Fire batts are extremely effective tools for preventing fires — but what is a fire batt exactly? 

The brief lapse of attention that allows a fire to start can lead to devastating consequences, destroying property and endangering lives. Although fire services can respond to such incidents, they might not always be able to prevent substantial damage. Therefore, for property and business owners, proactive fire prevention and protection systems are indispensable. One such system that has proven highly effective in mitigating fire damage is the fire batt.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of fire batts – their composition, functions, and their pivotal role in passive fire protection systems. If you’re contemplating enhancing your property’s protection against fire, you’ve come to the right place.

An Introduction to Fire Batts

A fire batt is a slab made of robust mineral fibres, coated with an intumescent mastic – a type of adhesive that expands when exposed to heat, thereby providing a protective layer to the material underneath. These are primarily used to seal gaps and openings in walls, floors, and ceilings, essentially acting as fire barriers.

Fire batts, typically composed of fibreglass or mineral wool, are manufactured and supplied by reputable companies like Quelfire, Polyseam, Rockwool, and Firetherm, to name a few.

It’s worth noting that the installation process, which involves meticulously cutting and joining different pieces to form a single slab, is critical to the overall effectiveness of the fire batt. Given the fact that fires cause molecules to heat and expand, any improperly installed batt could compromise the fire resistance of the area, leading to the spread of fire and smoke.

The R-Value: Measuring Thermal Resistance

Just as with other types of insulation, the effectiveness of fire batt insulation is gauged on the r-value scale, a measurement of the material’s thermal resistance. The higher the r-value, the better the material is at controlling heat. However, a higher r-value also corresponds to a higher price point.

Interested in learning more about our fire batt solutions? Connect with one of our passive fire protection specialists for a comprehensive quote on fire batt installation and maintenance.

The Advantages of Fire Batts

As a central component of any comprehensive fire safety strategy, fire batts play a crucial role in halting the spread of smoke and fire for a specific duration. This offers occupants additional time to evacuate the building – a factor that can make a significant difference between preserving assets or experiencing complete property devastation. When it comes to bolstering fire safety, fire batt insulation offers a quick and secure method to safeguard your premises.

Fire Batts: A Cornerstone of Business Safety

Business safety should always place fire protection at the forefront. Additional fire safety enhancements, such as the installation of fire doors, can significantly bolster your premises’ safety. However, remember that maintaining and servicing all fire safety equipment regularly is of utmost importance to ensure their optimal performance.

Take a look at the comprehensive maintenance programs.

Ready to explore fire batt solutions tailored to your needs? Contact us today to schedule a complimentary site survey with one of our passive fire protection specialists. Our team of experts are committed to providing a safer, fire-resistant environment for you.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a comprehensive guide for fire safety measures. Always consult with a fire safety professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

The post Fire Batts: Your Essential Guide to Enhanced Fire Protection appeared first on CrystalView Services.

Safeguard your Business with CrystalView Services’s Comprehensive Template

Our complimentary fire risk assessment template is specifically designed for small businesses. It guides you through a user-friendly fire risk assessment process at your premises, helping you document vital details to protect your building and its occupants.

Download Your Template

Key Facts about Fire Risk Assessments

• Legally required for all properties
• Conduct assessments for each property under your responsibility
• Non-compliance may result in legal consequences
• Update assessments regularly, ideally annually or after significant changes
• Engage a qualified professional for accurate assessments

Who is at Risk in Your Building?

To ensure a comprehensive fire risk assessment, it is essential to identify the individuals who may be at risk in the event of a fire. This includes considering all occupants within your building and taking into account the specific people present at any given time.

Depending on the type of premises and whether it is open to the public, it is important to analyse the following groups of individuals who could be at risk: tenants, employees, lone and evening workers, children, customers, as well as vulnerable individuals and the elderly.

Appointing the Right Person for Your Risk Assessment (Fire Safety Order 2005)

The responsible person must ensure the fire risk assessment is compliant and adequate. For small businesses, the owner typically assumes this role unless an alternate individual is appointed. You can engage a qualified and competent fire risk assessor or attend fire safety training courses to gain confidence in conducting the assessment yourself.

Conducting a Risk Assessment Yourself: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Utilise our fire risk assessment template
2. Address all necessary areas within your building
3. Document assessment results and preventive actions

A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Fire Risk Assessment

• Understand fire hazards and their causes
• Identify groups at risk within your building
• Implement proactive measures to minimize fire risks
• Train staff on fire safety procedures and equipment use

Regularly Review Your Assessment

Update your fire risk assessment periodically to accommodate changes in procedures, building layouts, and equipment. Review assessments after a fire or close call to document incidents and implement new measures to prevent recurrence.

The law does not specify specific time intervals for conducting or reviewing risk assessments. Instead, it states that the individual accountable for the assessment in your building must review it “regularly” to ensure its relevance and accuracy.

The responsible person is required to review the fire risk assessment under the following circumstances:

1. If there is reason to believe that it is no longer valid, such as if a fire has occurred in the shared areas of the building.
2. If significant changes have taken place since the assessment was conducted, such as major construction work or an increase in the number of individuals using the building.

Helpful Resources for Your Fire Risk Assessment

A wealth of information and guidance is available to assist you, including resources from :

• Fire Service | UK Fire Service Resources
• Fire Risk Assessment Guides | .gov.uk
• Fire Risk Assessment Guides | Fire Safety Advice Centre

For further assistance or advice regarding your fire risk assessment or if your premises require an advanced assessment, contact our team of specialists.

Get Started with Your Free Fire Risk Assessment Template Now

Don’t wait any longer. Download our free fire risk assessment template and take the first step towards safeguarding your small business. If you need further assistance or advice, feel free to contact our team of specialists. We’re here to help!

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Did you know that you are responsible for fire safety in your business? As a responsible person, you could be fined or go to prison if you don’t follow the minimum fire safety regulations.

To follow these regulations, you need to conduct risk assessments, develop safety plans, offer training, and, most importantly, provide fire safety equipment.

You’ll need to start by supplying your business with fire extinguishers for the proper fire safety equipment. Here is all the information you need to know to get started.

1. What Are Commercial Fire Extinguishers?

As per fire safety regulations, commercial fire extinguishers are necessary for any commercial property. Depending on the business, commercial properties will need different types of fire extinguishers.

There are more types of fire extinguishers than you may expect. The cause of the fire will determine the best method for extinguishing it, so equipping your building with more than one type of fire extinguisher may be required.

You may think water is the solution to fire, but water isn’t always a viable solution. In contrast, water can exacerbate some types of fires.

To prevent fire from spreading, you must have the appropriate fire extinguishers and the training to use them. Do not use fire extinguishers on any fire outside of their designated classification.

2. What Are Commercial Fire Extinguishers Used For?

Fire extinguishers are designed to extinguish specific types of fire. The main classes of fire extinguishers and corresponding fire classifications include the following:

• CO2: extinguishes fires caused by electricity
• Water: extinguishes fires caused by organic, solid material
• Water Additive: extinguishes fires caused by organic, solid material more effectively than water extinguishers
• AFFF Foam: extinguishes fires caused by organic solids and flammable/combustible liquids
• Dry Powder: extinguishes fires caused by organic solids, flammable/combustible liquids, flammable gases, and combustible metals.
• Wet Chemical: extinguishes fires caused by cooking fat and oil

We explore Fire Extinguishers in more detail

In addition to these fire extinguishers, it’s also helpful (and possibly required for your business) to have fire blankets available. Fire blankets can smother hot oil fires as well as fire on clothing.

If your business works with special chemicals or other flammable materials, you may need to supply specially made fire extinguishers. Refer to government fire safety guidelines or contact us to determine if special fire extinguishers are necessary for your commercial property. You can learn more about the types and uses of fire extinguishers in this handy article.

3. How Many Fire Extinguishers Does My Business Need?

You can determine the minimum number of fire extinguishers based on qualified professionals’ fire safety risk assessment. If you have more than five employees, you must have regular fire risk assessments.

Annual fire risk assessments are necessary to find out how to minimise the risk of fire on your commercial property. These assessments are a legal requirement, but they also ensure the safety of you, your employees, and your customers.

You can refer to the Regulatory (Fire Safety) Reform Order 2005 to see the regulations for fire risk assessments.

Several factors will influence the required number of fire extinguishers:

• Number of building floors
• Floor size
• Floor layout
• Special fire hazards
• Use of other fire prevention equipment

Your Fire Risk Assessment will tell you how many fire extinguishers you require and where to place them.

4. How and When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

You and your employees should be trained to use every type of fire extinguisher in the building.

Before you or anyone else uses a fire extinguisher, someone should trigger the fire alarm to signal evacuation for everyone in the building. Then, in the event that the fire spreads, the alarm will prevent anyone from being caught in the fire.

When to Evacuate

These are the conditions in which you should not attempt to extinguish a fire:

• Fire is spreading quickly
• Fire is in multiple locations/not contained
• The extinguisher is not fully charged/the wrong type

Listen to them if your instincts tell you that the situation is too dangerous. Your and everyone else’s safety should be the top priority.

Ensure that everyone is trained in every aspect of your fire safety plan. In some scenarios, evacuation is a safer option than using fire extinguishers. If you have to evacuate, call 999 for the Fire Service.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Here are the basic steps to using a fire extinguisher:

1. Position yourself between the fire and your evacuation route
2. Pull the pin to unlock the handle
3. Aim the nozzle towards the base of the fire
4. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
5. Sweep the nozzle from side to side, focusing on the base of the fire

Once the fire has been extinguished, examine the area carefully for any remaining embers or small flames.

5. How to Dispose of a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers require particular disposal since they are pressurised containers. In addition, depending on the fire extinguisher type, its contents may also be harmful to the environment if released.

To recycle your fire extinguishers responsibly, take them to a registered ADR Recycling Centre. These centres know how to carry out chemical disposal and recycle the metals safely.

Maximise Your Business’s Fire Safety

Use your newfound fire safety knowledge to create a safer work environment in your business. Remember to carefully reference fire safety regulations to protect your business from safety and legal issues in the future.

Need commercial fire extinguishers today?

Request a comprehensive fire risk survey here. At CrystalView Services, we can survey your premises and determine what fire extinguishers are necessary for your business. We provide fire extinguisher maintenance services and fire extinguisher installation.

We regularly review our articles. However, information and technology evolves over time. Please not all information in this article is accurate to the data of it’s last review.

This article was last reviewed on: 27th June 2023

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The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 underscores the legal necessity for a fire alarm system installation that is adequate and operational in your business premises or site. Prior to designing a fire alarm system, a Fire Risk Assessment must be undertaken to delineate the system’s core objectives. This forms part of the fire system specification.

Fire alarm system installations in buildings serve two primary objectives— safeguarding life and protecting property. It also includes protection against business interruption and environmental damage, though the BS 5839: Fire Detection & Alarm Systems for Buildings categorise this under property protection

The BS 5839 classifies fire alarm systems into three primary design categories: L (Life protection), M (Manual systems), and P (Property protection). These design categories further bifurcate into eight fire alarm categories. Your system can fall into any one of these categories, depending on your business’s nature and other associated factors. The fire alarm categories include:

• Category M – Manual fire alarm system
• Category L1 – Maximum life protection automated fire alarm system
• Category L2 – Additional life protection automated fire alarm system
• Category L3 – Standard life protection automated fire alarm system
• Category L4 – Modest life protection automated fire alarm system
• Category L5 – Localised life protection automated fire alarm system
• Category P1 – Maximum property protection automated fire alarm system
• Category P2 – Minimum property protection automated fire alarm system

To help you select the most suitable fire alarm system for your premises, let’s examine each fire alarm category and its intended use:

Category M Systems

Category M Systems are manual systems and incorporate no automatic fire detection. This category is used commonly in properties where the occupiers are likely to detect a fire quickly but cannot be used for sleeping accommodation. Common places of work such as warehouses, factories, public houses, and restaurants.

Category L Systems

• Category L1: These systems are installed throughout all areas of the building. Their purpose is to provide the earliest possible fire warning to maximize escape time. Commonly used in hotels, student accommodation, hospitals, and large office blocks.
• Category L2: These systems are installed in defined parts of the building, encompassing coverage necessary for a Category L3 system. Their primary objective is identical to an L3 system, with an additional goal of early fire warning in areas of high fire risk. Frequently used in hotels, public houses, student accommodation, hospitals, and large office blocks.
• Category L3: This category specifies fire alarm systems designed to provide early fire warning, allowing occupants (excluding those in the room of fire origin) to safely escape before escape routes become impassable. Typical uses include shopping centers, phased evacuation buildings, and residential care homes.
• Category L4: These systems are installed in escape routes and circulation spaces, like corridors and stairways. Their objective is to alert occupants by detecting smoke within these escape routes. Commonly found in places of assembly like cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, and leisure centers.
• Category L5: These systems are designed for specific fire objectives, distinct from L1, L2, L3, or L4 systems. The design is based on localised detection needs in part of a building, ranging from a single room to comprehensive detection across large areas of a building with less than regularly specified structural fire resistance. Examples include prisons and transportation terminals.

Category P systems 

This category specifies fire alarm systems intended to protect property, commonly used for insurance purposes.

• Category P1 – Systems installed throughout all areas of the building. The objective of a category P1 system is to provide the earliest warning of fire to ensure a quicker arrival of the fire brigade.
• Category P2 – Systems installed in defined parts of the building. The main objective of a category P2 system is to warn of fire in areas of high fire hazard or risk.

Choosing the correct category

The first step is to determine whether you’re protecting life or property. This distinction is vital as, for example, category L1 and P1 systems might appear similar but can be designed quite differently. A P1 system, designed for property protection, would have detection in all areas but wouldn’t necessarily require audible or visual indicators. An L1 system, on the other hand, is intended to protect life and therefore requires both audible and visual alerts.

BS5839-1 doesn’t prescribe which system category needs to be installed in any specific premises. Instead, the categories provide a ‘menu’ from which purchasers, specifiers, enforcing authorities, insurers, or designers can choose the most suited system for a building. Our fire alarm installation specialists can conduct a fire risk assessment to determine the right category for your premises.

Frequently asked questions

As experts in the field of fire alarm systems, we are frequently asked questions related to their installation. We have compiled and addressed some of the most commonly posed queries concerning the various categories of fire alarm installations.

What are the penalties for not complying with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005?

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 has a range of enforcement measures and penalties for non-compliance:

1. Alterations Notice: This is issued when there is a potential serious risk in case of a change to the premises. It requires the responsible person to inform the fire authority before making any changes to the premises.

2. Enforcement Notice: If the fire authority finds that the responsible person or employer has failed to comply with the Fire Safety Order, they may issue an Enforcement Notice. It specifies the measures that need to be complied with, and provides a time frame for compliance.

3. Prohibition Notice: This notice can be issued when the fire risk is so great that access to the premises needs to be prohibited or restricted.

4. Prosecution: Failure to comply with the Fire Safety Order can lead to a prosecution. This could result in a fine or, in the most severe cases, a prison sentence. There is no cap on the fine, and prison sentences can be up to two years.

It’s important to note that fire authorities regularly inspect premises for compliance with the Fire Safety Order. As a result, it’s crucial to always ensure your fire safety measures are up to date and in line with current standards.

How can I determine the right category for my premises?

Determining the right category of fire alarm system for your premises involves a detailed process that should ideally be conducted by a qualified fire safety professional. Here are the steps involved:

1. Fire Risk Assessment: This is the first and perhaps most crucial step. A comprehensive Fire Risk Assessment will identify potential fire hazards, the people at risk, and the measures necessary to mitigate these risks. It should take into consideration the nature of the building, its occupants, and its usage.

2. Life or Property Protection: Decide whether the primary aim of the fire alarm system is to protect human life, property, or both. This decision will be influenced by factors such as the type of building, its occupancy, and its contents.

3. Building Layout and Occupancy: Consider the size, layout, and occupancy of your premises. Large, complex buildings or those with high occupancy levels may require more extensive systems for adequate protection.

4. Potential Fire Hazards: Identify any specific areas of high fire risk within the building. These could include kitchens, storage areas for flammable materials, or areas with high electrical equipment density. These areas may require additional protection.

5. Legal and Insurance Requirements: Check the legal and insurance requirements for fire alarm systems in your type of building. Some buildings are legally required to have specific categories of fire alarm systems, and insurance companies may have their own requirements as well.

6. Consultation with a Fire Safety Professional: Ultimately, the best way to determine the correct category for your premises is to consult with a fire safety professional, like CrystalView Services. We have the expertise to analyse all contributing factors and recommend the best fire alarm system for your needs.

Please note that once the category has been determined and the system installed, regular testing and maintenance is necessary to ensure its continued effectiveness.

What's the typical lifespan of a fire alarm system?

The lifespan of a fire alarm system can vary based on a number of factors including the quality of the equipment, the environment in which it is installed, and how well it’s maintained. However, a general rule of thumb is that a well-maintained fire alarm system should last around 10 to 12 years.

After this period, systems may start to experience component failures or become outdated as technology and standards advance. Some parts of the system, like detectors, may need to be replaced more frequently due to their sensitivity to the environment.

It’s important to note that regular maintenance and inspections can extend the life of your fire alarm system and keep it functioning effectively. This includes regular cleaning, periodic testing, and immediate addressing of any faults or issues. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance recommendations and consider consulting with a fire safety professional to ensure your system remains in optimal condition.

Remember, while fire alarm systems have a considerable lifespan, they are not permanent fixtures and will eventually need to be replaced or upgraded to ensure the safety of your premises and its occupants.

What are the maintenance requirements for fire alarm systems?

Maintenance of fire alarm systems is crucial to ensure they remain in good working order and able to perform effectively in the event of a fire. While the specific requirements can vary based on the type and complexity of the system, here are some general maintenance tasks typically required:

1. Regular Testing: Fire alarm systems should be tested regularly to ensure they’re functioning correctly. This usually involves activating the system via a call point (also known as a manual pull station) and confirming that the alarm sounds. The frequency of testing can depend on local regulations and the manufacturer’s recommendations, but weekly testing is common.

2. Annual Inspections: A comprehensive inspection by a qualified professional should be conducted at least once a year. They’ll check all components of the system including control panels, alarm devices, power supplies, and batteries.

3. Battery Checks: Backup batteries should be checked regularly, usually semi-annually, to ensure they will function in the event of a power outage. If the system is wireless, each device may have its own battery that also needs checking and periodic replacement.

4. Detector Cleaning: Smoke and heat detectors can accumulate dust and other debris which can reduce their effectiveness or cause false alarms. Regular cleaning, in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, is essential. The frequency of cleaning can depend on the environment, but annual cleaning is often recommended.

5. False Alarm Tracking: If your system suffers from frequent false alarms, it’s important to document these instances and investigate the causes. Recurring false alarms could indicate a problem that needs addressing.

6. Regular Servicing: Depending on the complexity of your system and the regulations in your area, you may need to have your fire alarm system serviced by a qualified professional at set intervals.

7. Replacement of Outdated Components: Over time, parts of your fire alarm system may become obsolete or wear out. Regular maintenance includes identifying these components and replacing them as necessary.

It’s important to remember to, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and regulations when maintaining your fire alarm system. Regular maintenance not only ensures your system functions correctly, but it can also prolong the lifespan of the system.

Useful Resources

Further reading on Fire Alarm Installation categories from reputable resources.

1. 1. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: The official document provides in-depth information on fire safety regulations in the UK.

      • The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

   2. BS 5839-1: Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings: The official British Standards Institution (BSI) website provides the complete standard for purchase.

      • BS 5839-1: Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings

   3. Fire Industry Association (FIA): FIA is a trade association promoting the professional status of the UK fire safety industry. The site offers guides, fact files, and other resources.

      • Fire Industry Association (FIA) official website

   4. Health and Safety Executive (HSE): The UK government’s site providing guidance on health and safety at work, including fire safety.

CrystalView Services Fire Alarm Installation

As BAFE-accredited and FIA members, our fully certified engineers can supply, install, maintain, commission, and remotely monitor all types of fire alarm systems to the highest standards. They can also design all fire alarm systems according to the relevant BS5839-1 guidelines. CrystalView Services is highly certified in the fire industry. You can find our certifications and accreditations here, or for more information on our fire safety services, please contact one of our specialists.

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Use our FREE downloadable Fire Door Inspection Checklist to ensure your fire door is in working order

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of fire and smoke in any building is by installing fire doors. This is a great form of passive fire protection. However, if not appropriately maintained, they could be a hazard. It is essential to complete regular fire door maintenance. Read on to learn more about the importance of maintaining fire doors and what laws buildings must follow. 

Why Have a Fire Door in Your Building? 

For most buildings, having a fire door is a requirement. However, they offer benefits that make them desirable options regardless of the law.A fire can happen in any place at any moment. With the help of a fire door, the spread of fire and smoke slows down. Not only does this save lives, but it can save a building from costly damage. 

Why Is Fire Door Maintenance Important? 

Installing fire doors is not enough to keep up with safety protocols. After installation is complete, doors have to be regularly maintained to ensure proper functioning. Every element of the fire door system must undergo inspection, not just the door itself. Latches, framing, hinges, handles, and locks are also maintained. This even includes the intumescent strips. These strips play a significant part in preventing the spread of fire.Every fire door has a minimum fire resistance time of 30 minutes. Intumescent strips themselves are activated by heat, the material swells to create a seal, filling the gap between the door and the door frame. Even the smallest disruption in the state of the door can affect its performance. Periodic checks by certified specialists should always stay up to date for safety and to follow regulations. 

Regular Inspections 

Regular internal fire door maintenance should be completed at least twice a year or annually at the very minimum. In fact, in most areas, this is mandatory for buildings. Companies that offer fire door installation and maintenance may suggest monthly fire door inspections. For a fair price, this is worth looking into. The inspection process: 

1. Checking that door frames, leaves, and hardware uphold their required fire-resistance rating. 
2. Checking that door openers function appropriately. Self-closing and self-latching openers must be fully operational. 
3. Ensuring doors have not been fitted with a deadbolt or something similar since the previous inspection. 
4. Checking that all edge clearances have no alterations and continue to stay compliant with regulations. You must always ensure that the doors are not broken, split, damaged, misaligned or altered in any way. These factors can majorly impact how the doors stop a fire, gases, or smoke. 

Signage 

To stay compliant with fire door regulations, it is essential to have the correct signage. When a professional completes an inspection, they will also check for appropriate signage. Correct signage includes labelling a door as a fire-rated door or fire exit, among other things. You may benefit from labelling safety equipment to make things easier during an emergency. 

Between Inspections 

Annual inspections are necessary, but sometimes you need more than a check every year. You do not need to wait for your inspection date to complete maintenance for fire doors. Instead, keep an eye out for any damage that might occur between inspections.

Upon noticing anything unusual, contact someone to repair or replace the door as soon as possible. Even something as small as a missing screw must be noted. Contact a fire door maintenance service to help you fix the problem. It is important to note that professionals can’t fix or replace a door if the fire alarm system in the building is not operational. You should also lookout for any obstacle that could be obstructing doors in any way. Should you find that your current fire door is not up to standard, it is extremely important that you book a repair service.Always inform your staff of the dangers of placing something in front of a fire door to ensure it doesn’t happen again. If you run a rental property, try your best to explain fire offences to the occupants. Occupants might not understand fire regulations, so it is your job to keep them compliant with the law. 

New Building Approved Documents 

New buildings must follow building regulations known as ‘Approved Documents’. This document was put together to standardise the elements of a door’s features and structure. Approved Document B is the most relevant document, as it focuses on fire safety. It states precisely how long the fire resistance needs to be, where the door should be fitted, and which signage is required. Other relevant and essential Approved Documents include: 

• Approved Document E: Resistance to Sound 
• Approved Document F: Ventilation 
• Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power 
• Approved Document M: Access to and Use of Buildings 
• Approved Document N: Glazing Safety 

The Regulatory Reform Act replaced a lot of aspects of fire safety law. However, different fire door regulations exist for fire doors in existing and new buildings.  

Is Your Building Up-to-Date on Fire Door Maintenance? 

Building codes are required for safety reasons and fire doors are no exception. Installing fire doors in your building is not enough to stay up to date on safety regulations, you also need regular fire door maintenance.Whether you need fire door installation or maintenance, CrystalView Services is here to help. Our accredited and certified company will ensure that fire doors are installed correctly and checked regularly as per the guidelines. Contact us now for all of your fire door installation and maintenance needs.

The post Fire Door Maintenance | FREE Fire Door Inspection Checklist appeared first on CrystalView Services.

1. Minimising the risk of a fire breaking out – remember prevention is the best cure
2. Ensuring that there is a clear and efficient procedure in place, should a fire occur
3. The following actions must be carried out by the responsible person:

• ‘Carry out a fire risk assessment of the premises and review it regularly
• Tell staff or their representatives about the risks you’ve identified
• Put in place, and maintain appropriate fire safety measures
• Plan for an emergency
• Provide staff information, fire safety instruction and training.’

Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment

The fire risk assessment should be carried out at least annually and must be conducted and a ‘written record kept’ if a business has more than five people. The fire risk assessment (FRA) should follow a set procedure to help identify fire hazards and the risk to people and property. The goal is to evaluate all risks so they can be either reduced or eliminated. The findings must then be recorded. It is also necessary at this stage to produce an emergency plan which should consider the following items:

• Keep emergency routes and fire exits free from obstruction
• The evacuation plan (including disabled personnel)
• The fire alarm system
• Fire doors
• Fire detection and warning
• Location and types of firefighting equipment
• Fire safety training for staff
• The provision of fire safety information to employees and visitors or building users
• Passive fire protection
• Frequency of fire drills
• The location and containment of dangerous substances that could cause or exacerbate a fire

If you are in any doubt as to the responsible person, the first step you should take is to review your fire risk assessment. If you do not have one, make this a priority as you are quite likely breaking the law if you have more than 5 employees. The following links provide the government’s fire risk assessment guides for all types of buildings:

• Offices and shops
• Factories and warehouses
• Sleeping accommodation
• Residential care premises
• Educational premises
• Small and medium places of assembly (holding 300 people or less)
• Large places of assembly (holding more than 300 people)
• Theatres, cinemas and similar premises
• Open air events and venues
• Healthcare premises
• Animal premises and stables
• Transport premises and facilities

It is important to note that although you can complete the fire risk assessment yourself, for peace of mind we recommend using a fire safety professional with trained fire risk assessors.

Who is the Responsible Person?

As stated in the Fire Safety Order the responsible person is the employer or ‘the person who has control of the premises.’ In some cases, the responsible person may be the facilities manager or the occupier. If the responsible person is not known to you then it is possible that fire safety responsibilities are not being undertaken safely in accordance with UK statutory law. This is a series and must be addressed.

Fire Safety Points to Remember

The risks of fire and explosions from the substances that you store on your premises or use for work activities should be mitigated. If possible, swap out products or materials for safer alternatives that are not as flammable, toxic, or corrosive. In an ideal scenario remove the dangerous materials altogether. You should ensure that the substances used all have safety data sheets so that the risks can be assessed and mitigated. This can be done by maintaining A Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) register. See this useful guide provided by the HSE for more information Working with substances hazardous to health. Sources of ignition such as naked flames or sparks should be kept far away from combustible material or COSHH. This simple measure is important and should be checked during health and safety audits on a regular basis. Flammable substances must be disposed of safely using the appropriately licensed waste carrier. Maintaining a good level of housekeeping, it can reduce the risk of fire. Waste should be removed daily, if possible, this is particularly important for flammable items that could exacerbate the effect of a fire. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, your fire risk assessment must be reviewed and updated regularly. This is particularly important if recent building works have been carried out because the existing FRA may not be fit for purpose. Additionally, check your fire doors are meeting government standards with our FREE Fire Door Inspection checklist.

Need Help with Your Fire Safety

With 25 years of experience, CrystalView Services will be very happy to assist with your fire safety needs. Contact us for a free survey of your premises. Following the fire risk assessment, we’ll show you what equipment you need to install and whereabouts it needs to go to keep your staff safe. Call 01245 214104 to speak to a member of our sales team today! Learn more about Fire Safety Regulations in this article. Information on workplace fire safety has come from The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – view the complete legislation document here

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Both active and passive fire protection methods can save your business and help mitigate the risk of fire. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about the two main methods of fire protection.

Passive vs Active Fire Protection

What’s the difference between active and passive fire protection? While passive and active fire protection work together to stop fires from spreading, active protection requires action from individuals in most case scenarios while passive protection works without anyone or anything having to act.

Active Fire Protection

Think of active fire protection as a function that requires a machine to kick in or a person to flip a switch. The action results from a signal or an alarm going off, telling a machine or a person that a fire has started. The machine or person then does something, actively, to stop the fire.

Active fire protection works to suppress and even extinguish a fire before it can damage or harm.

Passive Fire Protection

What is passive fire protection? If active fire protection requires a person or machine to trigger it, how does passive fire protection work? Passive fire protection protects buildings and limits the damage a fire can cause. These systems and methods do not require a person or machine to trigger them because their very presence prevents fires from causing more damage. Think of them as a fire stopping method. Our fire prevention experts can design and adapt existing buildings to have passive fire protection, built into the structure to keep fires from moving through the building. For example, fire-resistant doors and walls can slow a fire down long enough to give people can chance to escape. Fire dampers and fire doors can prevent oxygen from feeding the fire. Passive fire protection basically attempts to keep the fire in a small area and allow you or authorities to put it out before it engulfs your entire structure.

Methods of Active Fire Protection

Active fire protection requires someone or something to turn it on. Otherwise, it does no good. A sprinkler system that does not automatically go off with a fire has a huge disadvantage.

Here are a few different methods for active fire protection:

• Fire extinguisher: A person must pick up the extinguisher and operate it for it to work.
• Sprinkler systems: A machine must detect that a fire is present for the sprinklers to kick in and douse the fire.
• Fire detection or fire alarm systems: Smoke or heat will trigger the alarm which alerts proper authorities that a fire is present. The alarm may also activate sprinklers or close doors.
• Firefighters: These individuals qualify as active fire protection since they walk into the building to stop it.
• Photoluminescent egress path markers: These path markers will light up when the system detects a fire. Building occupants will be able to follow the markers out of the building and to safety.

When we think of fire protection, our minds automatically go to active fire protection as this is the most traditional method of stopping a fire.

Methods of Passive Fire Protection

Passive fire protection requires installation and planning. It limits the damage a fire can do to a building, and it gives people a chance to evacuate unharmed.

Here are a few of the most common passive fire protection methods:

• Dampers: You can have dampers installed that close when a fire is detected. They prevent fire and smoke from spreading throughout the building.
• Fire doors: Specially designed external and internal fire doors create a barrier for fires. Fire doors consist of a fire-resistant material that will slow a fire down. Use our FREE Fire Door Inspection checklist to make sure your fire doors are up to government standards.
• Curtain and cavity barriers: You can have fire experts install cavity barriers either vertically or horizontally to create a cavity that stops the fire. These fire-proof barriers will compartmentalize the fire in a smaller area.
• Fire Batts: A fire batt is a board coated with mineral wool. We can install this board on walls and floors to keep the fire from penetrating the surface.
• Fire sealing compound: A fire sealing compound will provide load-bearing fire seals for light foot traffic on your floors. Often building programmes need to make a place for pipes or cable trays. These breeches will compromise fire stopping walls and floors, but a fire sealing compound fixes this.
• Collapsing collars and wraps: These wraps and collars go on plastic pipes that pass through walls and floors. The material around the pipe will squeeze it and collapse it until the opening has sealed completely.
• Acoustic and smoke seals: Fire experts can apply this sealant to windows, cables, joints, pipes, fire doors, and any small hole through which a fire could spread.

Passive fire protection works without you have to do anything to make it work. It just stops the spread of fire.

Combining Active & Passive Methods

If you want the best chance to save your structure from a fire, you should consider having both a passive and active fire protection system in place. These systems work best when they work together.

Active fire systems will put the fire out. Passive fire protection systems will keep the fire from spreading.

Plus, you have to remember that active fire systems can fail. Sprinklers will malfunction due to water supply problems, inadequate water pressure, or a lack of maintenance. But passive systems always work if installed correctly by an accredited installer.

We Help to Stop Fire & Save Lives

Basic passive fire protection will keep a fire from spreading, save your structure from complete damage, and give your building occupants a chance to escape. Fire stopping doors, walls, and other methods give you the best chance to avoid the full disaster a fire can cause. If you’re interested in having your commercial premises evaluated for fire safety, contact us. We have an array of passive and active fire protection solutions, and we can recommend a system that will keep your building safe, compliant to the latest in fire safety regulations and ultimately bring you peace of mind.

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Commercial Fire Risk Assessments – Only £249!

Take advantage of our summer offer! We’ll carry out a one day fire risk assessment for your business – only £249.

On top of this, if you entrust us to take care of your annual fire maintenance programme – We’ll refund you the cost of the survey, in full!

Why do I need a fire risk assessment for my business?

If your business employees 5 or more employee’s, you must have a written fire risk assessment. This is documented under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. 

Your fire risk assessment will show you how much risk there is to your business, your staff and your property. It will also show you what measures to put in place to minimise the risk of fire.

What will I receive as part of the fire risk assessment package?

As part of the package, you’ll receive a fire risk assessment that covers the following nine categories:

1. Fire Safety administration
2. Firefighting facilities
3. Identifying fire hazards
4. Fire routine and test procedure
5. Means of escape
6. Review Procedures
7. Staff/people at risk
8. Arson prevention check list
9. Fire warning facilities
10. Fire risk assessment report

Your business will also receive:

• A document highlighting our recommendations to ensure minimise the risk of fire
• A custom 65 page fire logbook which enable the building manager to keep a current record of all fire safety related information

Call 01245 214104 today to book your fire risk assessment or email enquiries@CrystalView Services-communications.com

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A growing number of MPs, as well as the leader of the Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn, have been calling for new fire safety measures to be introduced. Pressure is growing on the Chancellor Philip Hammond to take the initiative in the budget and set aside £1 billion of funds to help protect residents in tower blocks from another tragedy similar to Grenfell. Corbyn, as well as several other MPs, have stated that all tower blocks should be retrofitted with sprinklers to ensure this kind of disaster doesn’t happen again.

National campaign

The proposed fire safety measures will be the cornerstone of a national campaign which will call for those measures to be installed in every social housing block, beginning with those that are ten or more storeys high.
The campaign comes off the back of research carried out by the BBC. The research, which focused on 50% of the council and housing association-owned blocks within the UK, found that in spite of the disaster, only 2% have full sprinkler systems installed on the premises. Furthermore, 68% of those same tower blocks have a single staircase through which residents would be expected to evacuate in the case of a fire.
CrystalView Services can provide you with a full fire risk assessment and help ensure you are fully compliant with the Regulatory (Fire Safety) Reform Order 2005.

Bare facts

For those opposing the measures, the statistics don’t make for pleasant reading. A study conducted by IFSEC global found that almost 4,000 tower blocks within the UK were without sprinklers. The same study found that sprinklers helped to reduce fire deaths by 87%.

These statistics, coupled with the fact that Government ministers have so far been reluctant to issue funding for the proposed fire safety measures, have seen the government come in for criticism. Just recently, Salford Council accused the government of ‘failing’ in its responsibility to improve social housing. Whether or not the national campaign and the growing pressure results in funding for the proposed fire safety measures remains to be seen, however. In the meantime, it will be down to individual associations and councils to look into ways they can make the tower blocks as safe as possible.

But it’s not just tower blocks that are at risk, with CrystalView Services you can ensure your building is as safe as possible from the outbreak of a fire. We offer reliable and cost-effective fire safety solutions from equipment to maintenance and training so that your building is safe at all times. Book a survey to ensure all your security requirements are met.

Get in touch with us today on 01245214104 or via our contact form to discuss the fire safety needs of your building.

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Despite fire safety measures being a mandatory requirement for employers in England, it is not always clear what action needs to be taken and what needs to be put in place to ensure your staff and business are completely safe.

Know your responsibilities for workplace fire safety

Under the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005, as an employer or business owner, you are responsible for keeping your business is as safe from fire as possible. As the “responsible person,” you have several obligations.

These include:

• Having fire risk assessments carried out and reviewed regularly
• Informing staff of any risks that have been identified
• Ensuring that appropriate safety systems are in place
• Providing staff with fire safety training and instruction
• Ensuring regular fire safety maintenance is carried out on your equipment

Did you know that 67% of fires occur out of hours when buildings are closed and that 25% of businesses affected by serious fire never recover?

To help you as an employer, see our list below of 4 important safety tips:

• Provide your staff with a simple and clear emergency plan – In the event of a fire, an emergency plan is key in ensuring your staff evacuate the building safely and meet in a safe and secure location. However, a perfect plan is impractical if it is not clearly communicated to every staff member.
• Get Fire Safety Training – Every member of your staff needs to know what to do in the event of a fire, especially those who are nominated as a Fire Marshal or Fire Warden. As well as complying with the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005, fire training provides your staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to protect themselves and their colleagues in the event of a fire.
• Service your fire alarms and fire extinguishers regularly – You need to trust that your fire detection systems and your fire extinguishers will work when you need them the most. Regular maintenance for your fire safety equipment is vital to keep your systems working to their fullest potential.
• Be proactive with passive fire protection – Fire doors and fire stopping. Ensure that regular inspections and maintenance is carried out by certified passive fire
• protection specialists.

These tips are just a start to making sure your business is as safe from fire as possible. At CrystalView Services, we provide you with the expertise and knowledge to ensure you minimise your fire risks and comply with all relevant safety regulations.

If you want to find out more on fire safety and how we can help, call us on 01245 214104 or email enquiries@CrystalView Services-communications.com

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