Fire Risk Assessment 2017

Transcription

1 Document Ti tle Fire Risk Assessment 2017 Wolverhampton Homes Connaught House Upper Vauxhall Wolverhampton WV1 4ST WHF FRA th September 2017

2 Fire Risk Assessment 2017 Project no: BU9980iL Task 002R Document title: Fire Risk Assessment Document o.: WHF FRA Revision: A Date: 14 th September 2017 Client name: Wolverhampton Homes Client no: Project manager: Lisa Long Author: Sam Bunch G.I. Fire E, Dip FMS File name: Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall Jacobs UK Ltd Floor 8 Mander House Wolverhampton WV1 3B 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 Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

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 13 7 Findings and Action Plans High Priority 13 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 40 3 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

4 29 Statutory Training Evacuation Procedures Emergency Plan, Threat Procedure and Firefighting Plan Photographic References 44 4 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

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, G.I. Fire E, Dip FMS, Fire Safety Consultant, Jacobs U.K. Ltd. Contact or at sam.bunch@jacobs.com 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 Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

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 Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

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 Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

8 Date of Assessment Record of Assessments Reason for ame of Assessment Comments Assessor Initial assessment Minor issues for correction Adrian Blundell Review of previous FRA Minor issues identified for improvement Sam Bunch FRA review Issues identified for action Sam Bunch FRA review Minor issues identified for improvement Sam Bunch FRA review and rewrite Minor issues for action and consideration. Sam Bunch FRA review Minor issues for action and improvement. Sam Bunch FRA review Minor issues for action and improvement. Sam Bunch FRA review and update Issues identified for corrective action and consideration. Sam Bunch 8 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

9 3 Property Overview Brief Description of Property & Construction Detached, flat roofed, concrete framed multi storey building c1960s with brick exterior and concrete floors. A single lift serves all floors. The ground floor contains outer and inner entrance lobbies, each reached by a powered, self-opening door. The outer lobby gives access to the single circulation stair to all upper floors. The inner lobby accesses two residential flats each with an inset electrical meter cupboard adjacent, the main electrical distribution cupboard, a communal laundry, the tenant storage cupboard / bin store / bulk store area and the inset dry riser inlet. Each upper floor has a communal landing giving access to four residential flats, each with an inset electrical meter cupboard adjacent, the lift, the bin chute access / electrical riser room and the dry riser outlet cupboard. A short connecting corridor leads from the communal landing to the circulation stairwell via a single self-closing fire door protection located at the communal lift landing. The circulation stair steps are concrete and the surrounding walls are solid. There is direct lighting into the stairwell from openable windows and borrowed lighting to the communal lift landing via glass block partitioning. The circulation stair discharges at the main entrance point at ground floor level via the outer foyer. o of Floors inc. Eleven o of Stairs One Approximate Floor 400 basement Footprint Area (sq. m) o of Basement levels one Location(s) and Use(s) of stairs Internal, circulation stair for all levels. Purpose Group/ Occupancy/Use(s) Residential. Area covered by this Assessment All accessible communal areas including floor landings, stairwell, sprinkler installation, laundry, bin store, main electrical intake cupboard and inset meter cupboards (where possible). The residences 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. The risk to tenants within their home is not considered by this assessment and may be individually addressed by community fire safety, care workers or via SPI (Supporting People In eed) where appropriate. The management of fixed installations e.g. electrical systems and fire safety systems (where present) are included. Procedures and statutory notices are also considered. 9 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

10 Evacuation Strategy (including Provisions for Disability) The property is a hi-rise residential block. o common fire warning systems are provided 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. Physical separation between individual flats and communal 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. Property Safety Strategy Physical, imperforate compartmentation is present between the circulation stairwell, the residential flats and the communal areas. Fire doors located at the communal at the access points to the stairwell assist in preventing lateral and vertical fire spread. Firestopping works have been installed to further prevent the passage of fire and smoke. This has included the installation of intumescent seals to the stairwell doors, the sealing up of vertical shafts and the infill of gaps within cupboards and inset electrical meter cupboards. Fire Scenario A review of the use of the expanding foam infill materials used during the previous firestopping works is being progressed by Wolverhampton Homes. 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 and meter cupboards contain viable ignition sources but these are considered to be low risk. The potential for fire is greater within the residential properties where uncontrolled activities are permitted, i.e. cooking and smoking. If an accidental fire occurs within a residence, the alarm will have to be raised locally and the Fire and Rescue Service contacted. Fire spread will be restricted from entering into the common area provided the flat entrance door is kept closed. The fire will continue to develop within the room of origin until positive intervention by the attending Fire and Rescue Service. Any fire occurring in the ground floor would be identified, actively controlled by the sprinkler system (where present) and the alarm raised locally when the Fire and Rescue Service will be called. 10 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

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 assessment information one on site Designation Contact Details Office Mobile Other Contact Details Office Mobile Other Contact Details Office Mobile Other ame of Owner(s) Occupier(s) Location Activity Wolverhampton Homes Whole of property Residential block of flats. Communal areas are a transit space for tenants and visitors. Persons Present - Max os. (approx.) Daytime / Silent Hours Employees oung Persons Members of Public <2 <30 Variable Occasionally number of visitors present. to tenants. Tenants <100 Persons at Risk Location Activity one identified within communal areas assessed. Reason and umbers Sleeping Disability Remote Location Other 11 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

12 5 Assessor Summary of Findings Risk Category Summary of Provision Qualifying Comments Risk to Life Risk to Life is assessed as LOW. o significant issues identified within the communal areas. Risk to Firefighters Risk to Firefighters is assessed as LOW. o significant issues identified within the communal areas. Risk to Property Risk to Property is assessed as LOW to The own fit doorsets at flats 31 and 35 and the notional MEDIUM. doorset at flats 12, 19 and 36 raise the risk. Risk of Fire Risk of accidental fire is assessed as LOW. o significant issues identified within the communal areas. Risk of Fire Spread Residual Risks Overall Summary Risk of fire spread is assessed as LOW to The own fit doorsets at flats 31 and 35 and the notional MEDIUM. doorset at flats 12, 19 and 36 raise the risk. The residual risks found are: The own fit The residual risk control measures are one. doorsets at flats 31 and 35 and the notional doorsets at flats 12, 19 and 36. 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. Additional Recommendations Assessment Review Period one 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, Tenant 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. 12 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

13 Report and Photo Reference 6 Risk Assessment Grading Gradings HIGH PRIORIT MEDIUM PRIORIT LOW PRIORIT OT 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. o 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 Photo ref 01 Significant findings Floors 3 and 7 Single glass block cracked at lower right hand of the glazed screen but these are surface damage only and have not been penetrated. Urgent Action Required The condition of the glass blocks should be monitored and any further degrading of the cracked blocks will require their replacement. Date Corrective Action Completed Signed 13 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

14 Flats 31 and 35 have an own fit timber doorset as their main entrance. The fire rating of these doorsets is unknown. Identified in previous FRAs. The fire rating of each doorset, doorframe and hardware to each flat should be verified. If it does not provide a minimum 30 minutes resistance to fire in accordance with BS476, it should be replaced. If either flat is owner occupied, the leaseholder should provide evidence that their existing doorset meets this minimum requirement or an upgrade will be required. Proposed structural alterations must be effectively managed through a process of application and approval to reduce the risk of adversely affecting the fire protection strategies in communal areas and to avoid the need for retrospective remedial action Original specification, timber, flush panel doorsets remain at flats 12, 19 and 36. Identified in previous FRAs. While considered reasonably robust and assumed to comply with the standards at the date of initial installation, the fire rating of these doors, doorframes and associated hardware is unknown. Upgrading of each door, doorframe and hardware to achieve a minimum resistance to fire of 30 minutes in accordance with BS476, will be required so as to provide a consistency of protection in line with the other flats throughout the City. If any of the flats is owner occupied, the leaseholder should provide evidence that the door meets this minimum requirement. If not, an upgrade will be required. 14 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

15 Report and Photo Reference 8 Findings and Action Plans Medium Priority Significant findings Self-closing devices are not present on the individual flat entrance doors. Prompt Action Required Advice contained within the Fire safety in purpose built blocks of flats as published by the Local Government Group advises that these be installed. Date Corrective Action Completed Signed 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. Retrospective installation to all flats should be considered as part of the current fire safety review process The push release for the laundry door maglock does not have a method of use displayed. Identified in previous FRA. A sign should be displayed alongside the release switch bearing the words Push to Open. All signs, notices and graphic symbols specified should comply with the requirements of BS ISO 3864 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

16 Loose mats and carpet pieces were present at flats 9, 10 and 12. These may not comply with the latest guidance issued by Wolverhampton Homes. The mats should be removed and Tenants reminded of the latest Wolverhampton Homes guidance so that a suitable replacement can be installed. Identified in previous FRA A Firefighting Plan containing property specific information is not provided or immediately accessible. Repeated from previous FRAs. Site specific information system should be displayed on the external face of the block at the main entrance point and in clear sight of the approaching Fire and Rescue Service vehicles. This would be externally placarded information as has been installed at other hi-rise blocks in the City e.g. Wodensfield Tower. 16 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

17 Report and Photo Reference 9 Findings and Action Plans Low Priority and Recommendations Significant findings o Refuge Areas provided. Long Term Action Required For tenants and particularly those with limited mobility, the stairwell area, not the lobby approach, could be used as a temporary refuge. Date Corrective Action Completed Signed Progressive movement by persons with mobility issues away from the affected floor onto the floors could be anticipated but this would involve assistance and direction from the Fire and Rescue Service personnel in attendance Ground floor Main Electrical Intake room door has screw missing from bottom hinge Glass block partitions and solid construction present between common landings and stairwell at all levels. These are original features. This advice should be discussed with the Fire and Rescue Service before being published among tenants as part of the Fire Safety policy. The screw should be replaced to ensure that the hinge does not fail, allowing the door to deform when exposed to heat. While the fire rating of the glass blocks cannot be readily identified, these original features are assumed as compliant with the standards at the time of construction and will provide effective protection to the adjacent stairwell and are assessed as Low Risk. Repairs to the mortar lines as identified in High Priority issue will assist in maintaining the stairwell protection. Consideration may be given to providing an additional fire rated glazed screen which has a certified fire rating of 30 minutes to the communal landing side. This would be set into a fixed, hardwood frame with appropriate glazing detail. 17 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

18 The existing sprinkler installation covers the bin store and Tenant Store area of the ground floor only. Identified in previous FRAs. Following the recent incidents at Grenfell Tower and Lakanal House, the retrospective installation of sprinklers to hi-rise blocks has been highlighted for consideration. The current level of sprinkler provision within Connaught House is limited to parts of the ground floor communal areas, i.e. tenant storage areas, bin store etc. Connaught House does not share the same issues as were present at Grenfell Tower in that Connaught House does not have any external combustible cladding therefore the likelihood of fire spread will be by internal routes and this would be anticipated to be restricted to within the area of origin due to effective compartmentation. The global recommendation for retrospective sprinkler installation in all areas of hi-rise buildings has extensive logistical and budget implications and it is recommended that this should be considered on a practical risk based, site by site, assessment Previous assessment findings have not all been actioned and completed. See High Priority issue and Medium Priority issues , and Low Priority issue 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. 18 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

19 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 o issues identified during the risk assessment process. Staff work out of hours or are lone working One Concierge staff and one cleaner attend the property daily. Their attendance is limited to a few hours only. Where necessary, compensatory measures o additional measures considered to be necessary. 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 o significant issues identified. Visitors and Contractors are controlled 19 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

20 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 on one identified during the re-assessment process. The stairwell area may be used as a temporary refuge while awaiting the Fire and Rescue Service. Stay put policy in place. o evacuation procedures in place. Stay put policy in place. o staff members permanently present to facilitate evacuation. Occupiers are considered to be self-reliant. o designated routes required for use as a Stay put policy in place. o assistance to evacuate is provided as the occupancy of each flat is considered to be self-reliant. Stay put policy in place. o fire warning system present or considered necessary for the residential risk. Any local issue within a residence will be the responsibility of the occupier. o assistance to evacuate is provided as the occupancy of each flat is considered to be self-reliant. Stay put policy in place. o staff members permanently present. 20 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

21 13 Ignition Sources 13.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Significant potential Ignition sources are one within common areas. present There are significant potential ignition processes in use Process control measures are in place one considered necessary Gas-powered appliances are in use o gas present within block 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 o Smoking signs are visible Suitable provisions are made for smokers Smoking is permitted within private residences There are signs of breaches of policy There is an identified smoking room provided (England only) There is lightning or earthing control It is tested and records maintained in accordance with BS 6651 BS7430 Ongoing PPM in place organised by Property Services. Latest date recorded in the on-domestic Asset Management Register as due to be done WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

22 Contractors are regularly monitored during work Contractors work methods are pre-approved (hot work permits, SSOW) Checked as part of the approval process carried out by Wolverhampton Homes. 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 Electrical Circuits and fixed electrical Equipment in use within Hi Flam areas is tested annually Landlord lighting units present within the communal area. These are considered to be low risk. Lighting units only. Low risk. one present within the communal areas. Ongoing PPM in place organised by Property Services. 22 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

23 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 Latest date recorded in the on-domestic Asset Management Register as due to be done All records held centrally by Wolverhampton Homes Property Services. Managed by Property Services. 23 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

24 15 Security and Arson Control Areas to Assess Assessor Comments The property has experienced fires or other incidents in the previous 12 months All incidents have been investigated and recorded Combustible materials are stored in close proximity to the building There is a regular, routine check of Fire 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 Managed by the Estate Concierge staff. 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 24 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

25 16 Fuel Sources 16.1 Areas to Assess The standard of general housekeeping is adequate Fuel sources and ignition sources are kept apart There are significant potential sources of Fuel There are accumulations of unnecessary combustible materials or waste Soft furnishings have compliant upholstery finishes There are sources of Oxygen or supporters of combustion, apart from ambient air There are potential sources of dust ignition Assessor Comments Satisfactory within the communal areas. o furnishings permitted within the communal areas. 25 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

26 17 COSHH and Hazardous Materials 17.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Hazardous chemicals are present Materials used and stored within the building are not considered to contribute to ignition or development of fire 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 26 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

27 18 Hi Flams and DSEAR 18.1 Areas to Assess Hi flam substances are present 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 27 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

28 19 Compartmentation Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is a risk of hidden Fire Spread within the 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 between the communal landing and stairwell fire doors on the upper levels and are considered to be Low Risk. The bin room has sprinkler protection and access is controlled via fob entry system thereby reducing the potential for arson. There is a horizontal shutter across the bottom of the refuse chute within the bin store which is actuated via a thermocouple device. The lift operates within the protected communal area where the likelihood of fire is considered to be low. The inset meter cupboards have foam infill to gaps The property is sub divided into fire compartments There are unprotected openings, gaps or holes in compartment walls Wall and ceiling linings routes add to the risk of flame spread The building has cladding on its external faces Predominantly brick finish. Each flat, the laundry area, the main electrical cupboard, the store cupboards and the communal areas are considered to be separate compartments. Floors 3 and 7 Single glass block cracked at lower right hand of the glazed screen but these are surface damage only and have not been penetrated. 28 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

29 As built cladding specifications and completion certification are available The cladding meets Building Regulations requirements; e.g. Diagram 40 in Approved Document B 29 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

30 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 Flats 31 and 35 have own fit timber doorsets. Original specification, flush panel timber doors present at flats 12, 19 and 36. Identified in previous FRAs. Modern fire rated doorsets are installed as the main entrance to the remaining individual residences, older pattern hardwood doors at the stairwell access points, bin chute room and to risk rooms i.e. M.E.I. room, store cupboards and laundry area. Ground floor Main Electrical Intake room door has screw missing from bottom hinge. Intumescent seals installed on landing and stairwell doors. Assumed present in the upgraded residential doorsets. Located on communal landing to stairwell access doors and to laundry room. Self-closing devices are not present on the individual flat entrance doors. Present on stairwell landing doors and on risk room doors. o Fire Door Keep Shut signs present or required to residential flats. Located within many of the residential doorsets and in the side panels and transoms in the corridor doorframes. 30 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

31 Automatic self-closing devices/hold open devices are closed at critical times 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 31 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

32 21 Means of Escape - Internal 21.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments 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 Single direction exit route from all upper floors via common landing and short corridor approach into protected stairwell which discharges to open air via the main entrance. Single direction of travel from ground floor to exit at the main entrance point. Displayed within stairwell areas only. Push Button override provided for auto opening system on the main exit door. Final exit door is in daily use by occupants. As the exit point is in regular use, i.e. the main entrance point, no signs are considered necessary. Final exit point discharges at ground level in open air, a place of ultimate safety one present or required. 32 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

33 All panic fastening methods of use are indicated e.g. Push Bar/Pad to Open on-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 The push button release for the laundry door maglock does not have a method of use displayed. Push button provided to stairwell exit / main entrance door which has powered assisted opening. Door is in daily use by residents. Manual override provided. See above. o fire alarm system present. one present. Single door approach to stairwell on all levels. Glass block partitions and solid construction present between common landings and stairwell at all levels. While the fire rating of the glass blocks cannot be readily identified, these are original features and assumed as compliant with the standards at the time of construction 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 Loose mats and carpet pieces were present at flats 9, 10 and 12. Identified in previous FRA. Provided on the communal landings and stairwell. 33 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

34 The internal Emergency Escape Lighting is in good repair Emergency Escape Lighting is regularly tested in accordance with BS5266, findings and corrective works recorded Ongoing PPM in progress organised by Property Services. Latest bi-annual test recorded as next due according to the Property Services on-domestic Asset Management Register. 34 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

35 22 Means of Escape - External 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 Assessor Comments The final exit points discharge directly into open air at ground level, a place of ultimate safety. This is not considered necessary due to the presence of ambient and background street lighting. 35 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

36 23 Firefighting Equipment 23.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Portable Firefighting Equipment is provided, sufficient in number and appropriate to the risks present Dry Powder extinguishers are 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 Ongoing test programme in progress organised by Property Services. Latest test date recorded on the CO2 extinguisher is August Hydrant located on the street. 36 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

37 24 Fixed Firefighting Installations Areas to Assess Assessor Comments Sprinklers or drenchers are present The isolation valve is located within a cupboard adjacent to the laundry room on the ground floor. They cover the whole property Part of the ground floor areas only including the bin store, tenants store area and laundry room. Spare heads are available 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 Property Services on Domestic Asset Management records available which are appropriate and Register as don on current All reports held by Property Services at Hickman Avenue. Fixed flooding Installations are present 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 The system is maintained in accordance with BS , servicing records are available, appropriate and current A Foam Inlet is provided It is clearly indicated and accessible The system is maintained with servicing records available which are appropriate and current The inlet box is located within the ground floor lift lobby. One outlet per floor located on the common lift landing of all upper floors. Ongoing testing regime in place. Testing recorded on riser test plate as August All reports held by Property Services at Hickman Avenue. 37 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

38 25 Smoke and Ventilation Systems Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is smoke/ventilation control present Manual openable vents are present on the external face of the building within the stairwell and lobby approach. An automatically controlled sliding closer is present across the bottom of the rubbish chute, located within the Bin Store area. The system is maintained, servicing records Latest test recorded done on equipment as are available, appropriate and current All reports held by Property Services at Hickman Avenue Ventilation ducts which breach compartments o dampers present. have automatic fire dampers The dampers are identifiable, maintained with servicing records available which are appropriate and current 26 Fire Evacuation Lift and Firefighting Shafts Areas to Assess Assessor Comments A firefighting/evacuation lift is provided Existing lift is not to be used for evacuation. The lift has a Firefighters override switch. It is clearly indicated as a firefighting/evacuation lift DO OT USE I THE EVET OF FIRE signage is displayed The lift is maintained with servicing records Managed by Property Services at Hickman Avenue. available which are appropriate and current A firefighting shaft is provided o identified requirement. The firefighting shaft is protected and maintained in good order 38 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

39 27 Fire Warning System 27.1 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 The automatic detection type is appropriate for the identified risks The Fire Warning system is connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) The Testing regime is in accordance with BS5839 and results recorded Automatic detection is tested in accordance 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 Manually operated sounders e.g. bells, horn, whistle, are used Manually operated sounders can be operated safely Assessor Comments ot considered necessary or appropriate for this residential property where a Stay Put policy is in place. Local detection may be present within individual residences but these are not interconnected. This is in line with the Stay Put policy. 39 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

40 28 Management of Fire Safety 28.1 Areas to Assess Assessor Comments There is a Fire Safety Management Policy Policy maintained by Wolverhampton Homes The Responsible Person is identified Myk Kaszuba, Stock Investment Manager, Wolverhampton Homes 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 Service inspection Improvement notices have been served Improvement otices/ inspection results have been actioned and completed There are previous Fire Risk Assessments Previous assessment findings have been See High Priority , Medium Priority , and Low actioned and completed Priority 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 Safety Log Book detailing all fire safety Records held off site by Property Services at Hickman Avenue systems and training is available The range, detail and currency of information is satisfactory 40 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

41 29 Statutory Training 29.1 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 o staff members permanently present. Concierge and Cleaners visit property for limited time to carry out duties. Displayed notices provided within the ground floor entrance area and on upper levels. 41 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

42 30 Evacuation Procedures Areas to Assess Emergency Evacuation Procedures are identifiable in common areas and/or alongside at each call point Emergency Evacuation Procedure otices 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 Assessor Comments ot considered necessary or appropriate for this property. The property does not have permanent staff present to assist with an evacuation strategy. Residents are recommended to stay within their flats in the event of fire occurring unless directly affected. ot considered to be necessary for this property due to the stay put policy. ot considered to be appropriate for this property as all occupants are deemed to be self-reliant. The stairwell could be used however limitations of use are anticipated. 42 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

43 The Emergency procedures / signs make reference to the use of evacuation chairs / lifts / refuges 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 on Fire Emergency (Bomb Threat) procedure available and known to Occupiers The on 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 A Firefighting Plan containing property specific information is not provided or immediately accessible. Identified in previous FRA. ot appropriate to residential property. ot appropriate to residential property. 43 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall

44 32 Photographic References PHOTO REF 01 Glass block defects REPORT REF PHOTO REF 02 REPORT REF 44 WHF FRA Connaught House, Upper Vauxhall