Protective Measures T


he risk assessment should identify a specifi c range of protective measures that are appropriate for the particular type of premises and usage of the


premises. The combination of measures will vary with the application but the following is a list of topics that need to be considered: • Structural and passive fi re protection • Fire detection and warning systems • Means of escape (escape routes), emergency escape lighting


• Signs and notices • Fire fi ghting equipment and facilities • Kitchen fi re suppression systems • Sprinkler and other water-based extinguishing systems


• Gaseous extinguishing systems • Other fi xed fi re extinguishing systems • Recording, planning, informing, instructing and training


Various structural and passive fi re protection measures may be necessary to limit and control the spread of fl ame, heat and smoke from a fi re. The following are some of the measures that need to be considered: • Structural steel protection • Fire walls and partitioning • Fire and smoke curtains • Fire rated ductwork and dampers • Fire doors • Fire resistant glazing • Intumescent sealing systems • Cavity fi re barriers • Fire stopping or seals for penetration of fi re barriers


STRUCTURAL AND PASSIVE FIRE


PROTECTION Structural and passive fi re protection is the primary measure integrated within the constructional fabric of a building to provide inherent fi re safety and protection. In the event of fi re, these measures will provide the fundamental requirements of structural stability, fi re separation through building compartmentation and safe means of escape. Local building regulations will defi ne the regional requirements for these measures: • England and Wales: The Building Regulations 2010 • Northern Ireland: The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 (as amended 2010)


• Scotland: The Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, (as amended)


Note that penetrations of walls and fl oors by pipes and other services may provide a ready path for the spread of fi re. The linings and decorative fi nishes of buildings must also be considered as linings can promote the spread and development of fi re. In buildings with large areas of drapes, consideration may should be given to the fl ammability. Similarly, the fl ammability of furniture and furnishings may need to be considered. Other hazards include excessive layers of paint on the walls and ceiling of escape routes.


Ventilation and air-conditioning systems can also provide a path for the spread of fi re and smoke. Measures to reduce the risk may include a combination of fi re and smoke dampers, and the interconnection of forced ventilation and air- conditioning systems to the fi re alarm system.


Further information on these products and systems may be found on the following websites: • Association for Specialist Fire Protection: www.asfp.org.uk


• Passive Fire Protection Federation: www.pfpf.org


BEST PRACTICE GUIDE TO FIRE SAFETY |9


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