Arrow estates

Fire Risk Assessment for Arrow Estates

Project Overview

Property: Purpose Built Blocks of Flats (Up To Four Storeys) Type 1 – Common Parts Only (Non-Destructive)

Industry: Accommodation

Contract Awarded to: RiskFire

Type of Contract: FRA

Project Scope: FRA

Location: Worcester

Project Duration: 1 day

Scope of Works

RiskFire was commissioned to conduct a comprehensive Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) for the communal areas of a residential block of flats managed by Arrow Estates. The assessment aimed to identify potential fire risks, ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, and provide recommendations to enhance overall safety

Challenges

The assessment revealed several significant challenges, including:

• A previous fire incident caused by arson (16/05/2011), emphasizing the urgency of improving fire safety measures.
• Lack of electrical testing, creating potential ignition hazards.
• A void in the compartment ceiling, compromising fire containment.
• Inadequate fire-resistant doors for the electrical cupboard.
• Faulty emergency lighting.
• Absence of essential signage, including "no smoking" signs, directional emergency signage, and fire action notices.
• Lack of a fire alarm zone plan at the fire alarm panel.
• No established fire safety arrangements policy.
• Incomplete maintenance records for smoke/fire detection systems, alarms, and emergency lighting.
• Smoke vents and ventilation systems in need of servicing.
• Insufficient inspection of escape routes, exits, and gangways.

Solutions Provided

RiskFire implemented a tailored approach to address the identified challenges:

• Electrical Testing and Repairs: Recommended immediate electrical testing to eliminate potential ignition sources.
• Compartmentation Restoration: Advised repairs to seal the ceiling void and restore compartmentation integrity.
• Door Upgrades: Specified the installation of fire-resistant doors for the electrical cupboard.
• Emergency Lighting Repairs: Repaired and tested faulty emergency lighting to ensure operational reliability.
• Signage Installation: Installed "no smoking" signs, directional emergency signage, and updated fire action notices.
• Zone Plan Development: Designed and placed a fire alarm zone plan at the alarm panel for clarity during emergencies.
• Policy Creation: Developed a comprehensive fire safety arrangements policy.
• Testing and Maintenance: Established a schedule for regular testing of smoke/fire detection systems and emergency lighting, with proper record-keeping.
• Smoke Ventilation Servicing: Arranged servicing for smoke vents and ventilation systems to ensure functionality.
• Escape Route Inspections: Recommended frequent inspections of escape routes, exits, and gangways to maintain clear and accessible pathways.

Results

The implementation of RiskFire’s recommendations resulted in significant improvements, including:

• Enhanced fire safety compliance and reduced risks of future incidents.
• Restored compartmentation and effective containment measures.
• Fully functional emergency lighting and smoke ventilation systems.
• Clear signage and action plans for both residents and emergency responders.
• Regular testing and maintenance practices ensuring ongoing safety.

Conclusion

Through proactive assessment and comprehensive solutions, RiskFire provided Arrow Estates with a safer living environment for residents while ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. This case highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate fire risks and improve emergency preparedness.

This FRA was completed using the Firehub app. 

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