FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW - University of Kent...British Standards/Euro Norms 6.2 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service 6.3 Other legislation significant to fire safety Fire Safety

COVER SHEET FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW

in accordance with Publicly Available Standard PAS 79:2011 (British Standards Institute): Fire Risk

Assessment - Guidance and a recommended methodology (with additions)

Responsible Person: Head of Biosciences in conjunction with Council & the Vice Chancellor

Address of Property: Stacey Building, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NJ

Person(s) Consulted: Occupants; Estates staff including FM team

Assessor: Andrew Briggs, MIFSM, MIIRSM

Date of Fire Risk Assessment: 15th January to 2nd February 2016

Date of Previous Fire Risk Assessment: 30th June 2010, 15th February 2006

Suggested Date for Review: February 2018, or as per UoK SHEU official schedule, or in event of significant change

Document dated 5th February 2016

Amended 8th February (review due date error corrected)

GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

1.0 The Building

1.1 Number of floors 3

1.2 Approximate floor area: Not reviewed at this time

1.3 Construction Details: Traditional brick & concrete

1.4 Occupancy: Academic, research & administrative

2.0 The Occupants

2.1 Approximate maximum number: Not reviewed at this time (except former Hub - se 17.2 ii).

2.2 Maximum number of staff at any one time: Not reviewed at this time

2.3 Maximum number of members of public: Not reviewed at this time

(Add more detail by area or room as appropriate)

3.0 Occupants at Special Risk

3.1 Sleeping occupants: Nil

3.2 Occupants with disabilities: Nil specific; general provision

3.3 Occupants in remote areas: N/A

3.4 Others: N/A

4.0 Fire Loss Experience

4.1 Fires in past 10 years: Total 6 inside building

5 Bunsen burner related; 1 electrical fault (Hydrovane compressor)

(plus 1 vehicle set alight outside)

GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

4.1 a

Fires in 10 years prior to last fire risk assessment,

June 2010, for comparison: Total 4 inside building

(note overlap with current data at 4.1 above) 2 Bunsen burner related; 2 electrical fault (Hydrovane compressor; light fitting)

(plus 1 external litter bin)

4.2 Cost of fire losses: N/A

5.0 Other Relevant Information

5.1 Detail: N/A

6.0 Relevant Fire Safety Legislation

6.1 Primary statutory provisions etc: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, referred Official Guidance & related

British Standards/Euro Norms

6.2 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service

6.3 Other legislation significant to fire safety Fire Safety (Employees' Capabilities) (England) Regulations 2010

provisions in this building:

6.4 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service

RISK SUMMARY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

The following is based on BS 9999 concepts and principles, which may be used in conjunction with official guidance in assessing risks.

Categories relevant to the building are highlighted.Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist.

Occupant risk categories

Risk category Description Comments

A Occupants who are awake and

familiar with the building

Staff; students

B Occupants who are awake and

unfamiliar with the building

New students and occasional visitors, but under supervision

C Occupants who are likely to be

asleep:

Ci long-term individual occupancy

Cii long-term managed occupancy

Ciii short-term occupancy

D Occupants receiving medical care

E Occupants in transit

Fire growth rate(s)

Category Fire

growth

rate

Typical fire growth parameter,

kJ/s3

Locations (where specific) & categories

1 Slow 0.0029

2 Medium 0.012 Most locations

3 Fast 0.047 Minority of laboratories; some store areas

4 Ultra-fast 0.188 Possible - certain occasional laboratory situations - but subject to controls

including DSEAR risk assessment; suitable mitigation of risks will reduce

growth rate to category 2 or 3

Risk profiles: Range A1 to A3

Management level therefore required: 1

See BS 9999:2008 section 8.3

1 = fully proactive; optimally staffed, controlled & resourced etc.

2 = reliably reactive; compliant with legislation & direct requirements

( 3 = N/A, less than compliant with legislation )

RISK SUMMARY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Environmental risks Fire-fighting water runoff and temporary release of combustion products to

atmosphere. Possible release of asbestos. Depending on location and extent

of fire, possible environmental impacts from release of various substances to

soil, watercourse and/or air. Possible radiological and biological releases.

Heritage aspects Building does not have Listed status.

Business continuity (University) Minor to moderate

Business continuity (department) Serious to catastrophic

FIRE HAZARDS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

INDEX DETAIL YES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC

7.0 Electrical Sources of Ignition Continue insofar as possible to maintain/encourage safe separation distance of

½ metre between appliances and combustible materials in all areas, to ensure

that sources of heat do not arise from faulty or overloaded electrical equipment,

to ensure that all electrical fuses and circuit breakers etc are of the correct rating

and suitable for the purpose, and to switch equipment off at the end of the

working day.

7.1 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of

electrical origin?

Y The adjoining brick shed (site of a previous fire involving a compressor, now

disconnected) is currently disused.

7.2 Fixed installation periodically inspected and

tested? Portable appliance testing carried out?

Suitable policy regarding use of personal

electrical appliances? Suitable limitation of

trailing leads and adaptors?

Y Continue to ensure PAT and fixed installation testing is carried out regularly.

8.0 Smoking

8.1, 2 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a

result of smoking? Prohibited where appropriate?

Arrangements for smokers? No evidence of

breaches?

Y Ensure University smoking policy continues to be implemented, publicised and

enforced insofar as possible. See also 20.1 (1).

9.0 Arson

9.1, 2 Does basic security against arson appear

reasonable? Absence of fire load available for

ignition in vulnerable areas? (Proximity to or

presence within building)

Y

10.0 Portable Heaters & Heating Installations

10.1 Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as

practicable?

Y Continue to ensure that additional appliances are used only where strictly

necessary and with management knowledge and control.

10.2 If portable heaters are used: is the use of the

more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or lpg

appliances) avoided? Are suitable measures

taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of

combustible materials?

Maintain safe separation distance between appliances and

flammable/combustible materials. Portable electrical heaters with open

elements, such as halogen or radiant heaters, must not be used.

10.3 Are fixed heating installations subject to regular

maintenance?

Y

11.0 Cooking

11.1 Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires

as a result of cooking? Is all essential

maintenance up to date and recorded?

X

11.2 Are filters changed and ductwork cleaned

regularly? Are suitable extinguishing appliances

available?

X

12.0 Lightning

12.1 Does the building have a lightning protection

system?

Y


13.0 Housekeeping

13.1 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate? Y Ensure that housekeeping programme continues to include prompt removal of

combustible materials and waste.

13.2 Are combustible materials separated from ignition

sources?

Y Continue to maintain safe separation distance of ½ metre between appliances

and combustible materials throughout building .

13.3 Is there an avoidance of unnecessary

accumulation of combustible materials or waste?

N Remove chairs, packaging, trolley, cleaning materials, equipment etc from the

rear staircase and former Hub staircase which must must not contain

combustible materials at any time - strict requirement. See also 13.5.

Escape routes should be maintained as fire-sterile as possible; this is

especially critical in staircases and where there is no alternative

direction of escape.

13.4 Is there appropriate storage of combustible

materials?

Y Continue to ensure that open skips and other combustible materials, including in

Kier Construction's compound adjacent, are placed at least 8m from the building

and secure.

8 metre distance is understood to be a requirement of the University's

insurers; other sources specify variously from 5 to 12m.

13.5 Is there avoidance of inappropriate storage of

combustible materials?

N See 13.3 - combustible materials such as timber pallets, plastic packaging and

housekeeping materials were seen in the rear staircase on several recent

occasions. Kent Fire & Rescue Service enforcement officers require that no

items are stored in protected escape staircases, even non-combustible, since

the introduction of other materials may in effect be encouraged. It is strongly

recommended that the rear and former Hub staircases should therefore not

contain noncombustible items either, unless regular and reliable inspections can

be implemented (see 25.8).

14.0 Outside Contractor, Building Works and

Maintenance Hazards14.1 Is there satisfactory control over works carried

out in the building by maintenance personnel and

outside contractors?

Y Appropriate control (including Permits To work where appropriate) usually

administered by Estates. Biosciences should however ensure that contractors

are briefed on, and accounted for under, building Fire Emergency Plan (also that

contractors' dangerous substances are known & logged - see 15).

14.2, 3 Are adequate fire safety conditions imposed on

outside contractors?

Y As above.

15.0 Dangerous Substances

15.1 Have the hazardous properties of dangerous

substances been considered? If relevant, have

risk assessments been carried out according to

the Dangerous Substances and Explosive

Atmospheres Regulations 2002?

N DSEAR risk assessments should be carried out for all relevant substances and

conditions, taking account of aspects listed in section 15.3. In many cases, such

as small-scale use of solvents, risks may be relatively low and largely covered by

other risk assessments; some, such as use of compressed methane, will need

detailed attention.

A. Flammable compressed gases have been removed from B210

since the last fire risk assessment. B.

Continue to apply risk reduction hierarchy - eliminate, substitute,

enclose/segregate, reduce, control - including use, storage and

possible release of dangerous substances. Ensure that any release

of a dangerous substance which may give rise to risk is suitably

collected, safely contained, removed to a safe place, or otherwise

rendered safe, as appropriate. Avoid ignition sources including

electrostatic discharges. Avoid such other adverse conditions as

could result in harmful physical effects from a dangerous substance

15.2 Is there adequate information on safety provided

by the supplier on any relevant safety data sheet?

Y Continue to ensure that safety data sheets are readily available for all dangerous

substances.

15.3

Has account been taken regarding: Generic/indicative comments below are included towards

DSEAR risk assessments and control measures.● the special, technical and organisational

measures and the substances used and their

possible interactions.

Ensure that suitable special, technical and organisational measures

are provided, implemented and maintained so as to reduce risk.


● the amount of the substance involved Reduce quantities or substitute for a less volatile substance, etc.

● where the work will involve more than one

dangerous substance, the risk presented by such

substances in combination

Introduce appropriate segregation measures to ensure that

incompatible substances do not come into contact with each other.

Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the requirement

to prevent confusion between connecting devices. Risk assess and

design laboratory procedures and reactions so as to minimise risk.

Account should be taken of potentials for unintended or uncontrolled

reactions including runaways, including the effect of possible failure

of equipment or power supply.

● the arrangements for the safe handling, storage

and transport of dangerous substances and of

waste containing dangerous substances

G29, Technical Services: store all flammables in a suitable marked cabinet. See also 16.3.

● any other measures introduced as a result of the

RRO

Implement the requirement to train appropriate staff in the use of

appropriate fire fighting equipment suitable for the risks present (see

25.5).

15.4 Are there safe systems of work for maintenance,

where there is the potential for a high level of

risk?

Ensure that appropriate safe systems of work are in place and that

written instructions for the carrying out of particular high-risk work are

issued. Ensure that workers are suitably trained, informed and

instructed. Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the

requirements where power failure can give rise to the spread of

additional risk; if/where critical, equipment and protective systems

must be capable of safe operation independently of the rest of the

building in the event of power failure. Ensure that appropriate

requirements for emergency manual override, shutdown etc are

safely met.

15.5 Are sufficient control measures in place to

counter the likelihood that an explosive

atmosphere will occur and its persistence

including adjacent areas?

See also 23.1. Prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere, including e.g. by

appropriate ventilation.

15.6 Are sufficient control measures in place to

counter the likelihood that ignition sources,

including electrostatic discharges, will be present

and become active and effective

Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the

requirements where on operation of emergency shutdown,

accumulated energy must be dissipated as quickly and as safely as

possible or isolated so that it no longer constitutes a hazard.

15.7 Has account been taken regarding the scale of

the anticipated effects?

Where relevant, reduce to a minimum the number of persons

exposed in the risk area. Introduce additional measures to avoid the

propagation of fires or explosions. Provide explosion pressure relief

arrangements. Provide explosion suppression equipment. Provide

plant which is constructed so as to withstand the pressure likely to be

produced by an explosion. Provide suitable personal protective

equipment.

15.8 Is sufficient additional safety information available

to enable the assessment to be completed?

Provide appropriate safety information as full implementation of

DSEAR risk assessments progresses.

16.0 Other Significant Risks

16.1 Are there other significant ignition sources

present?

Y Ensure all laboratory equipment etc. is maintained according to useage and

manufacturers' instructions, and kept clean at all times.

16.2 Are there other significant fuels present? N Labs that have been refurbished in recent years have local emergency gas

shutoff controls. See also 24 suppl. 2.


16.3 Other risks relating to fire Various non-flammable compressed gas cylinders are present within

laboratories, including those recently refurbished. These should preferably be

relocated outside the building and the gases piped in.

FIRE PROTECTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT


17.0 Means of Escape from Fire

17.1 Is it considered that the building is provided with

reasonable means of escape in case of fire?

Y Following the previous fire risk assessment, several freezers have been

removed from escape routes and the main rear staircase.

17.2 i Adequate design of escape routes? (Calculate

for room and premises occupancy numbers &

types, where relevant.)

Y

17.2 i

suppl.

Is a suitable assembly point specified? Y Sunken garden NE of main entrance.

17.2 ii Adequate provision of exits? (Calculate for room

and premises occupancy numbers & types,

where relevant.)

Y Note - the former Hub main entrance is no longer in use as such, but is a

designated escape route and must remain available in case of fire, unless

permissible building occupancies are reassessed definitively.

The former Hub entrance and fire exit could be closed off if

desired, on condition that a limit of 100 persons is applied

to the entire former Hub, that suitable changes are made

in automatic fire detection and compartmentation, and that

signage is removed accordingly. Note - according to guidance the above limit of 100 would apply to the

ground floor only, but should be taken to include the first floor since (a)

those occupants cannot be reliably expected to evacuate by the external

staircases in all instances, and (b) resorting back up the internal staircase

to escape if confronted by fire conditions on the ground floor is not

considered tenable.

17.2 ii

suppl.

In the case of roof access, are there adequate

exits/routes?

A Permit to Work system applies for roof access - account should be taken of

extended travel distances, limited audibility of fire alarm signal and Campus

Security awareness in case of fire evacuations.

17.2 iii Are exits easily and immediately openable where

necessary? (Alarm-linked features such as

electronic door release mechanisms to be

verified as compliant, functional and suitably

failsafe)

Y The fire exit door at the foot of the rear staircase should release automatically

on activation of the fire alarm (the green breakglass should not need to be

operated).

The fire exit door at the former Hub entrance is non-

compliant having two turnbuttons requiring to be opened,

but is viewed as tolerable temporarily pending

refurbishment and/or reassessment of means of escape.

17.2 iv Do escape exits open in the direction of escape

where necessary?

Y

17.2 v Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire

exits where necessary?

Confirmed that sliding doors have battery backup and are linked to the fire

alarm system. Information has been requested from Estates to confirm nature

of other failsafe arrangements.

Alternatively, doors should be openable in emergency by

outward pressure and have escape signage to that effect,

or suitable relief exit doorways should be provided.

17.2 vi Are there satisfactory means for securing exits? Y

17.2 vii Are there reasonable travel distances where

there is a single direction of travel?

Y Dead end conditions exist on all upper floors at the South end of the main block

(see also further comments at 17.2 ix)), and on the ground floor at the far end of

the former Enterprise Hub.

17.2 viii Are there reasonable travel distances where

there is an alternative means of escape?

Y Previous dead end conditions on the upper floor of the former Enterprise Hub,

although not exceeding travel distance limits, have been relieved by the

addition of external escape staircases.


17.2 ix Is there suitable protection of escape routes? N The main staircase and refuges are not fully protected at present - 201

Reception room should be half hour fire-separated from the staircase (both

doors to FD30S standard).

A. All rooms off the L1 & L2 South dead-end corridors

(main block) should be designated fire doors; alternatively,

(a) all rooms (as well as the corridors) should be provided

with smoke detectors, or (b) the corridors could be

considered as "rooms" and the rooms "inner rooms" off

them (i.e. tolerable at present if requirements in 17.2 ix

suppl. 1 below are met).

B. Some fire doors to rooms are of older design, lacking

intumescent strips and smoke seals - tolerable if

maintained in good condition such that door leaves self-

close fully into rebates and latch shut.

C. The Stores hatch shutter does not require full fire

resistance for life safety purposes, given dual escape

directions in the corridor outside, but provides protection

and should be shut if safe to do so in the event of the fire

alarm sounding.

D. External windows within 1.8m of the external escape

staircases are fire resisting.

E. Designated fire doors must not be wedged or propped

open at any time.

17.2 ix

suppl. 1

Are escape routes suitably/tolerably fire sterile? N (1) Remove freezer from South corridor on L1, or enclose in fire resisting

construction. (2) Remove photocopier from South corrdor on L2, or enclose in

fire resisting construction. (3) Electrical control units above the door at the foot

of the internal staircase in the former Enterprise Hub should be enclosed in fire

resisting materials. (4) Remove open pinboard from ground floor foyer - no

open combustible postings are permissible in the staircase enclosure.

A. Dead-end corridors and escape staircases should be

maintained fire-sterile. Regarding actions (1) and (2), see

further comments at 17.2 ix above: option (b) is only viable

if the corridors contain lesser fire risks compared with the

rooms off them. See also 13.3.

B. The main staircase is not entirely fully fire sterile (small

social areas on ground floor and L2 including tables with

minimal leaflets etc), but tolerable with requirement (4) met

and so long as combustible materials do not proliferate

further.

17.2 ix

suppl. 2

Where automatic devices are fitted to designated

fire doors, is appropriate automatic fire detection

fitted, and are they of an appropriate type?

Y Not all to previous CFOA requirement of 1.5m, but acceptable.

17.2 x Suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms? Y B214 must be used as a store room only, i.e. not "occupied" at any time, unless

suitable provisions are made to relieve its inner room condition.

17.2 xi Are all escape routes unobstructed and safely

passable?

Y Continue to ensure that all escape routes and gangways, including through

rooms, remain unobstructed at full width at all times. The gangway through

B211 (escape route from B210) required furniture removing when inspected and

should continue to be monitored.

17.3 Is the building provided with reasonable

arrangements for occupants who may have

difficulty escaping?

Y Ramps from final exits from teaching labs lead immediately to grassed area.

Paths should be provided to allow people with mobility impairments to move to

a place of safety irrespective of ground conditions.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans must continue to

be devised for all persons with impairments who may

require assistance to escape safely.

17.3

suppl. 1

Are disabled refuges suitably provided,

protected, signed and accessible?

N Positioning of the new refuges in the rear staircase should be corrected so that

a wheelchair will not impede the escape route width.

See also 17.2 ix (1) - refuges in main staircase are

currently not sufficiently protected, and (further comment

B) not fully fire sterile, but relieved by alternative refuges in

the rear staircase and (on L2) in Ingram Phase 2.


17.3

suppl. 2

Is the EVC (emergency voice communication)

system compliant with BS 5839-9:2011 (or

functional equivalent) provided at all disabled

refuges?

Y

17.3

suppl. 3

Are provisions and resources for assisting

escape adequate for the number of people who

may require assistance?

Y Escape requirements should be reviewed in advance whenever groups of

persons with disabilities are to use the premises.

Campus Watch assistance is expected to be adequate for

normal user levels.

18.0 Measures to Limit Fire Spread and

Development18.0

suppl.

Are marked up plans available showing all fire

resisting construction?

Y Estates plans should be verified as fully correct and detailed regarding fire

compartmentation, or updated as necessary.

18.1 i Is it considered that there is compartmentation of

a reasonable standard? (Including e.g. fire-

stopping of service penetrations)

It was not possible to check passive fire protection intrusively during this fire

risk assessment. Integrity of compartmentation, voids, ventilation dampers etc

should be verified. See further comments and also 17.2 ix.

A. Likely breaches of fire compartmentation were noted in

plant rooms G06/07 and G32, and similar probably exist

elsewhere, e.g. around service penetrations.

B. Compartmentation elements such as fire doors,

partitions and fire stopping around service penetrations etc

are of some age and to an older design in some areas -

approximately tolerable for life safety puroses (see 17.2 ix)

but likely to be of poor effectiveness for property protection

and business continuity.

18.1 i

suppl.

Is there potential for fire spread between

compartments through void spaces?

See 18.1 i.

18.1 ii Is it considered that there is reasonable limitation

of linings that may promote fire spread?

Y See also 17.2 ix suppl. 1.

18.2 As far as can be reasonably ascertained, are fire

dampers provided as necessary to prevent

critical means of escape against passage of fire,

smoke and combustion products in the early

stages of a fire?

Unknown - see 18.1 i.

19.0 Escape Lighting

19.1 Is a reasonable standard of escape lighting

provided?

Y Not compliant to current standards in some areas, and should be upgraded

during future refurbishments, but appears adequate subject to ongoing checks

by Estates.

20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices

20.1 Does the building have a reasonable standard of

fire safety signs and notices?

N (1) Provide statutory/University No Smoking signs at the main entrance and (if

to be used in future) former Enterprise Hub entrance. (2) Provide "Fire escape

keep clear" sign on inner door in B211 (relief fire exit from B210). (3) Many

cross-corridor fire doors are incorrectly marked "automatic" - the missing

magnetic holdbacks should preferably be provided, or the signs corrected. (4)

Replace various missing or loose Fire Action Notices and directional escape

route signs, following the recent refurbishment work. (5) Location of the L1

refuge in the former Hub should be marked on its sign. (6) Provide "do not use

lift in event of fire" signs at both lifts on upper floors. (7) Care must be taken in

the teaching labs not to allow blinds to obscure fire exit signs.

A minority of directional escape route signs are of an older

non ISO 7010 format and should be replaced when

convenient, but are tolerable.

Various doors to plant rooms, risers etc are not marked

"Fire Door Keep Locked" but are routinely kept locked;

where this management practice is reliable, the absence of

such signs is tolerable.


20.1

suppl. 1

Are fire safety signs of appropriate size for

viewing distances?

Y

20.1

suppl. 2

Are fire safety signs specific to persons with

disabilities provided in suitable locations and

positions?

X Routes to refuges do not differ significantly from other signed escape routes.

21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire

21.1 Is a reasonable manually operated electrical fire

alarm system provided?

Y Fire alarm call point in plant room G40 should be moved to the doorway.

21.2, 3 Is automatic fire detection provided in building?

(Throughout building? Part(s) of building only?)

Is the extent of automatic fire detection generally

suitable for the occupancy and risk?

Y (1) Heat detectors in rooms such as lecture theatres and offices should

preferably be replaced with smoke detectors. (2) AFD in G14 should be

relocated away from ventilation fitting. (3) Fire alarm system should be

upgraded or replaced when possible, but remains adequate/tolerable (see

further comments).

(a) Fire alarm system was designed over 10 years ago -

detector coverage in labs and offices (mostly heat only

where provided) is not compliant with current standards,

but is viewed as sufficient at least for life safety purposes.

It is reported that at time of installation, Estates had

dispensation from KFRS to cover only escape routes due

to asbestos issues.

(b) Portakabins <5m from the building to the SW - unclear

whether fire alarm system has been extended into this

structure - noncompliant but tolerable for life safety risk if

not.

21.4 Is there a remote transmission of alarm signal?

Are measures in place relating to "call

challenging" by the Fire & Rescue Service?

Y

21 suppl.

1

Is the fire alarm system audible throughout the

premises?

Y Appears adequate, subject to ongoing verification by Estates that 65dB is

attained in all locations. In room 212, the alarm is audible may be lower -

justified on basis of operational need - staff accessing the room must be

suitably briefed.

21 suppl.

2

Is the fire alarm system perceptible throughout

the premises to persons who might not hear the

alarm signal?

N Flashing beacons should preferably be fitted at least in circulation areas and

rooms people with hearing impairments may at times occupy alone.

21 suppl.

3

If unwanted fire alarm signals occur, are they

acceptably infrequent?

Y

22.0 Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances

22.1 Is the provision of portable fire extinguishers

reasonable?

N Extinguisher provision should be reviewed and adjusted - (a) provide

extinguishers on or near the upper levels of the rear staircase, and at the former

Hub entrance fire exit; (b) reposition CO2 extinguisher in G40 plant room

adjacent to door; (c) the extent of bias towards dry powder type may no longer

be valid in some areas, given the change of use of many spaces to office use.

22.2 Are hose reels provided? N

22.3 Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily

accessible?

Y

23.0 Automatic Fixed Systems


23.1 Is there a suitable sprinkler or water based

system, gaseous local application or total

flooding provided that is adequate for the risk

present?

N Consider providing fume cupboards/hoods with suppression systems where

work undertaken carries a fire risk, especially where ducting passes through fire

compartmentation.

Any fume cupboard/hood ducting installed in future should

pass up the exterior of the building wherever practicable.

24.0 Other Fixed Systems and Equipment

24.1 Are there suitable smoke control facilities for the

risk present?

N X As per 21 suppl. 2 below, it is believed that activation of the fire alarm results in

extraction from fume cupboards etc. continuing.

24 suppl. Is there suitable provision of a fire-fighters'

switch(es) for high voltage luminous discharge

tube signs etc? Has suitable notice of these

been given to the Fire & Rescue Authority,

including switch colouring and marking?

X

24 suppl. 2 Does automatic control or shutdown of

ventilation systems in the event of fire alarm

activation result in safe conditions throughout

(e.g. fire doors unimpeded by air movements

from closing)?

Verify that BMS actions in the event of fire alarm activation result in safe

conditions throughout, including ventilation and gas shutoff.

MANAGING FIRE SAFETY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT


25.0 Procedures and Arrangements

25.1 Fire safety is managed by: Head of Biosciences and line management.

25.2 Are suitably and sufficiently competent persons

appointed to assist in undertaking and ensuring

the preventive and protective measures (i.e.

relevant general fire precautions)?

Y

25.3, 4 Is there a suitable record of fire safety

arrangements? Procedures properly

documented? Suitable arrangements for

ensuring that the premises have been evacuated?

Suitable fire assemply point(s)? Adequate

procedures for evacuation of persons with

disabilities?

Y The fire emergency plans should be reviewed for adequacy in common

with other University buildings.

25.3,4

suppl.

Are suitable and sufficient arrangements in place

for investigating fire alarm activations,

summoning the Fire & Rescue Service, meeting

them on arrival and providing relevant information

including hazards to firefighters?

Y Campus Security response. Kent Fire & Rescue Service statements, reflecting national fire

brigade policy: "From 2 April 2013, any premises reporting an

automatic fire alarm sounding will be required to confirm to 999 staff

that there is a fire, or signs of fire, before any fire fighting response

is sent", requiring "trained, designated people who can safely

investigate the cause of the fire alarm and escalate or downgrade

the situation as required".

25.5 Are persons nominated and trained to use fire

extinguishing appliances?

Y It is recommended that key laboratory staff receive hands-on training in fire

extinguisher use at not less than 3 year intervals.

Campus Watch / FM staff are nominated and trained, but cannot be

expected to enter areas of special risk to carry out first-aid

firefighting. For all

persons except those fully trained, fire extinguishers should not be

used unless necessary in order to escape.

25.6 Are persons nominated and trained to assist with

evacuation, including evacuation of persons with

disabilities?

Y Efforts should be made to appoint more fire marshals and deputies in

order to achieve full coverage of evacuation management.

Campus Security arrangements facilitate assisted evacuations

except where otherwise specified in PEEPs. Session

leaders (lecturers etc) must take reasonable responsibility for

ensuring and confirming the safe evacuation of all persons present,

but without putting themselves at risk.

25.7 Is there appropriate liaison with the Fire & Rescue

Service (e.g. any relevant notifications,

familiarization visits etc)

Y

25.8 Is a system of routine in-house, local inspections

of fire precautions implemented?

Y N Local checks and inspections of fire safety features by fire marshals or

other nominated persons should be extended throughout the building. Key

requirements of this fire risk assessment should be covered.

25 suppl. Is there local awareness of PEEP requirements

for regular building users with disabilities,

impairments and other relevant conditions?

Would such persons be identified and referred?

Y Ensure awareness and continue to identify where PEEPs might be

required; contact Michelle Dawson, SHE Unit confidentially in each case.

See also section 17.3.

26.0 Training and Drills


26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction

and training on induction?

Y

26.1

suppl.

Are all students and/or visitors given adequate

fire safety information and instruction at an

appropriate time?

Y Continue to provide adequate induction to students at the earliest

opportunity. Lecturers, tutors, seminar leaders, facilitators etc. should

deliver basic fire safety information to students on the first occasion in any

given location.

26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic fire safety

refresher instruction and training at suitable

intervals?

Y

26.3 Does all staff training (and student/visitor

information, as appropriate) provide information,

instruction or training on the following: fire risks in

the building, fire safety measures, action in the

event of fire and on hearing the alarm signal,

operation of manual call points, location and use

of fire extinguishers, means of summoning the

Fire & Rescue Service, identity of persons

nominated to assist with evacuation, identity of

persons nominated to use fire extinguishing

appliances?

Y

26.4 Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire

marshals) given additional training?

Y

26.5 Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals,

and in accordance with official guidance?

Y

26.6 When the employees or visitors of another

employer work or are accommodated in the

premises:

26.6 i Is the employer given appropriate information

(e.g. on fire risks and general fire precautions)?

Y

26.6 ii Is it ensured that the employees and visitors are

provided with adequate instructions and

information?

Y

27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance

27.1 Adequate maintenance and inspection of

premises by competent persons?

Y

27.2 Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire

detection and alarm system?

Y

27.3 Monthly and annual testing routines for

emergency lighting?

Y

27.4 Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing

appliances?

Y

27.5 Periodic inspection of external escape staircases

and gangways?

Y


27.5

suppl.

Is there adequate provision for ensuring external

escape staircases and gangways remain

passable at all material times during inclement

weather?

Implement reliable de-icing and snow clearing arrangements for external

escape staircases and walkways. Note that at times when these are not

safely passable, occupancy of teaching laboratories and L1 of the former

Hub should be limited. Estates are unlikely to be able to provide sufficient

priority for immediate occupancy.

27.6 Six-monthly testing and annual inspection of

rising mains and/or hydrants?

X

27.7 Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly

inspection and annual testing of evacuation

and/or fire-fighting lifts?

X

27.8 Weekly testing and periodic inspection of

sprinkler installations?

X

27.9 Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security

fastening?

Y

27.10 Annual inspection and test of lightning protection

systems?

Y

27.11 Other relevant inspections or tests: (including

e.g. ductwork dampers, fire shutters, venting

systems, door holdback devices, electronic door

release systems)

Y Subject to findings of 18.1i.

28.0 Records

28.1 Are appropriate records kept for:

28.1 i Fire drills? Y

28.1 ii Fire training? Y

28.1 iii Fire alarm tests? Y

28.1 iv Emergency escape lighting tests? Y

28.1 v Maintenance and testing of other fire protection

systems?

Y

29.0 Young Persons

29.1

Have the following matters been taken into

particular account in risk assessment in respect

of young persons:

29.2

the inexperience, lack of awareness of risks and

immaturity of young persons X

29.3 the fitting-out and layout of the premises X

29.4

the nature, degree and duration of exposure to

physical and chemical agents X

29.5

the form, range, and use of work equipment and

the way in which it is handled; X

29.6 the organisation of processes and activities X

29.7

the extent of the safety training provided or to be

provided to young persons X

29.8

risks from agents, processes and work listed in

the Annex to Council Directive 94/33/EC on the

protection of young people at work X


30.0 Behavioural Aspects

30.1

Is there evidence from previous fire drills and

other emergencies indicating that some

occupants may be unaware, unwilling or fail to

evacuate? (Aside from disability-related) N

30.2

Is there evidence of disregard of fire safety

provisions amongst building occupancy and/or

management? N

30.3

Is there evidence of significant human

interference with fire safety provisions? N

30.4

Are other significant behavioural aspects

foreseeable?

Y

Management should ensure no person ever sleeps on the premises, and

prevent/minimise the possibility of occupants' inebriation due to the effects

of alcohol and other substances.

INDEX DETAIL DESCRIPTION

31.0 Fire Strategy - building design/layout

31.1 The main part of the building is on three floors each served by a subdivided corridor, plus a roof plant

room (i.e. 7 in total), with two protected staircases. On L2 the main staircase links via a lecture theatre

and corridor to the adjacent Ingram Phase 2 building.

31.1a The building includes the former Enterprise Hub on two floors with a central protected staircase and two

external escape staircases.

31.2 The evacuation strategy is simultaneous and immediate for the entire building and all occupants except,

briefly, those tasked with coordinating the evacuation.

31.3 The building is adequately provided with access routes for firefighting by the Fire & Rescue Service. Fire

hydrants are available to the front of the adjacent Sports Centre and to the rear (former Giles Lane

Teaching Annexe area) and are maintained in an operational state.

32.0 Fire Strategy - systems

32.1 The fire alarm system provides for manual operation and/or automatic detection in order to give

sufficiently early warning of fire to all occupants, and is configured for immediate full alarm on activation

of any device.

32.2 Various alarm-linked devices (automatic fire doors and door locks) support the safe use of escape routes

by occupants and the tenable use of escape routes by firefighters.

33.0 Fire Strategy - particular risks

33.1 Many areas of the building contain particular risks in the form of chemical and biological agents,

specialist equipment and scientific operations/procedures involving them. A proactive safety culture

continues to be promoted. Direct fire risks are thus reduced to low or tolerable levels, and (following

completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment) only a moderate rate of fire spread can be

expected in most spaces.

33.2 Various persons with disabilities/impairments may be present at any time. Some of these may be at

significant enhanced risk due to their inability to perceive or respond to the alarm signal, or inability to self-

evacuate. However, no regular users of the building, staff or students, are known to have particularly

significant disabilities at present (subject to further and ongoing checks). Standard University procedures,

supplemented by local measures, are in place to plan and facilitate their safe evacuation.

34.0 Fire Strategy - management

34.1 Building management will maintain an active policy of suitable fire training, fire prevention, inspection,

evacuation arrangements/procedures and regular review of all these.

34.2 Evacuation is full and immediate for the entire building on activation of the fire alarm. Evacuation

arrangements include central coordination by Campus Security; sweeping of designated areas by trained

fire marshals to confirm full evacuation insofar as practicable; assistance of persons with disabilities as

necessary and/or according to individual Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans; prevention of persons

re-entering the building; etc.

31.3 Where Fire Marshalling is not practicable, standard University arrangements for lecturers/tutors/session

leaders taking reasonable reponsibility for students/attendees apply. When/where local staff are not

available, Campus Watch provide assistance to persons with disabilities.

34 suppl. Regarding business continuity comments (Risk & Fire Growth worksheet) - BFPEM Evaluator L-curve (Fire Service College, Feb

2006) predicts a moderate to high probability that a fire will be limited, based on a design fire originating in a first floor office.

34.0 Fire Strategy - significant change

34.1 This fire risk assessment must be reviewed in the event of significant change.

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

This simple risk level estimator is based on a more general health and safety risk level estimator in BS 8800.

Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist.

Potential consequences of fire ► Slight harm Moderate harm Extreme harm

Fire hazard ▼

Low Trivial OR tolerable risk * Tolerable risk Moderate risk

Medium Tolerable risk Moderate risk Substantial risk

High Moderate risk Substantial risk Intolerable risk

* at discretion of Fire Risk Assessor

Taking into account the fire prevention measures observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the

hazard from fire (probability of ignition) at this building is:

Low / highly unlikely

Medium / unlikely X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

High / likely

Taking into account the nature of the building and the occupants, as well as the fire protection and procedural arrangements

observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the consequences for life safety in the event of fire would be:

Slight harm X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

Moderate harm

Extreme harm

In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows:

Slight harm: Outbreak of fire unlikely to result in serious injury or death of any occupant (other than an occupant

sleeping in a bedroom in which a fire occurs).

Moderate harm: Outbreak of fire could result in injury of one or more occupants, but it is unlikely to involve multiple


fatalities.

Extreme harm: Significant potential for serious injury or death of one or more occupants.

Accordingly, it is considered that the risk to life from fire at this building is:

Trivial

Tolerable X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

Moderate

Substantial

Intolerable

A suitable risk-based control plan should involve effort and urgency that is proportional to risk. The following risk-based

control plan is based on one advocated by BS 8800 for general health and safety risks:

Risk Level Action and Timescale

Trivial No action is required and no additional detailed records need be kept.

Tolerable No major additional controls required. However, there may be a need for consideration

of improvements that involve minor or limited cost, and various corrective actions may

be required.

Moderate It is essential that efforts are made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures should

be implemented within a defined time period.

Where moderate risk is associated with consequences that constitute extreme harm, further

assessment may be required to establish more precisely the likelihood of harm as a basis

for determining the priority for improved control measures.

Substantial Considerable resources may have to be allocated to reduce the risk. If the building is

unoccupied, it should not be occupied until the risk has been reduced. If the building is

occupied, urgent action should be taken.


Intolerable Building (or relevant area) should not be occupied until the risk is reduced.

Any significant change, occurrence, finding or development should be reported

immediately to the University’s Safety, Health & Environment Unit so that mitigating action

can be taken and this Fire Risk Assessment reviewed and updated.

Important note: this assessment of risk is made on a probable or 'best endeavour' basis, since this report is based on a sampling exercise.

It is possible that greater risks remain undetected in areas or aspects that have not yet been accessed or addressed.

ACTION PLAN FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

ORGANISATION: University of Kent ASSESSOR: Andrew Briggs

BUILDING: Stacey DATE: 5th February 2016

ACTION PLANNote - only remedial/salient items appear below. Various other, general requirements are also necessary - see previous worksheets.

REFERENCE ACTION REQUIRED PRIORITY * RESPONSIBILITY TARGET DATE COMPLETE6 figure numbers =

Estates Helpdesk

Service Requests

(or √ = carried

forward to Estates

spreadsheet **)

13.0 Housekeeping

13.3 Remove chairs, packaging, trolley, cleaning materials, equipment etc from the rear

staircase and former Hub staircase which must must not contain combustible

materials at any time - strict requirement. See also 13.5.

1A Biosciences Immediate/

urgent and

ongoing

15.0 Dangerous Substances

15.1 DSEAR risk assessments should be carried out for all relevant substances and

conditions, taking account of aspects listed in section 15.3. In many cases, such

as small-scale use of solvents, risks may be relatively low and largely covered by

other risk assessments; some, such as use of compressed methane, will need

detailed attention.

1A/B Biosciences Short term

15.3 G29, Technical Services: store all flammables in a suitable marked cabinet. 2A/B Biosciences Immediate

17.0 Means of Escape from Fire

17.2 iii The fire exit door at the foot of the rear staircase should release automatically on

activation of the fire alarm (the green breakglass should not need to be operated).

2A Estates Short term √

17.2 ix The main staircase and refuges are not fully protected at present - 201 Reception

room should be half hour fire-separated from the staircase (both doors to FD30S

standard).


17.2 ix suppl. 1 (1) Remove freezer from South corridor on L1, or enclose in fire resisting

construction. (2) Remove photocopier from South corrdor on L2, or enclose in fire

resisting construction. (3) Electrical control units above the door at the foot of the

internal staircase in the former Enterprise Hub should be enclosed in fire resisting

materials. (4) Remove open pinboard from ground floor foyer - no open

combustible postings are permissible in the staircase enclosure.

(1, 2, 4) 1A/2B

(3) 2A/B

(1, 2, 4)

Biosciences

(3) Estates

(1, 2) Short

term, urgent

(3) Short term

(4) Immediate

(1, 2, 3) √

17.3 Ramps from final exits from teaching labs lead immediately to grassed area. Paths

should be provided to allow people with mobility impairments to move to a place of

safety irrespective of ground conditions.



17.3 suppl. 1 Positioning of the new refuges in the rear staircase should be corrected so that a

wheelchair will not impede the escape route width.


18.0 Measures to Limit Fire Spread and Development

18.1 i It was not possible to check passive fire protection intrusively during this fire risk

assessment. Integrity of compartmentation, voids, ventilation dampers etc should

be verified. See further comments and also 17.2 ix.

2A/B Estates Medium term √

20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices

20.1 (1) Provide statutory/University No Smoking signs at the main entrance and (if to

be used in future) former Enterprise Hub entrance. (2) Provide "Fire escape keep

clear" sign on inner door in B211 (relief fire exit from B210). (3) Many cross-

corridor fire doors are incorrectly marked "automatic" - the missing magnetic

holdbacks should preferably be provided, or the signs corrected. (4) Replace

various missing or loose Fire Action Notices and directional escape route signs,

following the recent refurbishment work. (5) Location of the L1 refuge in the former

Hub should be marked on its sign. (6) Provide "do not use lift in event of fire" signs

at both lifts on upper floors. (7) Care must be taken in the teaching labs not to

allow blinds to obscure fire exit signs.

(1, 5) 2B

(2) 2A

(3, 4) 2A/B

(6) 1A

(1) 522706

(2) 522707

(3) 522708

(4) 522709

(5) 522710

(6) 522730

(7) Biosciences

(5) Ongoing

21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire

21.1 Fire alarm call point in plant room G40 should be moved to the doorway. 2A/1B Estates Short term √

21.2, 3 (1) Heat detectors in rooms such as lecture theatres and offices should preferably

be replaced with smoke detectors. (2) AFD in G14 should be relocated away from

ventilation fitting. (3) Fire alarm system should be upgraded or replaced when

possible, but remains adequate/tolerable (see further comments).

2A/B Estates Medium term √

21 suppl. 2 Flashing beacons should preferably be fitted at least in circulation areas and rooms

people with hearing impairments may at times occupy alone.

2 to 3A Estates Medium term √

22.0 Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances

22.1 Extinguisher provision should be reviewed and adjusted - (a) provide extinguishers

on or near the upper levels of the rear staircase, and at the former Hub entrance

fire exit; (b) reposition CO2 extinguisher in G40 plant room adjacent to door; (c) the

extent of bias towards dry powder type may no longer be valid in some areas,

given the change of use of many spaces to office use.

1A/2B Estates Short term √

23.0 Automatic Fixed Systems


23.1 Consider providing fume cupboards/hoods with suppression systems where work

undertaken carries a fire risk, especially where ducting passes through fire

compartmentation.

2A/B

recommen-

dation

Biosciences Ongoing

Other Fixed Systems and Equipment

24 suppl. 2 Verify that BMS actions in the event of fire alarm activation result in safe conditions

throughout, including ventilation and gas shutoff.

2-3A/2B Estates & SHE

Unit

Short term

25.0 Procedures and Arrangements

25.3, 4 The fire emergency plans should be reviewed for adequacy in common with other

University buildings.

2A/B SHE Unit Short to

medium term

25.5 It is recommended that key laboratory staff receive hands-on training in fire

extinguisher use at not less than 3 year intervals.

2-3A/B

recommendationBiosciences Ongoing

25.6 Efforts should be made to appoint more fire marshals and deputies in order to

achieve full coverage of evacuation management.

2A Biosciences Short term and

ongoing

25.8 Local checks and inspections of fire safety features by fire marshals or other

nominated persons should be extended throughout the building. Key requirements

of this fire risk assessment should be covered.

2A/B Biosciences Ongoing

27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance

27.5 suppl. Implement reliable de-icing and snow clearing arrangements for external escape

staircases and walkways. Note that at times when these are not safely passable,

occupancy of teaching laboratories and L1 of the former Hub should be limited.

Estates are unlikely to be able to provide sufficient priority for immediate

occupancy.

1A Biosciences (&

Estates depending

on outcome)

Immediate and

ongoing

35.0 Fire Strategy - significant change

34.1 This fire risk assessment must be reviewed in the event of significant change. 1A/B All Ongoing

* PRIORITY (N.B. approximately to Fire Service College Fire Safety Engineering Division scale, not PAS 79)

Category A. Fire Risk to Persons:

1A - A serious life safety risk and/or a major, serious or overt contravention of current fire safety

legislation and/or official guidance.

This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority.

2A - An important life safety issue and/or a contravention of current fire safety legislation and/or official

guidance, that may lead to enforcement action if not addressed.

This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay.


3A - A significant life safety issue which, in combination with other significant findings, may result in an

increased risk to persons.

Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire safety practice.

4A - A life safety issue recommended for consideration in accordance with good fire safety practice.

Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate.

Category B. Fire Risk to Property, Business Continuity, Environment, Amenity, Heritage etc.

1B - A serious risk of damage by fire (with possible legal implications, depending on the enforcing

authority involved).

This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority.

2B - An important potential fire damage issue (with possible legal implications, depending on the

enforcing authority involved).

This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay.

3B - A significant potential fire damage issue which, in combination with other significant findings,may

result in an increased risk to the property.

Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire protection/prevention

practice.

4B - A property protection issue recommended for consideration as a medium of longer term objective in

accordance with good fire prevention/protection practice.

Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate.

** Capital items are subject to a further scored priority system via the Estates

fire safety planning spreadsheet

Documents

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW - University of Kent...British Standards/Euro Norms 6.2 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service 6.3 Other legislation significant to fire safety Fire Safety