Prior to October 2006, there were well over 100 Acts and Regulations referring to fire safety generally the earliest of which was the 1833 Lighting and Watching Act.
All these components were bought together by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order) 2005.
Although domestic properties aren’t affected, Care Homes and Residential Homes are included in this new legislation which hastended to shift the responsibility for all aspects of fire safety towards the nominated ‘responsible person’.
While this change in approach has improved the safety of the most vulnerable members of society, it poses a challenge to many existing Care and Nursing Homes.
A Fire Risk Assessment of such properties can highlight shortcomings in a variety of areas such as means of escape, fire compartmentation, staffing levels and management.
Many of these issues can be addressed by the inclusion of a Residential Fire Sprinkler System that complies with BS 9251 – a new code of practice introduced recently.
Other problems associated with the conversion of existing properties into care homes can be alleviated by incorporating a sprinkler system especially where original features of an old property need to be retained. Such features as elaborate ceiling cornices, panelled doors and walls all of which, may not need to
be removed in order to upgrade the building if a fire sprinkler system is installed. A lobby between living/sleeping accommodation and common areas should also not be
necessary if a sprinkler system is fitted:A relaxation in the requirement to provide a lobby between living and common areas should be possible. The lobby that is formed within the room itself in a converted property often spoils the proportions of the room and sometimes renders the remaining area below the minimum size requirement.
A new code of practice DD 9999 utilises design principles based on risk associated with time. It provides a means of calculating the amount of risk reduction available if other provisions are put in place that reduce fire growth, spread etc
For example, clause 8.5.3 states that the inclusion of a suitable sprinkler system permits a reduction in the risk profile giving a larger allowable travel distance.
We can offer assistance if necessary and can refer customers to Approved Inspectors familiar with relaxations associated with BS 9251 and DD9999
Here are some possible benefits of incorporating a Residential Fire Sprinkler system in a Care Home
1. Increased safety for residents.
2. Unique selling point.
3. Reduced travel distances.
4. Reduced fire separation.
5. Increased living accommodation.
6. Reduced staffing levels.
