not have
control over parts of the workplace, there is a responsibility on the
person who does (usually the owner or landlord) to make sure those
parts comply with the Regulations.
Further advice may be obtained from the Departmental Fire Adviser.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 3.1
DEFINITION OF WORKPLACE
THE LAW
LAW 3.2 DEFINITION OF WORKPLACE
▲
Under the Regulations, “Workplace” is defined as any premises or part
of premises, not being domestic premises, used for the purposes of an
employer’s undertaking and which is made available to an employee of
!
the employer as a place of work and includes:
• any place within the premises to which such employee has access
while at work; and
• any room, lobby, corridor, staircase, road or other place which is:
(1) used as a means of access to or egress from that place of work;

or
(2) where facilities are provided for use in connection with that place
of work, other than a public road.
Fire Safety Guide

REQUIREMENTS
THE LAW
LAW 3.3 REQUIREMENTS
▲
The Regulations require that the fire risks in the workplace are assessed,
either as part of the general review of health and safety risks already
carried out or, alternatively undertaken as a specific exercise. Once the
!
risks have been assessed, the following should be ensured:
• that a fire can be detected in a reasonable time and people warned;


➧ WARN
• that people who may be in the building can get out safely;
➧
 ESC
• that those in the building know what to do if there is a fire;


➧ TRNG
• that reasonable fire safety equipment is provided;


➧ MFF
• that fire safety equipment (e.g. fire alarms, fire fighting equipment) is
tested and maintained; and
➧
 INSP
• that a decision is taken whether any steps are necessary to put right
any defects or deficiencies found.
The risk assessment should be reviewed when circumstances affecting

fire safety in the workplace are changed, e.g. physical alterations, changes
in operations, changes in staff responsibilities, etc.
Guidance on risk assessment and the things to look for can be found in
the joint Home Office, Scottish Executive, DOE Northern Ireland, HSE
publication ‘Fire Safety: An Employers Guide’.
An example proforma for fire risk assessment can be found at ANNEX ➧


ANNEX
LAW 3.0/1
LAW 3.0/1.
The Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted for further advice.

A fire safety advice term commission, which can be accessed by all
Departments, is available through the PACE Central Advice Unit.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 3.3
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
THE LAW
1. Establish whether these Regulations apply to your premises.
2. Ensure that the risks are assessed in the workplace.
3. Ensure that the fire precautions are reviewed in the light of the
assessed risks.
4. Review risk assessment when circumstances change.
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
PRO-FORMA
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
(ADDRESS OF PREMISES)
DATE OF ASSESSMENT:
* THIS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT SHOULD BE REVIEWED

PERIODICALLY AND/OR WHEN CIRCUMSTANCES
CHANGE. *
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
ADDRESS OF WORKPLACE:
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT CARRIED OUT BY: (NAME )

(ADDRESS )
(CONTACT NOS. )
PRIMARY OCCUPANCY TYPE: (e.g. Office, laboratory, factory, workshop, etc)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 This is a written record of the fire risk assessment undertaken to satisfy the Fire
Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 (as amended) and the Management of
Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended).
Department Representative:
DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
2.0 FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION
2.1 Is the Workplace subject to the conditions of a fire certificate or licence issued under any
other Fire Safety Legislation?
YES NO
If YES, please give details:
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
2.2 If the premises are subject to the conditions of a fire certificate, is a copy held readily
available on site?
YES NO
(Note: Guidance on other Fire Safety Legislation which may be applicable to your
Workplace is given in Section LAW 4.0 of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
3.0 IDENTIFICATION OF FIRE HAZARDS
List Sources of Ignition
List Sources of Fuel
(Note: Guidance on identifying Sources of Ignition and Sources of Fuel is given in the
document ‘FIRE SAFETY – An Employers Guide’)
List Work Processes posing a particular Risk
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
YES NO N/A
4.0 REDUCING FIRE HAZARDS
ANY ANSWER NO SHOULD BE SUBJECT OF AN ACTION

REQUIRED AT SECTION 11.0
4.1 Are all identified sources of heat necessary in the workplace?
4.2 Have identified sources of heat in the workplace been reviewed

to see if they can be replaced by a safer alternative?
4.3 Is all heat producing equipment used in accordance with the

manufacturers’ instructions?
4.4 Is all heat producing equipment properly maintained?
4.5 Are all items of electrical equipment inspected regularly by a

competent person?
4.6 Is there a ‘hot work’ permit system in place?
4.7 Are all ducts and flues kept clean?
4.8 Is a safe smoking policy in place?
4.9 Are matches and lighters and other naked flames prohibited from
high fire risk areas?
4.10 Is all equipment left in a safe condition when not in use?
4.11 Are all ignition sources made safe when leaving a workplace?
4.12 Is the level of security sufficient to avoid the risk of arson?
4.13 Are all flammable materials and substances kept to the minimum
required for the operation of the business?
4.14 Is it ensured that materials and substances are replaced with less
flammable alternatives wherever possible?
4.15 Are flammable materials, liquids (and vapours) and gases handled,
transported, stored and used properly?
4.16 Are there adequate separation distances between flammable

materials?
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
YES NO N/A
4.17 Are highly flammable substances kept in fire resisting stores, and,
where necessary, kept to a minimum quantity in fire resisting
containers in the workroom?
4.18 Have all large areas of flammable wall and ceiling linings been
removed, covered or treated to reduce the spread of flame
across the surface?
4.19 Is all damaged upholstered furniture replaced when the foam

filling is exposed?
4.20 Is there adequate provision for the removal of waste materials

and rubbish?
4.21 Are storage areas kept secure?
4.22 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate?
4.23 Are all doors, windows and other openings not required for
ventilation kept closed, particularly out of working hours?
4.24 Are all ventilation systems not essential to the workplace shut
down?
5.0 IDENTIFICATION OF PEOPLE AT SIGNIFICANT RISK

REQUIRED AT SECTION 11.0
YES NO
5.1 Is everybody (employee, visitor) safe from significant danger from

a fire in the workplace, or while trying to escape from it?
If NO, describe their location:
......................................................................................................................................................
5.2 If NO, are the fire safety measures provided considered adequate
to compensate for this significant risk?
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
6.0 FIRE DETECTION AND FIRE WARNING
6.1 Description of fire detection and fire warning system:
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................

REQUIRED AT SECTION 11.0 YES NO
6.2 Is the above fire detection and fire warning system adequate for
the risk?
(Note: Guidance which may be applicable to your workplace is given in Section WARN Fire
Warning Systems of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
7.0 MEANS OF ESCAPE
7.1 Description of means of escape:
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................

7.2 Are the above means of escape provisions considered adequate

for the risk?
7.3 Is the provision of fire safety signage where required satisfactory?
7.4 Is the provision of emergency escape lighting where required

satisfactory?
(Note: Guidance which may be applicable to your workplace is given in Section ESC Means
of Escape of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
8.0 MEANS FOR FIGHTING FIRE
8.1 Description of means for fighting fire:
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................

8.2 Is the means for fighting fire considered adequate for the risk,
positioned correctly and readily accessible?
(Note: Guidance which may be applicable to your workplace is given in Section MFF Means
of Fighting Fire of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
9.0 MAINTENANCE AND TESTING

9.1 Are fire doors, escape routes and fire safety signs checked regularly?
9.2 Is the fire warning and detection system where required

adequately tested and maintained and records kept?
9.3 Is the emergency escape lighting system where required adequately

tested and maintained and records kept?
9.4 Is the means for fighting fire adequately tested and maintained and
records kept?
9.5 Are all other fire safety measures and equipment adequately
tested and maintained?
(Note: Guidance which may be applicable to your workplace is given in Section INSP
Inspection Testing and Maintenance of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
10.0 FIRE PROCEDURES AND TRAINING

10.1 Is there an emergency plan in place?
10.2 Is training in fire procedures given at least once, though preferably

twice, in each period of 12 months and records kept?
10.3 Are regular fire drills carried out at least once in every 12 months
and records kept?
10.4 Are Fire Instruction Notices provided throughout the workplace?
10.5 Are adequate arrangements in place to assist in the evacuation of

people with special needs?
10.6 Are adequate arrangements in place for the safe evacuation of

persons such as visitors, members of the public and contractors?
(Note: Guidance which may be applicable to your workplace is given in Section EVAC,
TRNG, NTCE and DUTY of the PACE Fire Safety Guide)
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
11.0 ACTION REQUIRED
Paragraph Action Complete Signed

Number (Date)
Continue overleaf if necessary
Originator: ...........................................................................
Authorised: ...........................................................................
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LAW 3.0/1
THE LAW
11.0 ACTION REQUIRED (Continued)
Paragraph Action Complete Signed

Number (Date)
Fire Safety Guide

THE H&S AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND (NI) ORDER 1978
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.0 OTHER LEGISLATION
LAW 4.1 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND THE
HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK (NI) ORDER 1978
These Acts are enabling acts which are provided so that legislation
may be introduced to cover all health and safety matters throughout
the United Kingdom (UK). Most parts of these Acts apply to the
Crown, other than the provisions relating to penalties.
The main purposes of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act are to:
secure the health, safety and welfare of persons at work;
protect people, other than those at work, against risks to health and
safety arising out of work activities; and
control the storage and use of dangerous substances, such as

explosives, highly flammable, toxic or other dangerous substances.
The Act places general duties on all people at work, e.g. employers,
employees, self employed, landlords, agents and also designers,
manufacturers and suppliers of materials used at work. Many of these
duties are placed initially on the employers because they usually have
the controlling influence over the work activities.
Earlier health and safety legislation was often prescriptive in specifying

what had to be done, whereas the Health and Safety at Work Act and
its subsequent Regulations are usually goal setting in that they specify
the results to be achieved. This has the underlying concept that the
employer is expected to have a sufficient understanding of the work
activities to know the hazards and how to control or eliminate the risk
of harm to those who may be affected.
Regulations are accompanied by Approved Codes of Practice or other

forms of guidance on the methods to be used in achieving the specified
goals. This usually starts with Risk Assessment. A good example is to
be found in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
▲
!
Regulations (COSHH Regulations). This specifies Hazard Identification,
Risk Assessment, Design of Equipment and Specification of Safe
Systems of Work, Use of the Control Measures, Measurement of
Exposure Levels, Regular Maintenance of Equipment, Health
Surveillance and Information, Instruction and Training for all Employees
at Risk.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.1
THE H&S AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND (NI) ORDER 1978
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.1 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT 1974 AND THE
HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK (NI) ORDER 1978 (CONT'D)
The penal clauses and offences section of the Act apply equally to
private sector and Crown employees.
The Act also permits its penal clauses to be applied in respect of any
other contraventions under Health and Safety legislation to Crown
employees, notwithstanding that these employees may be exempt from
penal conditions under other legislation.
Management of whatever grade can be considered as employees but it

is significant the more senior the grade the more onerous the duty.
Duties of Employers
The Act places a general duty on every employer to ensure, so far as is

reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of all their
employees.
Employers are required to provide and maintain safe systems for health
and safety and to provide information, instruction, training and
supervision as necessary.
The Act requires employers to have safety committees to keep under

review any measures taken for the health and safety of people at work.
Under the Act employers also have a general duty to ensure, so far as
is reasonably practicable, that people who are not employees are not
exposed to risks to their health and safety. This will include contractors,
visitors and the public. The duty mainly applies to the workplace but it
can extend beyond its boundaries, e.g. if there was a possibility of a
serious fire or explosion.
Duties of Employees
The Act places a duty on all employees to ensure, as far as possible,

that any work they perform does not harm the general health and
safety of other people at work.
The Act provides for the support of employees when their employers
have statutory duties with regard to health, safety and welfare, and
prohibits the intentional or reckless interference or misuse of anything
provided on the premises in the interests of health and safety.
Fire Safety Guide

LAW 4.1
MANAGEMENT OF H&S AT WORK REGULATIONS 1999 AND (NI) 1992
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.2 MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK

REGULATIONS 1999 AND MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND
SAFETY AT WORK REGULATIONS (NI) 1992
These Regulations provide guidance on the management processes that

are required to ensure the safety, health and welfare of employees and
other people who may be affected by work activities. They are aimed
mainly at improving H&S Management, and expand upon what is
already contained in the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
They place certain requirements on employers and set out the

statutory basis for fire risk assessments under the Fire Precautions ➧ LAW 3.0
(Workplace) Regulations 1997.
In addition Regulation 7 deals specifically with procedures for serious

and imminent danger and danger areas. This would encompass a ➧
 EVAC 2.2
requirement for evacuation procedures in the event of fire.
These Regulations also place a duty on employees to:
• carry out the work in accordance with training and instructions

given by the employer in order to comply with statutory provisions;
• inform the employer of a work situation that appears to represent a

serious and immediate danger to health and safety; and
• inform the employer of matters that appear to represent a

shortcoming in the employer’s protection arrangements for health
and safety.
The penal clauses of the Act could be used as a basis for prosecution
where employees fail to provide or maintain fire safety provisions.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.2
BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.3 BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS
The Building Regulations 1991 impose requirements relating to the

design and construction of buildings in England and Wales. The
regulations are made under powers contained in the Building Act 1984.
In Scotland and Northern Ireland the Building Standards (Scotland)
Regulations 1990 and the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1994
respectively have the same effect. They are made under powers
contained in the Building (Scotland) Act 1959 and the Building
Regulations (Northern Ireland) Order 1979.
Although the provisions of these Building Acts and Northern Ireland

Order (and therefore of the Building Regulations) do not at present
apply to the Crown, it is Government policy to comply with the
substantive requirements of the Regulations and many Departments
have raised commissions with consultants to ensure compliance with
the technical standards prior to and during construction or
refurbishment.
Scope of the Building Regulations and Scottish Technical

Standards
In England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the Regulations

lay down broad requirements on, for example, structural stability, fire
▲
!
resistance, internal sound insulation, design of stairs, and drainage. The
primary purpose of these requirements, is to secure the health and
safety of people who will use buildings after they have been
constructed or who may be affected by it. There are also environmental
requirements relating to energy conservation and to the provision of
access and facilities for disabled people. In England and Wales the
Regulations can be met by adherence to the Approved Documents. In
Scotland the Regulations can only be met by adherence to the Scottish
Technical Standards. In Northern Ireland the Regulations may be met by
adherence to the Technical Booklets.
Departments should be aware that compliance with these

Standards will not guarantee that the building is of fire
certification standard. That can only be achieved by full
consultation prior to, and during, the work with the Enforcing
Authority.
Fire Safety Guide

BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.3 BUILDING CONTROL AND REGULATIONS (CONT'D)
Building Regulations and Fire Safety - Procedural Guidance, June
▲
1992
!
This document was introduced in June 1992 by DoE, Home Office and
Welsh Office. The guide was prepared primarily for designers,
developers and occupiers of buildings and it explains the steps involved

in approving fire safety aspects of building work and the interaction
between Building Regulations and other fire safety requirements in
England and Wales (not Scotland or Northern Ireland). The guide has
no legal force but Home Office expect Enforcing Authorities to follow
its recommendations. Scotland has its own Statutory Procedural
Regulations and Northern Ireland the procedure is encompassed within
the Building Regulations (NI) and the Fire Services Order 1984.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.3
THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.4 THE CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS

REGULATIONS 1999 (COMAH) AND THE CONTROL OF
MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS REGULATIONS (NORTHERN
IRELAND) 2000
These Regulations apply to the Crown and control any industrial activity
or isolated storage facility which involves one or more of the dangerous
substances listed in the schedules to these Regulations.
The Enforcing Authority is the Health and Safety Executive for England,
Wales and Scotland and the Department of Economic Development
for Northern Ireland.
Employers who have control of these activities are required to provide

evidence to show that they have:
• identified the major accident hazards;
• notified the Health and Safety Executive; and
• taken adequate steps to:
- prevent such major accidents and limit their consequences to

persons and the environment; and
- provide persons working on the site with the information,

training and equipment necessary to ensure their safety.
Where a process or storage subject to these regulations is present,

PMs should ensure that they are aware of the duties stated above and
of the Fire Authority’s right to visit at any time to gather information
relating to fire fighting and the safety of their personnel during such
operations.
Fire Safety Guide

THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.5 THE CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH

REGULATIONS 1994 (COSHH) AND THE CONTROL OF
SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS (NI)
1990 (AS AMENDED IN 1992 AND 1993)
These Regulations apply to the Crown and control hazardous

substances in a similar way to the Regulations in LAW 4.4 above. The
Enforcing Authority is the Health and Safety Executive for England,
Wales and Scotland and the Department of Economic Development
for Northern Ireland. ➧ LAW 4.4
PMs should be aware that Local Authority Fire Brigades must be

allowed access to these premises in connection with fire fighting
activities and the gathering of information in connection with those
activities.
Note: PMs should be aware that, under the Occupiers Liability Act
1957 section 2 sub-section 6, there is a common duty of
care placed on the building occupier and conferred by law to
any persons who have a right to enter their premises. When
such persons are on the premises for the purposes defined in
legislation, they shall be considered to have the occupiers
permission whether or not they, in fact, have such permission.
This provision includes fire fighting activities on Crown
premises.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.5
THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.6 THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT)

REGULATIONS 1994 AND THE CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN
AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS (NI) 1995 (CDM)
These Regulations apply to most construction work and apply to the

Crown where:
a. building work is notifiable; and
b. the number of persons carrying out construction work is 5 or

more.
The Enforcing Authority for these Regulations is the Health and Safety
Executive for England, Wales and Scotland and the Department of
Economic Development for Northern Ireland.
▲
!
▲
The Regulations require that a health and safety plan and a health and
safety file are created and maintained throughout the life of a
construction project from conception, design and planning through to
!
the execution of works on site and subsequent maintenance and repair.
It should be noted that the health and safety file may contain
requirements for ongoing maintenance and repair of fire safety
measures.
A Planning Supervisor and Principal Contractor must be appointed

by the client and they assume overall responsibility for health and safety
matters relating to the planning and execution phases of the project
▲
!
respectively.
Fire Safety Guide

LAW 4.6 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
PLANNING LEGISLATION
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.7 PLANNING LEGISLATION
▲
Development by Government Departments currently does not need
planning permission under the Town and Country Planning Acts. In !
England, Wales and Scotland administrative arrangements have been
established which provide for consultation with Local Planning
Authorities. These consultations are referred to as Notices of Proposed
Development for which planning clearance is sought, not planning
permission. In Northern Ireland, the Department of the Environment
(Northern Ireland) (DoE(NI)) is the Planning Authority and a Crown
development application should be made to it and Crown
development consent obtained.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.7
CHILDREN ACT 1989
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.8 CHILDREN ACT 1989
Part X of the Act applies to England, Wales and Scotland and

introduces a registration system to regulate child-minding and
independent day care services used by children aged under 8 years.
▲
!
The Act requires that where creches, nurseries and similar facilities are
proposed, the registration/certification authority (Local Authority) be
consulted at planning stage. The Crown is not required to undertake
such consultation but should so do. The Departmental Fire Adviser
should also be consulted. Where such facilities are to be provided in
premises or buildings which require a Fire Certificate, the appropriate
Enforcing Authority must also be consulted.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

THE LICENSING ACT
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.9 THE LICENSING ACT 1964 FOR ENGLAND AND WALES, THE
LICENSING (SCOTLAND) ACT 1976, THE LICENSING ACT
(NORTHERN IRELAND) ORDER 1990
This legislation requires that, where fire safety matters are involved, the
licensing authority consults with the fire authority. Normally the Crown
does not need to apply for a licence under these Acts, although it is
▲
!
policy to comply fully with the substantive requirements of the Acts.
A licence under the Acts would normally be required only where the
public has free access to purchase and consume alcohol on Crown
premises and would be requested from the Licensing Justices or
Licensing Board.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.9
PETROLEUM (CONSOLIDATION) ACT
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.10 PETROLEUM (CONSOLIDATION) ACT 1928
This Act does not apply to the Crown but PMs should be aware of its
existence. Further advice should be sought from the Departmental
Fire Adviser or from the local Health and Safety Executive office.
▲
!
Departments should not approach the Local Authority Petroleum
Licensing Department for advice.
It should be noted, however, that the keeping of petroleum spirit by

non-Crown tenants in Crown owned premises is subject to inspection
and licensing by the Local Authority.
Fire Safety Guide

CINEMAS ACT 1985
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.11 CINEMAS ACT 1985
The substantive parts of this Act apply to Crown premises where

cinemas are provided. Further advice should be obtained from the
Departmental Fire Adviser.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.11
THE FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS (FIRE SAFETY) REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.12 THE FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS (FIRE SAFETY)

REGULATIONS 1988
These Regulations apply to the supply of upholstered furniture for

domestic use only, although the prescribed standards are generally
applied to all premises. It is Crown policy to require manufacturers/
▲
!
suppliers to comply with these regulations when manufacturing/
supplying furniture for the Crown. Further information is given in
Crown Fire Standard F7. ➧ CFS 7
Fire Safety Guide

THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.13 THE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED

PETROLEUM GAS REGULATIONS 1972 AND THE HIGHLY
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
REGULATIONS (NI) 1975
These Regulations apply to the Crown and are enforced by the Health
and Safety Executive in England, Wales and Scotland, and the
Department of Economic Development in Northern Ireland. They are
made to ensure the safety of persons within all factories and other
selected premises where any highly flammable liquids are present for
the purposes of, or in connection with, any undertaking, trade or
business.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.13
THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.14 THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE)

REGULATIONS 1996 AND THE CONSTRUCTION (HEALTH,
SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGULATIONS (NI) 1996
The above Regulations apply to the Crown and are enforced by the
Health and Safety Executive in England, Wales and Scotland and the
Department of Economic Development in Northern Ireland, except
where the construction site forms part of an occupied building, in
which case Regulations 19 to 21 (which deal with General Fire
Precautions) will be enforced by the Enforcing Authority. The
regulations place a duty on employers to provide satisfactory worksite
safety for persons on the site. They also place a duty on persons on the
site to co-operate and not endanger any other person on the site.
Fire Safety Guide

THE HEALTH AND SAFETY (SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS) REGULATIONS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.15 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY (SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS)
REGULATIONS 1996
These Regulations apply to the Crown and cover all new fire safety
signs. They also require that all existing fire safety signs which do not
incorporate a pictogram (such as a running man symbol) be adapted or
replaced by 24 December 1998.
Note: Existing Fire Exit signs which do incorporate a running man

➧ ESC 6.0
symbol do not have to be replaced.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.15
MISCELLANEOUS
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
LAW 4.16 MISCELLANEOUS
The following Acts do not apply to the Government Estate unless

members of the public are freely, (whether on payment or otherwise),
admitted or admitted by registration:
▲
!
Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, the Local
Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1985, the Civic
Government (Scotland) Act 1982, and the Local Government
(Miscellaneous Provisions, (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, which
deal with licensing of places of public entertainment (music, dancing
and sporting events);
The Private Places of Entertainment (Licensing) Act 1967, which

deals with licensing for private places of entertainment; and
The Gaming Act 1968 and the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and
Amusements (NI) Order 1985, which deals with all forms of
gambling.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
OTHER LEGISLATION
THE LAW
1. Establish if any of the legislation listed is applicable to your premises.
2. Seek advice from your Departmental Fire Adviser as appropriate.
Fire Safety Guide

HOME LAW 4.17
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 1.0 REQUIREMENTS

ESC 1.1 BASIC REQUIREMENTS
ESC 1.2 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
ESC 1.3 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
ESC 2.0 ESCAPE ROUTES
ESC 3.0 FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION

ESC 3.1 FIRE RESISTING DOORS
ESC 3.2 FIRE RESISTING WALLS AND PARTITIONS
ESC 3.3 FIRE RESISTING GLAZING
ESC 4.0 PRESSURISED ESCAPE ROUTES
ESC 5.0 ESCAPE LIGHTING
ESC 6.0 FIRE EXIT SIGNS
ESC 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

BASIC REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 1.0 REQUIREMENTS
ESC 1.1 BASIC REQUIREMENTS
The means of escape, is a safe route for persons to travel from any
point in a building to a place of safety beyond the building, without
outside assistance.
It can include measures to protect these routes from the effects of fire
and smoke, for example fire resisting construction and doors.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME ESC 1.1
PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
REQUIREMENTS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 1.2 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
For premises which require a Fire Certificate, the means of escape will
be specified in the certificate.
Means of escape provisions will also form part of the fire risk ➧
 LAW 3.0
assessment required by the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations

1997.
Fire Safety Guide

ESC 1.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
REQUIREMENTS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 1.3 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
For premises which are not required to have a Fire Certificate, the
means of escape provisions will form part of the fire risk assessment ➧
 LAW 3.0
required by the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME ESC 1.3
ESCAPE ROUTES
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 2.0 ESCAPE ROUTES
Fire exits and escape routes must be available for use and kept clear
of obstruction at all times when the building or premises is occupied.
Fire exit signs and instructions must be clear and unambiguous.
Doors on escape routes must be easily openable without the use of a

key, digital lock code or swipe card and the opening mechanism should
be able to be operated by a single one handed action.
▲
Note: In certain circumstances, digital locks, swipe cards or other
access control systems may be acceptable on escape routes.
Advice should be sought from the Departmental Fire Adviser or
!
the Enforcing Authority.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME ESC 2.0
FIRE RESISTING DOORS
FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 3.0 FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION
ESC 3.1 FIRE RESISTING DOORS
Fire resisting doors are provided on some escape routes and corridors
and most staircases to safeguard against the spread of smoke or fire.
They should be checked regularly to ensure that:
▲
!
they close properly and that any self-closing device functions
correctly; and
they are indicated by a standard white on blue circular sign FIRE

DOOR KEEP SHUT on both sides at approximately eye level.
Doors or frames may be fitted with intumescent seals and cold smoke
seals to ensure resistance against the passage of fire and smoke.
Fire resisting doors to cupboards, stores or service risers will generally

be indicated with a standard white on blue circular sign FIRE DOOR
KEEP LOCKED.
Under no circumstances should fire resisting doors be wedged open,

even as a temporary measure. They may, however, be provided with
an electro-magnetic hold open/release device which will release the
doors upon actuation of the fire alarm, or by a specially indicated
button or hand operated device at the door. Hold-open/release
devices will only be allowed if linked to an automatic fire warning
▲
!
system.
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE RESISTING WALLS AND PARTITIONS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 3.2 FIRE RESISTING WALLS AND PARTITIONS
Fire resisting walls and partitions are constructed to resist the passage
of fire and smoke to ensure that fire escape routes are safe. Some
corridors and most staircases require this provision.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

ESC 3.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
FIRE RESISTING GLAZING
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 3.3 FIRE RESISTING GLAZING
Fire resisting glazing is provided in fire resisting doors, partitions and

walls where they are required to be provided with glazing for light, and/
or for safety purposes.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

PRESSURISED ESCAPE ROUTES
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 4.0 PRESSURISED ESCAPE ROUTES
Infrequently, and where needed, some staircases and escape routes are
pressurised with air slightly above atmospheric pressure to enable these
routes to be kept free of smoke during evacuation. The pressurisation
system normally actuates on activation of the fire alarm system.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

ESCAPE LIGHTING
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 5.0 ESCAPE LIGHTING
Some areas and escape routes in buildings are provided with

emergency escape lighting for means of escape purposes to ensure that
these escape routes remain illuminated upon failure of normal lighting.
This lighting must be maintained, tested and recorded in accordance

with INSP 6.0.
➧ INSP 6.0
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE EXIT SIGNS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 6.0 FIRE EXIT SIGNS
Fire Exit signs are provided to identify escape routes.
▲
All means of escape routes which are not in everyday use should be
provided with a means for indicating the route. This is done by fixing !
FIRE EXIT signs, some with directional arrows, to walls and partitions,
above doors and on staircases.
All new signage should be of the pictogram type i.e. the running man
symbol, to comply with The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996.
➧ LAW 4.15
Typical pictogram types:
Note: Existing signs which do not incorporate a pictogram will need to

be amended or changed by 24 December 1998. (Existing signs
with a pictogram will be acceptable).
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
MEANS OF ESCAPE
ESC 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Familiarise yourself with the means of escape provisions for your

premises. This is specified on the Fire Certificate if there is one.
2. Ensure that escape routes are kept clear at all times.
3. Ensure that fire doors are maintained effectively self-closing.
4. Ensure that fire exit doors are easily openable.
5. Ensure that the fire resisting construction is not breached.
6. Ensure that the escape lighting is maintained, tested and recorded.
7. Ensure that fire exit notices are in position and conform to current
legislation.
8. Consult with the Departmental Fire Adviser to determine a planned

replacement programme to change existing fire exit notices to the
pictogram types.
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS
WARN 1.0 INTRODUCTION
WARN 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

WARN 2.1 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
WARN 2.2 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
WARN 2.3 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
WARN 3.0 TYPES OF FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS

WARN 3.1 ELECTRICAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
WARN 3.2 AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION
WARN 3.3 MANUAL FIRE ALARMS
WARN 3.4 FURTHER ADVICE
WARN 4.0 UNWANTED ALARMS

ANNEX WARN 4.0/1 SAMPLE FIRE ALARM EVENT LOG
WARN 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME
INTRODUCTION
WARN 1.0 INTRODUCTION
A fire alarm system is provided primarily to give warning of fire to all

occupants within a premises or building. This chapter provides
information on the legal requirements for fire warning and provides ▲
!
information on the different types of system which may be present in
the premises.
Whichever type of fire alarm system is used, it should be suitable for

the premises and the audible or visual alarm must be recognisable as a
fire alarm and not mistaken for anything else such as a burglar alarm. It
▲
!
should be audible throughout the building above any background noise.
A fire alarm system can be used for bomb threat warning providing a
different tone is used e.g continuous for fire alarm and intermittent for
bomb threat; in such cases, it should preferably be used in conjunction
with a voice alarm system. However, the Departmental Fire Adviser
and Enforcing Authority must be consulted.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME WARN 1.0
REQUIREMENTS
WARN 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
WARN 2.1 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
For premises with a Fire Certificate, the type of fire alarm system
installed will be noted in the Fire Certificate.
➧
 LAW 2.0
Provisions for fire warning will also form part of the fire risk assessment
as required by the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997. 
➧ LAW 3.0
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME WARN 2.1
REQUIREMENTS
WARN 2.2 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
▲
!
Premises which do not need to have a Fire Certificate are not
necessarily required by law to have a fire alarm system. However,
provisions for detecting and giving warning in case of fire will form part
of the fire risk assessment as required by The Fire Precautions
(Workplace) Regulations 1997. 
➧ LAW 3.0
Where electrical fire alarm systems are not installed, the provision of
hand bells, whistles or a manually operated sounder may be practical
alternatives, provided each type can be heard clearly throughout the
building. In some small single storey premises the shout of “FIRE” may
be sufficient. Manual or electrical methods of warning should be tested
regularly and a record kept of these tests.
Fire Safety Guide

WARN 2.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
REQUIREMENTS
WARN 2.3 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
Fire warning systems should be tested, maintained and the results

recorded in accordance with the conditions of a Fire Certificate, where
applicable, and in accordance with INSP 4.0.
▲
!
➧ INSP 4.0
Fire Safety Guide

ELECTRICAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
TYPES OF FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS
WARN 3.0 TYPES OF FIRE WARNING SYSTEMS
WARN 3.1 ELECTRICAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
These are the most common types of fire warning systems and consist
of sounders and break-glass type call points located throughout the
building. In addition, there are normally fire alarm control and indicator
▲
!
panels sited in the main entrances to the building. The breaking of the
glass of any call point will activate the system and actuate the sounders
in the building.
Some large and/or high rise buildings may be provided with a staged
fire alarm system. This means that two alarm signals will be provided: an
▲
!
evacuate signal e.g a continuous audible signal and an alert signal e.g an
intermittent audible signal. Activation of the alarm system will initiate
the first stage resulting in the floor of origin of the alarm and certain
other designated areas i.e. the floor above, basements, etc. receiving an
evacuate signal and the remaining areas receiving an alert signal. The
second stage will result in additional floors being evacuated sequentially
or in a total evacuation of the building.
Electrical fire alarm systems may also be used to perform other related
functions eg:
▲
!
to release fire resisting doors which may be held open by approved
fastenings;
to release locks on secure doors where they are accepted on

escape routes;
to operate smoke control systems;
to shut down ventilation systems or other plant; or
to send a signal to a permanently manned control centre.
Fire Safety Guide

AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION
WARN 3.2 AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION
Automatic fire detection may be incorporated into an electrical fire

alarm system and will usually comprise smoke and/or heat detectors.
Other specialist types e.g. flame detectors may occasionally be installed
▲
!
in premises to cover specific risks. The automatic detectors may extend
throughout the building/premises or be located to cover specific parts.
Automatic fire detection may be provided for one or more of the

following reasons: ▲
!
to give early warning to the occupants as required by legislation;
where sleeping accommodation is provided;
to reduce the loss of property in a fire by its early detection thus

allowing local security and/or the fire service to be informed. This
may be a strategic or insurance requirement;
as a compensatory feature to the normal fire safety standards; and
to actuate automatically a fire suppression system, e.g. sprinkler or

deluge system.
Fire Safety Guide

WARN 3.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
MANUAL FIRE ALARMS
WARN 3.3 MANUAL FIRE ALARMS
▲
The most basic of manual fire alarm systems is the hand held bell or
rotary gong. This should only be provided in some smaller premises
where the alarm can be heard throughout the whole building. The
!
disadvantage of this type is that the person operating the gong or bell
has to stand there whilst operating it to ensure everybody has heard
the alarm.
In the smallest premises, electrical or mechanical fire alarm systems may

not be necessary if adequate warning can be given by shouting “FIRE”
and all staff are aware of the action to be taken in the event of fire.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME WARN 3.3
FURTHER ADVICE
WARN 3.4 FURTHER ADVICE
Advice should be sought from the Departmental Fire Adviser if there is

any doubt as to the type of fire alarm system installed or the adequacy
of the means of detecting fire and alerting people.
Fire Safety Guide

WARN 3.4 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
UNWANTED ALARMS
WARN 4.0 UNWANTED ALARMS
All incidents of unwanted alarms, either malicious or otherwise, should

be recorded and fully investigated with a view to identifying the cause
and formulating any action necessary to prevent recurrence. A sample
▲
!
record sheet is provided at ANNEX WARN 4.0/1 ANNEX
➧ WARN 4.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

Fire Safety Guide
ANNEX WARN 4.0/1
FIRE ALARM EVENT LOG
Fire Alarm Event Log Sheet No. ............
Date and Time Location or Counter Event: Fire Test, Action Taken Engineers: Enter nature Completion Name Signature of
Zone reading if False Alarm, Fault, or Required of work carried out - Date Responsible
installed Maintenance or Other fault corrected Person
(specify)

UNWANTED ALARMS
ANNEX WARN 4.0/1
ANNEX WARN 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
WARN 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Familiarise yourself with the type of fire warning system provided in

your building. ▲
!
2. Ensure that daily checks and weekly fire alarm tests are carried out
in accordance with INSP 4.0.
➧ INSP 4.0
3. Ensure that a contractor is appointed for the maintenance and

testing of the fire alarm system, in accordance with INSP 4.0.
➧ INSP 4.0
4. Maintain a fire alarm test record using the sample sheets provided at
ANNEX INSP 4.0/1 or similar.
ANNEX
➧ INSP 4.0/1
5. Investigate fully and record any incidence of unwanted alarms and

take any necessary action to prevent recurrence. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

MEANS OF FIGHTING FIRE
MFF 1.0 INTRODUCTION
MFF 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

MFF 2.1 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
MFF 2.2 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
MFF 2.3 STAFF AWARENESS
MFF 2.4 SIGNAGE
MFF 2.5 FIRE EQUIPMENT SALES PERSONS
MFF 2.6 RECORDING, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
ANNEX FIRE EQUIPMENT - SCHEDULE
MFF 2.6/1
MFF 3.0 FIRE CLASSIFICATION

MFF 3.1 CLASSES OF FIRES
MFF 3.2 CLASS A FIRES
MFF 3.3 CLASS B FIRES
MFF 3.4 CLASS C FIRES
MFF 3.5 CLASS D FIRES
MFF 4.0 TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

MFF 4.1 WATER EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.2 FOAM EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.3 MULTI-PURPOSE FOAM EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.4 DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.5 MULTI-PURPOSE DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.6 CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.7 HALON EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.8 HOSE REELS
MFF 4.9 FIRE BLANKETS
MFF 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
MFF 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Premises are provided with first aid fire fighting equipment to enable
staff to tackle a fire, if it is considered safe to do so. This section
provides guidance on the legal requirements for the provision of this
equipment and provides information on the types of appliances which
may be present in the premises.
Traditionally within the UK, the bodies of hand held fire extinguishers
have been colour coded to indicate the extinguishing medium ▲
!
contained within. European Legislation now requires that all new
extinguishers are red in colour. However, within the United Kingdom,
the colour coding scheme may be retained by the provision of
appropriately coloured labels affixed to the extinguisher.
▲
It should be noted that there is no requirement for existing
extinguishers to be changed to the new red bodied type as long as !
they are serviceable. For the foreseeable future, both types of
extinguisher may be found and there will be a need to ensure staff
are aware of the different colour coding schemes. As far as possible,
the two types of colour coding should not be mixed.
Whilst halon extinguishers have been included in this Guide, it has long
been Crown policy to replace these with other types. Where halon
type fire extinguishers still exist within Departments' premises, (the
Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted on suitable
alternatives).
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME MFF 1.0
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.1 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
For buildings or premises with a Fire Certificate, the means for fighting
fire, including the nature of the equipment and its location, will be
specified in the Fire Certificate. ➧
 LAW 2.0
Provisions for fire fighting equipment will also form part of the fire risk
assessment as required by the Fire Precautions (Workplace) ➧
 LAW 3.0
Regulations 1997.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME MFF 2.1
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.2 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
Buildings or premises not required to have a Fire Certificate are still

required to have first aid fire fighting equipment on or near each of the
available escape routes. It is good practice to group equipment at one
point. Guidance on the provision and location of fire fighting equipment
should be sought from the Departmental Fire Adviser.
Provisions for fire fighting equipment will also form part of the fire risk
assessment as required by the Fire Precautions (Workplace) ➧
 LAW 3.0
Regulations 1997.
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 2.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
STAFF AWARENESS
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.3 STAFF AWARENESS
Staff should be aware of the location of extinguishers, of their correct

method of operation and know which equipment is appropriate for a
particular type of fire.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 2.3
SIGNAGE
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.4 SIGNAGE
Provided that fire fighting equipment is clearly visible to staff, there is

generally no need for additional signage to indicate the position of such
equipment. Where, however, the equipment is sited in a recess or
▲
!
cabinet or is otherwise hidden from view, additional signs with
directional arrows should be provided as necessary. The Departmental
Fire Adviser should be consulted for further advice.
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 2.4 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
FIRE EQUIPMENT SALES PERSONS
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.5 FIRE EQUIPMENT SALES PERSONS
Contractors appointed to carry out routine servicing and testing of

extinguishers may sometimes advise on the replacement of existing
extinguishers or suggest a need for additional appliances. Where any
▲
!
doubt exists, the Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted to
confirm the need for such replacement, before entering into any
agreement.
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 2.5
RECORDING, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
REQUIREMENTS
MFF 2.6 RECORDING, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
A schedule of fire equipment should be produced and maintained.

An example of a schedule is provided at ANNEX MFF 2.6/1.
ANNEX
➧ MFF 2.6/1
All first aid fire fighting equipment is required to be tested and

maintained in accordance with the conditions of a Fire Certificate,
where applicable, and in accordance with INSP 5.0.
➧ INSP 5.0
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX MFF 2.6/1
REQUIREMENTS
FIRE EQUIPMENT - SCHEDULE
Schedule of means for fighting fire and means of giving warning in case of fire.
Address: ..............................................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................
Department responsible
for precautions: ..............................................................................................................................
Form completed after survey dated: ..............................................................................................................................
Completed by: ..............................................................................................................................
Company or Department: ..............................................................................................................................
Telephone: ..............................................................................................................................
Location Hose Reels Extinguishers Fire Blankets Buckets Fire Fire

Alarm Alarm
30m 45m Water Foam Foam CO2 BCF Dry 1m2 1.2m2 Water Sand Manual Elec. call
9L 9L 4.5L 1.5kg Powder gong point
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME ANNEX MFF 2.6/1
CLASSES OF FIRES
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.0 FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.1 CLASSES OF FIRES
Fires are classified in accordance with British Standard/EN 2 and are

defined as follows:
Class A Fires: Fires involving solid materials, usually ordinary

combustible materials such as wood, cloth,
paper, plastics.
Class B Fires: Fires involving flammable liquids or liquefiable solids

(petrol, paraffin, paints), oils, greases and fats.
Class C Fires: Fires involving gases.
Class D Fires: Fires involving burning metals.
Electrical fires can fall into any of the above classes. Special attention
must be given to the selection of extinguishers when tackling these
fires.
Extinguishers may be described as suitable for certain fire classifications.
Fire Safety Guide

CLASS A FIRES
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.2 CLASS A FIRES
Class A fires are the most likely type of fire to occur in the majority of
premises. Water, foam and multi-purpose powder are the effective
media for extinguishing these fires and, of these, water and foam are
usually considered to be the most suitable. The appropriate equipment
is therefore, hose reels, water type extinguishers or extinguishers
containing fluoroprotein foam (FP), aqueous film forming foam (AFFF)
▲
!
or film forming fluoroprotein foam (FFFP).
Fire Safety Guide

CLASS B FIRES
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.3 CLASS B FIRES
Where there is a risk of fire involving flammable liquids it will usually be

appropriate to provide portable fire extinguishers of foam (including FP,
AFFF and FFFP), carbon dioxide (CO2), halon or powder types.
▲
!
Note: Care should be taken when using CO2 or halon extinguishers as
the fumes and products of combustion may be hazardous in
confined spaces.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

CLASS C FIRES
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.4 CLASS C FIRES
No extinguishers are recommended for dealing with fires involving

gases, because the only effective action against such fires is to stop the
flow of gas by closing the valve or plugging the leak. There can be a risk
▲
!
of an explosion if a fire involving escaping gas is extinguished before the
supply is cut off.
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 3.4
CLASS D FIRES
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
MFF 3.5 CLASS D FIRES
None of the extinguishing media referred to in the preceding pages will deal
effectively with a fire involving such metals as aluminium, magnesium, sodium,
or potassium although there is a special powder which is capable of
▲
!
controlling some Class D fires. All Class D fires should, however, only be
tackled by specially trained personnel.
Fire Safety Guide

WATER EXTINGUISHERS
TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.0 TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.1 WATER EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Red for both old and new extinguishers.
Extinguishing Action:
Mainly by cooling the burning material.
Class of Fire:
Class A.
Method of Use:
The jet should be directed at the base of the flames and kept moving
across the area of the fire. Any hot spots should be sought out after
the main fire has been extinguished.
DANGER - Do not use on live electrical equipment, burning oils or

fats. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

FOAM EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.2 FOAM EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Cream for old extinguishers and Red for new with a Cream label.
Forms a blanket of foam over the surface of the burning liquid and
smothers the fire.
Class of Fire:
Class B.
Method of use:
The jet should not be aimed directly into the liquid. Where the liquid
on fire is in a container, the jet should be directed at the edge of the
container or on a nearby surface above the burning liquid. The foam
should be allowed to build up so that it flows across the liquid.
DANGER - Do not use on live electrical equipment.

▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

MULTI-PURPOSE FOAM EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.3 MULTI-PURPOSE FOAM EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Cream for old extinguishers and Red for new with a Cream label.
Forms a fire extinguishing water film on the surface of burning liquids.

Has a cooling action with a wider extinguishing application than water
on solid combustible materials.
Class of Fire:
Class A and B.
Method of Use:
For Class A fires the directions for water extinguishers should be

followed.
For Class B fires the directions for foam extinguishers should be

followed.
DANGER - Some extinguishers of this type are not suitable for use on
live electrical equipment - check label for advice. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

MFF 4.3
DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.4 DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Blue for old extinguishers, Red for new with a Blue label.
Combination of smothering and interfering with the chemical reaction

of the flame.
Class of Fire:
Class B - Safe on live electrical equipment although does not readily

penetrate spaces inside equipment.
Method of Use:
The discharge nozzle should be directed at the base of the flames and,
with a rapid sweeping motion, the flames should be driven towards the
far edge until the flames are out.
WARNING:
Powder has a little or no cooling effect and care should be taken to

ensure the fire does not re-ignite. ▲
!
DANGER - Powder may cause problems to people with breathing
difficulties. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

MULTI-PURPOSE DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.5 MULTI-PURPOSE DRY POWDER EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Blue for old extinguishers and Red for new with a Blue label.
Knocks down flames and, on burning solids, melts down to form a skin
smothering the fire.
Class of Fire:
Class A and B - Safe on live electrical equipment although does not

readily penetrate spaces inside equipment.
Method of Use:
The discharge nozzle should be directed at the base of the flames and,
with a rapid sweeping motion, the flames should be driven towards the
far edge until the flames are out.
WARNING:
Powder has little or no cooling effect and care should be taken to

ensure the fire does not re-ignite. ▲
!
➧ MFF 4.4
DANGER - Powder may cause problems to people with breathing

difficulties. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.6 CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Black for old extinguishers and Red for new with a Black label.
Gas, which smothers flames by displacement of oxygen in air.
Class of Fire:
Class B - Safe and clean to use on live electrical equipment.
Method of Use:
The discharge horn should be directed at the base of the flames and
the jet kept moving across the area of the fire.
WARNING:
CO2 has little or no cooling effect and care should be taken to ensure
that the fire does not re-ignite.
▲
!
DANGER - Fumes from CO2 extinguishers can be harmful to users in
very confined spaces. The area should, therefore, be ventilated as soon
as the fire has been extinguished. The extinguisher is excessively noisy ▲
!
during operation.
The discharge horn should not be held or touched during use as frost
forms on the horn due to the expansion of the gas which may produce
▲
!
a cold burn to the skin.
Fire Safety Guide

HALON EXTINGUISHERS
MFF 4.7 HALON EXTINGUISHERS:
Colour:
Green.
Vaporising liquid gas which chemically inhibits combustion.
Class of Fire:
Class B - Safe to use on live electrical equipment.
Method of Use:
Aim the jet at the flames above the seat of the fire.
Warning:
Halon gas is an ozone depletent, and although acceptable for use, halon
extinguishers should be replaced as soon as possible, in accordance
with Government policy, with alternative extinguishers. Replacement
▲
!
halon extinguishers are not available.
DANGER - Fumes from Halon gas can be harmful if used in confined

spaces or on hot metal. Areas should be ventilated after use. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

HOSE REELS
MFF 4.8 HOSE REELS:
Mainly by cooling burning material.
Class of Fire:
Class A.
Method of Use:
The jet should be aimed at the base of the flames and kept moving
across the area of the fire. If an isolating valve is fitted, it should be
opened before the hose is unreeled.
DANGER - Should not be used on live electrical equipment. ▲

!
If hose reels are installed they should be located where they are
conspicuous and always accessible, e.g. in corridors. The hose should
comply with Type 1 hose specified in British Standard 3169 and hose &
reel installations should conform with British Standard 5306: Part 1 and
British Standard 5274.
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE BLANKETS
MFF 4.9 FIRE BLANKETS
Smothering.
Class of Fire:
Class A or B.
Light Duty:
Suitable for extinguishing small fires involving burning liquids and burning
clothing.
Heavy Duty:
Suitable for industrial use. Resistant to penetration by molten materials.
Method of Use:
The blanket should be placed carefully over the fire and the hands
shielded from the fire. Care should be taken to ensure that you do not
place yourself in an unsafe position where flames or heat could cause
an injury.
DANGER - Ensure that staff do not place themselves in an unsafe

position when using a fire blanket. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
MFF 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Familiarise yourself and ensure all staff are familiar with the types
and locations of first aid fire fighting equipment provided in your
building.
▲
!
2. Make a regular inspection to ensure that the equipment is correctly

located and in good condition. ▲
!
3. Produce and maintain a schedule of fire equipment.

▲
!
ANNEX
➧ MFF 2.6/1
4. Appoint a contractor for the annual maintenance and testing of first

aid fire fighting equipment, in accordance with INSP 5.0 of this
Guide. ➧ INSP 5.0
5. Maintain a test record using the sample sheets provided at ANNEX ANNEX
INSP 5.0/1, or similar. ➧ INSP 5.0/1
6. Ensure that the staff are retrained regularly in the use of

extinguishers.
7. Staff should only use fire fighting equipment if it is safe so to do.

▲
!
8. After the fire is extinguished, stand by in case of re-ignition.

▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE
FAC 1.0 INTRODUCTION
FAC 2.0 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
FAC 3.0 TYPES OF FACILITIES

FAC 3.1 ACCESS FOR FIRE APPLIANCES
FAC 3.2 FIRE FIGHTING STAIRWAYS AND LIFTS
FAC 3.3 RISING MAINS
FAC 3.4 FOAM INLETS
FAC 3.5 PRIVATE HYDRANTS
FAC 3.6 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
FAC 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
FAC 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Depending on the size and height of a building, a number of facilities

may be provided to assist fire services in their rescue and fire fighting
operations. Such facilities may be provided to meet a statutory
▲
!
requirement when the premises are constructed and are not intended
to be provided retrospectively in existing premises.
This section provides guidance on identifying these facilities where they

may be present in the premises. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME FAC 1.0
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
FAC 2.0 TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
The facilities described below need to maintained and tested on a

regular basis in accordance with INSP of this Guide.
▲
!
➧ INSP
Fire Safety Guide

ACCESS FOR FIRE APPLIANCES
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.0 TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.1 ACCESS FOR FIRE APPLIANCES
In order for the fire service to effect rescue and fire fighting operations,
there must be sufficient access provided for fire appliances. It should be
noted that the access requirements in the Building Regulations are not
▲
!
retrospective for existing premises and access would have been
addressed at the time the premises were constructed. However, it is
very important that all access roads and routes within the boundary of
the premises should be maintained free from obstruction and car
parking restricted to designated parking bays.
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE FIGHTING STAIRWAYS AND LIFTS
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.2 FIRE FIGHTING STAIRWAYS AND LIFTS
A fire fighting stairway, which may incorporate a fire fighting lift, is a

means by which fire fighters can gain safe access to all floors in a tall
building or a deep basement in order to effect rescue and fight fires.
▲
!
This type of stairway is constructed to a high standard of fire resistance
and may contain a specially constructed lift. These lifts and stairways
may also be used for normal circulation in the premises and/or fire
evacuation.
A fire fighting stair may also be provided with any or all of the
following:
a rising main (see paragraph 3.3 overleaf); ➧ FAC 3.3
fire resisting lobbies to the stair and lift lobby;
a fire fighters switch to the lift on the ground floor; and
a fire fighters control within the lift.
Fire fighting lifts and stairs are usually provided with a means of smoke
control which may consist of:
openable windows;
openable smoke vents; or
a pressurisation system.
Where a fire fighting staircase and/or lift is present, it is important to

ensure that the enclosure to the stairs, including the doors forming the
lobby, the lift and the smoke control provisions are properly
▲
!
maintained. Maintenance and testing of the smoke control system may
be a condition of the Fire Certificate.
Fire Safety Guide

FAC 3.2
RISING MAINS
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.3 RISING MAINS
A rising main may be provided in certain high rise buildings or buildings

with a large floor area. This consists of a vertical pipe installed within a
fire fighting stair or lobby with outlets at each storey level.
▲
!
There are two types of rising main:
a dry rising main, which is an empty vertical pipe extending through

the building which the fire service charge with water on their arrival
via an inlet valve at ground or access level; and
a wet rising main, which is a pipe permanently charged with water.
Both types of riser can be identified by outlet boxes at each storey

level marked DRY RISING MAIN or WET RISING MAIN.
Rising mains should be tested and maintained in accordance with

INSP 7.0.
➧ INSP 7.0
Fire Safety Guide

FOAM INLETS
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.4 FOAM INLETS
Certain high fire risks within a building, for example, an oil fired boiler
or a room containing fuel oil or other flammable liquids, may be
protected by fixed piping with discharge nozzles over the risk through
▲
!
which foam can be pumped. The fire service inlet is located externally
within a glass fronted box marked FOAM INLET. The pipe runs into
the building where it terminates at the discharge point.
Fire Safety Guide

FAC 3.4
HYDRANTS WITHIN THE BOUNDARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.5 HYDRANTS WITHIN THE BOUNDARY OF THE

ESTABLISHMENT
At large premises or establishments with many separate buildings, fire

hydrants may be installed within the boundary of the establishments.
These are the responsibility of the owner/occupier.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
TYPES OF FACILITIES
FAC 3.6 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Some premises may be provided with smoke control systems (including

pressurisation systems). These systems are provided for a variety of
purposes which may include:
▲
!
protecting means of escape;
protecting access for the fire service;
assisting the fire service during fire fighting operations; and
smoke clearance following a fire.
The complexity of these systems varies considerably, from simple

openable windows to comprehensive mechanical extract systems.
Advice should be sought from the Departmental Fire Adviser or
Managing Agent for the premises as to the existence of smoke control
systems within the premises and the testing and maintenance
requirements of such systems.
Fire Safety Guide

FAC 3.6
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
FAC 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Familiarise yourself with any facilities provided for the fire service
within your building.
▲
!
2. Ensure that such facilities are clearly indicated where appropriate.

▲
!
3. Ensure that testing and maintenance is carried out in accordance
▲
!
with INSP.
➧ INSP
4. Ensure that testing and maintenance records are kept. ▲

!
Fire Safety Guide

TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 1.0 REQUIREMENTS

TRNG 1.1 THE LAW
TRNG 1.2 IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING
TRNG 1.3 MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED
TRNG 2.0 GUIDANCE ON TRAINING

TRNG 2.1 FREQUENCY
TRNG 2.2 WHAT SHOULD BE COVERED
TRNG 3.0 FIRE DRILLS

TRNG 3.1 FREQUENCY
TRNG 3.3 SPECIFIC STAFF DUTIES
TRNG 4.0 KEEPING OF RECORDS

ANNEX EXAMPLE OF RECORD SHEET FOR INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING
TRNG 4.0/1
TRNG 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

THE LAW
REQUIREMENTS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 1.0 REQUIREMENTS
TRNG 1.1 THE LAW
Training is a requirement under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act
1974, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 and is,
therefore, necessary for all staff. For premises with a Fire Certificate,
requirements for staff training may be specified in the certificate. The ➧ LAW
law also requires that training should be provided in the period

between an application for, and the granting of, a Fire Certificate.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME TRNG 1.1
IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING
REQUIREMENTS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 1.2 IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING
The importance of staff training cannot be over-emphasised. All staff

shall receive instruction on: ▲
!
• how to raise the alarm should they discover a fire;
• the actions they should take on being alerted to a fire; and
• where appropriate, the practical use of first aid fire fighting

equipment provided.
In premises with a large number of staff, the Departmental Fire Adviser

should be consulted for advice on who should be trained in the use of
first aid fire fighting equipment.
Fire Safety Guide

TRNG 1.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED
REQUIREMENTS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 1.3 MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED
New staff should receive immediate instruction on the action to take in

the event of fire, including a familiarisation of escape routes. ▲
!
In addition to the day time staff, PMs should ensure that shift workers
and others who work in the premises outside normal working hours,
such as cleaners and security staff, are included in such instruction. If
staff are employed whose knowledge of English may be limited, training
▲
!
should be given in a manner which they can understand. Non-English
speakers and staff who have a poor understanding of written English
should be taken into account when written instructions are being
prepared. More extensive training may be required for those persons
having particular duties in the event of fire, for example:
Floor/Area Fire Wardens (F/AFWs);
security staff;
senior managers;
Incident Control Officers (ICOs);
telephonists/receptionists; or
staff dealing with the public.
Management procedures for the means of escape for disabled staff and
general public should always be kept under review. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME TRNG 1.3
FREQUENCY
GUIDANCE ON TRAINING
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 2.0 GUIDANCE ON TRAINING
TRNG 2.1 FREQUENCY
▲
In all premises, training should be given to ensure that everybody who
works in the premises is familiar with the fire procedures. It should be
given at least once, though preferably twice, in each period of 12
!
months. It is particularly important that all newly appointed staff are
told about the means of escape and fire procedures immediately they
start work.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD BE COVERED
GUIDANCE ON TRAINING
TRAINING OF STAFF
The following subjects should be covered in each training session, with

practical exercises where possible: ▲
!
general fire safety, staff awareness and fire hazards;
knowledge of escape routes, assembly points and roll call procedure;
the correct method for stopping machines and processes and

isolating power supplies where appropriate;
any special fire hazards or risks;
the correct method for storing and using hazardous/flammable

materials;
the action to be taken upon discovering a fire;
the method for raising the alarm, including the location of alarm call
points and alarm indicator panels;
the action to be taken on hearing a fire alarm;
the correct method for calling the fire brigade;
the location and use of appropriate fire fighting equipment; and
the evacuation procedure for the building including any special

arrangements for physically disabled and sensory-impaired staff.
Where members of the public are present this will include checking
the public areas, informing and reassuring the public and directing or
escorting them to exits.
Fire Safety Guide

TRNG 2.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
FREQUENCY
FIRE DRILLS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 3.0 FIRE DRILLS
TRNG 3.1 FREQUENCY
Practice fire drills should be carried out at least once a year, but at
more frequent intervals in larger buildings, where there is a frequent
change of staff, a high fire risk, or where the public are present.
▲
!
In smaller premises with few staff and where an electrical fire alarm
system is not required, it is still necessary to ensure that fire procedures
are fully understood by all those at work in the premises, although fire
drills may not be required.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD BE COVERED
FIRE DRILLS
TRAINING OF STAFF
Where there are alternative means of escape, the drill should be based
on the assumption that one of the escape routes cannot be used due
to fire in order to familiarise staff with the alternative routes.
When a fire drill is carried out, the fire alarm should be operated and
the fire routine rehearsed as fully as circumstances allow. This may raise
difficulties where members of the public are present due to their being
unfamiliar with procedures, but such drills are still desirable. If times are
chosen when relatively few members of the public are present and
advance notice is given, many of these difficulties may be overcome.
▲
In multi-occupied premises Departments should liaise with each other
through the house committees. !
▲
The fire services or centrally manned monitoring station should also be
informed before the fire drill so as to ensure the fire services are not
called in error during the fire drill.
!
Fire Safety Guide

TRNG 3.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
SPECIFIC STAFF DUTIES
FIRE DRILLS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 3.3 SPECIFIC STAFF DUTIES
The appointed Floor/Area Fire Wardens (F/AFWs) and Incident

Control Officers (ICOs) should practice all their duties during the fire
▲
!
drill and report any problems at the end of the drill so that these can
be rectified.
➧ DUTY
EVAC
2.0
It is a good practice to appoint a small number of people, such as

safety representatives and managers, to observe fire drills, informing
them beforehand that the drill is to take place, where the supposed
outbreak of fire is and which escape routes are to be obstructed. A full
debrief should be carried out after the drills seeking the views of all
participants.
Fire Safety Guide

KEEPING OF RECORDS
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 4.0 KEEPING OF RECORDS
Details of all instruction, practical training and fire drills should be

recorded in a log book kept for that purpose . The instruction, training
or drill should be recorded as follows:
▲
!
the date;
the type and content of the instruction, training or drill;
the name of the training officer; and
numbers of staff attending. (Departments may wish to consider, in

addition, keeping a record of the names of those attending.)
ANNEX
Examples of sheets for the keeping of records can be found at ANNEX ➧ TRNG 4.0/1
TRNG 4.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

Fire Safety Guide
FIRE DRILLS AND INSTRUCTION RECORD ANNEX TRNG 4.0/1
Date Instruction, Training or Drill Staff Attending Remarks Signature

(to be consistent with TRNG 4.0)
TRAINING OF STAFF
KEEPING OF RECORDS
ANNEX TRNG 4.0/1
ANNEX TRNG 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
TRAINING OF STAFF
TRNG 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that written instructions on what to do in case of fire are

produced and brought to the attention of staff at regular intervals.
▲
!
2. Supplement the written instructions with training sessions where
necessary, for staff, so that all staff are trained at least once, ▲
!
preferably twice, in each twelve month period.
3. Ensure that new staff are made aware of written instructions, escape
routes and the actions to be taken on discovering or suspecting a
fire or hearing a fire alarm.
▲
!
4. Carry out a fire drill at least once, preferably twice, in each twelve
month period.
5. Keep records of all training and fire drills.
ANNEX
➧ TRNG 4.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICES
NTCE 1.0 INTRODUCTION
NTCE 2.0 LOCATION, STYLE AND CONTENT

NTCE 2.1 LOCATION
NTCE 2.2 STYLE
NTCE 2.3 CONTENT
NTCE 3.0 SPECIMEN FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICE
NTCE 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
NTCE 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Fire Instruction Notices are provided in premises to inform members

of staff and visitors what to do in the event of fire. They should be
sited in positions where they can be seen easily.
▲
!
It is important that Fire Instruction Notices are maintained in good
condition and that the information contained on them is up to date. ▲
!
These notices should be referred to in any fire training for staff and may
also be specified in the Fire Certificate. ▲
!
➧ TRNG
➧ LAW 2.0
Fire Safety Guide

NTCE 1.0
LOCATION
LOCATION, STYLE AND CONTENT
NTCE 2.0 LOCATION, STYLE AND CONTENT
NTCE 2.1 LOCATION
Fire Instruction Notices should be displayed in conspicuous positions

throughout the premises and highlight the action to be taken by all staff
upon discovering a fire and on hearing a fire warning.
▲
!
For premises with a Fire Certificate, locations for Fire Instruction
Notices will be specified in the certificate.
➧ LAW 2.0
Fire Safety Guide

NTCE 2.1
STYLE
NTCE 2.2 STYLE
Preferably, all Fire Instruction Notices should be framed and glazed or

otherwise sealed to prevent loss or defacement and be fixed in
position permanently.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

NTCE 2.2
CONTENT
NTCE 2.3 CONTENT
If the premises has a Fire Certificate, the certificate will normally

indicate the details to be included on the Fire Instruction Notices to be
displayed.
If the premises does not have a Fire Cerificate or the Certificate does
not indicate the details, the specimen Fire Instruction Notice at NTCE
3.0 should be used.
➧ NTCE 3.0
Fire Safety Guide

NTCE 2.3
SPECIMEN FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICE
NTCE 3.0 SPECIMEN FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICE
FIRE ACTION
RAISE THE ALARM
See examples 1(a), (b) and (c) below for completion.
CALL FIRE BRIGADE
See examples 2(a) and (b) below for completion.
At Night:
ON HEARING THE FIRE ALARM
See examples 3(a) and (b) below for completion.
Your Assembly Point is:
Do not stop to collect personal belongings.
Attack fire with available equipment if you feel safe to do so.
Obey instructions from Floor/Area Fire Wardens or Fire Brigade.
Do not re-enter building until told it is safe.
EXAMPLES
1. (a) Break glass of nearest fire alarm call point.
(b) Operate nearest manual fire alarm.
(c) Call telephone operator; say FIRE; give name, room number and
building. (Telephone operator will sound alarm).
2. (a) Dial 999; ask operator for FIRE; when Fire Brigade answers give
name and address of building in a clear and unhurried manner.
(b) AT NIGHT, dial 999 and notify Fire Brigade giving name and
address of building.
3. (a) Leave the building by the nearest available exit unless otherwise
directed.
(b) Insert location of assembly point.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME NTCE 3.0 Page 1 of 6
NTCE 3.0 SPECIMEN FIRE INSTRUCTION NOTICE (CONT'D)
General
!
Fire Action
Raise the Alarm
Call the Fire Brigade
On hearing the Fire Alarm
Close all doors behind you

Your Assembly Point is
Do not stop to collect personal belongings

Do not run within the building
Do not use lifts
Do not re-enter the building until told it is safe
Attack the fire with available equipment if you feel safe to do so

Obey instructions from Fire Wardens or Fire Brigade
Address _________________________________________________
Fire Precautions Officer ______________ Room ______ Ext'n _____
Deputy ______________ Room ______ Ext'n _____
F
Card FA1
Fire Safety Guide

NTCE 3.0 Page 2 of 6 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
Telephone operators
!
Fire Action
Precise address of buildings served by this switchboard
When asked for 'Fire'

Ascertain building and room number and say 'I will call the Fire Brigade
and inform the Fire Precautions Officer' (the caller is then free to deal
with the fire)
To call the Fire Brigade

Dial
When the Operator answers, say 'Fire', give your exchange and number
and wait for the Fire Brigade to answer
When the Fire Brigade answers

1. Give the precise address of the building where assistance is required
and any other details requested.
2. Inform the Fire Precautions Officer Ext'n
Deputy Ext'n
3. Inform the Gatekeeper, Doorkeeper
Ext'n
and/or Receptionist
Special instructions
At night
Connect the following emergency night lines
Card FA2
Fire Safety Guide

Gatekeepers, doorkeepers
and receptionists
!
Fire Action
Special instructions
To call the Fire Brigade

Telephone and give this address
Inform the Fire Precautions Officer

Fire Precautions Officer Room Ext'n
Deputy Room Ext'n
When the Fire Brigade has been called

Remain available to direct the Fire Brigade to the scene of the fire
Location of main controls
Electricity
Water
Gas
Ventilation system
Card FA3
Fire Safety Guide

Reprographic and
print rooms
!
Fire Action
Electrical equipment
1. If a fire occurs or is suspected in this equipment; ‘SWITCH OFF’ and
if possible disconnect the plug.
2. Move combustible materials away from the equipment.
3. If fire spreads beyond the equipment use the nearest fire extinguisher.
Flammable liquids
DO NOT SMOKE when using flammable liquids
Keep quantities in use as small as possible.

Store quantities less than 5 litres in a steel cabinet sited at the farthest
possible point from the room exit.
Store quantities greater than 5 litres in a store approved by the Fire
Precautions Officer.
Dispose of waste rags in suitable covered bins.
Where possible use non-flammable alternatives.
Other precautions
Reduce the risk of fire spread by –

• general tidiness
• avoiding the accumulation of paper
• frequent removal of combustible waste
Remember – smoke can kill
Card FA4
Fire Safety Guide

Guest Bedrooms
!
Fire Action
Instructions for Guests
The Fire Alarm consists of
On hearing the Fire Alarm, leave your room immediately and proceed to
the Assembly Point using the nearest available escape route.
Close the door of your room and any fire doors which you pass through
as you leave.
Your Assembly Point is
DO NOT use the lift in an emergency
If you discover a fire

Vacate the room (making sure that the door is firmly closed behind you)
and sound the fire alarm by –
then go to the Assembly Point.
Card FA5
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
NTCE 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that Fire Instruction Notices are at the positions indicated on

the Fire Certificate, where held.
➧ LAW 2.0
2. Ensure the information contained on the Notices is up to date and

clearly readable.
3. Ensure that all staff are aware of the positions and contents of the
Notices.
4. Take advice from the Departmental Fire Adviser.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME NTCE 4.0
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING AND THE PREVENTION OF FIRE
PREV 1.0 INTRODUCTION
PREV 2.0 COMMON FIRE HAZARDS

PREV 2.1 SMOKING
PREV 3.0 WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

PREV 3.1 GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
PREV 4.0 STAFF AWARENESS

PREV 4.1 FIRE HAZARDS
PREV 5.0 FURNITURE, FURNISHINGS AND TEXTILES
PREV 6.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
PREV 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Fire safety measures in premises need to be observed by all of the

occupants and good housekeeping should be seen as part of these
measures.
▲
!
Poor housekeeping may make an outbreak of a fire more likely, may
allow a fire to spread more rapidly and may delay people trying to
▲
!
escape. Good housekeeping and sensible fire precautions will reduce
the likelihood of a fire occurring and help ensure that the escape
routes, including corridors and stairs, are kept clear.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME PREV 1.0
COMMON FIRE HAZARDS
PREV 2.0 COMMON FIRE HAZARDS
Common fire hazards include:
unsuitable or careless storage of flammable substances and

▲
!
combustible material;
accumulation of rubbish, paper and other materials inside or outside

the premises which can be accidentally or deliberately ignited;
lack of care when using heat producing equipment;
electrical wiring, plugs and sockets which are faulty, in poor

condition, overloaded or have inadequate fuses or cables;
damaged electrical wiring e.g. run under carpets, trapped under

furniture, chaffed by sharp edges or weakened by constant bending
between the power socket and the appliance;
unauthorised repairs or modifications to electrical equipment by

unqualified people. (Remember, electricity can kill);
electrical equipment left switched on overnight or when not in use,

unless it is designed to be connected permanently;
inappropriate use of portable or temporary heaters;
covering ventilation grilles of heaters, machinery, electrical appliances

and office equipment which may cause overheating;
lack of care by contractors or maintenance workers;
inadequate training in the use and storage of hazardous/flammable

materials.
Fire Safety Guide

SMOKING
COMMON FIRE HAZARDS
PREV 2.1 SMOKING
Careless disposal of smoking material is one of the main causes of fire.

Staff must only smoke in designated areas. Smokers should be aware of
the need to take care and that, in areas where they are permitted to
▲
!
smoke, they should:
have adequate ashtrays;
never use waste bins as ashtrays; and
never empty ashtrays into waste bins even if the contents appear to
be extinguished.
Fire Safety Guide

PREV 2.1 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
PREV 3.0 WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
PREV 3.1 GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
▲
The Good Housekeeping element of any fire precautions is mainly
common sense. The items listed below are typical for most premises !
and can be used to form the basis of checklists which should be
tailored to suit particular premises and their uses. It can be seen that
they are related to the list of common fire hazards:
rubbish, waste paper and other materials accumulating in and

around the premises should be prevented, especially in circulation
areas and escape routes. Satisfactory storage arrangements should
be provided where necessary;
flammable materials and liquids should be kept in the designated

place or storage cabinet and the specified quantities should not be
exceeded. They should be clearly identified as flammable;
plugs and electrical sockets should not be overloaded and correct

fuses should be fitted. Wiring should be in good order, not installed
in such a manner as it may be damaged. Any repairs should be
carried out by a Competent Person;
all electrical equipment, including portable equipment, should be

inspected by a Competent Person on a regular basis and no
unauthorised equipment such as kettles, heaters, etc. should be
used;
staff should be reminded to turn off electrical equipment when not

in use and at the end of each working day unless it is designed to
be connected permanently or switched on;
materials which could catch fire should not be left near a source of
heat;
machinery and any office equipment should be well ventilated, not

obstructed, and cleaned regularly (particularly important in an
industrial environment where fluff and dust can gather and mix with
grease);
all work areas should be cleaned on a regular basis, including the

extractor hoods in kitchens;
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME PREV 3.1 Page 1 of 2
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
PREV 3.1 GOOD HOUSEKEEPING (CONT'D)
means of escape routes should be kept clear of obstruction at all

times;
fire doors should be kept shut, unless the doors are connected to
an approved electrically operated hold open device. Such doors
must not be wedged open;
all doors and windows should be closed when the premises are left
unoccupied;
if contractors are working in the premises those supervising the

work should ensure that fire precautions are maintained;
any Hot Work permit system should be enforced; and
smoking should be controlled in accordance with PREV 2.1.

➧ PREV 2.1
In summary, everybody in the premises has to play an active part in

maintaining good housekeeping.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

PREV 3.1 Page 2 of 2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
FIRE HAZARDS
STAFF AWARENESS
PREV 4.0 STAFF AWARENESS
PREV 4.1 FIRE HAZARDS
Staff should be made aware of the need to maintain a high standard of

housekeeping. They should be encouraged to bring any hazard they find
to the attention of the Fire Safety Manager (FSM). This may be done
▲
!
directly or through Line Management.
Prompt action to remove or correct a hazard will encourage and

reinforce the need for vigilance by all members of staff. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

FURNITURE, FURNISHINGS AND
TEXTILES
PREV 5.0 FURNITURE, FURNISHINGS AND TEXTILES
Furniture, furnishings and textiles can spread fire rapidly and produce
large volumes of toxic smoke. It is therefore important that when new
or replacement furniture, furnishings and textiles are being considered
appropriate performance standards are specified.
Upholstered furniture and furnishings intended for domestic use in

dwellings must meet the levels of resistance to ignition set by the
Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended
1989 and 1993).
Similarly, upholstered furniture for non-domestic use in Crown premises

must also only contain those filling materials specified in these
Regulations. In addition, upholstered furniture must also achieve a
Medium High Category as specified in BS 7176.
Note. BS 7176 High hazard Category may be required in underground

accommodation and other high risk areas.
Further advice on the provision of furniture, furnishings and textiles may

be obtained in Fire standard F7 of the Crown Fire Standards or from
your Departmental Fire Adviser.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME PREV 5.0
SMOKING
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
COMMON FIRE HAZARDS
GGOOD
OODH
HOUSEKEEPING
OUSEKEEPINGAND THEPPREVENTION
ANDTHE OF FFIRE
REVENTION OF IRE
PREV 6.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that common fire hazards and risks are removed or

controlled.
▲
!
2. If it is Departmental policy to allow smoking, provide adequate and

suitable provisions for smokers. ▲
!
3. Prepare a checklist of risks and hazards to look out for and ensure it
is kept up to date.
▲
!
4. Ensure that any combustible waste is either removed from the

building promptly or held in a safe place (away from escape routes)
▲
!
pending disposal.
5. Encourage staff to play an active part in good housekeeping. ▲

!
6. Encourage staff to report hazards. ▲

!
7. Ensure that the performance requirements for any new or

proposed furniture, furnishings or textiles are considered. ▲
!

▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME PREV 6.0
STAFF DUTIES AND AWARENESS
DUTY 1.0 INTRODUCTION
DUTY 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

DUTY 2.1 THE OFFICER IN CHARGE/PREMISES MANAGER (PM)
DUTY 2.2 INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO)
DUTY 2.3 FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
DUTY 2.4 FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS (F/AFWS)
DUTY 2.5 FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
DUTY 2.6 STAFF AWARENESS
DUTY 3.0 PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

DUTY 3.1 GENERAL
DUTY 3.2 WHEELCHAIR USERS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH IMPAIRED MOBILITY
DUTY 3.3 STAFF WITH IMPAIRED VISION
DUTY 3.4 STAFF WITH IMPAIRED HEARING
DUTY 3.5 STAFF WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES
DUTY 3.6 STAFF WITH BREATHING DIFFICULTIES OR A HEART CONDITION
DUTY 4.0 SOURCES OF ADVICE

ANNEX LIST OF ORGANISATIONS ABLE TO GIVE ADVICE ON FACILITIES FOR
DUTY 4.0/1 PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
DUTY 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
DUTY 1.0 INTRODUCTION
In establishing suitable emergency procedures for the premises, the PM

will normally need to nominate staff to undertake specific fire safety
functions which may include:
▲
!
an Incident Control Officer (ICO);
the Fire Safety Manager (FSM); and
Floor/Area Fire Wardens (F/AFWs).
It is also necessary to consider how people with disabilities are to be

provided for adequately in the event of fire, as they may require special
provisions or arrangements to be in place. Each case should be
▲
!
evaluated according to the circumstances of the particular premises and
the individuals in question.
This section identifies nominated staff duties and the special needs for
people with disabilities which are likely to be encountered and how
these may be addressed.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME DUTY 1.0
THE OFFICER IN CHARGE/ PREMISES MANAGER
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.1 THE OFFICER IN CHARGE/PREMISES MANAGER (PM)
The PM should appoint an FSM, F/AFWs and, if necessary, an ICO.

Sufficient deputies should also be appointed to ensure cover for
sickness and leave. PMs will also need to ensure adequate staff training
▲
!
and that fire drills are undertaken.
Fire Safety Guide

INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.2 INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO)
The ICO and deputies are appointed to act as a focal point in the case
of any emergency. The ICO will take charge of the situation and liaise
directly with the fire services and other emergency services. In many
▲
!
smaller premises, the person with overall responsibility may decide that
an ICO is not necessary.
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 2.2
FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.3 FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
▲
The FSM is the focal point for all fire safety matters. The FSM will be an
appointed member of staff and will ensure that fire safety is maintained !
to a satisfactory standard in the premises. The FSM should be trained to
undertake these duties.
The FSM will need to liaise with the managers of the various sections
and Departments within the premises and with any other occupiers in
the building in order to develop:
▲
!
a Fire Safety Plan; and
an Emergency Plan.
See EVAC for further information. ➧ EVAC
Note: The FSM may also be known as the Fire Precautions Officer.
Fire Safety Guide

FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.4 FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS (F/AFWs)
F/AFWs are appointed:
to monitor their floor or area fire precautions;
to act as a focal point for their floor/area;

▲
!
to liaise with the FSM or ICO as appropriate; and
to assist in evacuation procedures.
F/AFWs should ensure that their floor is cleared in the event of a fire
and report missing persons or that their floor or area is cleared to the
ICO.
▲
!
F/AFWs should be trained in their duties. Deputies should be

appointed and their total numbers should be sufficient to meet the
▲
!
needs and duties of normal day to day work. They may not be required
in some small premises.
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 2.4
FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.5 FIRE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
When the fire and evacuation procedure guidance is drawn up for

particular premises, it is important that consideration is given to all staff
and work patterns and also visitors to the premises, including members
▲
!
of the public. Particular consideration will need to be given to people
with disabilities. This includes people whose impairment may not be
➧ EVAC
obvious, for example those with a heart or breathing disorder or who

have hearing difficulties.
Trade Union and safety representatives should be consulted during

planning for evacuation procedures. Staff should also be asked to alert
management to any personal problems (even if temporary) which
could affect their own or a colleagues ease of escape from the
▲
!
workplace.
The FSM, F/AFWs and their deputies should familiarise themselves with
the procedures for evacuation of those who may require assistance in
the event of an alarm or evacuation.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

STAFF AWARENESS
REQUIREMENTS
DUTY 2.6 STAFF AWARENESS
All staff should be made aware of, and trained in, actions to be taken in
the event of fire (see TRNG and EVAC) and, if appropriate, how to
assist people with disabilities. ➧ TRNG
➧ EVAC
The FSM and F/AFWs should be identified to the staff.

▲
!
The evacuation procedures should be specific and authoritative in the
actions to be taken without further reference to managers directions.
However, experience shows that employees naturally look to their line
▲
!
managers for direction if an emergency occurs. It is, therefore,
important that all those in a management position know the procedure
to follow if there is an alarm or fire and the role that they perform in
such an emergency. Firm guidance may be necessary as some visitors,
members of the public and untrained members of staff may react
irrationally in the event of fire.
It is also important that managers support the FSM and F/AFWs when
undertaking their routine fire precaution duties.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 2.6
GENERAL
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
DUTY 3.0 PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
DUTY 3.1 GENERAL
The FSM should liaise with supervisors and managers who should
know which members of staff are disabled. These members of staff may
require special consideration and help if evacuation is necessary. The
▲
!
Departmental Fire Adviser should be able to give further guidance if
required, to identify special needs and how to meet them.
Other members of staff may be given specific responsibilities to aid

people with disabilities. Any such arrangements must be planned,
agreed and rehearsed by all those involved. In addition, staff receiving
▲
!
visitors who are disabled should ensure their evacuation needs are met.
The following paragraphs identify some of the special needs that may
be encountered.
Fire Safety Guide

WHEELCHAIR USERS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH IMPAIRED MOBILITY
DUTY 3.2 WHEELCHAIR USERS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH IMPAIRED

MOBILITY
Wheelchair users and individuals with impaired mobility should be

asked how they can be helped as, in some circumstances, e.g. where
stairs must be negotiated, it will be necessary for these individuals to be
evacuated with the aid of special chairs or be carried. Lifts must not be
▲
!
used in the event of fire other than where the lifts have been specially
designed for the evacuation of the disabled and the fire service and
Enforcing Authority have given prior approval. If any of the above
situations are likely to arise, PMs should consider training members of
staff in the correct methods of using, whichever is appropriate:
designated lifts;
evacuation chairs such as "EVAC" chairs; or
carrying persons.
Advice on lifting and carrying disabled persons may be obtained from

the fire service, the ambulance service, the British Red Cross Society,
St. Johns Ambulance Brigade or certain of the access or disability
▲
!
organisations. Arrangements should be made for refresher training to
be given annually and for their regular review.
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 3.2
STAFF WITH IMPAIRED VISION
DUTY 3.3 STAFF WITH IMPAIRED VISION
The type and location of fire safety signs may be specified in the Fire
Certificate, but in all cases the signs should be sited so that they are
easily seen and readily distinguishable. Staff with impaired vision may
▲
!
nevertheless experience difficulty in identifying fire safety signs and
should therefore be encouraged to familiarise themselves with escape
routes, especially those which are not in general use.
It is useful for members of staff with impaired vision to work near

normally sighted persons who can warn such colleagues in the event of
fire and accompany them along the escape routes. Assistance should
▲
!
also be offered to guide dog owners and, in these cases, it is
recommended that the helper shares the dog harness handle with its
owner.
Note: The ICO should be aware of a possible problem at the heads of

stairways where guide dogs will sit as a warning to their owners
of a stairway hazard.
▲
!
Line managers should ensure that after leaving the building, staff with
impaired vision are led to a place of safety where colleagues should
remain with them until the emergency is over.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

STAFF WITH IMPAIRED HEARING
DUTY 3.4 STAFF WITH IMPAIRED HEARING
Staff who have impaired hearing may have difficulty in hearing a fire
alarm, but they may not be insensitive to sound. Many people with
severe impairment have sufficiently clear perception of some types of
▲
!
conventional audible alarm signals and do not require assistance.
It is useful for members of staff with impaired hearing to work near

persons with normal hearing who can warn such colleagues in the
event of fire and accompany them along the escape routes.
▲
!
▲
In certain work situations, such as areas where there are a significant
number of profoundly deaf staff, alternative types of alarm signal may !
be necessary, e.g. lights or other visual signals, vibrating devices or
sound signals within carefully selected frequency bands.
Before proposing to install an alternative alarm system, advice should

be obtained from the Enforcing Authority or the Departmental Fire
Adviser. Managers should bear in mind that alternative alarm signals
▲
!
may have unwanted side effects, for example, disorientation due to
strobe lighting, and that they should only be installed with the
agreement of the staff concerned.
Induction loop systems which are used to communicate with people

with suitable hearing aids, are not considered to be an acceptable
means of alerting hearing-impaired staff in the event of fire. However,
where such systems are in normal use, they may be used to
supplement any alarm system.
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 3.4
STAFF WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES
DUTY 3.5 STAFF WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES
Line managers should ensure that staff with learning difficulties are
reassured in the event of fire. They should be escorted to a place of
safety where colleagues should remain with them until the emergency
▲
!
is over.
Fire Safety Guide

STAFF WITH BREATHING DIFFICULTIES OR A HEART CONDITION
DUTY 3.6 STAFF WITH BREATHING DIFFICULTIES OR A HEART

CONDITION
Where the escape stair serves a high rise building or the escape route
is lengthy, people with breathing difficulties or a heart condition may
require assistance or a rest point within a protected corridor or
▲
!
stairway, on the proviso that the width of the route is not restricted. F/
AFWs and members of staff should be made aware of such places.
The provision of rest points (chairs, etc) shall not obstruct the effective
width of corridors and stairways and shall not be provided within
staircase enclosures without the consent of the Enforcing Authority.
Fire Safety Guide

DUTY 3.6
SOURCES OF ADVICE
DUTY 4.0 SOURCES OF ADVICE
▲
Names and addresses of organisations representing disabled and
sensory-impaired people can be found in the Yellow Pages. However, !
for convenience, some of the principal organisations concerned are
ANNEX
listed in ANNEX DUTY 4.0/1. ➧ DUTY 4.0/1
The Departmental Fire Adviser can provide more information on this

subject.
▲ !
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX DUTY 4.0/1
SOURCES OF ADVICE
LIST OF ORGANISATIONS ABLE TO GIVE ADVICE ON

FACILITIES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Access Committee for England, 12 City Forum, 250 City Road,

London EC1V 8AF. Telephone: 0171 250 0008.
Wales Council for the Disabled/Cyngor Cymru In Anabl, Llys, Ifor,
Crescent Road, Caerphilly, Mid-Glamorgan, CF8 2XL. Telephone:
01222 887325.
Centre on Accessible Environments, Nutmeg House, 60 Gainsford

Street, London SE1 2NY. Telephone: 0171 357 8182.
Disability Scotland, Princes House, 5 Shandwick Place, Edinburgh,

EH2 4RG. Telephone: 0131 229 8632.
Disabled Living Foundation, 380-384 Harrow Road, London N9

2HA. Telephone: 0181 289 6111. (Expert Advice on Equipment)
National Federation of the Blind of the UK, Unity House, Smyth

Street, Westgate, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 1ER. Telephone:
01924 291313.
Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation, Unit 12, City

Forum, 250 City Road, London EC1V 8AF. Telephone: 0171 250
3222.
Royal National Institute for the Blind,

224 Great Portland Street, London W1N 6AA. Telephone: 0171
388 1266; 9 Viewfield Place, Stirling, FK81NL. Telephone: 01786
451752;
10 Magdala Crescent, Edinburgh. Telephone: 0131 313 1498.
Royal National Institute for the Deaf,

19-23 Featherstone Street, London EC1V 8SL. Telephone: 0171 296
8000; 9 Clairmont Gardens, Glasgow, G3 7LW. Telephone: 0141 332
0343.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME ANNEX DUTY 4.0/1
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
DUTY 5.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that staff identified in the fire safety plan and/or emergency
plan (e.g. ICO, FSM, F/AFWs) are appointed and adequately trained. ▲
!
2. Be aware of any staff with special needs and ensure that they are
considered in the emergency plan and that written management
procedures are developed to assist the escape of people with
▲
!
disabilities.
3. Consult Trade Union and safety representatives on all matters

relating to emergency planning. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

EVAC 1.0 INTRODUCTION
EVAC 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

EVAC 2.1 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971 AND THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS
(WORKPLACE) REGULATIONS 1997
EVAC 2.2 OTHER LEGISLATION
EVAC 3.0 FIRE SAFETY PLAN
EVAC 4.0 EMERGENCY PLAN
EVAC 5.0 FIRE PROCEDURE

EVAC 5.1 ACTION TO BE TAKEN
EVAC 5.2 INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO)
EVAC 5.3 FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDENS (F/AFW)
EVAC 6.0 ACTION TO BE TAKEN IN CASE OF FIRE
EVAC 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
EVAC 1.0 INTRODUCTION
In order to ensure all aspects of fire safety for the building or premises
are provided and maintained, it is advisable to prepare a written Fire
Safety Plan. This section gives guidance on how to develop a Fire Safety
▲
!
Plan (See EVAC 3.0). ➧ EVAC 3.0
▲
A pre-planned fire and evacuation procedure (more commonly called
the Emergency Plan) should exist for all premises and would detail
what to do in the event of fire. This section also gives guidance on how
!
to develop an Emergency Plan. (See EVAC 4.0).
➧ EVAC 4.0
Note: The Emergency Plan may also cover security and bomb/
incendiary threats. These aspects are not covered in this
document.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME EVAC 1.0
THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT AND THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE) REGULATIONS
REQUIREMENTS
EVAC 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
EVAC 2.1 THE FIRE PRECAUTIONS ACT 1971 AND THE FIRE
PRECAUTIONS (WORKPLACE) REGULATIONS 1997
This legislation requires that all premises to which they apply must be
provided with an evacuation procedure in the event of fire. To comply
with the Act and Regulations, a fire and evacuation procedure should
be prepared and practised. This will ensure that staff are aware of the
means of escape and the actions to be taken in case of fire.
➧
 LAW
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME EVAC 2.1
OTHER LEGISLATION
REQUIREMENTS
EVAC 2.2 OTHER LEGISLATION
Regulation 7 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work

Regulations 1999 deals with procedures for serious and imminent
danger and danger areas. This requires employers to establish
appropriate emergency procedures and to nominate a sufficient
number of competent persons to implement these procedures as they ➧
 LAW 4.2
relate to evacuation of the premises. This would encompass evacuation

procedures in the event of a fire. A competent person must have
sufficient training and experience or knowledge for this purpose. The
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act. 1974 also makes a reference to
training.
Fire Safety Guide

EVAC 2.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
FIRE SAFETY PLAN
EVAC 3.0 FIRE SAFETY PLAN
The Fire Safety Plan is a plan written and developed by the person with
overall responsibility for the premises in consultation with the FSM. It
will ensure that all aspects of fire safety for the building or premises are
▲
!
provided and maintained. The Plan must ensure that:
all fire safety provisions and conditions of the Fire Certificate are
maintained;
staff are made aware of their joint and individual responsibilities

both during normal day to day functions and also during
emergencies;
account is taken of all staff and public for evacuation purposes;
all maintenance and training/instruction records are kept up to date

and reviewed at regular intervals;
the Emergency Plan is created and practised; and
guidance for removing or reducing any fire hazards or risks is

provided.
Fire Safety Guide

DEVELOPING THE EMERGENCY PLAN
EMERGENCY PLAN
EVAC 4.0 EMERGENCY PLAN
The Emergency Plan is the written plan of action for all staff in case of
fire. Its function is to specify: ▲
!
the action to be taken when discovering or suspecting a fire;
the arrangements to ensure that all persons within a building or

premises are safely and effectively evacuated during an emergency
(the evacuation procedure); and
the procedures for calling the fire service.
In order to create the Emergency Plan, the FSM will need to take into
account the following:
▲
!
staff on shift work;
staff working outside normal office hours;
staff that have special needs during an evacuation;
weekend working;
staff working in remote parts of the building or away from their

normal work station; and
visitors or members of the public in the building at any time.
For premises with a Fire Certificate, the Enforcing Authority may have
imposed certain criteria to be followed when preparing the Emergency
Plan. It is essential that such requirements are met. In case of difficulty in
this respect, the Enforcing Authority or the Departmental Fire Adviser
should be consulted.
The Emergency Plan should identify and take account of any special
needs of occupants of the building. It should identify the need for, and ➧ DUTY
provide, any special provisions such as safe refuge areas, EVAC" chairs,
etc and instructions on how to manage vulnerable persons who may
be confused, such as the elderly and children. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME EVAC 4.0 Page 1 of 2
EMERGENCY PLAN
EVAC 4.0 EMERGENCY PLAN (CONT'D)
Individual premises may have special risks or fire hazards such as highly
flammable liquids or certain high risk processes. These should be
identified and taken account of when preparing the Plan. The
Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted in such cases and detail
any special procedures required for escape.
The Departmental Fire Adviser, ICO and F/AFWs should be involved in

the development, testing and review of the Emergency Plan, particularly
when planning complicated evacuation procedures.
➧ DUTY
Fire Safety Guide

EVAC 4.0 Page 2 of 2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
ACTION TO BE TAKEN
FIRE PROCEDURE
EVAC 5.0 FIRE PROCEDURE
EVAC 5.1 ACTION TO BE TAKEN
Whenever fire occurs, the main consideration is to get everybody out

of the premises safely. Protection of life is paramount: protection of
property is of secondary consideration.
▲
!
The evacuation procedure should be kept as simple as possible. It
should be rehearsed and any defects in the plan rectified.
The Emergency Plan should make it clear that, whoever first discovers
the fire, raises the alarm and should never have to contact a senior
person to obtain permission to sound the alarm.
In every case of an outbreak of fire or suspicion of fire, the fire service

shall be summoned, regardless of the size of the fire or whether the fire
has apparently been extinguished by staff.
Persons should only tackle the fire after raising the alarm if they have
been trained in the use of first aid fire fighting equipment and feel it is
safe so to do.
▲
!
Once the alarm is raised, the evacuation procedure should commence

immediately and nominated staff proceed with their duties. In some
▲
!
large buildings, evacuation may be phased: persons will evacuate all
areas where a continuous alarm is sounding and stand by and prepare ➧ WARN 3.1
to evacuate where an intermittent signal is sounding.
Where voice alarm systems are installed, staff should listen for
messages and follow the instructions given.
On leaving the premises, staff should gather at a pre-arranged location

(called the Assembly Point) in order to establish, where practicable, ▲
!
that all persons have evacuated from the premises.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME EVAC 5.1 Page 1 of 2
ACTION TO BE TAKEN
FIRE PROCEDURE
EVAC 5.1 ACTION TO BE TAKEN (CONT'D)
When considering the location of the Assembly Point, the following

should be taken into account: ▲
!
it should be sufficient in size to accommodate all persons likely to be
evacuated;
it should not be accessed across a busy road;
the distance from the building should be sufficient to ensure that

persons are not affected by heat and smoke; and
it should not create an obstruction to fire service operations.
There are two principal recognised methods of establishing whether

everyone has vacated the premises. One method is checking a register
of staff and other people who may be in the building. This method is
▲
!
only viable when an accurate record of who is in the building at any
time is available. The second, and more common method, is the use of
F/AFWs who are given responsibility for ensuring that a particular
predetermined floor or area of the building is clear. On arriving at the
Assembly Point, the F/AFWs then report to a nominated person i.e.
the ICO.
At the Assembly Point the preferred method for confirming that the
premises has been vacated should be carried out and the fire service
advised of any persons reported missing.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

EVAC 5.1 Page 2 of 2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER
FIRE PROCEDURE
EVAC 5.2 INCIDENT CONTROL OFFICER (ICO)
The ICO is normally a person in a senior post whose duty is to take ➧ DUTY 2.2
charge in the event of fire or other emergency and ensure a safe
evacuation of staff, visitors and members of the public.
▲ !
The ICO may have other members of staff to assist. An ICO must be
available at all times.
The ICO will be the focal point for all F/AFWs to report to and, if any
persons are missing and are suspected to be still in the premises, will
inform the fire service immediately.
The ICO should only allow the re-occupation of the premises on the
advice of the senior fire service officer present.
Fire Safety Guide

FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDEN
FIRE PROCEDURE
EVAC 5.3 FLOOR/AREA FIRE WARDEN (F/AFW)
The F/AFWs duty is to usher staff, visitors and members of the public,
if applicable, towards exit routes, checking that all areas including store
➧ DUTY 2.4
rooms and toilets are clear as they go. When their floor or area is clear,
F/AFWs will proceed to the Assembly Point and report to the ICO that
their area is clear or give the location of any persons unable to leave or
▲ !
suspected to be still in the building.
Where F/AFWs cannot check an area because of smoke or heat from

the fire, the situation must be reported to the ICO.
F/AFWs may be responsible for a whole floor or an area, depending on

the size of the building.
Fire Safety Guide

EVAC 5.3 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
ACTION TO BE TAKEN IN CASE OF FIRE
EVAC 6.0 ACTION TO BE TAKEN IN CASE OF FIRE
If a fire is discovered or suspected, the following actions should be

taken:
sound the nearest fire alarm;
call the fire service by dialling 999 or ensure that the fire is reported
to the nominated person who will call the fire service (dependent
on local procedures);
attempt to extinguish the fire but only if safe to do so with the first
aid fire fighting equipment provided;
on leaving, close the door to the room where the fire started;
leave the building by the nearest available fire exit; and
report to the assembly point, and inform the ICO of the location of
the fire.
Note: The fire service should be called for all fire incidents, even
when a small fire has been extinguished or when a smell
of smoke is detected.
▲
!
On hearing the alarm the following actions should be taken:
leave the building by the nearest available escape route; and
report to the Assembly Point.
Designated staff, i.e. F/AFWs, should undertake their duties but should
not risk their own safety. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
EVAC 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Prepare a Fire Safety Plan.

▲
!
2. Identify any special needs of staff.
▲
!
3. Identify any particular hazards or risks associated with the premises.
▲
!
4. Prepare an Emergency Plan.
▲
!
5. Test and review the Plan regularly.
▲
!
6. Ensure that staff know the fire and evacuation procedure.
▲
!
7. Ensure that escape routes are clearly marked and kept free of
obstructions. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

RECORDING FIRE LOSSES IN CIVIL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS
LOSS 1.0 INTRODUCTION
LOSS 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

LOSS 2.1 FIRE INCIDENT RECORDS
LOSS 2.2 REPORTING
ANNEX REPORT OF FIRE OCCURENCES IN CIVIL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS
LOSS 2.0/1
LOSS 3.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
LOSS 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Every year a number of fires occur on the Civil Estate and it is

important that all such events are recorded to assist the Crown in
monitoring and analysing losses.
▲
!
Departments have full responsibility for the management of their
estates and therefore have a responsibility to establish recording and
reporting procedures for incidents and losses on their estates. In
▲
!
addition, the PACE CAU maintains a central record of fire incidents on
the Government Estate. Departments should inform the CAU using
the form Report of Fire Occurences in Civil Government Buildings. A
ANNEX
sample blank Report form is given at ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1. This sample
is illustrative of, and may be adjusted to suit, the procedures within
➧ LOSS 2.0/1
each Department.
Local Authority fire services complete reports on every fire incident

that they attend, for their own records, and also for Home Office
statistical purposes. The resulting data does not distinguish between fire
incidents on Government and non-Government premises and cannot,
therefore, be used to produce statistics for the Government Civil
Estate.
The fire service report is very important as it gives information on the

likely cause, and ignition source, together with an assessment of the
extent and cost of the damage. Such information is also vital for use
▲
!
when completing the Report for the CAU. Where possible, a copy of
the fire service report should be obtained as soon as possible after the
fire incident.
Local Authority fire services may make a charge for providing copies of
their reports.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME LOSS 1.0
FIRE INCIDENT RECORDS
REQUIREMENTS
LOSS 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
LOSS 2.1 FIRE INCIDENT RECORDS
Fire incident recording is necessary to:
analyse the cause of fire;
monitor losses which may need reporting to the National Audit

▲
!
Office, or for Treasury returns or possible Parliamentary Question
purposes; and
analyse year on year trends.
Procedures should be established for reporting fire occurrences within

Departments.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

REPORTING
REQUIREMENTS
LOSS 2.2 REPORTING
All fire occurrences, no matter how small, should be recorded using the
agreed form and forwarded in accordance with Departmental
procedures. In addition, a copy of the report, together with the fire
▲
!
service report once available, should be forwarded to:
PACE,
Central Advice Unit,
Technical Advice Group,
5th Floor,
Trevelyan House,
26 - 30 Great Peter Street,
London SW1P 2BY.
Telephone: 0171 271 2833.
Fire Safety Guide

LOSS 2.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1
REPORT OF FIRE OCCURRENCES IN

CIVIL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS
Please tick where applicable.
1. GENERAL REMARKS
1.1 Name(s) of Occupying Department(s):

.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
1.2 Address:
.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
1.3 Date and time fire occurred:

.................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................
1.4 Was the fire discovered by:
occupier
automatic fire detector
public
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1 Page 1 of 7
ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

2. LOCATION OF FIRE
2.1 Type of premises:
office laboratory
storage Law Court
workshop other (specify) .............................................
2.2 Location of fire in building

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
2.3 Where did the fire start?
on roof other external room

source
external roof (void) other (specify) ................

fittings .................................................
2.4 If in an office, was the location of the fire in an area which was:
cellular open-plan mixed
2.5 Was the building:
occupied vacant under construction/

refurbishment
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1 Page 2 of 7 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

3. METHOD OF EXTINGUISHING FIRE
3.1 Were automatic fire extinguishing systems installed?
Yes No
Did they work?
Yes No
Reason for failure:

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
3.2 Please describe the methods used to fight the fire:
a. before the arrival of the Fire Brigade:

.........................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................
b. by the Fire Brigade:

.........................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

4. FIRE DAMAGE
4.1 Please describe the damage caused by the fire:
a. to the item ignited first:

.........................................................................................................................
b. to the room of the outbreak:

.........................................................................................................................
c. elsewhere on the floor of outbreak:

.........................................................................................................................
d. elsewhere in the building of outbreak:

.........................................................................................................................
e. elsewhere:
.........................................................................................................................
4.2 Please indicate the total area damaged:
(a) in the buildings:
................................................................................................... sq.m.
(b) not in buildings:
................................................................................................... sq.m.
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

4. FIRE DAMAGE (Contd.)
4.3 Extent to which occupation of the building is affected:

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
4.4 Likely cause of fire:
smoking electrical arson
flame other (specify) .................................................

spark .................................................
producing .................................................
equipment .................................................
4.5 Casualties:
Fatal ..............................................................................................................................
Seriously injured ...................................................................................................
Minor injuries..........................................................................................................
4.6 Estimated cost:
- Government Loss Non-Government Loss
- Holder Other Department Contractor Other
Building
Contents
Total
Note: The submission of this report should not be delayed solely to

complete this section. When firm estimates are received they
should also be forwarded.
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

5. OTHER DETAILS
5.1 Action taken to prevent recurrence of fire:

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
5.2 History of previous fires at these premises:

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
5.3 Any other information you may wish to add:

........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
5.4 Contact point for future enquiries:............................................................
Name: .........................................................................................................................
Address: .....................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
Telephone No: .......................................................................................................
5.5 When this form has been completed, please send it to:
Name: .........................................................................................................................
Address: .....................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
A copy should also be sent to Central Advice Unit, PACE,

Trevelyan House, 30 Great Peter Street, London SW1P 2BY.
Telephone: 0171 271 2833
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX LOSS 2.0/1

6. OFFICER COMPLETING REPORT
6.1 Name:
........................................................................................................................................
6.2 Address:
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
6.3 Telephone No.:

........................................................................................................................................
Signature:
........................................................................................................................................
Date: ............................................................................................................................
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
LOSS 3.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Where possible, obtain a copy of the Local Authority fire service fire
report.
▲
!
2. Set up Departmental recording and reporting procedures for

incidents and losses.
3. Complete the Report of Fire Occurrences in Civil Government

Buildings and send it to PACE CAU. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
INSP 1.0 INTRODUCTION
INSP 2.0 FIRE SAFETY AUDITS

INSP 2.1 POLICY
INSP 2.2 FREQUENCY OF AUDITS
INSP 3.0 MEANS OF ESCAPE

INSP 3.1 WEEKLY CHECKS
INSP 4.0 THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM

ANNEX SAMPLE RECORD SHEET
INSP 4.0/1
INSP 5.0 FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

INSP 5.1 HOSE REELS
INSP 5.2 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
INSP 5.3 FIRE BLANKETS
INSP 5.0/1
INSP 6.0 EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING

INSP 6.0/1
INSP 7.0 FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE

INSP 7.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 8.0 OTHER FIRE SAFETY FACILITIES
INSP 8.0/1
INSP 9.0 SCHEDULE OF TESTS
INSP 10.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
INSP 1.0 INTRODUCTION
In order to ensure that fire safety measures within premises are

effective, it is important that they are regularly inspected, tested and
maintained.
▲
!
Whilst premises with a Fire Certificate are the subject of a reinspection

programme by the Enforcing Authority, it should be departmental policy
▲
!
to have regular fire safety audits carried out on all of their premises. ➧
 LAW 2.4
➧
 INSP 2.0
Where measures such as a fire alarm system, emergency lighting or fire

fighting equipment are specified on a Fire Certificate, the certificate will
also specify a requirement for testing and maintenance. Testing and
maintenance is also a requirement of the Fire Precautions (Workplace) 
➧ LAW 2.4
Regulations 1997.
➧
 LAW 3.0
Additionally, other fire safety measures such as sprinkler systems, fire

fighting lifts, etc. which may be provided within a premises will also
require testing and maintenance.
▲
!
Simple tests and inspections are performed on a daily or weekly basis
by the occupants. More complicated tests and inspections are
performed on a less frequent basis and will require a Competent
Person, often employed under a maintenance contract.
The FSM shall ensure that records are kept of all tests and inspections
by means of log books or test/inspection forms. Samples of these are
shown in the Annexes in this section.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME INSP 1.0
POLICY
FIRE SAFETY AUDITS
INSP 2.0 FIRE SAFETY AUDITS
INSP 2.1 POLICY
It should be Departmental policy for regular fire safety audits to be

carried out on all Crown premises. The frequency should be
determined by a risk assessment.
▲
!
The purpose of fire safety audits is to ensure that:
the conditions of a Fire Certificate are being maintained where

applicable;
all legislative requirements are being met;
fire safety management systems are in place and effective;
Crown Fire Standards for property protection are being maintained;
any minor works have not affected existing fire precautions and that
they have been notified to the Enforcing Authority where
appropriate; and
effective management procedures for housekeeping are in place.
These audits may be carried out by the Departmental Fire Adviser or

under a separate contract. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 2.1
FREQUENCY OF AUDITS
FIRE SAFETY AUDITS
INSP 2.2 FREQUENCY OF AUDITS
The recommended frequency of audits is as follows: ▲

!
Yearly: Assembly Halls
Cinemas - Reception Centres
Computer Installations
Grain Stores
Historic Buildings
Hospitals
Sleeping Accommodation
HQ Buildings
Judges Lodgings
Laboratories
Libraries
Occupied Ancient Monuments
Reception Centres
Research Establishments
Royal Palaces
Training Establishments
Storage Depots
Underground and Windowless Accommodation;
Two Yearly: Offices

Factories
Workshops
Enclosed Vehicle Car Parks
Certified Premises
Five Yearly: Small, single storey, uncertified premises.
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 2.2
WEEKLY CHECKS
MEANS OF ESCAPE
INSP 3.0 MEANS OF ESCAPE
INSP 3.1 WEEKLY CHECKS
A weekly check should be undertaken to ensure the following: ▲

!
all fire resisting doors function correctly and are not missing any cold
smoke seals (if fitted);
all door furniture and escape mechanisms i.e. door panic bolts, fail
safe locks etc. are functioning correctly;
all notices and signs are correctly positioned; and
all routes are clear of obstruction and fire exits are easily and readily
openable.
In larger premises this could be an onerous task and therefore a

reasonable approach to these checks may be taken.
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 3.1
THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
INSP 4.0 THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
The electrical fire alarm system should be inspected each day to ensure
that the control panel indicates normal operation. If a fault occurs the
following actions should be taken:
▲
!
the location of the fault should be determined;
an alternative means for giving warning in case of fire should be

established. If there is doubt, advice should be obtained from the
Departmental Fire Adviser;
the cause of the fault should be established, together with any

actions which need to be taken to prevent recurrence; and
the fault should be recorded and reported to the contractor

responsible for maintaining the system.
A weekly test should be performed to ensure that the system is

capable of operating under alarm conditions. At least one detector, call
point or end of line switch on one zone should be operated. For
▲
!
systems having 13 zones or less, each zone should be tested in turn
thus ensuring that over a period of weeks each zone is tested. It is
preferable that each time a particular zone is tested a different detector
or call point is used. For systems having more than 13 zones, more than
one zone may need to tested in any week so that the interval between
tests on one zone does not exceed 13 weeks.
If the system backup batteries are accessible, a visual check of

connections in the wiring should be performed.
Quarterly and annual tests in accordance with BS 5839: Part 1: 1988

should be carried out by a competent person, normally under the
terms of a maintenance contract.
▲
!
All testing and maintenance should be recorded in the log book. A
sample test record sheet is given at ANNEX INSP 4.0/1. ANNEX
▲
!
➧ INSP 4.0/1
After the fire alarm has been activated, a check should be made to
ensure the system has returned to normal functioning and the
activation recorded.
▲ !
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME INSP 4.0
ANNEX INSP 4.0/1
ANNEX INSP 4.0/1
Signature
Action Taken Regarding Defects
Result
FIRE ALARM - TEST RECORD
Call Point Tested

Date
Fire Safety Guide
Edition 1: March 1998 ANNEX INSP 4.0/1
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT
INSP 5.0 FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT
Regular inspection and testing of fire fighting equipment is required to

ensure the equipment is in the correct location and is in a serviceable
condition.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

HOSE REELS
INSP 5.1 HOSE REELS
Monthly:
Hose reels should be checked monthly to ensure the nozzle control

functions freely. Check that the hose is stowed properly and that the
water is turned off at the nozzle. Where a control valve is fitted, the
▲
!
nozzle would normally be secured in a position which prevents the
hose reel being used unless the control valve is opened.
Annually and after use:
The hose should be run out to ensure that the reel revolves freely. If
the nozzle can be taken to a place where water can be discharged
without causing damage, the controls should be operated to make sure
▲
!
they work freely. A water jet of not less than 6m should be obtained.
Where water cannot be discharged without causing damage, the

following actions should be taken:
the nozzle control should be closed;
the control valve on the fixed pipework should be free to fully open
and close;
the hose should be run out and the nozzle valve opened and
drained into a bucket; and
before rewinding, the control valve should be closed, the maximum

amount of water should be drained off, the nozzle valve closed and
the hose rewound onto the reel.
In cases where Water Authorities insist that hose reels are sealed off,
arrangements should be made with them before annual tests are made:
they will re-affix the seals after the tests or after the hose reel has been
used.
All tests/inspections and discharges for fire fighting or training purposes

should be recorded in the log book. A sample record sheet is given at
▲
!
ANNEX
ANNEX INSP 5.0/1. ➧ INSP 5.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 5.1
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
INSP 5.2 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Monthly:
A monthly check of portable fire fighting equipment should be made to

ensure that: ▲
!
they are in their proper position and mounted on a wall, correct
identification label in place;
they have not been discharged;
the air pressure gauge is showing a correct reading (gauge needle

within the green zone); and/or
the operating handle seal is not broken.
Annually:
Portable fire equipment should be tested and maintained annually in

accordance with BS 5306: Part 3 by a Competent Person, usually under
the terms of a maintenance contract.
▲
!
All tests/inspections and discharges for fire fighting or training should be
recorded in the log book. A sample record sheet is given at
▲
!
ANNEX
ANNEX INSP 5.0/1. ➧ INSP 5.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE BLANKETS
INSP 5.3 FIRE BLANKETS
Monthly:
A monthly check should be undertaken to ensure that fire blankets are

in their containers, that they are in the recorded positions and that the
containers are closed and are of the approved, quick release type.
▲
!
After use:
Check that the blankets are clean and serviceable. If they are
contaminated, they should be replaced. If the blanket is marked
"Non-reusable" or is not marked "Reusable", it should be discarded.
After inspections and testing, the log book should be completed.

A sample record sheet is given at ANNEX INSP 5.0/1.
▲
!
ANNEX
➧ INSP 5.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 5.3
ANNEX INSP 5.0/1
ANNEX INSP 5.0/1
Signature
Action Taken
Result
Type of Appliance
FIRE EQUIPMENT - TEST RECORD
Location
Date
Fire Safety Guide
EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING
INSP 6.0 EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING
Daily inspections should be performed to ensure the following:
every lamp in a maintained system is lit;

▲
!
the main control or indicator panel of each central battery system
or engine driven generator indicates normal operation;
any fault should be noted in the log book and action taken to
correct it; and
any faults previously recorded in the log book have been given
urgent attention and the action noted.
Monthly, 6 monthly, annually and 3 yearly tests and inspections should

be conducted in accordance with BS 5266: Part 1 by a competent
person, usually under the terms of a maintenance contract.
▲
!
All tests, inspections and activations should be recorded in the log
book. A sample record sheet is given at ANNEX INSP 6.0/1.
▲
!
ANNEX
➧ INSP 6.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX INSP 6.0/1
EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING
ANNEX INSP 6.0/1
Signature
Action Taken
EMERGENCY LIGHTING - TEST RECORD
Result
Location
Date
Fire Safety Guide
INSP 7.0 FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE
The following facilities may be provided for fire service use:
fire fighting stairways and lifts;
smoke control systems;
hydrants within the boundary of the establishment;
rising mains; and
foam inlets.
These facilities should be maintained for fire service use and should be
tested and maintained by a competent person in accordance with the
relevant British Standard.
▲
!
All testing and maintenance should be recorded in a log book. Sample
record sheets are given at ANNEX INSP 7.0/1, 2 and 3.
▲
!
ANNEX
➧ INSP 7.0/1
7.0/2, 7.0/3
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 7.0
ANNEX INSP 7.0/1
ANNEX INSP 7.0/1 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
Weekly
Date
Weekly
Date
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM - TEST RECORD SHEET
Weekly
Date
Weekly
Date
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX INSP 7.0/1
ANNEX INSP 7.0/2
Signature
Result and Action Taken
Location
HYDRANT TEST RECORD
Date
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX INSP 7.0/2
ANNEX INSP 7.0/3
Signature
Result and Action Taken
Wet or Dry Riser
RISING MAIN TEST RECORD
Date
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX INSP 7.0/3
OTHER FIRE SAFETY FACILITIES
INSP 8.0 OTHER FIRE SAFETY FACILITIES
Other fire safety facilities include:
pressurised staircases;
▲
!
smoke control systems;
sprinkler systems; and
other fire suppression systems.
These should be inspected/tested weekly to ensure that any indicator

lights/gauges etc are reading correctly in accordance with the installers
instructions and that the system functions correctly. Some facilities may
be provided as a condition of the Fire Certificate and inspections/tests
and maintenance, therefore, are legal obligations.
Tests and Inspections
All other tests and inspections which are beyond the scope of facilities
management should be undertaken by a competent person in
accordance with the installers instructions and relevant British
▲
!
Standards.
Note: Where systems are dependant on activation of the fire

alarm, the weekly checks above can be performed
concurrently.
All testing and maintenance should be recorded in a log book. A sample

record sheet is given at ANNEX INSP 8.0/1.
▲
!
ANNEX
➧ INSP 8.0/1
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 8.0
Fire Safety Guide
ANNEX INSP 8.0/1

SPRINKLER TEST RECORD
Is the main stop Water (or air) How soon after the 13mm test Elevated tank. See A below Have water supplies been
valve secured fully pressure on gauge tap was opened Pressure tank. See B below turned off at the installation
Date open by a above alarm valve Pump hydraulic apparatus. main stop valve in the road Signature
padlocked leather Before After Did the alarm Was it See C below or elsewhere. If so for what
strap? testing testing sound? continuous? purpose?

ANNEX INSP 8.0/1
A Is the elevated tank full of clean water and the ball-cock working?
B Is the pressure tank filled with water up to but not beyond the water line? Is the stop valve (if any) chained and padlocked fully open?
ANNEX INSP 8.0/1
Is the air pressure at the installing engineers recommended pressure?

C Has the pump and hydraulic apparatus been tested and found in good order?
ANNEX INSP 8.0/2
Signature
Defect/ Action Taken
Result
PRESSURISATION - TEST RECORD
Duration
Date
Fire Safety Guide

ANNEX INSP 8.0/2
ANNEX INSP 8.0/3
ANNEX INSP 8.0/3
Signature
Defect/Action Taken
FIRE SUPPRESSION (HALON) - TEST RECORD
Result
Duration
Date
Fire Safety Guide
SCHEDULE OF TESTS
INSP 9.0 SCHEDULE OF TESTS

The PM must ensure that all fire precaution arrangements are tested and maintained.
A guide is given in the following table:
Check and/or Test

Daily Weekly Monthly Quarterly Six Annually Three Recorded
Monthly Yearly
Means of escape Yes - - - Yes During fire inspection Fire alarm test
(drill) record
Fire alarms Yes Yes - Yes - Yes* - Fire alarm test
electrical record
Fire alarms - Yes - - - - - Fire alarm test
mechanical record
Fire alarms Yes Yes - Yes - Yes* - Auto Fire
automatic detection event
log
Emergency Yes - Yes - Yes* - Yes* Emergency
lighting lighting test
record
Means of Fighting Fire (Extinguishers) (MFF 4.0)
Water (gas - - Yes - - Yes*
cartridge)
Water (stored - - Yes - - Yes*
pressure)
Foam (gas - - Yes - - Yes* - Fire equipment
cartridge) test record
Foam (stored - - Yes - - Yes*
pressure)
Dry powder - - Yes - - Yes*
Carbon dioxide - - Yes - - Yes*
BCF (halons)
Hose Reels - - Yes - - Yes* - Fire equipment
rest record
Fire Blankets - - Yes - - - - Test Record
Facilities for the fire service (FAC)
Dry Risers - - - - Yes Yes* - Fire equipment
Wet Risers - - - - Yes Yes* - test record
Fixed installation Yes Yes - Yes Yes* Yes* Yes* Sprinkler
sprinklers installation test
record
Hydrants - - - - - Yes* - Hydrant record
Smoke Control - Yes - - - Yes* - Smoke control
System system record
* = Indicates test should be carried out by a competent person
Fire Safety Guide

INSP 9.0
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
INSP 10.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure all relevant tests and inspections specified in this section are
performed. ▲
!
2. Establish Departmental policy on fire safety audits.
3. Ensure that any breakdown or malfunction of facilities is repaired as

soon as possible.
▲
!
4. Record all events including fire alarm activations, unwanted alarms,

faults and tests in the appropriate log book.
▲
!
▲
5. Ensure that appropriate additional fire safety measures are
undertaken where equipment and life safety facilities cannot be
reinstated quickly, within 24 hours; e.g. fire patrols or restrictions on
!
procedures to reduce fire risks.
6. Make sure that a competent person is employed/contracted to

correct all faults and undertake tests and inspections which are
beyond the scope of the facilities management team or their agents.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WORKS AND ALTERATIONS TO BUILDINGS
WORK 1.0 INTRODUCTION
WORK 2.0 REQUIREMENTS

WORK 2.1 ALL PREMISES
WORK 2.2 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
WORK 2.3 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
WORK 2.4 CROWN FIRE POLICY
WORK 2.5 CONSULTATION
WORK 2.6 STAFF AWARENESS
WORK 3.0 CONTRACTORS

WORK 3.1 STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS ENGAGED ON
CROWN WORKS
WORK 3.2 MEANS OF ESCAPE
WORK 3.3 HAZARDS
WORK 3.4 FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION
WORK 3.5 THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
WORK 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
WORK 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Works or alterations within premises can affect the fire safety measures
provided. It is, therefore, important that any works, however minor, are
carried out with this in mind. In addition, experience has shown that fire
▲
!
occurrences are more likely when construction work is being
undertaken within premises and it is essential that adequate measures
are taken to reduce the risk of fire occurring, particularly where a
building remains occupied during the construction work. Legislative
procedures are in place to ensure that these measures are addressed
when such works are to be carried out.
Any work that is “Building Work”, as defined by the Building

Regulations/Standards, is subject to control under these Regulations/
Standards. Whilst the Crown is exempt from the Building Regulations/
Standards it has long been Crown policy to comply with their
➧
 LAW 4.0
substantive (technical) requirements.
The Building Regulations/Standards cover various aspects of fire safety

including means of escape and apply to buildings whether or not they
have a Fire Certificate.
Where premises are the subject of a current Fire Certificate, there is a

requirement for the Enforcing Authority to be consulted prior to any
works being carried out which may affect the means of escape. ➧
 LAW 2.0
Where premises are subject to the Fire Precautions (Workplace)

Regulations 1997, it will be necessary to review and/or amend the
assessment when alterations are proposed.

➧ LAW 3.0
The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 apply

to construction sites (see LAW) and are aimed at protecting the health,
safety and welfare of everyone who carries out construction work.
They also give protection to other people who may be affected by the
work.
➧
 LAW 4.14
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 also

apply to most construction work.

➧ LAW 4.6
Contractors should follow the guidance document “Standard Fire

Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works” which is
available from The Stationery Office ISBN-0-11-753094-8.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000 HOME WORK 1.0
ALL PREMISES
REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.0 REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.1 ALL PREMISES
Where works and/or alterations to premises are “Building Work” as

defined by the Building Regulations/Standards, the Building Control
Adviser/Consultant should be consulted. It should be remembered that
▲
!
even minor works e.g. providing demountable partitions, may fall within
the definition of Building Work.
All construction work within buildings is subject to the Construction

(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996. The Enforcing Authority
for construction sites within existing premises which remain occupied
during the works, is as shown in LAW. ➧
 LAW 4.14
Advice on compliance with these Regulations may be obtained from

the Enforcing Authority.
PMs should ensure that contractors working within premises are aware
of, and are complying with, the guidance document “Standard Fire ▲
!

Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works”.
Fire Safety Guide

REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.2 PREMISES WITH A FIRE CERTIFICATE
The person with overall responsibility for individual Crown premises

may be held responsible under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 for any
contravention of the conditions of the Fire Certificate (a copy of which
should be kept on the premises to which it relates). Any unauthorised ➧
 LAW 2.0
alterations to the fire precautions, layout or use of the premises could
result in a contravention of these conditions.
Section 8(2) of the Fire Precautions Act 1971 requires the Enforcing
Authority to be notified of any material alterations. The Departmental
Fire Adviser may carry out this function.
The fire risk assessment made under the Fire Precautions (Workplace)
Regulations 1997 should be reviewed/amended in the light of the ➧
 LAW 3.0
proposed works/alterations.
Fire Safety Guide

WORK 2.2 HOME Edition 1: Rev 1: July 2000
REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.3 PREMISES WITHOUT A FIRE CERTIFICATE
Buildings or premises not requiring a Fire Certificate are subject to the

Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997. The fire risk assessment
made under these Regulations should be reviewed/amended in the light
of the proposed works/alterations. ➧ LAW 3.0
Where a building or premises holds a Notice of Exemption from the

requirement to have a Fire Certificate, the Enforcing Authority must be
notified of any proposed alterations as if a Fire Certificate was in force.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME WORK 2.3
CROWN FIRE POLICY
REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.4 CROWN FIRE POLICY
Departments may wish to follow the advice given in The Crown Fire
Standards which details certain standards of fire safety measures for ▲
!
&
work carried out in Crown premises. The Departmental Fire Adviser
will be able to advise on how these Standards impact on proposals.
Fire Safety Guide

WORK 2.4 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
CONSULTATION
REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.5 CONSULTATION
When planning to make alterations or undertake maintenance work,

the Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted for advice on
whether the Enforcing Authority or Building Control Adviser should be
notified. The Departmental Fire Adviser will also advise on maintaining
▲
!
the means of escape and other fire safety matters relating to the
proposals during alterations.
▲
For leasehold premises, landlords or their representatives should be
consulted. Any other occupiers who may be affected by the works
should also be informed.
!
Listed below are typical examples of work and changes on which the
Departmental Fire Adviser should be consulted: ▲
!
alterations or extension to the premises;
changes in the occupancy or use of rooms;
the use of flame or spark producing apparatus;
increases in the number of persons employed to work in the

premises;
alterations to fire doors, door fittings and fastenings;
provision of supplementary or temporary heating;
the use of flammable liquids;
re-decoration of corridors, stairways and exit routes;
alterations which may affect the fire alarm system, i.e. audibility;
changes to fire detection or sprinkler installations; or
repairs to, or replacement of, fire fighting equipment.
This list is not exhaustive and is only intended as a guide.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME WORK 2.5
STAFF AWARENESS
REQUIREMENTS
WORK 2.6 STAFF AWARENESS
The FSM should be made fully aware of any changes to the fire
precautions in the premises. ▲
!
Management of temporary fire precautions is very important to
safety as it could involve contractors and temporary and revised escape
routes. It is essential that the FSM and F/AFWs are kept up to date
with the fire safety arrangements at all times.
Staff should be made aware of proposed building work or alterations

and their possible effects on fire precautions as these may result in
temporary measures being in place.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WORK 2.6 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS ENGAGED ON CROWN WORKS
CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.0 CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.1 STANDARD FIRE PRECAUTIONS FOR CONTRACTORS

ENGAGED ON CROWN WORKS
Contractors should follow the guidance document “Standard Fire

Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works” which is
available from The Stationery Office ISBN-0-11-753094-8.
Fire Safety Guide

MEANS OF ESCAPE
CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.2 MEANS OF ESCAPE
▲
!
Contractors should be made aware of the means of escape from the
premises not only for their own workforce, but to ensure that the
means of escape for staff and other occupants is maintained. This may
be particularly relevant if a designated means of escape route is
through the contractor’s working area (site) and/or site compound.
Means of escape should be available at all times and not just while the
contractors are working.
Fire Safety Guide

HAZARDS
CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.3 HAZARDS
▲
!
Contractors should be advised of any hazards or processes in the
building which they may encounter, the fire alarm signal, the procedure
they are to observe for evacuation and the location of their assembly
point. They must maintain a high standard of housekeeping procedures.
Fire Safety Guide

CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.4 FIRE RESISTING CONSTRUCTION
▲
Contractors should be made aware of their duty to maintain all fire
resisting construction, including doors, whilst work is in progress. !
▲
!
PMs should ensure that all gaps in temporary fire resisting construction
are properly “fire stopped”, that existing fire resisting construction is
maintained and that any temporary holes formed within existing fire
resisting construction are infilled with fire resisting material as soon as
practicable.
Fire Safety Guide

CONTRACTORS
WORK 3.5 THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
The fire warning system should be kept working at all times.
If, for any reason, the system has to be switched off or any safety
function disconnected, an alternative means of giving warning must be
in place beforehand.
Occupants of the building must be informed of any changes to the fire

warning system, including temporary changes, and must also be
informed when the system is restored to normal.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
WORK 4.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Consult the Departmental Fire Adviser.

▲
!
2. Consult the Departmental Building Control Officer/Agent/
Consultant. ▲
!
3. Where premises are required to have a Fire Certificate, consult with

the Enforcing Authority and keep a copy of the approved amended
fire precautions with the Fire Certificate. The Departmental Fire
Adviser may carry out this function on behalf of the PM.
4. Where premises are subject to the Fire Precautions (Workplace)

Regulations 1997, the fire risk assessment should be reviewed/
amended in the light of the proposed alterations.
▲
!
5. Ensure that contractors appointed for the work are aware of the
document Standard Fire Precautions for Contractors Engaged on
Crown Works.
6. Temporarily amend the Emergency Plan. Permanent revision may be

necessary once the works are complete. ▲
!
▲
7. Ensure the FSM and F/AFWs are fully aware of the revised fire
precautions, means of escape, etc. !
8. Inform staff and, if necessary, provide temporary revised fire action
information.
▲
!
9. Ensure that the means of escape is maintained.
10. Ensure that the fire warning system is kept working.
Fire Safety Guide

CANTEENS, KITCHENS AND MESS ROOMS
KIT 1.0 REQUIREMENTS

KIT 1.1 STAFF INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING
KIT 1.2 CLEANLINESS
KIT 1.3 COOKING APPLIANCES
KIT 1.4 IN CASE OF FIRE IN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
KIT 1.5 FABRICS
KIT 1.6 ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
KIT 1.7 MEANS OF ESCAPE
KIT 1.8 FINAL INSPECTION AT END OF DAY
KIT 2.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

STAFF INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.0 REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.1 STAFF INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING
Where premises are provided with restaurants, canteens, kitchens or

mess rooms, it is the responsibility of PMs to ensure that all catering
staff are made aware of fire risks and are instructed in the use of the
▲
!
fire fighting equipment provided.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME KIT 1.1
CLEANLINESS
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.2 CLEANLINESS
Most fires in kitchens involve oils or fats used during cooking. Attention
should be paid to cleanliness to prevent the build-up of fat in and
around equipment and ventilation systems.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

KIT 1.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
COOKING APPLIANCES
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.3 COOKING APPLIANCES
It is most important that staff are instructed in the use of any catering
equipment provided, and should: ▲
!
not interfere with pre-set automatic controls;
keep fryers clean, both internally and externally;
only use the amount of oil or fat in fryers recommended by the

manufacturers;
not allow the temperature of the oil or fat to rise above optimum
temperatures; and
use the minimum fats and oils in frying pans.
Fire Safety Guide

IN CASE OF FIRE IN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.4 IN CASE OF FIRE IN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
ALWAYS SOUND THE FIRE ALARM OR GIVE ALARM OF FIRE

AND CALL THE FIRE BRIGADE; ▲
!
turn off the gas or electrical supply to the apparatus if safe so to do;
smother the fire by closing the cover or by using a fire blanket if safe
so to do;
use an appropriate fire extinguisher if safe so to do;
DO NOT USE WATER on fires involving oils or fat;
if the fire is inside an oven, do not open the oven door. Cut off the
gas or electrical supply if it is safe so to do; and
if there is fat burning on the floor, smother it with a fire blanket or

foam.
Fire Safety Guide

FABRICS
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.5 FABRICS
Staff should not:
▲
hang curtains, towels or aprons, etc. where it is possible for them to
come into contact with any source of ignition such as cookers and !
other heated surfaces; or
dry or air cloths and aprons over oven doors, on boilers or on lines
over cookers or other sources of ignition.
Fire Safety Guide

ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.6 ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
Fires can occasionally be caused by an electrical fault. Staff should

ensure that: ▲
!
paper packaging and other combustible materials are kept away
from electrical apparatus such as refrigerators and switch panels;
isolating switches are clearly marked; and
current is switched off, if safe to do so, before extinguishing the fire,

but always that the supply is switched off after extinguishment.
Fire Safety Guide

MEANS OF ESCAPE
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.7 MEANS OF ESCAPE
The escape routes through kitchen and dining areas must be

maintained clear at all times. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

FINAL INSPECTION AT END OF DAY
REQUIREMENTS
KIT 1.8 FINAL INSPECTION AT END OF DAY
A responsible member of staff should make a final inspection each night

before leaving to ensure that any equipment normally left running, such
as refrigerators and freezers, is safe, that all other equipment is turned
▲
!
off and also that there are no other obvious sources of ignition.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
KIT 2.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that cooking appliances are kept clean.

▲
!
▲
2. Ensure that fryers, etc. are not overfilled, that the thermostat
controlled cut-outs are working correctly and that no one interferes
or alters temperature and automatic controls.
!
3. Ensure that appropriate portable fire fighting equipment is in

position and available for use and that staff are trained in its use. ▲
!
4. Ensure that fabrics are not hung in a position where they may catch
fire.
▲
!
5. Ensure that staff know how to cut off power supplies to equipment
in an emergency.
▲
!
6. Ensure that staff know the fire and evacuation procedures for the
premises.
▲
!
7. Ensure that a final inspection is carried out at the end of each

working day.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 1.0 GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS
HIST 2.0 STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS OF BUILDINGS
HIST 3.0 PLANNING AND PROCEDURE
HIST 4.0 MAINTENANCE
HIST 5.0 ALTERATIONS
HIST 6.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 1.0 GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS
The Government owns and occupies a number of historic buildings.

Many are protected by statute by either scheduling as ancient
monuments or by listing as buildings of special architectural or historic
interest. Both are the responsibility of the Secretary of State for the
Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Scheduling is a term
referring to the legal system for protecting nationally important
archaeological sites in the UK and is restricted to the most important
sites and monuments of each type. Where a building is both listed and
scheduled, scheduled monument legislation takes precedence.
Once a site has been designated as a scheduled monument, consent

(or clearance in the case of Crown buildings) is required from the
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport for any works to that
monument. This will include all repairs as well as alterations whether
they are visible or not. English Heritage has a responsibility to advise
the Secretary of State on any applications to carry out works to
scheduled monuments and can be consulted prior to formal submission
being made. Advice on who to consult can be obtained from the
Government Historic Buildings Advisory Unit at English Heritage
(telephone: 0171 973 3802).
All buildings listed under the categories listed below are included in the
Governments Historic Building Register, together with a number of &
other buildings of merit not protected by scheduling or listing.
▲
!
The Government Historic Buildings Advisory Unit at English Heritage
can advise whether buildings are included in the Register.
In England and Wales, Listed Buildings are classified into grades to

▲
!
indicate their relative importance. The definition of these grades are:
Grade I Buildings of exceptional interest.
Grade II* Particularly important buildings of more than special

interest.
Grade II Buildings of special interest.
Some local planning authorities also keep local lists of buildings of

local architectural or historic interest which do not qualify for statutory
listing.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME HIST 1.0 Page 1 of 2
GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 1.0 GRADES GIVEN TO BUILDINGS (CONT'D)
Listed building consent (or clearance in the case of Crown buildings) is

required from the local planning authority for any works which affect
the buildings character. English Heritage advises the local planning
authority on applications for works to Grade I and II* listed buildings in
England and also Grade II in London and can be consulted prior to a
formal submission being made. Advice on who to consult can be
obtained from the Government Historic Buildings Advisory Unit at
English Heritage (telephone: 0171 973 3802).
In Scotland, Listed Buildings are categorised on a different system. The

definition of these categories are:
Category A: Buildings of national or international importance, either

architectural or historic, or fine little-altered examples
of some particular period, style or building type.
Category B: Buildings of regional or more than local importance or

major examples of some particular period, style or
building type which may have been altered.
Category C(S): Buildings of local importance, lesser examples of any

period, style or building type, as originally constructed,
or altered: and simple, traditional buildings, which
group well with others in categories A and B or are
part of a planned group such as an estate or an
industrial complex.
Note: The C(S) category includes the best of the buildings

previously not statutorily listed but given a C category (this
latter category is being phased out in the course of the
resurvey). In addition, some buildings are designated B for
group: this category is also being phased out and those
buildings (if still considered to merit inclusion in the lists) are
being assigned to one of three categories.
For Northern Ireland, the Environment and Heritage Service within the
Department for the Environment should be consulted. Apart from
particularly good buildings which come under threat, listing is restricted
to buildings constructed before 1914; listing in Northern Ireland has no
statutory grades, although there are internal DOE(NI) ratings of
Grades A, Upper B and Lower B.
Fire Safety Guide

HIST 1.0 Page 2 of 2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS OF
BUILDINGS
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 2.0 STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS OF BUILDINGS
▲
Historic buildings and some of their contents are irreplaceable. If they have to
be repaired because they have been damaged by fire or water, they may
become poor substitutes for what has been lost. Proper procedures must
!
therefore be implemented to minimise the likelihood of fire and extent of
local damage. The principles of minimum intervention and reversibility should
be adopted wherever and whenever possible to avoid unnecessary damage to
historic fabric due to fire, smoke and damage caused by removal.
This places a significant responsibility on PMs of such buildings. They must be

diligent in ensuring that fire precautions are maintained to a high standard and
they must impress on any other users of the building that they also have a
part to play in preventing fire.
Historic buildings are put to a variety of uses, e.g. residential accommodation,

offices, public buildings, etc. Fire safety standards and emergency procedures
must be established to maintain life safety and minimise the potential for
damage or loss of the building or its contents.
It must be recognised that the historic fabric of the building can also be
damaged or degraded by the installation of fire safety measures themselves if
such work is not carried out with due care. Meticulous planning and early ▲
!
consultation is essential to ensure that the choice of components, their siting
and the method of installation has the minimum visual and physical impact on
the built fabric. These consultations will apply to building works, surface
treatments, equipment, wiring and signage.
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME HIST 2.0
PLANNING AND PROCEDURE
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 3.0 PLANNING AND PROCEDURE
All Departments who have responsibilities for historic buildings should

have a fire safety policy statement and effective mechanisms in place
throughout the Department for ensuring that the policy is carried out.
▲
!
Each Department should appoint an appropriate person at senior level
to take responsibility for fire safety throughout the organisation, who
should, if necessary, consult with the Departmental Fire Adviser.
▲
!
▲
A detailed fire risk assessment of the building or buildings should be
carried out to ensure that the standard of fire precautions is adequate !
for the risk and consistent with preserving the historic fabric of the
building.
The fire risk assessment may identify measures that can be

implemented to reduce the risk of fire or to minimise the
consequences of a fire. Such measures could be management changes,
or physical changes such as fire compartmentation, or early warning by
the installation of an addressable automatic fire detection system linked
to an internal or remote control monitoring facility.
The fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly.
For buildings with valuable and/or portable contents, the need for a
salvage plan must be considered. The plan should identify priorities for
▲
!
the removal of the contents of each room. Where a disaster plan is
formulated which includes a salvage plan and where a salvage team are ➧ SALV
established, regular practice sessions should be held, if possible with the

co-operation of the local fire service. Advice should be sought from the
Departmental Fire Adviser.
PMs should ensure that architectural records of buildings and

inventories are prepared and maintained. Detailed photographic
records are invaluable if reconstruction proves necessary after a fire or
▲
!
as a result of other damage. Duplicates of these records should be kept
off site.
Fire Safety Guide

MAINTENANCE
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 4.0 MAINTENANCE
▲
Experience has shown that one of the greatest risks of major fires in
historic buildings arises from the work of contractors. There is a need
for competent and strict control and supervision of any Hot Work
!
required in the building. A Hot Work Permit system is, therefore,
essential. A sample of the Permit can be found in the Standard Fire
Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works. In order to &
control Hot Work, new permits should be issued each day. In historic
buildings Hot Work should not be permitted where alternative
methods are available. If necessary, the Departmental Fire Adviser
should be consulted.
It is vital that all fire safety provisions are maintained when works are
being undertaken and that the fire precautions adopted by contractors
are monitored closely.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

ALTERATIONS
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 5.0 ALTERATIONS
Any work which would affect the character of a listed building, such as
the alteration of the doors or door fittings to increase their fire
resistance, the provision of new fire resisting doors, the covering of
▲
!
panelling, painting internal woodwork with intumescent paint, etc., is
controlled by planning legislation and clearance must be obtained from
the Local Planning Authority. In the case of scheduled ancient
monuments, clearance is required for any proposed work in
consultation with English Heritage/Historic Scotland/DOE(NI).
Works to Crown buildings are covered by the Joint Circular

18/84(DOE) and 37/84(Welsh Office) Crown Land and Crown
Development, and for Scotland, SDD Circular 21/1984.
▲
!
Reference should also be made to the following documents: ▲

!
Historic Building Conservation Guide for Government Departments;
A Guide to the Care and Use of Historic Buildings in England, Wales
and Northern Ireland, Published by DNH/DOE 1992.
&
The Care of Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments by
Government Departments in Scotland published by DNH/Historic &
Scotland in 1995.
Heritage Under Fire. A Guide to the Protection of Historic Buildings

by the Fire Protection Association. &
Historic Scotland Technical Advice Note 11: Fire Protection
Measures in Scottish Historic Buildings HS, TCRE 1994. &
Crown Fire Standard E13 - Historic Buildings. ➧ CFS E13
Any contractor tendering for building work in an historic building

requires very clear direction in the fire safety aspects of organising and
carrying out the works. The contractor must have a clear understanding
▲
!
of any fire risks (to people, structure and contents) at all stages of the
work proposed on site from the start to the completion of the
contract.
The contractor must be made aware of all fire risks and how fire might
spread, protection of the means of escape routes and rules for storage
of equipment and flammable substances.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
HIST 6.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that a fire safety policy statement has been prepared.

▲
!
2. Ensure that the PM has appointed an FSM who has the authority
and knowledge to manage fire safety for the premises and that an
effective report-back procedure is in place.
▲
!
3. Ensure that the appointed officer is familiar with the building and all
means of escape routes. ▲
!
4. Ensure that a fire risk assessment has been carried out and that
effective emergency and salvage procedures are in place. ▲
!
5. Ensure that the permission of all relevant authorities has been
obtained for all works. ▲
!
6. Prevent the accumulation of surplus combustible materials such as
furniture and stationery. Combustible waste should be removed
from the building daily. ▲
!
7. When contractors are on site, be extra vigilant to ensure that
escape routes are free from obstruction and combustible waste is
removed regularly.
▲
!
8. When a Hot Work permit system is in operation, ensure that the
conditions in the permit are being complied with. ▲
!
9. Ensure that the contractor is in possession of a copy of Standard
Fire Precautions for Contractors Engaged on Crown Works and is
made aware of the relevant sections of the code which will apply.
▲
!
Fire Safety Guide

SALVAGE
SALV 1.0 INTRODUCTION
SALV 2.0 PLANNING
SALV 3.0 THE VALUE OF SALVAGE

SALV 3.1 ACTUAL OR VISIBLE DAMAGE
SALV 3.2 HIDDEN DAMAGE AND LOSS
SALV 4.0 THE AIM OF SALVAGE

SALV 4.1 MINIMISING LOSSES
SALV 4.2 FIRE FIGHTERS SALVAGE OPERATIONS
SALV 5.0 THE EXTENT OF SALVAGE

SALV 5.1 THE EXTENT
SALV 5.2 SUCCESS OF SALVAGE
SALV 6.0 DAMAGE CONTROL

SALV 6.1 EFFECTIVE SALVAGE
SALV 6.2 OPERATIONAL TEAMS
SALV 6.3 STOCK REPLACEMENT
SALV 6.4 ACTION DURING FIRE FIGHTING
SALV 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Fire Safety Guide

INTRODUCTION
SALVAGE
SALV 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Salvage is defined as the reduction of damage to property and contents

by setting up procedures to reduce incidental or collateral damage and
planned action to remove damaged and undamaged contents from the
▲
!
premises during and after the fire.
When fire occurs, the effect on the building, its fabric and contents can
be disastrous. The premises and contents will suffer damage from fire,
heat, smoke and the water used for fire fighting.
Additionally, the loss of computer hardware and software may incur

costs in terms of:
reordering hardware and reprogramming;
loss of records; and
staff resources required to recover/re-enter data from backup

records.
Departments can do a lot to minimise the cost and disruption from a

fire by advance planning.
Departments contingency plans will, in the event of a fire, help to

hasten a return to normal working and ensure that as much as possible ▲
!
is undamaged or salvaged. These plans should be reconsidered and
updated regularly.
Guidance may be obtained from the PACE Business Continuity Planning

Guide.
➧ BCPG
Fire Safety Guide

Edition 1: March 1998 HOME SALV 1.0
PLANNING
SALVAGE
SALV 2.0 PLANNING
Departments should produce a plan of action so that in the event of a

fire, the salvage team and the plan can be brought into operation.
Plans should include procedures for fire occurring outside working
hours when the premises are unoccupied. Staff and Security in 24 hour
▲
!
occupied facilities will play a vital role in the plan. Consideration should
be given to:
setting up a damage control team;
planning to avoid disruption;
planning to minimise water damage;
action during the fire;
action after the fire; and
contingency plans for relocation. (Departments should refer to the ➧ BCPG
PACE Business Continuity Planning Guide).
Fire Safety Guide

ACTUAL OR VISIBLE DAMAGE
THE VALUE OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 3.0 THE VALUE OF SALVAGE
SALV 3.1 ACTUAL OR VISIBLE DAMAGE
Actual or visible damage caused during and after a fire is not restricted
simply to the burning of the building or contents. Damage may also be
caused by:
heat, smoke, steam, fumes and condensation;
water or other extinguishing agents;
debris, dirt and breakage;
the effects of adverse weather conditions on exposed interiors and

their contents;
deterioration of stock, plant, machinery, furniture, etc., which is not

attended to immediately after the incident; or
vandalism and pilfering at insecure premises.
Note: It may not be possible to provide adequate security after

an incident, especially if the structure has been declared
unsafe.
The losses attributed to these factors often considerably exceed those

due to actual fire damage.
Fire Safety Guide

HIDDEN DAMAGE AND LOSS
THE VALUE OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 3.2 HIDDEN DAMAGE AND LOSS
Hidden damage and loss may include:
paper records;
computer records;
staff time.
Fire Safety Guide

SALV 3.2 HOME Edition 1: March 1998
MINIMISING LOSSES
THE AIM OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 4.0 THE AIM OF SALVAGE
SALV 4.1 MINIMISING LOSSES
The aim of salvage is to minimise the losses from fire and/or the
operations to extinguish it. Therefore, it has considerable financial
▲
!
implications. The benefit derived will depend on the circumstances of
each incident, the salvage work carried out, the nature of the premises
and contents involved, the state of the fire when salvage began and so
on.
Studies have shown that even limited salvage can have a considerable
effect on the possible losses.
Fire Safety Guide

FIRE FIGHTERS SALVAGE OPERATIONS
THE AIM OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 4.2 FIRE FIGHTERS SALVAGE OPERATIONS
Fire fighters are normally encouraged to extinguish the fire as quickly as

possible and carry out salvage operations during and after the fire, for
which purpose they carry a stock of salvage equipment.
Fire Safety Guide

THE EXTENT
THE EXTENT OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 5.0 THE EXTENT OF SALVAGE
SALV 5.1 THE EXTENT
The extent of salvage operations necessary will vary according to the

circumstances of each fire. It does not automatically increase with the
scale of fire fighting required. With a large fire, the potential for salvage
operations may be limited, whereas with a small fire, the risk of
avoidable damage from other causes may be much greater than the
actual fire damage.
Fire Safety Guide

SUCCESS OF SALVAGE
THE EXTENT OF SALVAGE
SALVAGE
SALV 5.2 SUCCESS OF SALVAGE
The success of the salvage operation will depend on the equipment

and workforce available. The fire fighters primary duties are to save
lives and extinguish the fire; therefore, their salvage operations may be
delayed until they can get additional officers to the incident. The
▲
!
success of salvage decreases as the delay between the start of the fire
or fire fighting and the start of salvage work increases.
Fire Safety Guide

EFFECTIVE SALVAGE
DAMAGE CONTROL
SALVAGE
SALV 6.0 DAMAGE CONTROL
SALV 6.1 EFFECTIVE SALVAGE
▲
Effective salvage is a continual process and involves a wide range of
activities that should be considered and carried out. When a
Department sets up a contingency plan, they should establish a damage
!
control team with a notional programme of responsibilities to ensure
that the salvage or removal of valuable objects or equipment is
effective.
Team Leaders may consist of some or all of the following:
Premises Management;
FSM;
Security Personnel; or
Heads of Departments/Divisions.
The Salvage Team should be developed through these Team Leaders as

each leader has an in-depth knowledge of their staffs capabilities and
the value to the organisation of the objects or equipment involved and
will be able to prioritise salvage actions.
A list of key personnel with telephone numbers and addresses should

be compiled and a copy given to each member of the team with
additional copies located at special points, e.g. telephone switchboard
▲
!
or security gatehouse.
Fire Safety Guide

OPERATIONAL TEAMS
DAMAGE CONTROL
SALVAGE
SALV 6.2 OPERATIONAL TEAMS
Damage Control Teams should have pre-arranged routines to perform

in the event of fire which involve, where possible: ▲
!
assisting fire fighters in the salvage operation, where considered safe
to do so;
reducing the effects of fire in adjacent areas; and
the removal and storage of valuable property.
▲
Other outside services may be needed in the event of fire and lists
should be compiled and maintained which could include details of the !
following:
salvage experts;
architects, surveyors and engineers;
building contractors - including plumbers, glaziers, joiners,

electricians and heating engineers;
companies specialising in the emergency sheeting of roofs;
companies who specialise in drying out buildings and equipment;
smoke removal experts;
emergency telephone numbers of electricity, gas and water

authorities;
the company responsible for fire fighting equipment in the building;

or
companies specialising in electronic re-commissioning.
Note: In many instances prompt post fire action is essential to

ensure equipment can be salvaged effectively.
Fire Safety Guide

STOCK REPLACEMENT
DAMAGE CONTROL
SALVAGE
SALV 6.3 STOCK REPLACEMENT
A schedule should be drawn up of key equipment and stock which

could be damaged by fire, smoke and water and upon which the
Department is especially dependent.
▲
!
A contingency plan should assess whether replacement stock or
equipment essential to the Department needs to be provided or,
alternatively, whether the Department can manage without it until
▲
!
obtainable.
Fire Safety Guide

ACTION DURING FIRE FIGHTING
DAMAGE CONTROL
SALVAGE
SALV 6.4 ACTION DURING FIRE FIGHTING
Whatever care the fire fighters take in the use of water, there will
nevertheless still be some risk of water damage. Therefore, it will be of
prime importance to provide some protection. Covering items
susceptible to damage with waterproof sheets is a good method of
providing protection, providing it is safe so to do. If water penetrates
through from an upper floor to a floor below, which may not be
affected by fire, considerable damage may occur. Therefore floors or
areas most susceptible to water damage (dependent on the location of
fire) should be of prime concern.
Removal of contents may not be possible and a satisfactory alternative

solution is to protect contents. It must be borne in mind that any
team set up for salvage operation must work only with the fire
▲
!
brigade and under their orders.
Fire Safety Guide

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
SALVAGE
SALV 7.0 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
1. Ensure that a plan of action in case of fire is developed.

▲
!
2. Consider setting up a Damage Control Team.
▲
!
3. Ensure that your Department has prepared contingency plans for
relocation. ▲
!
4. Ensure that a list of key personnel is compiled and distributed to

relevant parties.
▲
!
5. Ensure that a list of other outside services is compiled and

maintained. ▲
!
Fire Safety Guide


Fire Safety Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Fire Safety Guide

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Fire Safety Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

FSG