Fire Strategy Plan
Ensure The Safety of a Building’s Occupants
A fire strategy is a crucial document tailored to a building, outlining all fire safety measures to ensure the protection of occupants and compliance with regulations. It assesses key aspects such as construction materials, compartmentation, means of escape, fire protection systems, and management arrangements to maintain fire safety throughout the building’s lifespan.
Key Elements of a Fire Strategy
A fire strategy includes several essential components:
Building Construction and Fire Resistance
The materials used in a building must meet fire resistance standards to slow fire spread. Fire-resistant walls, floors, and ceilings are key to ensuring the structural integrity of a building during a fire.
Compartmentation Strategy
Compartmentation divides a building into fire-resistant sections, preventing fire and smoke from spreading uncontrollably. This containment approach improves evacuation safety and helps firefighters manage an incident effectively.
Means of Escape
Safe evacuation is a priority in fire strategy planning. Escape routes must be clearly marked, unobstructed, and supported by emergency lighting and signage to guide occupants to safety.
Active and Passive Fire Protection
Fire strategies incorporate active and passive fire protection:
- Active systems include alarms, sprinklers, and smoke control systems that detect and suppress fire.
- Passive measures involve fire-resistant construction elements that slow fire spread without requiring activation.
Fire Safety Management
Ongoing management ensures fire safety is maintained. This includes conducting risk assessments, maintaining fire protection systems, training staff, and enforcing emergency evacuation plans.
Regulatory Guidance and Compliance
Fire strategies must align with national regulations. In the UK, the Building Regulations 2010 set safety requirements, supported by Approved Documents, which provide guidance but are not legally enforceable. Alternative approaches include:
BS 9999 – A Risk-Based Approach
BS 9999 offers a flexible framework based on risk assessments, fire growth rates, and occupancy types, allowing tailored fire safety solutions.
Fire Engineered Approach
For complex buildings, a fire engineered approach uses scientific modelling and analysis to design bespoke fire strategies. This is beneficial for large commercial spaces, airports, and high-rise structures.
Fire Strategy Considerations for Different Buildings
Fire strategies vary based on the building type:
- Residential buildings need clear escape routes, smoke alarms, and sprinklers.
- Commercial buildings require compartmentation, marked fire exits, and suppression systems.
- Hospitals must include protected fire-safe zones for patients.
- Schools should have effective fire drills and well-marked evacuation routes.
A well-developed fire strategy is essential for protecting life and property, ensuring buildings comply with safety regulations. By integrating fire-resistant construction, compartmentation, effective escape routes, and active safety systems, fire strategies enhance overall safety. Compliance with Approved Documents, BS 9999, or fire engineering methods allows for tailored approaches to meet building-specific needs. Regular risk assessments and fire safety management ensure ongoing protection, making fire strategies a critical part of building design and operation.
