Fire Compartmentation Surveys: Everything You Need to Know

As our buildings grow in both complexity and occupancy numbers, the need for comprehensive fire safety is more important than ever before. One of the key ways we do this is by installing passive fire protection solutions and fire-stopping measures such as fire compartmentation. Adopting these measures can save lives and minimise property damage by slowing the spread of flames during a fire. In this article, we’ll learn everything you need to know about fire compartmentation surveys and how they work to ensure the risk of fire spreading is kept to a minimum.

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Understanding Fire Compartmentation

Fire compartmentation involves dividing a building into smaller, manageable areas that can contain fire at its source for a defined period. This method is most useful in high-rise buildings, large commercial complexes, and residential areas where quick evacuation may be challenging. By segmenting a building into different compartments, the risk of fire spreading is significantly reduced. Each compartment is also bolstered with fire-resistant materials and other fire-stopping measures such as fire doors and fire barriers.

Fire compartmentation is particularly important because it goes beyond slowing the spread of a fire. This solution can also minimise structural damage to a building during a fire, which allows for a controlled approach to firefighting. As a result, this solution does a fantastic job of protecting lives and property.

What is a Fire Compartmentation Survey?

A fire compartmentation survey is a detailed examination of the barriers designed to prevent fire and smoke from spreading. These surveys assess the effectiveness of compartmentation in a building and ensure compliance with fire safety standards.

In the UK, fire safety, including compartmentation, is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and standards such as BS 9999. These regulations require building owners to manage and reduce the risk of fire, including maintaining all fire safety measures in good condition.

The Process of Conducting a Fire Compartmentation Survey

A fire compartmentation survey is a relatively straightforward process that follows several predetermined steps. Below is a breakdown of the process used to conduct a fire compartmentation survey:

Preliminary Steps

Before conducting the survey, professionals review building plans and previous fire safety reports to understand the existing compartmentation measures. This initial phase sets the groundwork for a focused and efficient on-site inspection.

On-site Inspection and Tools Used

Surveyors will then use a variety of tools, including thermal imaging cameras and endoscopes, to inspect hidden areas. They focus on critical sections of the building, such as areas with high fire risk and escape routes.

Documentation and Reporting

Findings from the survey are meticulously recorded, usually in a detailed report that includes photographs, descriptions of potential breaches, and recommendations for remediation. This document serves as both a compliance record and a guide for future safety enhancements.

Common Issues Identified in Fire Compartmentation Surveys

These surveys are incredibly insightful as they can show many different problems in terms of building fire safety. Surveyors often find issues like unsealed penetrations where pipes or cables pass through walls, inadequate fire doors that do not close properly, and damaged fire-resistant materials. Another common issue that tends to be uncovered during these surveys is poor maintenance practices. These problems can significantly undermine the building’s ability to contain a fire. That’s why these surveys are so important – they detect problems before they develop into something much worse.

Addressing and Rectifying Issues

Once a fire compartmentation survey has been conducted, you must action any of the suggestions outlined in the results. This might include:

Sealing Gaps and Penetrations: One of the most effective ways to deal with this involves using intumescent materials that expand in the presence of heat, sealing off gaps and maintaining the integrity of fire compartments.
Upgrading Fire Doors and Windows: Regular maintenance of fire doors and their components is important for fire safety. Upgrades may involve installing doors with appropriate fire resistance ratings and ensuring they are properly fitted and functioning.
Regular Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance and periodic reassessment ensure that fire compartmentation measures remain effective and compliant with the latest safety standards.

Benefits of Regular Fire Compartmentation Surveys

Regular surveys offer several benefits beyond peace of mind. They enhance the safety of building occupants by ensuring that compartmentation measures function as intended. They also help building owners comply with fire safety regulations, potentially reducing insurance premiums and liability. Ultimately, these surveys contribute to a safer environment by mitigating the risks associated with fire.

Choosing a Professional for Fire Compartmentation Surveys

When selecting a professional to conduct these surveys, it’s important to choose someone with specific expertise in fire safety and a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements. Professional surveyors offer experienced personnel who can provide comprehensive fire compartmentation surveys, ensuring that buildings not only meet legal standards but also offer real safety to occupants and property.

If you have any questions about fire compartmentation, or would like us to assist with a fire compartmentation installations or maintenance, please contact our team at Ark Fire Protection today.