7.2 Fire Prevention Check List
Although fire precautions are mainly common sense, staff need to understand what to look for and report any deficiencies to their Area Safety Manager.
Area Safety Managers should ensure that their Fire Wardens carry out the procedures in check list below, at regular intervals and submit their monthly check sheets for action and filing.
- Fire fighting equipment is in order, unobstructed and in place
- There are no obstructions, apparent defects or damage to fire alarm call points, detectors or alarm sounders;
- Means of escape are well sign posted and kept clear of obstructions at all times
- All internal fire doors are clearly labelled and all self-closing devices are kept in working order. All fire exit doors lead to a safe area and can be easily and quickly be opened from the inside without the use of a key
- All portable electrical equipment has been tested for safety and is suitably labelled with a valid date. The length of all flexible cables should be kept to the minimum and are securely routed, so that damage is unlikely and they are never under floor coverings or through doorways
- Flammable material is not left near to a source of heat
- There is never any accumulation of rubbish, waste paper or other materials which could catch fire. This is particularly important when the premises has been used for a seminar or an exhibition
- Any festive decorations are flame resistant and are not be attached to lights, heaters or obscure fire safety notices and emergency lighting
- Heating appliances are fixed in position at a safe distance from any combustible materials and are adequately guarded.
Testing and Maintenance of Fire Alarm Systems / Fire Detection and Emergency Lighting:
- In accordance with BS5839 part 1, BSU maintenance staff carry out weekly testing of the fire alarm systems, activating the bells / sirens from different manual call points each week.
- Detector Heads. These are tested annually and the contract is managed by Property Services.
- Alarm Panels. These are tested as part of the annual service. The contract is managed by Property Services.
- Emergency lighting tests are undertaken every three months. The contract is managed by Property Services.
September 2011