Feature


During the building’s initial construction, major contractors should seek to install fire rated access panels where third-party certification can be supplied.


An example of this third-party certification is the Certifire scheme, which ensures the quality and reliability of fire protection products, thus guaranteeing that these have been rigorously tested and comply with relevant safety standards within the Building Safety Act.


Certifire accredited access panels can ensure the highest standards of safety and protection against the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire through swift containment, which in turn, can minimise property damage and save lives.


The installation of these panels will ensure that facilities managers will always be able to provide third party certification for these products at the time of installation, which provides them peace of mind within the buildings they maintain, and ensures that adherence to the Golden Thread and legal compliance is achieved.


In order to achieve this, facilities managers should maintain an up-to-date record of access panel locations, which clearly specifies their purpose.


This information – which will be proactively shared by


conscientious suppliers - helps in identifying access points which provide crucial entry to fire suppression systems, allowing easy inspection, repair and maintenance, as well as enabling emergency responders quick and efficient access during the event of a fire.


In addition, any modifications made to access panels, such as installations, maintenance,


relocations or upgrades, should be promptly recorded. This documentation aids in tracking


the history and condition


of


access


panels, ensuring


that


maintenance is conducted timely and potential fire safety risks are swiftly addressed.


Finally, irrespective of the industry, compliance with fire safety regulations is essential.


Accurate documentation of access panels assists facility managers in demonstrating compliance to regulatory authorities during building inspections and audits. inadequate


Outdated or documentation


can lead to compliance issues, costly penalties, or in worst case scenarios, compromised fire safety.


Third-party Certifire tested and accredited access panels can ensure the highest standards of safety and protection against the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire through swift containment, which in turn,


can minimise property damage and save lives.


Access panels stand as vital components in the broader framework of fire safety within commercial and industrial buildings,


through facilitating routine inspections, efficient


maintenance, and swift access during firefighting efforts in the event of an emergency.


The relationship between fire rated access panels and the Golden Thread highlights the necessity of meticulous record- keeping throughout the building’s lifecycle, which not only helps in maintaining regulatory compliance, but also enhances the overall fire safety management of the building.


By prioritising this, facilities managers can plan an essential role in fortifying the building’s fire safety resilience, create a safer environment for occupants and ensure that fire safety obligations are met.


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