Bath Spa University Fire Strategy - Introduction

The following pages provide the detail of Bath Spa University's Fire Strategy. The document includes a framework of guidance, roles and responsibilities, policies and procedures etc that ensure the organisation's compliance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The fire risks associated with BSU premises and their various uses are considered within individual Fire Risk Assessments which form a key part of the strategy. Any hazards identified within the risk assessment are reviewed and suitably managed until they present an acceptable level of risk. the strategy includes consideration of training, risk assessment, cyclical testing of equipment and the pro active monitoring of how buildings are being used.

Fire Risk Assessments

Fire Risk Assessments (FRA's) are carried out by the SHE Office in conjunction with Area Safety Managers (ASM's) and the Facilities and Operational Manager. Any breaches of legislation, unsafe practices or areas for improvement are identified in an action plan as part of the FRA. A target date is identified and is included for the completion of any necessary remedial work. The budget for any such work is held by Property Services, completion of work is by negotiation between Property Services and the local manager. Any significant changes to the fabric of a building or changes of use should trigger a review of the existing FRA. Ordinarily Fire Risk Assessments will be reviewed every two years.

Storage of Risk Assessments 

RA's are held locally and used by managers as working documents. Copies are also held by Property Services and the SHE Office. At Newton Park copies of the FRA's complete with site plans can be obtained from the Security Lodge.

Training

Fire Safety training is provided for all staff. The level and extent of the training is appropriate to individual roles and responsibilities. All staff are asked to complete an online streamed video safety induction that includes a fire safety module. it is the responsibility of the line manager to ensure that staff complete the training. An auditable data base is maintained by the SHE Office that provides a record of successful completion and is accessible to all line managers. Further training is provided for ASM', Fire Wardens, Residential Tutors ( a role that replaces Resident Wardens and Senior Students as of 2011 and includes fire technology, the use of extinguishers and the operation of evacuation chairs. Students are also inducted during their first week in their role of Fire Marshals ( a collective responsibility undertaken by all staff and students).

Cyclical Testing

Testing of equipment (fire prevention, fire detection and emergency lighting) to ensure that systems are maintained in good operational condition, is the responsibility of Property Services. Weekly testing of the alarms is undertaken by maintenance staff, in accordance with BS5839. Testing of the alarm panel, detector heads and emergency lighting is carried out by contractors, who are managed by the Facilities and Operations Manager.

Building Use

Proactive monitoring of the way that a building is being used is carried out on a monthly basis by Fire Wardens. the checks are formally recorded and identify any  fire safety issues that compromise the safety of persons inside the building. This could for example include poor housekeeping leading to blocked escape routes, door closer on fire doors requiring adjustment or the unsuitable storage of flammable materials etc.

Personnel with key responsibilities for fire safety: 

Vice Chancellor - Frank Morgan

Deputy Vice Chancellor - Alun Thomas (DVC responsible for the Safety Health and Environment including Fire Safety)

Area Safety Managers - Warren Cole (responsible for the production of guidance, support of local managers and completion of initial fire risk assessments)

Area Safety Managers - Generally Heads of School or Department with responsibility for specific buildings within the University. ASM's are accompanied by the SHE Advisor on two formal inspections per year. The inspections include hazard spotting for any potential breached of Fire Safety legislation. A list of ASM's can be can be viewed on the SHE office website.

Fire Wardens - The role is undertaken by Security Staff, Resident Tutors and numerous support staff. they are appointed by the ASM and have two functions i.e pro-active monthly checks and co-ordinating assembly points in the event of emergency evacuations. A full list of Fire wardens can be viewed on the SHE office website.

Fire Marshals - All staff and students have a collective responsibility as Fire Marshals to report any faults or safety concerns and to assist in the event of an emergency evacuation.

Facilities and Operations Manager - Richard Jordan is responsible for ensuring that the fire safety equipment is tested and maintained in accordance with legal requirements and the completion of remedial works identified within the FRA's.