FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW

Transcription

1 COVER SHEET REVIEW in accordance with Publicly Available Standard PAS 79:2011 (British Standards Institute): Fire Risk Assessment - Guidance and a recommended methodology (with additions) IFSM-accredited fire risk assessor Responsible Person: Address of Property: Person(s) Consulted: Assessor: Director of Commercial Services in conjunction with Council & the Vice Chancellor Park Wood Houses, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7SG/SH/SJ/SR/SS/ST/SU/S/S/UT/UU/U/UZ/WS Reception, Housekeeping & Estates staff; various residents; Shawn Hoare (Fire Safety Officer, Kent Fire & Rescue Authority) Andrew Briggs, MIFSM, MIIRSM Date of Fire Risk Assessment: 29th January to 10th October 2014 Date of Previous Fire Risk Assessment: 7th January 2009 (amended 8th April 2009); 15th June 2004 Suggested Date for Review: September 2017, or as per UoK SHEU official schedule, or in event of significant change Document dated 21st October 2014

2 COVER SHEET

3 GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION 1.0 The Building 1.1 Number of floors Approximate floor area: Not reviewed at this time 1.3 Construction Details: Traditional; brick with timber first floor and roof 1.4 Occupancy: Sleeping accommodation 2.0 The Occupants 2.1 Approximate maximum number: 5 or 6 students (or conference or other residents) each, except 1 Grimshill Court 2.2 Maximum number of staff at any one time: N/A 2.3 Maximum number of members of public: Uncontrolled visitors (Add more detail by area or room as appropriate) 3.0 Occupants at Special Risk 3.1 Sleeping occupants: 5 or 6 students each; possibly occasional visitors 3.2 Occupants with disabilities: es (nil with significant mobility impairments) Possible visitors 3.3 Occupants in remote areas: N/A 3.4 Others: N/A 4.0 Fire Loss Experience 4.1 Fires in past 10 years: 80 cooking related (most minor; one serious major, extensive damage to kitchen) 6 other, internal (one serious major, extensive damage to 2 houses) 4 external (3 wheelie bins, 1 barbecue)

4 GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION 4.2 Cost of fire losses: Not established in total (Insurance Office and Estates hold details) 5.0 Other Relevant Information 5.1 Detail: N/A 6.0 Relevant Fire Safety Legislation 6.1 Primary statutory provisions etc: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, referred Official Guidance & related British Standards/Euro Norms 6.2 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service 6.3 Guidance significant to fire safety provisions in this building: Although premises are exempt from requirements relating to Houses of Multiple Occupancy, official LACORS (Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services) guidance is taken as the required standard for the purposes of this fire risk assessment. 6.4 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service

5 RISK SUMMAR The following is based on BS 9999 concepts and principles, which may be used in conjunction with official guidance in assessing risks. Categories relevant to the building are highlighted. Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist. Occupant risk categories Risk category Description Comments A Occupants who are awake and Staff; students familiar with the building B Occupants who are awake and E.g. conference delegates etc; visitors unfamiliar with the building C Occupants who are likely to be asleep: Ci long-term individual occupancy Cii long-term managed occupancy Resident students Ciii short-term occupancy Conference delegates etc D Occupants receiving medical care E Occupants in transit Fire growth rate(s) Category Fire growth rate Typical fire growth parameter, kj/s3 1 Slow Medium Most locations 3 Fast Ultra-fast Locations (where specific) & categories Note - risks of ignition (kitchen activities) and of failure to respond to alarm signals vary widely with type of occupant Management level therefore required: 2 1 = fully proactive; optimally staffed, controlled & resourced etc. See BS 9999:2008 section = reliably reactive; compliant with legislation & direct requirements ( 3 = N/A, less than compliant with legislation )

6 RISK SUMMAR Environmental risks Heritage aspects Business continuity (University) Business continuity (department) Fire-fighting water runoff (containing combustion products) to soil/surface water drainage/controlled waters; temporary release of combustion products to atmosphere; possible release of asbestos to atmosphere; temporary local nuisance; no other impact likely Buildings do not have Listed status. Per house or several houses, minor/appreciable effect Per house or several houses, negligible effect

7 FIRE HAZARDS INDE DETAIL ES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC 7.0 Electrical Sources of Ignition Continue insofar as possible to maintain/encourage safe separation distance of ½ metre between appliances and combustible materials in all areas, to ensure that sources of heat do not arise from faulty or overloaded electrical equipment, to ensure that all electrical fuses and circuit breakers etc are of the correct rating and suitable for the purpose, and to switch equipment off at the end of the working day. 7.1 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of electrical origin? 7.2 Fixed installation periodically inspected and tested? Portable appliance testing carried out? Suitable policy regarding use of personal electrical appliances? Suitable limitation of trailing leads and adaptors? Recommendation to consider Portable Appliance Testing of student-owned appliances (in common with other student residences). 8.0 Smoking 8.1, 2 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a N Provide statutory No Smoking signs where not fitted to front doors. Ensure University smoking policy continues to be implemented, result of smoking? Prohibited where appropriate? Arrangements for smokers? No evidence of breaches? publicised and enforced insofar as possible. 9.0 Arson 9.1, 2 Does basic security against arson by outsiders appear reasonable? Absence of fire load available for ignition by outsiders? (Proximity to or presence within building) 10.0 Portable Heaters & Heating Installations 10.1 Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as practicable? 10.2 If portable heaters are used: is the use of the more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or lpg appliances) avoided? Are suitable measures taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of combustible materials? 10.3 Are fixed heating installations subject to regular maintenance? Ensure ban on additional appliances continues to be enforced insofar as possible Cooking 11.1 Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of cooking? Is all essential maintenance up to date and recorded? 11.2 Are filters changed and ductwork cleaned regularly? Are suitable extinguishing appliances available? Recommendation to consider further measures to reduce the risk of cooking fires, such as automatic extinguishers or interlinking the power supply to motion sensors. Additional appliances are now permitted in kitchens, mitigated by 'Dorwatcher' fire door alarms on kitchen doors Lightning 12.1 Does the building have a lightning protection system? N Buildings are not at significant risk.

8 FIRE HAZARDS 13.0 Housekeeping 13.1 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate? Ensure that housekeeping programme continues to include prompt removal of combustible materials and waste, and checks on fire risks in common areas Are combustible materials separated from ignition sources? 13.3 Is there an avoidance of unnecessary accumulation of combustible materials or waste? 13.4 Is there appropriate storage of combustible materials? 13.5 Is there avoidance of inappropriate storage of combustible materials? Continue insofar as possible to maintain safe separation distance of ½ metre between appliances and combustible materials. As Escape routes should be maintained as fire-sterile as possible; this is especially critical in staircases and where there is no alternative direction of escape. Continue to ensure that open skips and combustible materials are placed at least 8m from the building, and secure. 8 metre distance is understood to be a requirement of the University's insurers; other sources specify variously from 5 to 12m Outside Contractor, Building Works and Maintenance Hazards 14.1 Is there satisfactory control over works carried out in the building by maintenance personnel and outside contractors? 14.2, 3 Are adequate fire safety conditions imposed on outside contractors? 15.0 Dangerous Substances 15.1 Have the hazardous properties of dangerous substances been considered? If relevant, has a risk assessment been carried out according to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002? 15.2 Is there adequate information on safety provided by the supplier on any relevant safety data sheet? 15.3 Has account been taken regarding: the special, technical and organisational measures and the substances used and their possible interactions. the amount of the substance involved where the work will involve more than one dangerous substance, the risk presented by such substances in combination the arrangements for the safe handling, storage and transport of dangerous substances and of waste containing dangerous substances any other measures introduced as a result of the RRO 15.4 Are there safe systems of work for maintenance, where there is the potential for a high level of risk? All works must be planned, contracted and safeguarded through or in conjunction with Estates (due to e.g. risk of asbestos release, as well as fire safety management). Suitable controls including Permits To work where appropriate should be administered by Estates. As above. Continue to ensure that any dangerous substances temporarily introduced (e.g. by contractors) are known and logged, that appropriate controls are in place, and that all relevant information can be made immediately available to the Fire & Rescue Service in the event of an emergency.

9 FIRE HAZARDS 15.5 Are sufficient control measures in place to counter the likelihood that an explosive atmosphere will occur and its persistence including adjacent areas? 15.6 Are sufficient control measures in place to counter the likelihood that ignition sources, including electrostatic discharges, will be present and become active and effective 15.7 Has account been taken regarding the scale of the anticipated effects? 15.8 Is sufficient additional safety information available to enable the assessment to be completed? 16.0 Other Significant Risks 16.1 Are there other significant ignition sources present? N Ensure ban on candles, tea lights, joss sticks etc continues to be publicised and enforced Are there other significant fuels present? N None known. Continue to maintain vigilance insofar as possible regarding other fuels which may be introduced by residents from time to time (e.g. kerosene for torch juggling found in Darwin Houses approx. 3 years ago).

10 FIRE PROTECTION INDE DETAIL ES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC 17.0 Means of Escape from Fire 17.1 Is it considered that the building is provided with reasonable means of escape in case of fire? 17.2 i Adequate design of escape routes? (Calculate for room and premises occupancy numbers & types, where relevant.) 17.2 i Are suitable assembly points specified? suppl ii Adequate provision of exits? (Calculate for room and premises occupancy numbers & types, where relevant.) 17.2 ii In the case of roof access, are there adequate suppl. exits/routes? 17.2 iii Are exits easily and immediately openable where necessary? (Alarm-linked features such as electronic door release mechanisms to be verified as compliant, functional and suitably failsafe) 17.2 iv Do escape exits open in the direction of escape where necessary? Acceptable in view of occupancy (small numbers, familiar with premises) v Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire exits where necessary? 17.2 vi Are there satisfactory means for securing exits? As per inspections 9th September, all courts checked - turnbuttons provided inside, with no keyways vii Are there reasonable travel distances where Dead end conditions exist throughout on upper floors, but travel distances are there is a single direction of travel? within accepted values - including 1 Grimshill Court (anomalous layout) viii Are there reasonable travel distances where there is an alternative means of escape? 17.2 ix Is there suitable protection of escape routes? Designated fire doors should be checked for effectiveness and fitted with approved intumescent and smoke seals whenever houses are refurbished. Ellenden & Denstead courts under refurbishment, not checked Bedroom doors are of 30 minute fire resisting construction but are not designated "fire door keep shut" nor fitted with strips and seals. In the event of a fire in an unoccupied room, early warning via small amounts of smoke escaping and activating a smoke detector is preferable to much later breakthrough of the door ix continued "Dorwatcher" units are fitted to kitchen fire doors as an additional control to ensure that student residents keep these fire doors shut at all times - frequent inspection must continue to ensure that these devices are not deactivated or bypassed. Other residents (holidaymakers, conference guests etc) carry a significantly lower risk profile in terms of lesser cooking risks, conventional sleeping times, greater reliability of response to alarm signals and, arguably, less likelihood of intoxication - disuse of "Dorwatcher" units at these times could be considered so long as appropriate measures are taken to ensure that fire doors are kept shut at all material times.

11 FIRE PROTECTION 17.2 ix Are escape routes suitably/tolerably fire sterile? Continue to ensure that hallways/staircases do not contain combustible suppl. 1 materials or postings ix Where automatic devices are fitted to designated suppl. 2 fire doors, is appropriate automatic fire detection fitted, and are they of an appropriate type? 17.2 x Suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms? 17.2 xi Are all escape routes unobstructed? Continue to ensure insofar as possible that hallways/staircases remain unobstructed at full width at all times Is the building provided with reasonable arrangements for occupants who may have difficulty escaping? Occupants with conditions which could affect their ability to perceive or respond to the alarm signal and evacuate promptly (e.g. sight, hearing, psychological or medical impairments) must receive Personal Emergency Escape Plans. N/A at generic level regarding mobility impairments (premises not accessible) - otherwise subject to individual Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans as required Are disabled refuges suitably protected, signed suppl. 1 and accessible? 17.3 Are provisions and resources for assisting suppl. 2 escape adequate for the number of people who may require assistance? Campus Watch assistance is expected to be adequate for normal user levels Measures to Limit Fire Spread and Development 18.0 Are marked up plans available showing all fire suppl. resisting construction? 18.1 i Is it considered that there is compartmentation of a reasonable standard? (Including e.g. firestopping of service penetrations) Estates hold plans.?? Fire integrity/compartmentation of roof spaces was found to be compromised following the Purchas Court fire in January A survey of fire compartmentation should be carried out, including roof spaces. See further notes and 18.1 i suppl. It was not possible to check exhaustively/intrusively during this fire risk assessment. Compartmentation (including fire stopping of holes, gaps, service penetrations etc through fire resisting construction, and performance/standard of bedroom fire doors), are uncertain. See also 17.2 ix i Is there potential for fire spread between suppl. compartments through void spaces? 18.1 ii Is it considered that there is reasonable limitation of linings that may promote fire spread? Seen in Purchas Court roof spaces following fire: aperture through firewall, approx. ½ a block, with cable tray passing through; also masonry not extending fully up to roof tiles. Subject to 17.2 ix suppl As far as can be reasonably ascertained, are fire dampers provided as necessary to prevent critical means of escape against passage of fire, smoke and combustion products in the early stages of a fire? 19.0 Escape Lighting 19.1 Is a reasonable standard of escape lighting provided? Emergency lighting should be upgraded to BS :2011 standard whenever houses are refurbished. Not fully compliant to BS5266-1: 2011, but appears adequate subject to ongoing checks by Estates. Passive/borrowed lighting from exterior mitigates.

12 FIRE PROTECTION 20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices NOTE: Fire Action Notices must continue to be posted in all residential rooms, especially for the information of short-duration occupants (conference & holiday visitors) Does the building have a reasonable standard of fire safety signs and notices? N Some essential fire door and directional escape route signs were found missing and must be replaced ( AB to Liz Brown, 16th September refers) Are fire safety signs of appropriate size for suppl. 1 viewing distances? 20.1 Are fire safety signs specific to persons with suppl. 2 disabilities provided in suitable locations and positions? 21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire 21.1 Is a reasonable manually operated electrical fire alarm system provided? 21.2, 3 Is automatic fire detection provided in building? (Throughout building? Part(s) of building only?) Is the extent of automatic fire detection generally suitable for the occupancy and risk? Manual call points not required in this style of accommodation. Current arrangements comply with LACORS guidance (premises being equivalent to small HMOs; Grade D, LD3 + risk coverage) - kitchen heat detector; linked smoke detectors in corridor and on landing; all mains with battery backup. Fitting smoke detection in study bedrooms would reduce risks further but may result in excessive unwanted activations - should continue to be reviewed. Additional detection in roof spaces would be problematic (smoke) or so slow in response as to be ineffectual (heat). Additional smoke detection in study bedrooms would reduce potential delays in raising the alarm in case of fire. See also 30.1 and Is there a remote transmission of alarm signal? Are measures in place relating to "call challenging" by the Fire & Rescue Service? 21 suppl. Is the fire alarm system audible or perceptible 1 throughout the building? 21 suppl. If unwanted fire alarm signals occur, are they 2 acceptably infrequent? N Recommendation to link fire alarm alarm systems to Campus Watch (see further comments). BS 5839 Pt 6 requirement of 85dB(A) at 3 metres from sounder was achieved when checked dB(A) achieved at bedheads (Colin Todd, recognised fire industry expert, views this as sufficient). This has been a recommendation of all fire risk assessments to date (since 2004) although current arrangements comply with applicable guidance (see 21.2, 3). Arrangements currently require occupants to telephone Campus Watch to summon attendance, unlike other accommodation on campus. A lengthy delay may occur if occupants are less alert and responsible than those who were involved in the Purchas Court fire of Jan If other occupants are slow or reluctant to evacuate, or require assistance, risks may be high. See also 30.1 and Checks conducted 10th October 2014 on file with SHE Unit Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances 22.1 Is the provision of portable fire extinguishers reasonable? 22.2 Are hose reels provided? N 22.3 Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily accessible? 23.0 Automatic Fixed Systems Powder extinguishers in Ellenden and Denstead Courts have been placed incorrectly in kitchens following refurbishments and should be returned to hallways. Covers and "extinguisher stopper" alarms are fitted to prevent misuse of extinguishers. Fire blanket in kitchen, powder extinguisher in hall.

13 FIRE PROTECTION 23.1 Is there a suitable sprinkler or water based system, gaseous local application or total flooding provided that is adequate for the risk present? 24.0 Other Fixed Systems and Equipment 24.1 Are there suitable smoke control facilities for the risk present? 24 suppl. Is there suitable provision of a fire-fighters' switch(es) for high voltage luminous discharge tube signs etc? Has suitable notice of these been given to the Fire & Rescue Authority, including switch colouring and marking? 24 suppl. 2 Does automatic control or shutdown of ventilation systems in the event of fire alarm activation result in safe conditions throughout (e.g. fire doors unimpeded by air movements from closing)?

14 MANAGING FIRE SAFET INDE DETAIL ES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC 25.0 Procedures and Arrangements 25.1 Fire safety is managed by: Director of Commecial Services and relevant Kent Hospitality line management Are suitably and sufficiently competent persons appointed to assist in undertaking and ensuring the preventive and protective measures (i.e. relevant general fire precautions)? 25.3, 4 Is there a suitable record of fire safety arrangements? Procedures properly documented? Suitable arrangements for ensuring that the premises have been evacuated? Suitable fire assemply point(s)? Adequate procedures for evacuation of persons with disabilities? 25.3,4 suppl. Are suitable and sufficient arrangements in place for investigating fire alarm activations, summoning the Fire & Rescue Service, meeting them on arrival and providing relevant information including hazards to firefighters? 25.5 Are persons nominated and trained to use fire extinguishing appliances? 25.6 Are persons nominated and trained to assist with evacuation, including evacuation of persons with disabilities? 25.7 Is there appropriate liaison with the Fire & Rescue Service (e.g. any relevant notifications, familiarization visits etc) 25.8 Is a system of routine in-house, local inspections of fire precautions implemented? The Fire Emergency Plan should be reviewed for adequacy. But see Kent Fire & Rescue Service statements, reflecting national fire brigade policy: "From 2 April 2013, any premises reporting an automatic fire alarm sounding will be required to confirm to 999 staff that there is a fire, or signs of fire, before any fire fighting response is sent", requiring "trained, designated people who can safely investigate the cause of the fire alarm and escalate or downgrade the situation as required". Campus Watch staff are nominated and trained. Campus Watch staff are nominated and trained. As per general University liaison with Kent Fire & Rescue Service. Insofar as housekeeping regime and personal privacy considerations permit. Extinguishers and "Dorwatcher" fire door alarms are regularly inspected. See also Full fire checks carried out monthly; Housekeeping staff also carry out daily visual checks Training and Drills 26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction and training on induction? 26.1 Are all students and/or visitors given adequate suppl. fire safety information and instruction at an appropriate time? 26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic fire safety refresher instruction and training at suitable intervals? Continue to provide adequate fire safety instruction and training to all staff on induction. Students' information for these premises should contain particular emphasis on the need to telephone Campus Watch immediately on discovering a fire or the alarm sounding. Continue to repeat basic fire safety information at not less than yearly intervals, and provide full refresher training at not less than 3 yearly intervals. Continue to provide adequate fire safety information and instruction and training to all students and visitors at the earliest opportunity. Fire safety awareness and behaviour should be enhanced by any available means. Basic information on the use of fire extinguishers should be included.

15 MANAGING FIRE SAFET 26.3 Does all staff training (and student/visitor information, as appropriate) provide information, instruction or training on the following: fire risks in the building, fire safety measures, action in the event of fire and on hearing the alarm signal, operation of manual call points, location and use of fire extinguishers, means of summoning the Fire & Rescue Service, identity of persons nominated to assist with evacuation, identity of persons nominated to use fire extinguishing appliances? Ensure staff training includes all necessary information. Induction and refresher training must include the Safety, Health & Environment Unit's "Fire & Safety Awareness" course or equivalent Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire marshals) given additional training? Recommend reinforcing housekeepers' awareness of fire safety defects (e.g. missing signage as identified during this fire risk assessment). Ensure suitable training (including timely refreshers) is given to all staff allocated special fire safety responsibilities Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals, and in accordance with official guidance? N Not applicable for these premises (since equivalemt to small HMOs) When the employees or visitors of another employer work or are accommodated in the premises: 26.6 i Is the employer given appropriate information (e.g. on fire risks and general fire precautions)? 26.6 ii Is it ensured that the employees and visitors are provided with adequate instructions and information? 27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance 27.1 Adequate maintenance and inspection of premises by competent persons? 27.2 Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire detection and alarm system? 27.3 Monthly and annual testing routines for emergency lighting? 27.4 Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing appliances? 27.5 Periodic inspection of external escape staircases and gangways? 27.5 Is there adequate provision for ensuring external suppl. escape staircases and gangways remain passable at all material times during inclement weather? 27.6 Six-monthly testing and annual inspection of rising mains and/or hydrants? 27.7 Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly inspection and annual testing of evacuation and/or fire-fighting lifts? Condition and suitability of fire doors should be assessed at least 6 monthly. N Fire alarms must be tested every month by use of test buttons on detectors, and cleaned periodically in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations (LACORS guidance, Table 3c and para. 32.5).

16 MANAGING FIRE SAFET 27.8 Weekly testing and periodic inspection of sprinkler installations? 27.9 Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security fastening? Annual inspection and test of lightning protection systems? Other relevant inspections or tests: (including e.g. ductwork dampers, fire shutters, venting systems, door holdback devices, electronic door release systems) 28.0 Records 28.1 Are appropriate records kept for: 28.1 i Fire drills? 28.1 ii Fire training? 28.1 iii Fire alarm tests? Provide and maintain records of fire alarm tests iv Emergency escape lighting tests? 28.1 v Maintenance and testing of other fire protection systems? 29.0 oung Persons Have the following matters been taken into particular account in risk assessment in respect 29.1 of young persons: the inexperience, lack of awareness of risks and 29.2 immaturity of young persons 29.3 the fitting-out and layout of the premises the nature, degree and duration of exposure to 29.4 physical and chemical agents the form, range, and use of work equipment and 29.5 the way in which it is handled; 29.6 the organisation of processes and activities the extent of the safety training provided or to be 29.7 provided to young persons risks from agents, processes and work listed in the Annex to Council Directive 94/33/EC on the 29.8 protection of young people at work 30.0 Behavioural Aspects Is there evidence from previous fire drills and other emergencies indicating that some occupants may be unaware, unwilling or fail to 30.1 evacuate? (Aside from disability-related) Is there evidence of disregard of fire safety provisions amongst building occupancy and/or 30.2 management? A small but significant minority of students fail to evacuate promptly, occasionally even ignoring alarms, as confirmed during regular fire drills elsewhere. Disciplinary action by Masters is always requested. See also 26.1 suppl. E.g. holding kitchen fire doors open - largely eliminated by technical means, housekeeping vigilance and disciplinary follow-up by Masters.

17 MANAGING FIRE SAFET Is there evidence of significant human 30.3 interference with fire safety provisions? Are other significant behavioural aspects 30.4 foreseeable? E.g. misuse of extinguishers - appears to have been eliminated by technical means, subject to confirmation. It is to be expected that some students will be inebriated at times.

18 INDE DETAIL DESCRIPTION 31.0 Fire Strategy - building design/layout 31.1 These buildings are terraced houses, fire separated one from the next (but see comments in section 18) The evacuation strategy is simultaneous and immediate for each house individually. Assembly points are specified for each Court The premises are well provided with access routes for firefighting by the Fire & Rescue Service. Sufficient fire hydrants are available and are maintained in an operational state Fire Strategy - systems 32.1 The individual fire alarm systems provide for automatic detection in the common spaces only The fire alarm systems do not currently repeat at any other location. On activation, occupants are required to telephone Campus Watch. On receipt of such call, response is mobilised (usually at least one Security Officer and the Security Supervisor) Fire Strategy - particular risks 33.1 Housekeeing staff ensure insofar as practicable that the premises do not contain any excessive risks, and that escape routes are unobstructed and suitably fire sterile Although the buildings are not considered accessible to persons with significant mobility disabilities, various persons with other disabilities may be present at any time. Some of these must be regarded as potentially at significant enhanced risk due to their inability to perceive or respond to the alarm signal, or inability to self-evacuate. Standard University procedures are in place to plan and facilitate their safe evacuation Fire Strategy - management 34.1 See Evacuation arrangements include coordination by Campus Watch security (see also 32.2) who will also provide assistance to persons with impairments as necessary and/or according to individual Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans. See Fire Emergency Plan. 34 suppl. Regarding business continuity comments (Risk & Fire Growth worksheet) - BFPEM Evaluator L-curve (Fire Service College, June 2004) predicts an 87% probability that a fire will be limited, based on a design fire originating in any ground floor study bedroom.

19 35.0 Fire Strategy - significant change 35.1 This fire risk assessment and the Fire Emergency Plan must be reviewed in advance in the event of significant change.

20 This simple risk level estimator is based on a more general health and safety risk level estimator in BS Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist. Potential consequences of fire Slight harm Moderate harm Extreme harm Fire hazard Low Trivial OR tolerable risk * Tolerable risk Moderate risk Medium Tolerable risk Moderate risk Substantial risk High Moderate risk Substantial risk Intolerable risk * at discretion of Fire Risk Assessor Taking into account the fire prevention measures observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the hazard from fire (probability of ignition) at this building is: Low / highly unlikely Medium / unlikely - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment High / likely Taking into account the nature of the building and the occupants, as well as the fire protection and procedural arrangements observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the consequences for life safety in the event of fire would be: Slight harm - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment Moderate harm Extreme harm In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows: Slight harm: Moderate harm: Outbreak of fire unlikely to result in serious injury or death of any occupant (other than an occupant sleeping in a bedroom in which a fire occurs). Outbreak of fire could result in injury of one or more occupants, but it is unlikely to involve multiple

21 Extreme harm: fatalities. Significant potential for serious injury or death of one or more occupants. Accordingly, it is considered that the risk to life from fire at this building is: Trivial Tolerable - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment Moderate Substantial Intolerable A suitable risk-based control plan should involve effort and urgency that is proportional to risk. The following risk-based control plan is based on one advocated by BS 8800 for general health and safety risks: Trivial Tolerable Moderate Risk Level Action and Timescale No action is required and no additional detailed records need be kept. No major additional controls required. However, there may be a need for consideration of improvements that involve minor or limited cost, and various corrective actions may be required. It is essential that efforts are made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures should be implemented within a defined time period. Where moderate risk is associated with consequences that constitute extreme harm, further assessment may be required to establish more precisely the likelihood of harm as a basis for determining the priority for improved control measures. Substantial Considerable resources may have to be allocated to reduce the risk. If the building is unoccupied, it should not be occupied until the risk has been reduced. If the building is occupied, urgent action should be taken.

22 Intolerable Building (or relevant area) should not be occupied until the risk is reduced. Any significant change, occurrence, finding or development should be reported immediately to the University s Safety, Health & Environment Unit so that mitigating action can be taken and this Fire Risk Assessment reviewed and updated. Important note: this assessment of risk is made on a probable or 'best endeavour' basis, since this report is based on a sampling exercise. It is possible that greater risks remain undetected in areas or aspects that have not yet been accessed or addressed.

23 ACTION PLAN ORGANISATION: University of Kent ASSESSOR: Andrew Briggs BUILDING: Park Wood Houses DATE: 21st October 2014 ACTION PLAN The following recommendations should be implemented in order to reduce fire risk to, or maintain it at, the following level: TOLERABLE Note - only remedial/salient items appear below. Various general requirements have not been carried forward to the Action Plan, but are nevertheless necessary - see previous worksheets. REFERENCE ACTION REQUIRED PRIORIT * RESPONSIBILIT TARGET DATE COMPLETE See also Further Comments/Detail/Clarification etc. in previous worksheets, where relevant 6 figure numbers are Estates Helpdesk Work Requests Capital items are subject to a scored prioritiy system or carried forward ( = to Estates spreadsheet) 8.0 Smoking 8.1, 2 Provide statutory No Smoking signs where not fitted to front doors. 2A/B Kent Hospitality &/or Estates Immediate 11.0 Cooking 11.1 Recommendation to consider further measures to reduce the risk of cooking fires, such as automatic extinguishers or interlinking the power supply to motion sensors. 3A/B Kent Hospitality Medium term 17.0 Means of Escape from Fire 17.2 ix Designated fire doors should be checked for effectiveness and fitted with approved intumescent and smoke seals whenever houses are refurbished Measures to Limit Fire Spread and Development 18.1 i Fire integrity/compartmentation of roof spaces was found to be compromised following the Purchas Court fire in January A survey of fire compartmentation should be carried out, including roof spaces. See further notes and 18.1 i suppl Escape Lighting 19.1 Emergency lighting should be upgraded to BS :2011 standard whenever houses are refurbished. 2A/B Estates Ongoing with refurbishments 2A/1B Estates Short to medium term 2A Estates Ongoing with refurbishments 20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices

24 ACTION PLAN 20.1 Some essential fire door and directional escape route signs were found missing and must be replaced ( AB to Liz Brown, 16th September refers). 1-2A/B Kent Hospitality Immediate 21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire 21.4 Recommendation to link fire alarm alarm systems to Campus Watch (see further comments) Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances 22.1 Powder extinguishers in Ellenden and Denstead Courts have been placed incorrectly in kitchens following refurbishments and should be returned to hallways. 3A/B Estates Short to medium term 2A/B Estates Short term 25.0 Procedures and Arrangements 25.3, 4 The Fire Emergency Plan should be reviewed for adequacy. 2A/B SHE Unit Short term 26.0 Training and Drills 26.1 suppl. Students' information for these premises should contain particular emphasis on the need to telephone Campus Watch immediately on discovering a fire or the alarm sounding Recommend reinforcing housekeepers' awareness of fire safety defects (e.g. missing signage as identified during this fire risk assessment). 2A/3B Kent Hospitality Ongoing 3A/B Kent Hospitality Ongoing 27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance 27.2 Fire alarms must be tested every month by use of test buttons on detectors, and cleaned periodically in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations (LACORS guidance, Table 3c and para. 32.5). 1A/B Kent Hospitality or Estates Immediate and ongoing * PRIORIT (N.B. approximately to Fire Service College Fire Safety Engineering Division scale, not PAS 79) Category A. Fire Risk to Persons: 1A - A serious life safety risk and/or a major, serious or overt contravention of current fire safety legislation and/or official guidance. This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority.

25 ACTION PLAN 2A - An important life safety issue and/or a contravention of current fire safety legislation and/or official guidance, that may lead to enforcement action if not addressed. This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay. 3A - A significant life safety issue which, in combination with other significant findings, may result in an increased risk to persons. Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire safety practice. 4A - A life safety issue recommended for consideration in accordance with good fire safety practice. Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate. Category B. Fire Risk to Property, Business Continuity, Environment, Amenity, Heritage etc. 1B - A serious risk of damage by fire (with possible legal implications, depending on the enforcing authority involved). This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority. 2B - An important potential fire damage issue (with possible legal implications, depending on the enforcing authority involved). This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay. 3B - A significant potential fire damage issue which, in combination with other significant findings,may result in an increased risk to the property. Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire protection/prevention practice. 4B - A property protection issue recommended for consideration as a medium of longer term objective in accordance with good fire prevention/protection practice. Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate.