Fire Risk Assessment 2017

Transcription

1 Document Ti tle Client Name Fire Risk Assessment 2017 Wolverhampton Homes Lathe Court Lakefield Road Wolverhampton WV11 3RB WHF FRA th February 2017

2 Fire Risk Assessment 2016 Project no: BU89800T Task 022R Document title: Fire Risk Assessment Document No.: WHF FRA Revision: A Date: 9th February 2016 Client name: Wolverhampton Homes Client no: ADO Project manager: Lisa Long Author: Sam Bunch G.I. Fire E, Dip FMS File name: Lathe Court Jacobs UK Ltd 95 Bothwell Street Glasgow G2 7HX Copyright The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Jacobs. Use or copying of this document in whole or in part without the written permission of Jacobs constitutes an infringement of copyright. Limitation: This report has been prepared on behalf of, and for the exclusive use of Jacobs Client, and is subject to, and issued in accordance with, the provisions of the contract between Jacobs and the Client. Jacobs accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for, or in respect of, any use of, or reliance upon, this report by any third party. Document history and status Revision Date Description By Review Approved A FRA report S Bunch C. Pritchard S Bunch 2 WHF FRA Lathe Court

3 Contents 1 Introduction 5 2 Record of Assessments 8 3 Property Overview 9 4 Occupancy Summary 11 5 Assessor Summary of Findings 12 6 Risk Assessment Grading 14 7 Findings and Action Plans High Priority 14 8 Findings and Action Plans Medium Priority 15 9 Findings and Action Plans Low Priority and Recommendations Audit Information Life Safety Issues Disability Issues Ignition Sources Electrical Safety Security and Arson Control Fuel Sources COSHH and Hazardous Materials Hi Flams and DSEAR Compartmentation Fire Doors Means of Escape - Internal Means of Escape - External Firefighting Equipment Fixed Firefighting Installations Smoke and Ventilation Systems Fire Evacuation Lift and Firefighting Shafts Fire Warning System Management of Fire Safety 36 3 WHF FRA Lathe Court

4 29 Statutory Training Evacuation Procedures Emergency Plan, Threat Procedure and Firefighting Plan Photographic References 40 4 WHF FRA Lathe Court

5 1 Introduction 1.1 Scope and Purpose Jacobs U.K. Ltd has been appointed by Wolverhampton Homes to conduct a non-intrusive fire risk assessment and where appropriate, identify the significant findings and make recommendations and / or action plans in order to assist the Responsible Person in meeting their obligations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) to the extent of responsibility for premises or parts of premises falling under its control This Fire Risk Assessment has been prepared and presented by Sam Bunch, Dip FMS, G.I. Fire E, Fire Safety Consultant, Jacobs U.K. Ltd. Contact or at The sole purpose of this report is to provide an assessment of the risk to life from fire, and to assist Wolverhampton Homes in reducing the risk of fire to which the property may be exposed It is not an acceptance of responsibility for any acts, defects or omissions which could lead to a fire situation and subsequent loss. 1.2 Legislation The applicable legislation is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order The RRFSO essentially replaces repeals or amends all previous fire regulations and laws, for all buildings, other than those where the HSE or the local authority is the enforcing authority or where the Control of Major Accident Hazard Regulations (COMAH) applies The aim of the RRFSO is to consolidate the general fire safety precautions of various parts of legislation. The legislation places the responsibility for enforcing fire precautions within buildings on the local Fire Authorities. The responsibility for enforcement is retained by the HSE for nuclear, shipbuilding and construction A risk-based approach is required under the RRFSO, in contrast to the prescriptive process previously imposed. The RRFSO requires that the Responsible Person should undertake a fire safety risk assessment, such that it can be demonstrated that the fire safety precautions are adequate and maintained to reduce the exposure of relevant persons, see article 8 below: the responsible person must (a) take such general fire precautions as will ensure so far as is reasonably practical the safety of its employees and (b) in relation to relevant persons who are not in their employ as may reasonably be required to ensure the premises are safe The Responsible Person can be defined as the owner, occupier, employer or person(s) in control of the building, whilst the relevant persons are described in the RRFSO as:- Any person who is or may be lawfully on the premises, and also any person in the immediate vicinity of the premises who is at risk from a fire in the premises, other than fire-fighters at the time of a fire. 5 WHF FRA Lathe Court

6 1.2.5 Under the RRFSO, it is required that the following information is stored and available for inspection onsite or be available: The Fire Risk Assessment. Where actions are required, proof of completion. Record books detailing the preventative and proactive measures and any arrangements associated with fire safety; planning, organisation, control, monitoring, review etc. Staff training. Previous Fire Events. Dates of Fire Risk Assessment and reviews. Copies of equipment test certificates Under the RRFSO a risk assessment is also required to be undertaken to areas in block of flats and maisonettes; refuges; student halls of residence; the common areas of HMOs and sheltered accommodation where care is not provided. 1.3 Management Structure The responsibility for the development and implementation of the fire safety policy rests with the Responsible Person. However, responsibilities are frequently delegated to other persons and the management structure is detailed below All employees must be familiar with their duties, and the procedures to be followed in the event of a fire. Typically, these will be explained in detail during the staff / HSE induction. For this purpose, members of staff should be provided with adequate training A detailed list of fire safety responsibilities, along with the person responsible and details of any delegated persons should be provided alongside this document. 6 WHF FRA Lathe Court

7 1.4 Limitations and Exclusions The information and advice detailed within this report has been compiled following the principles of Publicly Available Specification; PAS79, and is considered to present a suitable level of fire safety taking in account the complexity of the building, proposed occupancy levels and local conditions. This report should be fully understood by the Responsible Person and the findings actions highlighted to be addressed within the timescales identified Unless explicitly stated this report does not include detailed evaluation of any fire protection equipment in terms of its adequacy or reliability, nor has the integrity of fire compartmentation been verified It is not considered practical for many older buildings to achieve full compliance with the current Building Standards due to their age and structural form. Consequently, the actions identified and recommended within this report should not be interpreted as a means of achieving compliance, but as a method of reducing risk and enhancing Life Safety and property protection This report does not address the risk to business continuity from fire The assessment relies on information gained from the site visit and provided to the assessor by Wolverhampton Homes Property Services from their associated maintenance records and during the course of the site visit on This fire risk assessment covers the conditions of the property on the day of the evaluation and from additional sources provided to the assessor by Wolverhampton Homes and does not necessarily apply to changes in conditions made after that date It is the Wolverhampton Homes responsibility to keep the fire risk assessment up to date if suspected to be no longer considered valid or if significant changes have taken place Where relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose, such parties rely upon this document do so at their own risk It is considered reasonable to assume that the works to be completed will be in line with the recommendations of this report and be carried out with appropriate materials and in a competent manner. 7 WHF FRA Lathe Court

8 2 Record of Assessments Date of Assessment 19/02/2007 Reason for Assessment Initial assessment Comments Improvement required in the separation of the bin chute from the common landing Name of Assessor Adrian Blundell Signed FRA review Minor issues for action identified Sam Bunch FRA review Issues for action identified Sam Bunch FRA review Issues identified for action and improvement. Sam Bunch Review of FRA. Issues identified for action and improvement. Sam Bunch FRA review Minor issues identified for action and improvement. Sam Bunch Review of FRA. Sam Bunch 8 WHF FRA Lathe Court

9 3 Property Overview Brief Description of Property & Construction Recently refurbished, detached, concrete framed hi-rise block, clad in insulated panels with flat roof over c1960. Concrete floor separation between floors. The ground floor is sub-divided to form the bin room and data room (each with individual external access), main entrance foyer, lift lobby, communal corridors, residential flats and an alternative exit point. Each upper floor level has been sub-divided to create a central lift lobby containing the dry riser outlet cupboard with direct access to the circulation stair and protected corridors to either side of the lobby, each giving access to residential flats. The lift motor room is located on the roof and reached via a removable vertical ladder up to a locked ceiling hatch. Nine No of Stairs One Approximate Floor 300 No of Floors inc. basement No of Basement levels None Location(s) and Use(s) of stairs Area covered by this Assessment Internal circulation stair accessing all floors from ground level, discharging to open air via main entrance at front and out at rear of property via corridor. Footprint Area (sq. m) Purpose Group/ Occupancy/Use(s) Residential flats All fire safety systems and their management, all accessible common areas including floor landings, stairwell, bin store and main electrical intake and meter cupboards where access was available. Statutory notices, policies and procedures are also included. The residential areas are excluded, except for the main flat entrance doors which open onto the common landing, as domestic premises are not subject to the Fire Safety Order. Evacuation Strategy (including Provisions for Disability) The property is a hi-rise residential block with a mixed population including elderly residents. The risk to tenants within their home is not considered by this assessment and may be individually addressed by the occupants via community fire safety or care workers where appropriate. Except for within the data room, fire warning systems are not provided in the communal areas, which is consistent with the residential use. Localised automatic detection may be provided within each residence but this is not interconnected between individual flats. In the event of fire occurring, a stay put policy has been promoted by Wolverhampton Homes where residents will not evacuate unless directly affected by fire or smoke. 9 WHF FRA Lathe Court

10 Property Safety Strategy Physical separation between individual flats and common areas reduces the potential for fire spread and imperforate structural protection to the stairwell maintains the availability of the circulation stair for evacuation and firefighting access. Significant firestopping works have taken place to further prevent the passage of fire and smoke. This has included the installation of the sealing up of mains water stop valve housings. The bin store has a localised mains pressure deluge system with automatic detection operation. Fire Scenario The likelihood of accidental fire occurring within the communal areas is very low due to the lack of potential ignition sources and fuels. The electrical distribution cupboards contain a viable ignition source but this is considered to be a low risk. The potential for fire is greater within the residential properties where uncontrolled activities are permitted, i.e. cooking and smoking. If a fire occurs within a residence, the alarm will have to be raised locally and the Fire and Rescue Service contacted via 999. Fire spread will be restricted into the common area provided the flat entrance door is kept closed. Any fire occurring in the ground floor protected by the deluge system would be identified and actively controlled and / or extinguished. Unless extinguished, fire will continue to develop within the area of origin until positive intervention by the attending Fire and Rescue Service. 10 WHF FRA Lathe Court

11 4 Occupancy Summary Person responsible for Fire Safety Myk Kaszuba Person responsible for Fire Safety Maintenance Programme Designation Stock Investment Manager, Wolverhampton Homes Designation Wolverhampton Homes Property Services Person providing Designation assessment information Wolverhampton Homes Property Services Contact Details Office Mobile Other Contact Details Office Mobile Other Contact Details Office Mobile Other Name of Owner(s) Occupier(s) Location Activity Wolverhampton Homes Whole of property Residential block of 54 flats Persons at Risk Location Activity Contractors Communal areas Circulation / transit space Persons Present - Max Nos. (approx.) Daytime / Silent Hours Employees oung Persons Members of Public Tenants 2 0 Variable <150 (Occasional) Reason and Numbers Sleeping Disability Remote Location Other Lift motor 0 room (Occasional presence) 11 WHF FRA Lathe Court

12 5 Assessor Summary of Findings Risk Category Summary of Provision Qualifying Comments Risk to Life Risk to Life is assessed as LOW. No significant issues identified. Risk to Firefighters Risk to Life is assessed as LOW. No significant issues identified. Risk to Property Risk to Property is assessed as LOW. No significant issues identified. Risk of Fire Risk of accidental fire is assessed as LOW. No significant issues identified. Risk of Fire Spread Risk of fire spread is assessed as LOW. No significant issues identified. Residual Risks The residual risks found are None. The residual risk control measures are None. Overall Summary The overall grading for this property has been assessed as LOW. Findings which impact on the fire safety strategy have been listed for action at Sections 7-9 of this report. Implementation of these actions will maintain or further reduce the overall grading. For tenants with disability, particularly those with limited mobility, the stairwell area; not the lift lobby approach could be used as a temporary refuge provided they move across the landing towards the flight leading to the next level to await arrival of the Fire and Rescue Service. This will allow firefighters free access onto the affected floor with their equipment. It may then be necessary for tenants to move out of the stairwell onto the floor(s) below or above but this may involve assistance and direction from the Fire and Rescue Service personnel. This advice should be discussed with the Fire and Rescue Service before being published among tenants. The individual flat entrance doors do not have self-closing devices present. Advice contained within the Fire safety in purpose built blocks of flats as published by the Local Government Group advises that these be installed. These doors will normally be in the closed position for security and privacy thereby providing protection to and from the communal areas. While there is an identifiable benefit in automatically ensuring that the door closes following evacuation in the event of fire, there is also a potential for accidental lock out and high opening pressures which would make access and egress difficult for elderly or disabled residents. As there is a stay put policy in place, the lack of self-closers is not considered to elevate the risks to residents significantly however the latest Wolverhampton Homes policy is for self-closing devices to be installed in replacement doorsets in hi-rise properties. The issue is a matter for continual review and discussion. 12 WHF FRA Lathe Court

13 Additional Recommendations The recommendations from the findings of the Coroners Inquests into the hi-rise fires at Lakanal House, London and Shirley Towers have been reviewed and the following additional points are made which are to be considered as common guidance to all hi-rise properties within the Wolverhampton Homes portfolio:- 1. All cabling in communal areas and within residential properties should be secured using fire rated clips and/or metal fastenings unless stored within metal cable trays mechanically fixed to the ceiling above. 2. All physical alterations which impact on the fire safety measures should be reviewed at design stage. This would allow a review of the materials used as well as any changes to structural layout. 3. Provision of low level floor identification signage to be made at all points of floor entry with additional low level directional exit signage. Preferably this signage would also be photo-luminescent. 4. Provision of site specific information systems for each block. This could be externally placarded information or an internal information box. The method of information provision and the range of information to be made available will be decided following discussions with the Fire and Rescue Service. An example of this has recently been installed at William Bentley Court. While there is a recommendation that retrospective sprinkler be installed in all areas of hi-rise buildings over 30m, this is under review by Wolverhampton Homes as this has extensive logistical and budget implications. Assessment Review Period Anticipating that the significant findings will be actioned and this FRA updated, it is recommended that the frequency of review for this property is Annually or earlier if required. Any changes e.g. Use, Staff profile, structural alterations or other change which may affect the outcomes of this assessment may require it to be reviewed immediately. All new findings identified must be actioned and the FRA updated accordingly. 13 WHF FRA Lathe Court

14 6 Risk Assessment Grading Gradings HIGH PRIORIT MEDIUM PRIORIT LOW PRIORIT NOT APPLICABLE The grading reflects the most significant finding within the category. Other, less urgent issues may also have been identified and should be addressed. Major Improvement required within a short timescale. Signifies risk to life or property or failure to observe statutory requirements. Minor Improvement required within short to medium term timescale. Signifies minor infringement or poor process. Minor improvement recommended. Actions are not necessarily statutorily required but would improve the culture and effect of the fire safety strategy. No fixed timescale but should be considered medium to long term. The information required in this section does not apply to this particular property. 7 Findings and Action Plans High Priority Report and Photo Reference Photo ref 01 Significant findings Flat Repairs to the firestopping within the adjacent stop valve housing have used excessive expanding foam infill. Urgent Action Required The firestopping should be re-instated by competent persons to restore effective fire separation and compartmentation between the flat and the communal area using approved fire rated materials and methods. Expanding foam should not be used Date Corrective Action Completed Signed Photo ref 02 Flat. The firestopping within the adjacent stop valve housing has been damaged reducing its effectiveness. The firestopping should be re-instated by competent persons to restore effective fire separation and compartmentation between the flat and the communal area using approved fire rated materials and methods. 14 WHF FRA Lathe Court

15 8 Findings and Action Plans Medium Priority Report and Photo Reference Significant findings No record of weekly call point testing within then data room. Prompt Action Required BS recommends that weekly testing of the call point be done by the occupier during normal occupancy hours. Date Corrective Action Completed Signed The purpose of regular testing is to check the function of the call point as well as audibility of the sounders. Details of the test dates and outcomes and results should be recorded in the Fire Safety Log Book and be available for inspection by authorised persons. 15 WHF FRA Lathe Court

16 9 Findings and Action Plans Low Priority and Recommendations Report and Photo Reference Significant findings The existing deluge installation covers the bin store area only. See also Section 5 - Additional Recommendations re. Installation of a sprinkler system Previous assessment findings have not been actioned and completed. See Low Priority issues. Long Term Action Required In light of the fire at Longfield House which severely affected the communal lift lobby, consideration should be given to installing a sprinkler system to provide active protection in the communal areas but excluding the data room. This work should be carried out by competent and experienced contractors following a survey of the floor space. Records of actions taken in order to achieve compliance or to reduce hazards and risks or to correct identified shortcomings should be available for inspection. Reasons for not addressing issues should also be recorded. This will provide an audit trail of decisions; demonstrate compliance with requirements and a positive commitment to Fire Safety within the workplace. Date Corrective Action Completed Signed A Firefighting Plan containing property specific information is not provided or immediately accessible. Identified in previous FRA. Refer to Section 5 Assessors Summary and specifically Additional Recommendations. Consideration should be given to providing external placarding displaying core information about the property as installed at William Bentley Court. 16 WHF FRA Lathe Court

17 10 Audit Information The following information was gathered during the assessment process and is subject to change due to changes in occupancy, use, structural alteration etc. All subject areas should be re-visited during any re-assessment process to identify a new overall assessment outcome. 11 Life Safety Issues 11.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There are persons at significant risk within the property Staff work out of hours or are lone working Where necessary, compensatory measures are provided oung persons are employed oung persons Risk Assessments have been carried out Parents/guardians have been informed of the Risk Assessments and outcomes Compensatory measures are provided and/or implemented There are existing risks to Firefighters Visitors and Contractors are controlled N N N Residential use only. One Concierge staff and the Cleaner attend the premises daily. Their attendance is limited to a few hours only. 17 WHF FRA Lathe Court

18 12 Disability Issues 12.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments An Equality Act Access Assessment has been carried out There are persons who require additional assistance in emergency situations within the property Compensatory measures have been provided e.g. PEEPs, Refuge Areas, Contrasted Markings etc. A defend in place policy has been produced and practised Fire evacuation procedures consider disabled personnel Staff have been trained in disability escape etiquette Disability specific signs are in place e.g. to indicate wheelchair routes to refuge areas etc. The need to support the evacuation of visually impaired persons has been considered and procedures established Hearing impaired occupants can readily identify the fire warning system actuation. People with Cognitive disorders have been considered, procedures established and people informed There are management procedures for reviewing temporary disability of staff e.g. through pregnancy, injury Undertaken by Jacobs U.K. Ltd in August N N Elderly tenants living in the property may have a wide range of disabilities. No assistance to evacuate is provided as the occupants of each flat are assumed to be self-sufficient and a stay put policy is actively promoted. The stairwell area may be used as a temporary refuge while awaiting the Fire and Rescue Service. See comments in Overall Summary. Wolverhampton Homes promote a stay put policy in displayed posters in the main entrance foyer. No evacuation procedures in place. Stay put policy in place. 18 WHF FRA Lathe Court

19 13 Ignition Sources 13.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Significant potential Ignition sources are N present There are significant potential ignition processes in use N Process control measures are in place N None within communal areas assessed. Significant ignition sources are present within the residences e.g. cooking and smoking Gas-powered appliances are in use N No gas present within the property Gas appliances are tested by Gas Safe Registered Engineers and current Gas Safety Records are available Where internal flues are present, access hatches are available to permit inspection CO detection is present where internal flues are located Where fitted, cooking filters and ductwork are maintained regularly Space heating method is appropriate No Smoking signs are visible Suitable provisions are made for smokers Smoking is unrestricted within the residences There are signs of breaches of policy N There is an identified smoking room provided (England only) There is lightning or earthing control 19 WHF FRA Lathe Court

20 It is tested and records maintained in accordance with BS 6651 BS Contractors are regularly monitored during work Contractors work methods are pre-approved (hot work permits, SSOW) Ongoing testing regime in progress organised by Property Services. Latest next due test recorded in the Non domestic Asset Management Register as Checked by Wolverhampton Homes as part of their approval process. 14 Electrical Safety 14.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Electrical equipment is appropriate to the use of the property and is not misused Electrical equipment is operated by time switches Portable electrical equipment has been inspected on a regular basis and results recorded Portable electrical equipment within hi flam areas has been inspected every six months or more frequently where their age, condition or use warrants it and results recorded There is a register of miscellaneous electrical equipment available, There is evidence of overloading of electrical sockets or extensive use of cable drums, multi way extensions or transformer plugs There is a policy on the use of personal electrical appliances The fixed electrical installation is checked regularly in accordance with current IEE Regulations N N None present in common areas. None present within the communal areas. Ongoing PPM in place organised by Property Services, Hickman Avenue. 20 WHF FRA Lathe Court

21 Electrical Circuits and fixed electrical Equipment in use within Hi Flam areas is tested annually Records of testing are maintained and available Defects noted during testing have been rectified Cupboards containing Main Electrical Distribution boards are free from combustible storage or the storage is so positioned as to pose a low risk of fire A luminous discharge tube is present Where a luminous discharge tube is present, a Firemans cut off switch is provided and clearly indicated Where static electricity is a risk, there are adequate control measures N Wolverhampton Homes non domestic asset register indicates testing done All records held centrally by Wolverhampton Homes Property Services. 21 WHF FRA Lathe Court

22 15 Security and Arson Control Areas to Assess Assessor Comments The property has experienced fires or other N incidents in the previous 12 months All incidents have been investigated and recorded Combustible materials are stored in close N proximity to the building There is a regular, routine check of Fire N Undertaken daily by Concierge staff. Safety measures undertaken Safety Check findings are recorded and Records maintained by Concierge staff. identified problems corrected Access to the site and / or property is Electronic entry system with fob control in place. effectively controlled There is CCTV or physical monitoring Monitored remotely by Concierge staff at Stowlawn. Tapes/discs are kept for a minimum of 30 days The property is enclosed by a fence or wall Fences and gates are in good repair Gates / perimeter access points are suitably protected to prevent unauthorised access but permit egress N 22 WHF FRA Lathe Court

23 16 Fuel Sources 16.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments The standard of general housekeeping is adequate Fuel sources and ignition sources are kept apart There are significant potential sources of Fuel N None found present within communal areas There are accumulations of unnecessary N combustible materials or waste Soft furnishings have compliant upholstery finishes There are sources of Oxygen or supporters of N combustion, apart from ambient air There are potential sources of dust ignition N No furnishings permitted within common areas. 23 WHF FRA Lathe Court

24 17 COSHH and Hazardous Materials 17.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Hazardous chemicals are present N Low risk materials used by cleaning staff. Not considered to be contributory to fire ignition or development, Suitable arrangements are in place to manage the elimination or reduction of risks from hazardous substances Hazardous chemicals are effectively controlled during use and in storage Waste materials are adequately controlled Suitable and appropriate signage is present Material safety data sheets are available Emergency procedures inc. details of A and E services are available Appropriate PPE and/or specialised equipment are available as necessary Staff members are aware of the materials, the data sheet contents and safety procedures 24 WHF FRA Lathe Court

25 18 Hi Flams and DSEAR 18.1 Areas to Assess Hi flam substances are present N Assessor Comments They are effectively controlled during use and storage The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 apply Where DSEAR applies, a risk assessment been carried out and records maintained available (Written - if 5 or more employed) Drain and dispensing taps on external flammable liquid stores are kept locked Electrical Circuits and fixed electrical Equipment in use within Hi Flam areas are appropriate Electrical Circuits and fixed electrical Equipment in use within Hi Flam areas are tested annually and records maintained 25 WHF FRA Lathe Court

26 19 Compartmentation Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is a risk of hidden Fire Spread within the N structure There is a risk of vertical or lateral spread Bin chute has vertical access from bin store room to all floors. within the property e.g. between occupancies Lift accesses all levels with doors opening directly onto communal or via common areas landings. The basement (where present) is separated from the ground storey by 30 minutes FR construction (minimum) The risk of Fire Spread is effectively controlled Bin chute access hoppers are located within a protected cupboard off the communal landing and considered to be Low Risk. There is an automatic sliding shutter provided within the bin storage room which actuates via a heat sensor to close off access into the chute above. The bin storage room has an automatically controlled deluge protection interlinked to automatic detection. Locked access reduces the potential for arson. The lift operates within a protected area. The gaps around the main stop valves at each flat have been effectively fire stopped by infilling with fire batting. The property is sub divided into fire Each residential flat, the communal area and the stairwell are deemed to compartments be separate compartments. There are unprotected openings, gaps or holes Flat Repairs to the firestopping within the adjacent stop valve in compartment walls housing have used excessive expanding foam infill. Photo ref 01. Flat. The firestopping within the adjacent stop valve housing has Wall and ceiling linings routes add to the risk of flame spread N been damaged reducing its effectiveness. Photo ref WHF FRA Lathe Court

27 20 Fire Doors 20.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Fire Doors are provided where necessary, are identified and freely available for use Corridor smoke-control doors are provided where necessary Fire and smoke control doors are in good condition, tight fitting to and free from distortion Smoke stop and intumescent seals are present, and in good condition Self-closing devices are present and functional and engage with the latch Where double doors are present, they close in line and have a selector where necessary The door threshold gap is consistent and doesn t foul the floor covering Doorframes are secure to the wall with no visible gaps present. Fire and smoke-control doors are indicated by signs Glazing panels are fire rated, undamaged with fire rated framework Automatic self-closing devices/hold open devices are present Automatic self-closing devices/hold open devices are closed at critical times N The main entrance doors to individual flats have been upgraded. Doors into risk rooms e.g. main electrical cupboards, those opening onto the stairwell and into the common landings areas are older pattern, fire rated structures. Located on each upper floor. Seals installed in the doorsets. Installed at fire doors leading from common landings into the stairwell. None installed to individual flats entrance doors see comments in Overall Summary - Section 5 re. Residential doors. The stairwell doors and cupboard doors are indicated as Fire Doors. The residential entrance doors do not require to be indicated. On floors 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 some lobby and stairwell door glazing panels have been replaced by Mitraglaze. This material has been tested and found to achieve 30 minutes resistance to fire penetration and provides adequate insulation. None installed within the property 27 WHF FRA Lathe Court

28 Automatic self-closers are interlinked to the fire alarm system via smoke detection and/or alarm sounder circuit Correct signage is present for automatically self-closing doors 28 WHF FRA Lathe Court

29 21 Means of Escape - Internal Areas to Assess Sufficient internal escape routes are provided, available, appropriate for the likely users and lead to a place of safety Travel distances are acceptable Internal Escape Routes are adequately indicated by appropriate pictogram signs along their entire route to final exit point Signs are in good condition, unobstructed, legible and firmly fixed Sliding or revolving doors are present on escape routes Pass doors are provided for sliding or revolving doors Doors open in the direction of escape where appropriate Final exit doors are visible, accessible and easily opened Means of escape doors not in normal use are routinely checked Final exit doors are indicated internally by appropriate pictogram signs All Final Exit Points are indicated externally Fire Exit Keep Clear Final exit points lead into areas from where further dispersal can take place and are not in danger from fire and smoke Where required and appropriate, panic fastenings are fitted to the final exit doors N. Assessor Comments Single direction exit route from all floors into the protected stairwell which discharges to open air at ground floor level via the communal area to the front of the property. Ground floor occupants have access to a secondary exit point, located to the rear of the property. Directional exit signs are installed within the stairwell and to the rear exit point. Push Button override provided for magnetic locking system on the main entry. Concierge staff conducts a daily audit of the property. N Not considered necessary for this property. The means of access / egress are in everyday use. Located at rear exit door. 29 WHF FRA Lathe Court

30 All panic fastening methods of use are indicated e.g. Push Bar/Pad to Open Non-standard securing devices are present on final exit doors with their method of operation clearly displayed Where non-standard securing devices are fitted, they are appropriate for the likely users Where fitted, magnetic locks release automatically on fire alarm actuation and/or have manual override Where present, exit doors or corridor doors with powered, automatic opening revert to normal operation during fire alarm actuation Internal corridor escape routes are protected where necessary Inner rooms are protected by auto detection or vision panels Protected stairwell escape routes are provided Floors, walkways, floor coverings, stairs and stair coverings are in good condition, free from obstruction or trip hazard Handrails are provided on stairs and are in good condition Internal escape routes are adequately lit by artificial or natural lighting Emergency Escape Lighting is provided along internal escape routes The internal Emergency Escape Lighting is in good repair Emergency Escape Lighting is regularly tested in accordance with BS5266, findings and corrective works recorded N Located at rear exit door. Push button override provided to main entrance door. No alarm system present within this property. Two door approach to stairwell on all levels. Ongoing PPM organised by Property Services. Annual test scheduled as next due on WHF FRA Lathe Court

31 22 Means of Escape - External 22.1 Areas to Assess External escape routes are provided, available, free from obstruction or hazard and lead to a place of safety External escape routes are regularly monitored and maintained to ensure continuing availability for use External escape routes are clearly indicated by pictogram signs along their entire route to final exit point Glazing within 2 metres horizontally and 9m vertically below an external escape stair, is fire resisting External metal escape stairs and platforms have been examined by a structural engineer within the last three years Records of examination of stairs are maintained and available Stairtreads and handrails are in good condition External escape routes are adequately lit by mains powered lighting The external mains lighting control is automatic Where not, the control switch is clearly identifiable Emergency Escape Lighting is provided along external escape routes External Emergency Escape Lighting is in good repair External Emergency Escape Lighting is regularly tested and findings recorded N Assessor Comments Paths leading from exit points continue away from property. Part of the Concierge check. All exit routes are in open air and have background street lighting available. 31 WHF FRA Lathe Court

32 23 Firefighting Equipment 23.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Portable Firefighting Equipment is provided, sufficient in number and appropriate to the risks present It is wall mounted or on dedicated floor stands with the operating handle at approximately 1m from the ground Extinguisher security tags are present Portable Firefighting Equipment positions are clearly indicated by signs where necessary and accessible on exit routes Portable Firefighting Equipment is annually tested to BS and results recorded Access for Fire and Rescue is satisfactory A fire hydrant is in close proximity to the building It is clearly marked and freely available An open water supply is provided Where provided, the Fire and Rescue Service access is maintained Located within ground floor main electrical intake cupboard. Ongoing testing programme managed by Property Services. Latest test date recorded as done October Hydrant located on the street. 32 WHF FRA Lathe Court

33 24 Fixed Firefighting Installations Areas to Assess Sprinklers or drenchers are present Assessor Comments They cover the whole property N Bin store area only. Installation of system to communal areas recommended. Spare heads are available N In the event of actuation, the maintenance company are contracted to restore the system to full functionality The system is maintained with servicing Recorded on Wolverhampton Homes non domestic asset register as records available which are appropriate and done on All reports held by Property Services at Hickman current Avenue. Fixed flooding Installations are present N No identified requirement for this low risk property. The system is maintained with servicing records available which are appropriate and current A Dry Riser installation is present The inlet and outlets are clearly indicated and available for use One outlet per floor located on each common landing within a dedicated cupboard. Inlet located at ground floor entrance. The system is maintained in accordance with Ongoing test regime in place managed by Wolverhampton Homes BS , servicing records are Property services. Latest inspection test date recorded on equipment as available, appropriate and current September All reports held by Property Services at Hickman Avenue. A Foam Inlet is provided N No identified requirement for this low risk property. It is clearly indicated and accessible The system is maintained with servicing records available which are appropriate and current 33 WHF FRA Lathe Court

34 25 Smoke and Ventilation Systems Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is smoke/ventilation control present A manually openable window vent is provided within the stairwell at all levels. The system is maintained, servicing records are available, appropriate and current Ventilation ducts which breach compartments A Fire Damper is located across the bottom of the rubbish chute within the have automatic fire dampers Bin Store area. The dampers are identifiable, maintained with Ongoing test programme organised by Property Services. servicing records available which are Latest test date recorded on equipment as appropriate and current 26 Fire Evacuation Lift and Firefighting Shafts Areas to Assess Assessor Comments A firefighting/evacuation lift is provided N Lifts are not considered to be part of the evacuation strategy. It is clearly indicated as a firefighting/evacuation lift DO NOT USE IN THE EVENT OF FIRE signage is displayed The lift is maintained with servicing records Ongoing test programme organised by Property Services. available which are appropriate and current A firefighting shaft is provided N No identified requirement for this property. The firefighting shaft is protected and maintained in good order 34 WHF FRA Lathe Court

35 27 Fire Warning System Areas to Assess A manually operated, electrical Fire Warning System is provided throughout the property The alarm sound is uniform, clearly identifiable and audible throughout the property Call points are sited appropriately, available and readily identifiable The warning system contains sensory warning devices including visual and aural stimuli Automatic Detection is provided throughout the property N N Assessor Comments No identified requirement for this residential property with a stay put policy in place. Auto detection provided within the Data Room and separately within the Bin store interlinked to the deluge system. Localised detection may be present within residences but are not interlinked to adjacent properties. The automatic detection type is appropriate for the identified risks The Fire Warning system is connected to an Alert given to Concierge staff who will investigate and alert the Fire and Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) Rescue Services. The Testing regime is in accordance with N Maintenance regime for the fire warning system in the data room BS5839 and results recorded and the automatic detection within the bin room is unknown. Automatic detection is tested in accordance N with BS5839 and results recorded A zone plan is available at the Control Panel When the Fire Alarm system is temporarily decommissioned, adequate alternative procedures have been implemented Manual Voice Warning systems are present N No identified requirement Manually operated sounders e.g. bells, horn, whistle, are used Manually operated sounders can be operated safely 35 WHF FRA Lathe Court

36 28 Management of Fire Safety 28.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is a Fire Safety Management Policy The Responsible Person is identified Myk Kaszuba In multi occupied properties, there is adequate co-operation, communication and co-ordination between Responsible Persons and Landlord They meet regularly and communication is effective There has been a recent Fire and Rescue N Service inspection Improvement notices have been served Improvement Notices/ inspection results have been actioned and completed There are previous Fire Risk Assessments Previous assessment findings have been N Several issues outstanding. See Medium Priority issues actioned and completed Risks to Occupants identified in the FRA have been notified to them Occupiers have carried out individual Fire Risk Assessments Their assessment findings have been actioned and completed A Fire Log Book detailing all fire safety Records are held by Property Services at Hickman Avenue systems and training is available The range, detail and currency of information is satisfactory 36 WHF FRA Lathe Court

37 29 Statutory Training Areas to Assess Fire Safety is included in Induction training for all new staff Staff members are regularly trained in Fire Safety topics appropriate to their responsibilities Fire Marshalls / Wardens / Co-ordinators are trained and appointed Training is delivered by competent persons Training includes the practical use of Firefighting equipment Staff are trained in PEEPs where appropriate Where PEEPs are in use, Fire Marshalls / Wardens are aware of them Evidence of training is maintained Employees/occupants are informed of Fire Risk Assessment findings Visitors and / or Contractors are given a Fire Safety brief or copy of procedures The impact of outside undertakings on fire safety is assessed and Occupants informed of any corrective measures Assessor Comments No staff members permanently present but ongoing in-house and e- learning staff training programme in place for Wolverhampton Homes staff Concierge and Cleaners visit property for limited time to carry out duties. See above. Notices displayed within the communal area. 37 WHF FRA Lathe Court

38 30 Evacuation Procedures Areas to Assess Emergency Evacuation Procedures are identifiable in common areas and/or alongside at each call point Emergency Evacuation Procedure Notices include a floor plan layout The procedures identify how the Fire and Rescue Service is to be summoned The Evacuation Procedures consider disability with reference to the evacuation chairs / lifts / refuges Evacuation Drills are carried out frequently and results recorded All employees / occupiers participate Assembly Point locations are clearly identified and are suitable and adequate for access, safety in use and numbers Evacuation Chairs are available and/or located on all levels Sufficient trained users are available and practice use of the chair Refuge Areas are provided and clearly identified including dedicated route Refuge areas have communications which are routinely tested A suitable lift is identified and available for use during evacuation N N Assessor Comments The Stay put policy is displayed in the communal area. All residents are assumed to be self-reliant. Continual evacuation to a place of relative safety is anticipated e.g. stairwell. Not considered to be necessary for this property which has a stay put policy in place. Not considered to be necessary for this property due to the stay put policy. Not considered to be necessary for this property as there are no staff members present to operate them and the stay put policy negates their use. The stairwell could be used however limitations of use are anticipated. See Section 5 Overall Summary for recommendations re. Refuge areas. Lifts are for normal use only. Prohibition of use in an emergency notices displayed. 38 WHF FRA Lathe Court

39 31 Emergency Plan, Threat Procedure and Firefighting Plan 31.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is a detailed Emergency Plan available and known to Occupiers There is a Building specific Non Fire Emergency (Bomb Threat) procedure available and known to Occupiers The Non Fire Emergency (Bomb Threat) procedure is practised A Firefighting Plan containing property specific information is provided and immediately accessible The Firefighting Plan is regularly reviewed and contains current information including floorplans The property location is easily recognised externally by the Fire and Rescue Service Persons are nominated and trained to respond to fire A Person is nominated to liaise with the Fire and Rescue Service N Not considered necessary for this property. The generic Evacuation procedures are considered adequate for this property type. Not considered necessary or appropriate for this property. See also Section 5 - Additional recommendations. Identification signage displayed on the external elevation of the building. No staff members permanently present. No staff members permanently present. 39 WHF FRA Lathe Court

40 32 Photographic References Photo ref 01 Incorrect firestopping Flat 28 Report ref Photo ref 02 Damaged firestopping Flat 23 Report ref WHF FRA Lathe Court