Fire Strategies

A fire strategy is a comprehensive document that outlines the overall approach to fire safety for a building. It includes detailed analysis and recommendations on various aspects such as:

• Building Design and Construction: How the building’s design and materials contribute to fire safety.
• Compartmentation: The division of the building into fire-resistant sections to prevent the spread of fire.
• Means of Escape: Safe and efficient evacuation routes for occupants.
• Fire Detection and Alarm Systems: The systems in place to detect and alert occupants to a fire.
• Firefighting Access and Facilities: Provisions for firefighting operations, including access routes and equipment.

Fire Strategy Plan

A fire strategy plan is more focused and action-oriented. It translates the broader fire strategy into specific, actionable steps.

This plan includes:

• Implementation of Fire Safety Measures: Detailed instructions on how to implement the fire safety measures recommended in the fire strategy.
• Emergency Procedures: Clear guidelines on what to do in the event of a fire, including evacuation procedures and roles of personnel.
• Maintenance and Training: Regular maintenance schedules for fire safety equipment and training programs for staff.

Why They Are Required

Both documents are essential for:

• Ensuring Safety: Protecting occupants and property by minimising fire risks and ensuring effective response in case of a fire.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting legal requirements and building regulations related to fire safety.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential fire hazards and implementing measures to mitigate them.

Who Can Carry Them Out

These documents should be prepared by competent professionals with expertise in fire safety, such as:

• Fire Safety Consultants: Experts who specialise in fire risk assessments and safety planning.
• Architects and Engineers: Professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings, ensuring fire safety is integrated from the start.

The Process

1. Assessment:
   New building: Liaise with design team to ensure all factors of fire safety required by Building Regulations are sufficiently captured for the intended use.
   Existing building: Conduct a thorough fire risk assessment to identify potential hazards.

2. Design and Planning: Develop the fire strategy, incorporating fire safety measures into the building design.
3. Implementation: Create the fire strategy plan, detailing how the measures will be put into practice.
4. Training and Drills: Advise on how to appropriately train staff on fire safety procedures and conduct regular fire drills.
5. Review and Update: Regularly review and update the documents to reflect any changes in the building or its use.

How In House Training and Consultancy Can Help

In House Training and Consultancy can assist by:

• Providing Expertise: Offering the knowledge and experience needed to develop comprehensive fire strategies and plans.
• Developing Procedures: Helping to create and implement effective fire safety procedures and emergency plans.
• Training Employees: Delivering training programs to ensure employees understand fire safety procedures and their roles in an emergency.
• Ongoing Support: Offering continuous support to keep fire safety measures and training up-to-date and compliant with regulations.