FIRE SAFETY & DISASTER RECOVERY REALITY CHECK
Following the devastating loss of life at Grenfell Tower, the subsequent Hackitt enquiry called for a ‘universal shift in culture’ into work practices. Here, Jamie Allam, Commercial Director at Amthal Fire & Security, shows what this means for FMs, who continue to be tasked with prioritising fire safety compliance on site.
It is becoming increasingly clear that the failures of Grenfell Tower fire safety extend far beyond the use of cheap cladding.
Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’ commissioned by Government, highlighted compartmentation as a key reason for the failures. Just about every protection against such a fire, from fire doors through alarms and even mains and sprinklers either did not exist or failed to function as intended.
“Hackitt called for ‘greater
transparency, accountability and collaborations,’ and a need to change work practices in the building industry.”
Hackitt called for ‘greater transparency, accountability and collaborations,’ and a need to change work practices in the building industry when it comes to fire safety.
What it also demonstrated, is that factors outside of our understanding can compromise even a solid fire plan, and ruthlessly punish any oversights made.
A harsh reality check, but those responsible for fire safety, whether in commercial, public or private sector capability, must hold themselves and facilities to the highest standards. And a fire prevention strategy, incorporating regular maintenance checks, must become a first priority.
Back to basics The significance of the tragedy will undoubtedly be felt by facility and security managers, where fire safety and the duty of care to staff and guests will fall into their remit.
Many will now be charged to ensure their own fire safety and train their own staff, to ensure standards are achieved with regular maintenance programmes in place.
26 | TOMORROW’S FM
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