Fire Safety in Purpose Built Blocks of Flats

Summary of Key Fire Safety Regulations for Blocks of Flats

One of the easiest ways to ensure fire safety in purpose built flats is to put together a list of health and safety regulations. They should be constructed in accordance with all government guidelines and regulations.

This could include: 

Fire Risk Assessment

Your fire risk assessment should be designed to locate any potential hazards within the tower block that could cause a fire. It should also explore the damage or harm that could be caused if a fire breaks out. They must be carried out annually or whenever construction work is carried out.

Have Correct Compartmentalisation

This regulation refers to the way in which your building is constructed. For example, by dividing your tower block into separate compartments – such as stairwells, corridors, reception areas and rooms – you’re creating a system that stops fires from spreading rapidly throughout the space.

Clear and Obvious Escape Routes

Good fire safety regulations will take into account the measures that must be taken should the worst happen. For example, you should ensure that your residents have access to clear and obvious escape routes should a fire break out – and they should be clearly marked through signage. The stairways and corridors must also be kept clean and free from hazards that could block potential exits.

Communication of Policies

Residents should be informed of the fire safety regulations right from the start of their tenancy – for example, it could be included as part of their contract. These regulations should also be laid out to them by a landlord or building manager. Additionally, fire safety regulations and guidance could be displayed in communal areas.

Smoke & Fire Detection Systems

Fire safety regulations for flats should also make sure that all flats have access to the appropriate fire safety equipment. For example, smoke and fire detection systems must be installed throughout the tower block. They must also be checked regularly and replaced when necessary. Additionally, you should ensure that there are a number of fire extinguishers on site.

Compliant Fire Doors

Another way in which you can go about enhancing fire safety in purpose built blocks of flats is by installing fire doors that are compliant with all safety regulations. For example, they should be clearly labelled with signage that makes clear the importance of the doors remaining shut when not in use.

Cladding

If cladding is installed on the exterior of the tower block as a means of making the building more energy-efficient, you must ensure that the appropriate health and safety checks are carried out ahead of time to make sure that the materials are not combustible or otherwise dangerous.

Dry Riser Maintenance

Another important aspect of enhancing fire safety in flats or residential areas is ensuring that dry risers are well maintained and cared for. Dry risers are essentially empty pipes that can pump water quickly through a high rise building – meaning they are an essential tool used by firefighters and fire departments to quickly and safely extinguish fires.

Who’s Responsible for Fire Safety in Blocks of Flats?

The responsibility of fire safety in blocks of flats is shared between residents and landlords and managing agents.

Residents

Fire safety within the flat itself is the responsibility of the resident. For example, residents should test their smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly and replace batteries as necessary. They should also practice good fire safety throughout their home – by ensuring that they never leave any pans unattended or keep fire doors shut. They should also ensure that they are familiar with the fire safety regulations laid out by their landlord or building manager.

Landlords & Managing Agents

Landlords and managing agents are also jointly responsible for fire safety in flats, particularly in the communal areas such as hallways and stairwells. As a result, they should ensure that these areas are well maintained. They are also responsible for informing their residents of the fire regulations for flats that have been put in place within the tower block for their safety and the safety of their neighbours.