Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

How Do Fire Dampers Prevent the Spread of Fire?

Ensuring the safety of both individuals and property in any building is important and this includes implementing fire safety measures. Buildings often include systems for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), which feature ducts for the distribution and extraction of air. These ducts play a key role in maintaining indoor air quality and a comfortable environment. However, they can also become key areas that enable fire to spread. To mitigate this, devices called fire dampers are installed within the ductwork. Fire dampers prevent the spread of fire by automatically closing off air passages, thereby preventing the movement of flames, smoke or harmful gases.

This article looks at how fire dampers prevent the spread of fire, explores what they are, reviews the advantages of using them in HVAC systems and the UK regulations governing their use.

How do Fire Dampers Prevent the Spread of Fire?

Fire dampers prevent the spread of fire within a building’s ventilation system. These fire safety devices include several elements:

• Frame: The frame of the damper is usually a rectangle or square and is made from materials that can withstand high temperatures, such as galvanized or stainless steel.
  
• Blade: Positioned within the frame, these flat panels can move to open or seal off the damper, stopping the spread of fire and smoke.
  
• Fusible Link or Actuator: The fusible link or actuator is the operational mechanism of the fire damper, triggering its closure during a fire:
  
  • Fusible Link: Inside the damper, this metal alloy melts at a specific temperature (typically around 74°C), which then closes the damper blades.
    
  • Actuator: Electronic or pneumatic actuators are devices that prompt the blades to shut, activated by the building’s fire alarm or fire protection system.

Buildings may also employ dual-purpose fire and smoke dampers that can detect both temperature increases and smoke presence.

Benefits of Fire Dampers Preventing the Spread of Fire

Installing fire dampers in HVAC systems brings many advantages, including:

• Reducing the extent of damage to the property and protecting its contents.
• Extending the amount of time for workers to evacuate safely, while also assisting firefighting efforts in managing and extinguishing fires more effectively.
• Maintaining clear evacuation routes, like hallways and staircases, so they are free from smoke, ensuring visibility and breathable air.

Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations

Fire dampers have to be correctly installed, maintained and tested by qualified technicians to ensure they remain in good working order and comply with the latest building and fire safety regulations.

These key regulations and building codes for fire dampers include the following:

• Building Regulations 2010 (England and Wales) – Approved Document B (Fire Safety): This guideline refers to the role of fire dampers in preventing the spread of fire through HVAC ducts.
• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: This fire safety order mandates the ‘responsible person’ to conduct a fire risk assessment and implement necessary fire safety measures, which may include fire dampers.
• BS 9999:2017 – Fire Safety in the Design, Management and Use of Buildings: BS 9999 offers advice on designing, managing and using buildings to ensure fire safety for all occupants. It specifies requirements for fire dampers’ installation, inspection, testing and maintenance within a building’s ventilation system.
• BS EN 1366-2:2015: Fire Resistance Tests for Service Installations: This European Standard outlines the procedures to assess fire dampers’ fire resistance.
• BS 9990:2015 – Non-automatic Fire-fighting Systems in Buildings Code of Practice: Primarily focusing on fire-fighting systems, BS 9990 also covers building design and construction related to fire safety, including the use of fire dampers.
• HVCA DW/145: Issued by the Heating and Ventilating Contractors’ Association, this document provides best practices for the installation, maintenance and testing of fire and smoke dampers.
• Manufacturers’ Installation Instructions: This type of documentation details the testing conditions and installation requirements for dampers to ensure they work correctly.

Enforcement

It is the responsibility of building owners and managers to guarantee that fire dampers are properly installed, regularly maintained and inspected in line with the above guidelines and legislation. Local building control agencies and the Fire and Rescue Service are typically in charge of enforcing these regulations. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to legal action, which might include penalties or orders to undertake corrective measures.

To conclude, the saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ is especially relevant in the context of fire safety, where fire dampers play an important role in proactive preventative fire safety measures.

It is useful to understand fire dampers and their role in fire safety, especially if you work in building management, construction or maintenance. Our approved and accredited online Fire Marshal/Warden Course for staff or face-to-face Fire Marshal/Warden Courses can help you understand fire safety and ensure you are compliant with fire safety regulations.

If you would like additional information, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling us on 01327 552160, emailing us at hello@smarthorizons.co.uk, getting in touch via live chat or filling in our web contact form.  

Related Links

• Fire Safety in Construction
• Practical Fire Safety in Construction

The post How do fire dampers prevent the spread of fire? appeared first on Fire Training Company.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Fire Safety for Holiday Lets

Holiday Lets include accommodation such as apartments, lodges, cottages and glamping pods. Owners and managers of these holiday lets are responsible for fire safety and identifying and addressing fire risks to guarantee the safety of their guests.

This responsibility involves adhering to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order) 2005 in England and Wales, which applies to all holiday lets. As part of this compliance, owners and managers will need to create a detailed, regularly updated fire risk assessment, along with mitigating identified fire risks and implementing effective fire safety protocols, such as maintaining fire safety equipment so it is in optimal condition and ensuring guests understand any emergency fire procedures.

From 1 October 2023, new UK Government guidelines for fire safety for holiday lets introduced tailored rules based on the size and layout of the property. These guidelines cater to holiday lets hosting up to 10 people and feature specific criteria for properties with up to four bedrooms on the first floor, including individual units within converted or purpose-built blocks. The Home Office’s guide: “Making your small paying-guest-accommodation safe from fire“, offers comprehensive details on fulfilling fire safety obligations under the Fire Safety Order. This document includes a handy fire risk assessment checklist template.

Properties with open-plan designs, those with more than four bedrooms, or those accommodating over 10 guests are subject to a different set of guidelines outlined in the “Fire Safety Risk Assessment: Sleeping Accommodation“.

Non-compliance with the Fire Safety Order and new regulations can lead to consequences, including enforcement action, prosecution, fines or even imprisonment.

In the next section of this article, we will provide practical advice for fire safety for holiday lets, including conducting a fire risk assessment in your holiday let, emphasising the importance of implementing fire safety measures and ensuring your property complies with legal and safety standards. Please note that this information serves as general guidance, but we recommend that you conduct your own research too.

Recommendations for your Fire Risk Assessment and Fire Safety Measures

• Identifying guests with special evacuation needs upon booking.
• Providing accessible fire safety and evacuation information for guests.
• Installing comprehensive fire alarms along with clear evacuation routes.
• Properties should have doors or modifications offering 30 minutes of fire protection along escape routes.
• Emergency escape lighting should be installed in bedrooms.
• It is advised to equip the property with essential firefighting tools like extinguishers and fire blankets.
• Ensure regular testing and maintenance of all fire safety equipment.
• Smoke and heat alarms should be interconnected and installed in all high-risk areas, including kitchens and living spaces.
• The property should enforce a strict no-smoking policy.
• Conduct annual inspections of heating systems.
• Adhere to electrical safety standards.
• Prohibit open flames, such as candles.
• Ensure easy evacuation and ensure evacuation routes are kept clear of rubbish and objects.
• Promote safe cooking practices.
• Complying with furniture and furnishings fire safety regulations.
• Manage seasonal fire risks appropriately, such as extra lights and decorations at Christmas or barbecues and fire pits in the garden in the summer.
• Provide fire safety training for staff
• Vet contractors for fire safety compliance.

As the owner or manager of a holiday let, it’s your legal duty under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order) 2005 and the new guidelines effective from 1 October 2023 to be responsible for fire safety for your holiday let, this includes, conducting a thorough fire risk assessment and taking decisive steps towards fire prevention and protection. This not only ensures the safety and security of your guests but also demonstrates your commitment to complying with regulatory standards.

Enhance your event’s fire safety protocols with our IFE-approved and CPD-accredited online Fire Marshal/Warden Course for staff, or opt for our customisable face-to-face Fire Marshal/Warden Courses, tailored specifically to your venue, to ensure the safety of your guests and staff.

Alternatively, if you would like additional information about your fire training requirements, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling us on 01327 552160, emailing us at hello@smarthorizons.co.uk, getting in touch via live chat or filling in our web contact form.  

Related Links

• Fire Safety in Hotels
• Fire Risk Assessments for Landlords
• Fire Safety for Landlords

The post Fire Safety for Holiday Lets appeared first on Fire Training Company.

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Fire Safety at Events

Events of various sizes and types often feature many people, temporary setups, vehicles and food service operations. These elements can increase the risk of fire, making fire safety a crucial aspect of event organisation. Fire safety at events involves conducting fire risk assessments, adopting preventive actions and establishing response plans to minimise fire-related dangers. Moreover, fire safety at events is essential not only for legal compliance but also to protect staff, attendees and the event venue.

Gaining an understanding of the legal framework for fire safety at events is vital. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets out the fire safety regulations. This law mandates that event organisers appoint a ‘responsible person(s)’ tasked with performing fire risk assessments and implementing required fire safety protocols to protect all areas of the event.

This article looks at key aspects of fire safety at events, emphasising the importance of fire risk assessments. This process entails identifying potential fire sources and those at risk, evaluating the chances of a fire occurring and its potential effects on attendees. We also discuss various fire safety actions, such as ensuring the availability of fire extinguishers, keeping evacuation paths clear, using fire-resistant materials and offering fire safety training to staff. These steps help event organisers create a safer environment for everyone involved.

Risk Assessment for Fire Safety at Events

Conducting a fire safety risk assessment is a critical step in ensuring fire safety at events. It involves analysing the event’s scale, location, activities and attendee demographics to pinpoint fire risks, assess the associated dangers and devise strategies to reduce or eliminate these risks. Engaging a professional for the risk assessment can be advantageous.

The assessment process includes:

1. Identify Fire Hazards, including:

• Ignition sources (e.g., electrical devices, pyrotechnics)
• Fuel sources (e.g. waste, props and gas supplies)
• Oxygen sources

2. Identifying People at Risk:

• Participants (including those more vulnerable)
• Employees and performers
• Nearby individuals

3. Evaluating Risks and Determining Precautions:

• Estimating the likelihood and potential impact of a fire
• Implementing essential fire safety measures (e.g. fire safety equipment, fire detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting and escape routes)

4. Documentation, Planning and Training:

• Recording findings and measures taken
• Creating an emergency plan
• Providing fire safety training to staff and volunteers

5. Review:

• Reassessing the fire risk assessment

Preventive Measures for Fire Safety at Events

Effective preventive strategies are key to fire safety at events, including:

• Installing fire alarm systems and automated detection devices like smoke and heat sensors to quickly alert attendees to fires.
• Utilising fire suppression tools, such as sprinklers and extinguishers suitable for specific hazards, ensuring they are accessible and functional.
• Maintaining clear signage, evacuation routes and assembly points.
• Ensuring easy access to fire exits and having enough trained fire wardens relative to the event size.
• Keeping ignition and fuel sources apart.
• Conducting regular maintenance and safety checks on electrical equipment.
• Using fire-retardant materials for decorations, curtains and temporary structures.

Comprehending legal responsibilities, performing thorough fire risk assessments, implementing preventive measures and preparing for emergency responses are crucial for fire safety at events. Integrating these practices into your event planning is essential for the well-being of all attendees and the venue.

Enhance your event’s fire safety protocols with our IFE-approved and CPD-accredited online Fire Marshal/Warden Course for staff, or opt for our customisable face-to-face Fire Marshal/Warden Courses, tailored specifically to your venue, to ensure the safety of your guests and staff.

Alternatively, if you would like additional information about your fire training requirements, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling us on 01327 552160, emailing us at hello@smarthorizons.co.uk, getting in touch via live chat or filling in our web contact form.  

Related Links

• What are the Main Causes of Fire in the Hospitality Industry?
• How Many Fire Marshals do I Need?  

The post Fire Safety at Events appeared first on Fire Training Company.

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Emergency Grab Bags

In fire emergencies, every second counts. Preparing in advance is crucial for safety, and one aspect of this preparation is having an emergency grab bag ready. Our in-depth article on our Smart Horizons website looks in more detail at the significance of these emergency grab bags for anybody who is responsible for fire safety, such as fire wardens and marshals and how it can improve your survival and minimise your risks.

The article outlines what an emergency grab bag is and its key components, which may include:

• PPE: Items like smoke masks and fire-resistant gloves.
• Communication Tools: A mobile phone with a charger and a whistle.
• Fire Emergency Necessities: Essentials like a flashlight, fire-resistant blanket, and a basic tool kit.
• Food and Water: Should be non-perishable
• First Aid Supplies: Basic medical items such as bandages.

The article also goes into more detail about what practical steps you can take so you can be ready for a fire emergency including how to assemble an emergency grab bag, ensuring all staff members are educated about the emergency grab bag and regularly reviewing its content.

Read the full article: Emergency grab bags: Be prepared for the unexpected

Our face-to-face fire training courses are delivered bespoke to your workplace and cover a range of topics, including fire safety protocols, emergency response procedures, proper handling of fire extinguishers, evacuation techniques, and awareness of potential fire hazards in different settings. Additionally, these courses provide hands-on training, practical exercises, and the opportunity to ask any questions. If you would like to find out more about our face-to-face fire safety courses, you can browse our selection of courses.

Alternatively if you would like additional information about your fire training requirements, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling us on 01327 552160, email us at hello@smarthorizons.co.uk, or get in touch via live chat or fill in our web contact form.  

Related Links

• What are the Different Classes of Fire?
• Fire Safety in the Workplace: A Guide
• Fire Safety Quiz
• Fire Safety Tips: Top 10

The post Emergency Grab Bags: What are they? appeared first on Fire Training Company.

The law is very clear about fire safety for employees and it states that suitable measures must be in place to ensure that staff are appropriately informed of the fire procedures. Sensibly then, a suitably informed team is achieved most easily by providing fire safety training in the workplace (to an appropriate level) and recording what was done to ensure the team were fully aware of the fire procedures, so that you can evidence it.

Fire Safety training for staff in the workplace

For the employer, fire safety training for employees is something that must be done. However, we often come across employers that see it as a ‘necessary evil’. Yes, it has a cost in terms of both a financial outlay (although this is often less than people think) and it takes up time for employees to be away from their jobs, although an online option is available which makes this less of a problem. However, if you do not consider the benefits fully, it is no wonder that training employees in fire safety is sometimes seen as a hoop you need to jump through to meet the requirements of the law.

Fire Safety Tips in the Workplace

• Within any business someone will be the ‘Responsible Person’ and this is usually one of the directors or owner. When it says ‘responsible’ it means exactly that and they are accountable should there be an incident involving fire safety. If there were to be a fire, then the responsible person would probably need to demonstrate due diligence and that would be hard to do with incomplete training records or inadequately trained staff. The more that you can show you have taken appropriate precautions the better.

• The cost of a fire is catastrophic for most businesses. When a business suffers a fire related incident it can mean financial ruin. The insurance may well pay out but the down time, the logistics of replacing valuable equipment, the need to rebuild, repair or just re-decorate and many other factors can potentially cause closure. A trained person is far more likely to respond quickly and appropriately to an incident and not only that but, as the next section discusses, be your best defence against a potential fire.

• When you train your team in fire safety in the workplace you will probably need additional training for some of them to become designated Fire Marshals. There is nothing to stop you training more of your team as Fire Marshals though and the better people are trained, the more proactive they become. This could cost a lot less than you think and in some cases even exactly the same as training the lower level. There are two very real benefits to having more Fire Marshals trained level people than you need.

• You are never short of Fire Marshals regardless of the circumstances. While you will still need to have designated Marshals you will also have enough trained people to cover as needed.

• Most importantly you will increase the level of proactive fire prevention in your whole team. When you have a culture of fire prevention in the employees, they will develop ownership of the needs of fire safety. Our trainers are on site 5 days a week in various business from nursery schools to major industrial sites and they regularly see infringements of fire safety rules such as cluttered exits and out of place safety equipment. It is hardly surprising in a busy workplace that these things happen but it is quite a scary thought that nobody had solved the problem. A proactive, well trained, team may just be the difference between a fire starting and it being prevented in the first place.

Well trained staff have higher job satisfaction than untrained ones and that leads to better retention. Ask any human resources professional and they will tell you that training really does make employees feel valued, and that generates loyalty and job satisfaction. Training is also something that contributes to a positive employee culture which is known to increase performance.

Fire safety training for your staff

Whatever you decide about fire safety training for employees, you must act on it, ensure it is in place and that all your team are trained. So rather than look on it as a necessary evil to be completed, why not look at it from the point of view of the potential benefits to the business?

Fire safety training for your employees, particularly fire marshal training, not only means they will react better if there is a fire, but they may well prevent one in the first place.

We’re still here for you and happy to help through all of this!

Our team are here for you and are happy to answer any questions you might have about fire training for your business.

Our working hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm, and you can give us a call during these hours on 01327 552160.

Please click here for more information or to browse our range of IFE accredited fire training courses.

The post Fire Safety Training for Staff appeared first on Fire Training Company.