FAQs
IS PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION INCLUDED IN THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS?
Yes it has to be, right from design through to the final stages of the build. However, with the combination of trades and services interlocked throughout a building it is important that any the penetrations through fire resisting walls and floors are correctly firestopped.
Why is passive fire protection important?
Passive Fire Protection is essential in stopping the spread of smoke and fire through a building. It is needed to protect the escape routes and the building’s structure to prevent it from collapsing. If the passive fire protection is correct then it is unlikely any significant damage will arise from a fire.
How often does the law say it should be done?
There is no set time of how often a fire risk assessment must be carried out, it is down to the fire risk assessor and the particular issues found, what the property is used. However, once a fire risk assessment has been produced and the fire risk assessor put down a review or renewal this...
Does my building need a Fire Risk Assessment?
The most likely answer is yes. If your building is a domestic dwelling and a single private dwelling with no communal areas it is not required, if unsure, review Article 6 of the RRFSO.
Can I carry out my own Fire Risk Assessment?
A Fire Risk Assessment must be completed by a “Competent Person”. This means you must have the necessary knowledge, training, skills and experience. If your Fire Risk Assessment isn’t “Suitable and Sufficient” you could be prosecuted.
What is a Type 4 Fire Risk Assessment?
A Type 4 FRA is the most thorough of the four types. It includes assessing both the communal areas and a sample of the dwellings. Not only that, it includes an intrusive/destructive assessment of the passive fire measures.
What are Fire Risk Assessment Types 1, 2, 3 and 4 all about?
Type 1-4 FRA’s were introduced with the LGA Guide to Fire Safety in Purpose Built Block of Flats, and the purpose was to define the scope of these different FRA’s. Type 1 FRA would assess the communal areas only, such as shared lobby’s, stairwells, shared kitchens, bin stores, plant rooms and roof voids but not...
How am I supposed to know whether I should do it myself or whether I should appoint a competent person?
This decision should be made with consideration to the level of competency required, which would depend on the size / complexity and risk of the building to be assessed. It should be someone with the right skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours to conduct this assessment thoroughly and accurately.
How often should a carry out a property check?
It is recommended to carry out a thorough inspection every time the property becomes vacant.
What do I need to check on a void property?
Along with checking of electrics, boiler and wear and tear of the building. Fire safety checks are also important to keep in check, such as, checking of smoke detectors, Carbon monoxide detectors and generally fire integrity of the property, including party walls, roof voids and fire doors if required.