fire safety guide for care homes sept 03 final e

8/3/2019 Fire Safety Guide for Care Homes Sept 03 Final e

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FIRE SAFETY:

A GUIDE

FOR CARE HOMESIN WALES

_________________________________________________

Prepared bythe Fire Authorities in Wales and

the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales

_________________________________________________

September 2003


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CONTENTS

PART ONE USING THIS DOCUMENT1.1 Introduction

1.2 Scope1.3 New buildings1.4 Existing buildings1.5 Risk assessments

PART TWO MANAGEMENT2.1 Policy2.2 Training2.3 Fire notices and signs2.4 Ignition sources2.5 Textiles and furniture

2.6 Bedding and sleepwear2.7 Other combustible materials

PART THREE MEANS OF ESCAPE3.1 Single direction of escape3.2 Travel distance3.3 Refuge3.4 Stairways

PART FOUR INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (LININGS)

PART FIVE INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (STRUCTURE)5.1 Elements of structure5.2 Protected shafts5.3 Sub-compartments5.4 Bedrooms5.5 Fire hazard rooms

PART SIX EXTERNAL FIRE SPREAD

PART SEVEN ACCESS AND FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE

PART EIGHT ADDITIONAL MEASURES8.1 Alarm and detection systems8.2 Escape lighting8.3 Manual fire-fighting equipment

PART NINE SMALL CARE HOMES

GLOSSARY OF TERMS


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PART ONE USING THIS DOCUMENT

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 This guide has been prepared by the three Fire Authorities in Walesand the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales (CSIW). The guide itself has

no statutory force, authority or power. However, the Fire Authorities and theCSIW will take its contents into account in deciding whether the person hasmet their statutory duties to ensure acceptable levels of fire safety.

1.1.2 The guide has also been designed, as an aid to those who have theprimary responsibility for developing fire engineering solutions in care homes.It is intended for the providers and managers who have the statutory duty tomake adequate provision for fire safety in these premises, and for thedesigners who may work with them in the design, renovation or refurbishmentof these settings.

1.1.3 In Wales, around 30,000 men and women have made their home inpremises registered as care homes. In providing an acceptable level of firesafety, there should be a recognition of the need to maintain a homely, non-institutionalised environment. This document attempts to achieve this byconsidering the full range of issues which affect fire safety in care homes,including the number of service users, fire hazards within the premises,management policies, the availability of sufficient staff adequately trained infire safety and the physical fire precautions available.

1.1.4 To maintain a homely and non-institutional atmosphere, precautionsshould be introduced carefully, taking account of any possible adverse effectson the quality of service users lives and the care they receive. For example,a self-closing door (which is a useful protection in the event of fire) may be aninconvenience to older people or even cause an accident if care is not takenwith its location.

1.1.5 The guide has three main functions:

A it can be used in the design of new care homes, or where there is achange of use to care home (see section 1.3);

B it can be used to set acceptable levels of fire safety in existing carehomes (see section 1.4); and

C it provides a form of fire risk assessment, which can be used in carehomes (see section 1.5).

1.1.6 The technical and managerial standards within this guide are virtuallyidentical to the guidance already published for use in care homes in NorthernIreland (although some aspects have been updated to take account of newtechnology etc). In 1995 a standard for the fire precautions appropriate incare homes was published by the Northern Ireland Health and Personal

Social Services Management Executive titled Health Technical Memorandum(HTM) 84: Fire Safety in Residential Care Premises, and this forms part of


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the Northern Ireland Firecode. Although HTM 84 has no formal statutoryforce it has been accepted by all relevant bodies as representing thesatisfactory standard of fire safety for residential care homes in NorthernIreland.

1.1.7 This guide is offered as an aid to all those involved in ensuring the fire

safety of care homes in Wales. It does not purport to provide the onlyacceptable fire safety standard or to be authoritative in all situations. Forexample, if it was likely that a residential sprinkler system were to beemployed, a risk-based assessment will take account of the enhanced firesafety features offered. This should enable the enforcing authority to deviatefrom prescriptive codes and allow certain design freedoms (subject wherenecessary, to approval from the relevant building control body). It is simply aversion of the standards already used in one part of the United Kingdom setin a form which makes them accessible as a good practice guide to thoseworking in Wales. NHS Estates are currently preparing a document for thoseworking in Scotland, also based on the technical and managerial standards

within HTM 84.

1.1.8 The fire safety strategy underlying this document is an inclusive one,which recognises the role and interaction of many different factors in settingand maintaining appropriate levels of fire safety. This approach is sometimescalled fire safety engineering, but in this document this term does not implyany calculation, just that managerial and active measures of fire preventionare included as well as the passive precautions more normally associatedwith building fire safety.

1.1.9 This document should only be used by competent persons. Peoplecan be considered competent when they have sufficient training andexperience or knowledge and skills to undertake properly the measuresreferred to in this guide.

1.1.10 One of the problems which often face those seeking guidance on thefire safety standards appropriate to particular building types is the tendency ofmany documents to cross reference and depend upon other publications.This can pose a particular problem to providers and their advisors who maynot have immediate access to the full and ever changing range of technicaland advisory materials. Therefore in preparing this document the policy

previously adopted for HTM 84 has been followed and an attempt has beenmade to include all relevant information. There are no references to otherpublications or guides (except British Standards [European Standards] andApproved Documents). This decision to create a stand alone document willinevitably mean that some peripheral issues are not dealt with as fully asmight on occasion be considered appropriate. However, it does mean thatthe users of this document should find that they have all they normally needto know about the fire safety of care homes in a single volume.

1.1.11 As the technical standards within this document are based upon thosecontained within HTM 84, the terms used are those common to the Firecode

set of documents. Therefore, a glossary of terms as defined for Firecode isincluded at the end of this guide.


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1.2 Scope

1.2.1 This guide is intended to be used for all care homes in Wales. Underthe Care Standards Act 2000, the previous terms of residential care homesregulated by local authorities, and nursing homes regulated by healthauthorities no longer exist. The legislation now refers only to care homes,

which provide accommodation together with personal care, nursing care orboth. This guide follows the Act in referring simply to care homes.

1.2.2 On the same basis, the guide refers to service users rather than toresidents or patients. The guide also follows the Act and regulations in that itrefers to the persons responsible as providers under the legislation it is theregistered person of the home who is responsible for ensuring that statutoryrequirements are met. The registered provider of the home may or may notbe the owner of the premises.

1.2.3 This guide is not intended to be used for hospitals. (This would include

premises previously registered as nursing homes whose functions include thecarrying out of surgical procedures under anaesthesia, endoscopy, haemo-dialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or the treatment of patients using specificallycontrolled techniques. Under the terms of the Care Standards Act 2000, suchpremises are now registered as independent hospitals.) In the design of newhospitals it is recommended that Health Technical Memorandum 81 (FirePrecautions in New Hospitals) is used. In setting acceptable levels of firesafety in existing hospitals, Health Technical Memorandum 85 (FirePrecautions in Existing Hospitals) is the appropriate document. In theconduct of fire risk assessments on existing hospitals, Health TechnicalMemorandum 86 (Fire Risk Assessment in Hospitals) is recommended.

1.2.4 Some premises are providing accommodation for groups of adultswhose dependency falls short of a need for personal or nursing care. Forthese Houses in Multiple Occupation, this document may provide a goodpractice guide to an appropriate fire safety strategy.

1.2.5 Where care home premises include a significant non-residentialfunction, for example a day centre or a training workshop for non-residents, itmay be appropriate to consider the fire safety of these areas separately andto refer to more appropriate guidance.

1.2.6 Care homes vary greatly in size and in the number of service users.So sometimes a distinction is made between the standards for different sizehomes. For the purposes of this guide, premises are divided into threecategories:

Small Premises - one to three service usersMedium Premises - four to nine service usersLarge Premises - ten or more service users

1.2.7 The issues where a distinction is made on the basis of the size of the

premises are as follows:


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Section Issue Distinction made

2.2 Training Different standards for large andmedium/small

2.3 Fire Notices & Signs Different standards for large/medium/small

2.5 Textiles & Furniture Different standards for large/medium/small

3.3 Refuge Does not apply to small 2 storey

3.4 Stairways Does not apply to small 2 storey

4 Internal fire spread

(linings)

Different standards for existing

small premises

5.2 Protected Shafts Does not apply to small

5.3 Sub-compartments Does not apply to small

5.5 Fire Hazard Rooms Does not apply to small

8.1 Alarm and DetectionSystems

Different standards for large/medium/small

8.2 Escape Lighting Different standards for large/medium/small

8.3 Manual Fire-FightingEquipment

Different standards for large/medium/small

1.2.8 A summary of the requirements for small homes with fewer than fourservice users appears at Part 9

1.2.9 The guidance in this document is not appropriate for care homes whichinclude service user or staff bedrooms located on any floor four or morestorey heights above the ground level or access level. In the case ofpremises where it is intended to provide service user or staff bedrooms on afloor four or more storey heights above ground level, it is suggested thatalternative fire engineering solutions are considered.

1.3 New Buildings

1.3.1 This guide provides a fire engineering solution to the problems of

achieving an acceptable level of fire safety in new care homes. However, it


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should be stressed that this guide has no statutory authority, and that it is onlyoffered as good practice advice.

1.3.2 New care home premises (or where there is a change of use) shouldcomply with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations, in thecase of fire these functional requirements are contained in Approved

Document B. They are as follows:

B1 Means of EscapeThe building shall be designed and constructed so that there areappropriate provisions for the early warning of fire, andappropriate means of escape in case of fire from the building toa place of safety outside the building capable of being safelyand effectively used at all material times.

B2 Internal Fire Spread (linings)(1) To inhibit the spread of fire within the building the internal

linings shall:(a) adequately resist the spread of flame over their

surfaces; and(b) have, if ignited, a rate of heat release which is

reasonable in the circumstances.(2) In this paragraph internal linings mean the materials

lining any partition, wall, ceiling or other internal structure.

B3 Internal Fire Spread (Structure)(1) The building shall be designed and constructed so that, in

the event of fire, its stability will be maintained for areasonable period.

(2) A wall common to two or more buildings shall bedesigned and constructed so that it adequately resists thespread of fire between those buildings. For the purposesof the sub-paragraph a house in a terrace and a semi-detached house are each treated as a separate building.

(3) To inhibit the spread of fire within the building, it shall besub-divided with fire-resisting construction to an extentappropriate to the size and intended use of the building.

(4) The building shall be designed and constructed so that

the unseen spread of fire and smoke within concealedspaces in its structure and fabric is inhibited.

B4 External Fire Spread(1) The external walls of the building shall adequately resist

the spread of fire over the walls and from one building toanother, having regard to the height, use and position ofthe building.

(2) The roof of the building shall adequately resist the spreadof fire over the roof and from one building to another,having regard to the use and position of the building.


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B5 Access and Facilities for the Fire Service(1) The building shall be designed and constructed so as to

provide reasonable facilities to assist firefighters in theprotection of life.

(2) Reasonable provision shall be made within the site of thebuilding to enable fire appliances to gain access to the

building.

1.3.3 The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regionspublishes an Approved Document, which sets out one method of satisfyingthe requirements of the Building Regulations. However, there is no obligationto follow these particular solutions.

1.3.4 Fire Safety Engineering can provide an alternative approach to FireSafety. It may be the only practical way to achieve a satisfactory standard ofFire Safety in some large and complex buildings containing different uses.Fire Safety Engineering may also be suitable for solving a problem with an

aspect of the building design which otherwise follows the provisions in thisdocument.

1.3.5 This guide offers one such fire engineering alternative, which may beappropriate in fulfilling the functional requirements. This guide differs from theApproved Document in that it considers managerial aspects of fire safety andsome additional measures, which are not necessarily part of the ApprovedDocument. If this guide is to be used as a fire engineering solution then allaspects of it have to be followed. The guide is designed as a comprehensivepackage and it is unacceptable to implement only parts of it; all therequirements work together to form a cohesive strategy and all should becomplied with. The managerial and technical standards have been arrangedin eight parts as follows:

Part One Using the DocumentPart Two ManagementPart Three Means of EscapePart Four Internal Fire Spread (linings)Part Five Internal Fire Spread (structure)Part Six External Fire SpreadPart Seven Access and facilities for the Fire Service

Part Eight Additional Measures

1.3.6 However, it is not the case that compliance with Part Three means thatthe requirements of Regulation B1 are satisfied, or that fulfilling therequirements of Part Four will satisfy B2. To satisfy B1 or B2 or any of theindividual Building Regulations the requirements of all eight parts should besatisfied. This means that the management fire strategy becomes an intrinsicpart of the total fire safety engineering solution and would need to bereviewed and checked at the same time as the built form.

1.3.7 Occasionally in the guide, a distinction is made between the standards

appropriate for new buildings and for existing premises. In the case of new


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buildings (or where there is a change of use to a care home), the level ofprovision to be adopted is that indicated as for new buildings.

1.4 Existing Buildings

1.4.1 This guide provides a fire engineering solution to the problems ofachieving an acceptable level of fire safety in existing care homes. However,it should be stressed that this guide has no statutory authority and that it isonly offered as good practice advice. It covers both the managerial and thetechnical issues that have to be satisfied, and it forms a cohesive fire safetyengineering approach to achieving a satisfactory standard.

1.4.2 All care homes have to be registered with the Care StandardsInspectorate for Wales (CSIW) before they can operate. The CSIW has bylaw - to satisfy itself that registered persons will discharge their statutory dutyto ensure the well being of the service users. This guide offers one standard

of fire safety that they may choose to use. The inter-dependency ofmanagerial and physical fire precautions cannot be over-stressed and for thisreason any fire safety strategy for care homes should cover all sections of thisdocument.

1.4.3 This guide recognises that it is not necessarily reasonable to expectexisting premises to achieve the same standards as would be required in thecase of new buildings. So in a small number of issues a distinction is drawnbetween the standards required of new buildings (or where there is a changeof use) and those which could be considered to be acceptable in existingpremises. These are shown in the table overleaf:


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Section Issue Distinction made

2.5 Textiles and furniture Existing premises (medium/largeonly) have to meet higher

standards on replacement

3.2 Travel Distances New premises restrictions oncorridor widths

3.4 Stairways New premises restrictions on stair widths, external stairwaysprohibited.

4 Internal fire spread Different standards for existingsmall premises.

7 Access and facilities for thefire service

New premises have to meethigher standards.

8.1 Alarm and DetectionSystems

Existing premises have to meethigher standards on replacement.

1.4.4 In the Approved Document it is recognised that a fire safetyengineering approach may be particularly appropriate in the case of existingbuildings and that in these instances some variation may be appropriate.

1.4.5 Some variation of the provisions set out in this document may also beappropriate where Part B applies to existing buildings, and particularly inbuildings of special architectural or historic interest, where adherence to theguidance in this document may prove unduly restrictive. In such cases itwould be appropriate to take into account a range of Fire Safety features andto set these against an assessment of the hazard and risk in the particularcase. Some of these features are dealt with in the Approved Document andsome are not addressed in any detail.

1.4.6 It is a matter of professional judgement as to what degree of tolerancecan be accepted in existing buildings and this is one reason why thecompetence of assessors to conduct fire risk assessments is essential. As arough guide, on dimensions a tolerance of plus or minus 10% would beconsidered reasonable. It might also be reasonable to accept on someoccasions sub-compartments with slightly higher numbers of service usersbeds (for example eight instead of seven), provided there are no otherparticular hazards or problems.

1.5 Risk assessments


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1.5.1 This document can be used to undertake the fire risk assessment ofexisting care home premises. To conduct a fire risk assessment the sixstages set out below should be followed.

1.5.2 Stage One is the assessment of the number of service users in thehome to determine if it is small, medium or large. By assessing the risk to

service users, who are likely to be the most vulnerable in a fire, theresponsibility to assess the risk to the staff and visitors will also have beenfulfilled.

1.5.3 Stage Two is the identification and assessment of the fire hazards inthe care home as follows:

Ignition sources2.4 Ignition sources5.5 Fire hazards

Combustible materials2.5 Textiles and furniture2.6 Bedding and sleepwear2.7 Other combustible materials4 Internal fire spread (linings)

1.5.4 Stage Three involves using the remaining sections to assess the fireprecautions in the premises as follows:

Prevention2.1 Policy2.2 Training2.3 Fire notices and signs

Communications8.1 Alarm and detection system

Escape3.1 Single direction of escape3.2 Travel distance3.3 Refuge

3.4 Stairways3.5 Escape lighting

Containment5.1 Elements of structure5.2 Protected shafts5.3 Sub-compartments5.4 Bedrooms6 External fire spread

Extinguishment

7 Access and facilities for the fire service8.3 Manual firefighting equipment


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1.5.5 Occasionally a distinction is made between the standards appropriatefor new buildings and for existing premises. In the case of a risk assessmentof existing homes, the level of provision to be adopted is that indicated as forexisting premises (unless the building was designed to the new buildingstandards in which case these standards should be maintained).

1.5.6 Stage Fouris the formal recording of the significant findings of the firerisk assessment. An example of an assessment record sheet is provided onthe next page, and it is recommended that one of these records is completedfor each home.

1.5.7 Stage Five comes after the completion of the risk assessment, andinvolves the providers and managers in taking appropriate action to deal withany difficulties which may have been identified. Such action may be:

to remove or reduce any of the fire hazards identified in stage two

as unacceptable; to decide whether the existing fire precautions identified in stage

three are to the acceptable standard or need improvement; and

to undertake any improvement work which has been established asnecessary.

1.5.8 Stage Six is the establishment of a system for auditing theassessment to ensure that it remains valid. The fire risk assessment shouldbe reviewed (and if necessary revised) each year and whenever there isreason to believe that it is no longer realistic. It should be reviewed, too,

wherever there has been a significant change in the activity carried on in thepremises, or where there has been a significant change in the number ordependency of the service users.


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RISK ASSESSMENT RECORD SHEET

Premises :

Surveyor :

Date :

Unacceptable Acceptable

HAZARDS

Ignition sources

2.4 Ignition sources

5.5B

Fire hazard rooms

Combustible materials

2.5 Textiles and furniture

2.6 Bedding and sleepwear

2.7 Other combustible materials4

CInternal fire spread (linings)

PRECAUTIONS

Prevention

2.1 Policy

2.2 Training

2.3B

Fire notices and signs

Communications

8.1 Alarm and detection systems

Escape

3.1 Single direction of escape3.2 Travel distance

3.3 Refuge

3.4B

Stairways

8.2 Escape lighting

Containment

5.1 Elements of structure

5.2B

Sub-compartments

5.4B

Bedrooms

6A

Extinguishment

7 Access and facilities for thefire service

8.3 Manual fire-fightingequipment

NOTES :

A = not in existing premises (unless constructed to new building standard)B = not in small premisesC = not in small existing premises (unless constructed to new building

standard)


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PART TWO MANAGEMENT

This part outlines the management standards that should be achieved withinall care homes. The first three sections concern precautions that should betaken; policy, training and fire notices and signs. The last four concern thelimitation of hazards within care homes, ignition sources, textiles and

furniture, bedding and sleepwear, and other combustible materials.

2.1 Policy

2.1.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that they have aclearly defined fire safety policy for the protection of service users, staff andvisitors. This should be closely linked to the general health and safety policyof the premises.

2.1.2 They should ensure that there is an up to date emergency plan based

on the risk assessment. This should set out (among other things) details of:

the action to be taken by staff in case of fire,

the procedure to be followed in the evacuation of the premises in case offire by them and by any other persons present, and

the arrangements for calling for the assistance of the fire brigade and forinforming them of any special risks.

2.1.3 They should ensure that there are an adequate number of personsresponsible for supervising and controlling the putting into effect of the

emergency plan.

2.1.4 They should ensure that a copy of the emergency plan, and thefindings of the fire risk assessment are kept in the premises and are availablefor inspection.

2.1.5 They should ensure that there is one named individual withmanagement responsibility for fire safety.

2.1.6 They should maintain an up to date drawing/plan of the premises whichindicates: automatic detection and alarm systems, means of escape, sub-

compartmentation, manual fire fighting equipment and fire brigade access.

2.1.7 They should ensure that all means of escape are so maintained as tosecure that they can be safely and effectively used as such at all materialtimes.

2.1.8 They should ensure that all means provided for escape lighting,fighting fire, detecting fire, and giving warning in case of fire, are maintained inefficient working order and regularly tested by a competent person. Whereany such means are electrically operated, the necessary electric currentshould, unless switched off for the purpose of altering, maintaining or testing

the electrical system, be kept switched on at all times.


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2.1.9 They should keep records, which are available for inspection by anyrecognised authority, for a minimum of three years, of:

all tests carried out of the means provided for escape lighting, fighting fire,detecting fire, and giving warning in case of fire,

all occasions on which instruction or training is given, and

all fire drills.

2.2 Training

2.2.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that all staff(including temporary and agency staff) are given appropriate informationabout, and instruction and training in, the fire precautions to be taken orobserved in the premises, including the action to be taken in case of fire.

2.2.2 Information, instruction and training should be given at the start of thepersons employment in the care home, and whenever there is a change inthe fire risk. All staff should attend a minimum of two training sessions peryear. Fire safety training should be specific to the care home and shouldcover:

fire prevention;

the correct action to be taken when a fire is discovered;

the correct action to be taken should a persons clothing or a pan of fatcatch alight;

evacuation and escape procedures;

an appreciation of the importance of fire doors and their correct use andavoidance of abuse; and

use of manual fire-fighting equipment provided, including whereappropriate, practical demonstrations.

2.2.3 Fire safety information, instruction and training should be provided bycompetent persons, whether in the normal workplace or elsewhere.

2.2.4 In small and medium premises, practice drills should be held at leastonce a year and for large premises at least twice per year. In large premises,practice fire drills should assume conditions in which one or more escape

routes is obstructed by smoke. During these drills, a member of staff who istold of the supposed outbreak should operate the fire alarm and the staffshould then rehearse the routine as fully as circumstances allow. It may beappropriate to inform the fire brigade of the date and time of such drills inorder to prevent false alarms, and in case they wish to be present. In mediumand small premises, practice fire drills could take the form of a walk overescape routes, checking fire doors, the position of alarms and fire equipment.

2.2.5 Every person identified in the emergency plan as a person responsiblefor supervising and controlling the putting into effect of the plan should begiven access to the fire risk assessment and to the emergency plan. Theyshould be given such additional instruction as will enable them to dischargethose responsibilities.


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2.2.6 Where possible every service user should receive appropriate trainingin fire safety on occupation, and this should be repeated at suitable intervals.Those service users who are able should be encouraged to participate in firedrills.

2.3 Fire notices and signs

2.3.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that there aresufficient appropriate fire notices and signs. The purpose of fire notices is togive concise instructions of the actions to be taken on discovering a fire andon hearing the alarm. Details of the emergency plan relevant to the carehome should be included.

2.3.2 The purpose of fire signs is to direct people towards fire exits, or toprovide specific information or warning about particular equipment, doors,

rooms or procedures. They should be recognisable, readable andinformative, as they convey essential information to regular and infrequentusers of the premises, and the fire brigade. The visibility, illumination andheight of display should be carefully considered.

2.3.3 In large premises, fire notices should be permanently displayed inconspicuous positions throughout the building and should be specific to it.Additional notices giving further instruction should be displayed on staff noticeboards. Fire signs should be provided where appropriate in conspicuouspositions, but these should not be to the detriment of the homely environment.

2.3.4 In medium premises a fire notice should be permanently displayed in aconspicuous position (normally the staff room or office). There is norequirement to provide fire signs.

2.3.5 In small premises no requirements are made for fire notices or firesigns.

2.3.6 Fire signs should normally follow the guidance in the current BritishStandards. However, it may be more appropriate for them to be specificallydesigned to the particular needs of the service users rather than to follow

standard formats.


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2.4 Ignition Sources

2.4.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that allreasonable provision is made to reduce the possibility of unwanted ignition.This should include the following measures.

2.4.2 Smoking should be prohibited in fire hazard rooms (see section 5.5).Where smoking is permitted, sufficient and suitably placed ashtrays or binsshould be provided for the safe disposal of smoking materials. In theseareas, inspections should occur at regular intervals (and about half an hourafter the smoking areas have been vacated for the night) to ensure thatdiscarded smokers materials are removed and that they have not ignitedother materials.

2.4.3 No gas or electrical cookers or portable heating appliances (includinggas water heaters) should be permitted within corridors or stairways.

2.4.4 Electrical equipment should be provided with clear user instructions.Extension leads, two-way adapters etc. should only be used under thedirection of a suitably qualified member of staff. Electric blankets should bemaintained and serviced in accordance with the manufacturers guidance.The wiring of plugs by untrained staff should be prohibited. Electricalequipment should only be used for its intended purpose. All new mainselectrical fittings and installations should be checked by a qualified personbefore operation.

2.4.5 Individual heaters, where provided, should be fixed in position and beconstructed, installed and guarded in accordance with the appropriate currentBritish Standards. Portable heaters should be prohibited, if they use liquefiedpetroleum gas, have a naked flame, or an exposed element.

2.4.6 An effective programme of planned preventative maintenance shouldbe in operation throughout the building, with an agreed procedure forreport faults. Once reported, action should be taken to repair any faultor to otherwise ensure that the equipment is made safe.

2.4.7 A system of hot work permits to be used on occasions any hot worksare undertaken e.g. by a contractor carrying out plumbing or a

decorator stripping paint.

2.5 Textiles and Furniture

2.5.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that all textilesand furniture they supply meet the minimum requirements of the Furnitureand Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended).

2.5.2 In medium or large new premises even higher standards should be

achieved. In medium or large existing premises these higher standards need


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not be achieved immediately, but this standard should be applied to allreplacement textiles or furniture. These higher standards are as follows.

2.5.3 Upholstered furniture (and composites of cover material and infill)should pass the flammability standard BS5852 with ignition sources 0 and 5.Loose covers should be capable of meeting BS 5852 ignition source 1.

2.5.4 Textile fabrics for curtains (including nets, linings and blackoutcurtains) should meet the standards of BS 5867 Part 2: Type B, and the fullcurtain test (Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions FireRetardant Specification No 7) with ignition sources 0 and 5. Textile fabricsthat are capable of meeting these standards include durably flame retardanttreated cotton and 100% flame-retardant polyester. 100% modacrylic is alsosuitable if available. It should be emphasised that retaining the flame-retardant effectiveness of all chemically treated flame retardant fabrics, suchas flame retardant treated cotton, is dependent on the correct laundryprocedures being followed. Careful note should be taken of all wash and care

instructions provided. Advice should be sought from the supplier if noinstructions are provided.

2.5.5 Roller blinds should meet the Department of the Environment,Transport and the Regions Fire Test Specification No 17 using ignition source5. Where cloth-type vertical blinds are used, the fabric should meet BS5867 :Part 2 : Type B.

2.5.6 Textile floor coverings are not normally a serious fire hazard, but allsoft floor coverings should be tested and rated as defined in BS 5287. Textilefloor coverings bonded to the floor present a lower fire risk than those looselylaid.

2.5.7 Polypropylene chairs should have flame retardant polypropyleneshells.

2.5.8 Totally soft play environments, although not furniture as such, cancontain a large volume of foam in various shapes. The covered foam shouldalso pass BS 5852 (Section 4) with ignition sources 0 and 5. Where suchenvironments are extensive, extra care should be taken and additionalprecautions may be necessary.

2.5.9 In all premises, both new and existing homes, service users shouldonly be allowed to provide items of their own textiles or furniture for their ownbedroom. If the bedroom is shared with other service users, or if the itemsgive particular cause for concern, it may be necessary to take extra care.Such extra care might be the provision of automatic fire detection in theservice users bedroom (where this is not required under section 8.1).

2.6 Bedding and sleepwear

2.6.1 Providers and managers of care homes should ensure that all beddingand sleepwear they supply meet the following requirements.


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2.6.2 Blankets should be flame retardant. BS 5866, Part 4 can be used tocheck flammability performance of an individual blanket, or BS 7175 Part 3 fora representative fabric sample.

2.6.3 Counterpanes should be flame retardant and should meet the

standards of the public sector specification BS 5815 Part 3. Counterpanescovering the bed at all times will help to protect the other textile bedding itemsfrom involvement in a fire.

2.6.4 Continental quilts/duvets should be flame-retardant to meet thestandard of BS 7175 : Section 2, with ignition sources 0 and 5. Quilt coversshould meet the construction and flammability standards of BS 5815 Part 3.

2.6.5 Mattresses should achieve the flammability standard for a mattresswith a waterproof cover as stated in BS 6807 Section 2 with ignition sources 0and 5.

2.6.6 Pillows should meet the standards in BS7175 Section 2 with ignitionsources 0 and 5.

2.6.7 Sleepwear (including dressing gowns and bed jackets) should conformto BS 5722. This gives three different levels of flammability performance.Level 3 is acceptable for normal situations, but higher performance levels canbe specified for high risk situations (level 1 being the highest).

2.6.8 Many products such as mattress overlays, fleeces and under-pads areused in the care of service users with, or with a pre-disposition to, pressuresores. They are usually placed within the bed assembly, or on easy chairs towheelchairs. Where possible these products should meet BS 7175 Section 3using ignition sources 0 and 5. However nursing or medical advice should besought if there is likely to be a conflict between a service users needs and firesafety.

2.6.9 It is recommended that bedding and sleepwear provided by the serviceusers should also achieve the same standards.

2.7 Other combustible materials

2.7.1 Providers and mangers of care homes should ensure that goodhousekeeping practices are followed to reduce the likelihood of fire. Some ofthe practices that should be followed are listed below.

2.7.2 The use of highly flammable materials and liquids should be avoidedwherever possible.

2.7.3 There should be appropriate storage and disposal of aerosol sprays,taking into account the quantities involved.


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PART THREE MEANS OF ESCAPE

The building should be designed and constructed so that there are means ofescape in case of fire from the building to a place of safety outside thebuilding. The means of escape should be capable of being safely andeffectively used at all material times. In this part the means of escape is

considered as a series of stages.

Stage one is horizontal escape out of the room of origin of the fire, and asthere is normally only one direction in which this can occur it is termed singledirection of escape. Stage one will also include any horizontal travel outsidethe room of origin if there is still only one direction of escape, as in dead-endconditions (See Section 3.1).).

Stage two is reaching the safety of another sub-compartment, or astairway in a protected shaft (or an external exit). This will involve passingthrough a fire-resisting barrier, either the wall defining the sub-compartment,

or the protected shaft enclosing the stairway (or the external wall). In stagetwo there should always be an alternative so that it is possible to turn yourback on the fire and move away from it (See Section 3.2). If stage two leadsto another sub-compartment then there is the possibility of temporary refuge.Such an evacuation strategy permits movement from one sub-compartmentto another without a significant change in level, provided there is also thepotential for vertical escape to the ground floor should that become necessary(see section 3.3).

Stage three is vertical escape down to the ground level or access level

should this be necessary, and safe exit from the foot of the stairway to a placeof safety away from the building (see section 3.4).

3.1 Single direction of escape

3.1.1 The maximum distance for single direction of escape (stage one) is 10metres. In the measurement of single direction of escape considerationshould be given to the layout of walls, partitions and furniture.

3.1.2(a) In two storey buildings, where the first floor is a single sub-

compartment, and the stairway is not in a protected shaft, the singledirection of escape distance may exceed 10 metres. This is only onthe proviso that no point on the first floor is further than 20 metresfrom the final exit to the outside (measured on the first floor, downthe stairway and on the ground floor (see also section 3.4.5).

(b) In exceptional circumstances, where it is impracticable to provide aprotected shaft, the same criteria may be applied to 3 storey small,medium and large premises subject to the outcome of a riskassessment. However, the top floor must not be used for

service user or sleeping accommodation.

(c) In two storey small premises only the travel distance criteria applies.


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3.1.3 Escape from an inner room via an access room is permitted only wherethe maximum distance for single direction of escape from any point within theinner room does not exceed 10 metres, where the access room is not a firehazard room (see section 5.5), and where the inner room is not a bedroom.

3.1.4 Where a room is designed to accommodate more than thirty persons,a minimum of two exits should be provided, located so that the limit on singledirection of escape is not exceeded.

3.1.5 Any room on a single direction of escape should be suitably fire riskassessed and, other than a low-risk, should be suitably enclosed inconstruction that offers at least 30 minutes fire resistance.

3.2 Travel Distance

3.2.1 The maximum travel distance (stage one and stage two) is 20 metres.

Travel distance is the maximum distance to be travelled between any point ina storey and an adjoining sub-compartment, a stairway in a protected shaft, orto the external exit. The first part of this will be escape in a single directionbefore there is a choice of escape routes (see section 3.1). The second partof this will be escape once there is a choice of directions. In themeasurement of travel distance consideration should be given to the layout ofwalls, partitions and furniture.

3.2.2 The design of corridors and stairways should ensure that it is possibleto evacuate all service users from the premises by the most appropriatemethod. In order to assess the suitability of corridors and stairways, anemergency plan for the premises, stating the preferred methods of evacuationshould be prepared. In new buildings, corridors should not be narrower than1.2 metres wide (between handrails).

3.2.3 Doors on escape routes should be side-hung or pivoted. Revolvingdoors, turnstiles and shutters are not acceptable on escape routes and shouldnot be used. Sliding doors are acceptable on escape routes provided theyconvert to outward opening doors when subjected to reasonable pressurefrom any direction. In the case of powered sliding doors, they should also beprovided with a monitoring system to ensure they fail safe to the fully open

position in the event of a power failure.

3.2.4 Door swings should not obstruct the designed width of the corridor.However, doors to cupboards etc., which are normally locked shut may openonto corridors, but it is recommended that such doors should open through180

oto avoid obstruction.

3.2.5 Doors across corridors providing single direction of escape shouldopen in the direction of escape. (Doors to individual rooms do not have toopen in the direction of escape).

3.2.6 Doors across corridors should be fitted with glazed observation panels.


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3.2.7 A flat roof may only form part of an escape route in existing buildings,and then only when:

the use of the route would not be prejudiced by smoke and flame issuingfrom openings in the buildings envelope (e.g. windows, doors);

the roof construction will resist the spread of heat and smoke for at least

30 minutes; the route is defined, illuminated, has a non-slip surface, and adequate

handrails; and

escape lighting is provided for the route.

3.3 Refuge

3.3.1 If a fire occurs in a care home it is probable that some of the serviceusers will be unable to leave immediately and without help. Many are likely tohave difficulty walking without assistance or only be able to move very slowly.At night the situation may be worse as most service users will be asleep andsome might also have their responses further impaired by medication.Therefore the immediate and total evacuation of a care home would be slowand difficult. Evacuation to the outside may not be in the best interest of theservice users, e.g. if this was to mean moving elderly or ill people outside intoa cold winters night. Therefore, in the design and management of carehomes it is important that provision is made for areas of refuge within thebuilding.

3.3.2 Areas of refuge should be created within care homes by dividing them

up into a number of sub-compartments. Sub-compartments are areas of thebuilding that are separated from each other by walls and doors that willprovide at least 30 minutes resistance to fire (see section 5.3). This will meanthat if a fire starts then only the sub-compartment of origin need be evacuatedimmediately.

3.3.3 As the difficulties are likely to be most severe at night, the number ofservice users' beds in each sub-compartment should be limited. Thereshould not be more service users sleeping in any sub-compartment than canbe evacuated within a reasonable time. As the speed of evacuation willdepend on the abilities of the service users and the number of staff available,

the maximum number of service users beds permitted in each sub-compartment is linked to the number of staff on-duty. This is set out in thefollowing table :


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Type of PremisesMinimum number ofstaff on duty in the

premises at all times

Maximum number ofservice users beds in

each Sub-

Compartment

Medium (4-9 serviceusers)Large (10-16 serviceusers)

2 staff members 5 beds

Large (more than 16service users)

3 staff members 7 beds

Large (more than 16service users)

4 or more staff 9 beds

3.3.4 If there were a fire at night the procedure would be for the staff to raisethe alarm and then to move the service users in the sub-compartment wherethe fire started to an adjoining sub-compartment. This should provide at leasta temporary place of safety, although further evacuation might be necessary ifthe fire continues to grow. Where there might initially be one member of staffon duty the number of service users' beds is limited to three. Where there are

initially two staff on duty, the number of service users beds permitted in eachsub-compartment is limited to five. Where there are three members of staffavailable, the minimum number of service users beds permitted in each sub-compartment is limited to seven. If there are additional staff available thenumber of service users beds permitted in a sub-compartment may beincreased to nine.

3.3.5 It is recognised that in some care homes there may be times whenthere are no staff awake and on duty. If this is the case, then it indicates thatthe service users would be capable of initiating evacuation without immediateassistance, and therefore the number of service users beds in any one sub-

compartment is simply restricted to three.

3.3.6 In small premises no requirements are made for refuge as the numberof service users will not exceed three.

3.4 Stairways

3.4.1 The positioning and design of stairways should ensure that it ispossible to evacuate all service users by the most appropriate method, fromthe premises. Any storey that has more than one escape stair should be so

planned so that it is not necessary to pass through one stairway to reachanother.


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3.4.2 In medium and large premises, there should be a sufficient number ofstairways to ensure that from each sub-compartment there are alternativemeans of escape to the ground floor. There should also be a stairway within40 metres of any bed on an upper floor. All these stairways should be inprotected shafts, except in the case of existing buildings where they may be

external, provided they are not prejudiced by smoke or flames issuing fromopenings in the building envelope (e.g. windows, doors).

3.4.3 In small premises no requirements are made.

3.4.4 There is no need to provide an alternative means of escape to theground floor from rooms where any point within the room is within 10 metresof a door to a protected shaft.

3.4.5(a) In two storey buildings, where the first floor is a single sub-compartment, there is no need to provide an alternative means

of escape to the ground floor or for the stairway to be in aprotected shaft if all the doors opening onto the stairway (exceptthose from low risk sanitary accommodation) have self closingdevices.

(b) In exceptional circumstances, where it is impractical to provide aprotected shaft, the same criteria may be applied to 3 storeysmall, medium and large premises subject to the outcome of a

risk assessment. However, the top floor must not be usedfor service user or sleeping accommodation.

3.4.6 All protected shafts enclosing stairways should have direct access tothe outside at ground level which lead to a place of safety away from thebuilding, or access to the outside (and a place of safety away from thebuilding) via a route which is free of combustible materials and is enclosed in30 minute fire resisting construction. In the case of premises that have two ormore stairways each in a protected shaft, then it is permitted for the route tothe outside from the foot of a maximum of one protected shaft to containfurniture. Where protected shafts descend to a basement level there shouldbe suitable physical separation at ground level to prevent those escaping fromupper floors continuing to descend below ground floor level.

3.4.7 Where a stairway is the only stairway in a building, or where it isexternal, it should be constructed of materials that are non-combustible or oflimited combustibility.

3.4.8 In new buildings, stairways should have a minimum width of 1.2 metresbetween handrails. The provision of chair lifts where they reduce theminimum width between handrails to less than 1.2 metres is not permitted innew buildings, and is not encouraged in existing premises.Ladders, chutes, lowering lines and similar devices are not permitted in newor existing premises.


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3.4.9 The guidance in this document is not appropriate for care homes whichinclude service user or staff bedrooms located on a floor four or more storeyheights about the ground level or access level. In the case of premises whereit is intended to provide service user or staff bedrooms on a floor four or morestorey heights above ground level, it is suggested that alternative fireengineering solutions are considered.


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PART FOUR INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (LININGS)

4.1.1 To inhibit the spread of fire within the building the internal liningsshould resist the spread of flame over their surfaces; and have, if ignited, arate of heat release which is reasonable in the circumstances. Internal liningsinclude all the material lining partitions, walls, ceilings or other internal

structures.

4.1.2 In new buildings, and medium and large existing premises, the surfacespread of flame classification for internal linings should not exceed thefollowing:

National EuropeanStandard Standard

for rooms not exceeding 4m2

Class 3 D-s3, d2

for all other rooms Class 1 C-s3, d2

for corridors and stairways Class 0 B-s3, d2

4.1.3 In small existing premises the surface spread of flame classification forinternal linings should not exceed the following:

National EuropeanStandard Standard

for rooms not exceeding 4m2 Class 3 D-s3, d2for all other rooms Class 1 C-s3, d2for corridors and stairways Class 1 C-s3, d2

NOTE:

a. The National classifications do not automatically equate withthe equivalent classifications in the European column, thereforeproducts cannot typically assume a European class, unless theyhave been tested accordingly.

b. when a classification includes s3, d2, this means that thereis no limit set for smoke production and/or flamingdroplets/particles.

4.1.4 The surface spread of flame classification of a lining should beascertained by testing in accordance with BS 476 : Part 7 : 1971 or 1987(1993). The classifications given in such test are Classes 1, 2, 3, 4. Class 0indicates the most resistant finish, but it is not a British Standardclassification. Class 0 is achieved where a lining material or the surface of a

composite product is either : composed throughout of materials of limitedcombustibility; or a Class 1 material which has when tested to BS 476 : Part 6


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1989, a fire propagation index (l) of not more than 12 and a sub-index of (i1)of not more than 6. A composite material that does not have such a surfaceshould be classified by test.

The European classifications are described in BS EN 13501-1:2002, Fire classification of construction products and building

elements, Part 1- Classification using data from reaction to firetests. They are based on a combination of four European testmethods, namely:

BS EN ISO 1182:2002, Reaction to fire tests for buildingproducts Non-combustibility test;

BS EN ISO 1716:2002, Reaction to fire tests for buildingproducts Determination of the gross calorific value;

BS EN 13823:2002, Reaction to fire tests for building products

Building products excluding floorings exposed to the thermalattack by a single burning item; and

BS EN ISO 11925-2:2002, Reaction to fire tests for building products, Part 2-Ignitability when subjected to directimpingement of flame.

For some building products, there is currently no generallyaccepted guidance on the appropriate procedure for testing andclassification in accordance with the harmonised European fire

tests. Until such a time that the appropriate European test andclassification methods for these building products are publishedclassification may only be possible using existing national testmethods.

4.1.5 In a room any part of the surface of a wall may be of a Class lowerthan that specified (but not lower than Class 3) [European class D-s3, d2],provided that the amount does not exceed half the floor area of the room, or20m

2, whichever is less.

4.1.6 Partitions, space dividers and other similar vertical surfaces should

possess the same standard of finish as the walls. When a substantial area ofexposed vertical surface to a height greater than one metre from the floor is tobe formed by, for example the backs of wardrobes, the surface should beClass 0. [European class B-s3, d2].

4.1.7 Materials likely to be found in existing buildings are often difficult toassess in terms of their likely contribution to the spread of flame. Thereforeas a rough guide the following materials can normally be expected to achieveClass 0 [European class B-s3, d2; brickwork, blockwork, concrete,plasterboard, ceramic tiles, plaster finishes (including rendering on wood ormetal laths), woodwool slab, thin vinyl and paper coverings (on a non-

combustible sub-strata).


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PART FIVE INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (STRUCTURE)

The five sections in this part are all concerned with fire spread within thebuilding. The first four concern the precautionary value of fire resistance inregard to elements of structure, protected shafts, sub-compartments, andbedrooms. The last section concerns the fire hazard posed by certain

specific rooms and the measures which should be taken to limit such risk. Atthe end of this part there is a summary sheet listing the fire safetyrequirements of the most common rooms within care homes.

5.1 Elements of structure

5.1.1 The building should be so designed and constructed that, in the eventof a fire, its fire resistance will be retained for a reasonable period. Allelements of structure should therefore be able to resist the effects of heat fora reasonable period of time.

5.1.2 For the purposes of this document elements of structure are all parts ofthe structural frame, load-bearing walls, and floors.

5.1.3 The minimum fire resistance of all elements of structure should be aminimum of 30 minutes, except in the case of new buildings of three or morestoreys and in the case of basements where the minimum fire resistanceshould be a minimum of 60 minutes.

5.1.4 A wall common to two or more buildings should be so designed andconstructed that it provides adequate resistance to the spread of fire betweenthose buildings. Therefore if care homes are semi-detached or form part of aterrace, then the wall between the different occupancies should have aminimum of 60 minutes fire resistance.

5.1.5 To maintain the integrity of separation between floors, openings shouldbe adequately fire stopped and limited to protected shafts (see section 5.2),refuse and laundry chutes (of non-combustible construction which areaccessed through fire resisting doors), ventilation ducts (which comply withBS 5588 : Part 9), and opening for pipe which comply with the following table.

Cast iron or steel pipes Not more than 160mm diameter

Pipes of other materials Not more than 40mm diameter

Pipes with a proprietary sealwhich has been shown by testto maintain the fire resistance

Any diameter


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5.2 Protected shafts

5.2.1 Protected shafts should form a complete barrier to fire betweendifferent floors.

5.2.2 They should when tested to the relevant parts of BS 476 have the

period of fire resistance (integrity, insulation, and where applicable, loadbearing capacity) as the floor through which they pass. [(European tests)Commission Decision 2000/367/EC of 3 May 2000 implementing CouncilDirective 89/106/EEC as regards the classification of the resistance to fireperformance of construction products, construction works and parts thereof.]

5.2.3 Access to a protected shaft is not permitted from bedrooms or firehazard rooms (see section 5.5). All doors leading to protected shafts shouldbe FD30S [E30 Sa]except those from low risk sanitary accommodation.

5.2.4 All doors leading to protected shafts should be fitted with an automatic

self-closing device (except for doors to cupboards and to service ducts thatare normally kept locked shut and doors from low risk sanitaryaccommodation). Hold open devices are normally only permitted if they arelinked to a BS 5839 : Part 1 category L1 system which also has safeguardson night time closing (or in an existing building without an L1 system areclosed by activation of an automatic fire detector sited within 1.2 metres ofboth sides of the door).

5.2.5 All other openings in walls to protected shafts should be fire stoppedas set out in section 5.1.5.

5.2.6 Means of ventilating protected shafts in the event of a fire should beprovided in the form of an openable window of 1m

2, or similar, at the top of a

shaft.

5.3 Sub-compartments

5.3.1 To inhibit the spread of fire within the building and to provide areas ofrefuge (see section 3.3) within the building, or to limit excessive traveldistances it may be necessary to divide the building up into a number of sub-

compartments. Sub-compartment walls should provide a minimum of 30minutes resistance to fire.

5.3.2 All doors in sub-compartment walls should be FD30S. [E30 Sa ].

5.3.3 All doors in sub-compartment walls should be fitted with automatic self-closing devices of an acceptable type (see 5.2.4).

5.3.4 All other openings in sub-compartment walls should be fire stopped asset out in section 5.1.5.

5.3.5 The building should be so designed and constructed that the unseenspread of fire and smoke within concealed spaces in its structure and fabric is


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inhibited. To ensure this sub-compartment walls should be continued up tothe underside of the floor above, or in the case of top floors to the undersideof the roof. It will also be necessary to ensure that any cavities in walls aresealed where they meet floors or sub-compartment walls, or where they meetfire-resisting ceilings.

5.4 Bedrooms

5.4.1 In medium and large premises all bedrooms (staff and service user)should be fully enclosed in construction which offers 30 minutes fireresistance.

5.4.2 In small two storey premises no requirements are made.

5.4.3 The fire resisting enclosure will be formed by the walls, doors, and theceiling (unless the walls are taken up to the underside of the roof).

5.4.4 Bedroom doors should be FD30S [E30 Sa ], automatic self-closingdevices of an acceptable type (see 5.2.4) should be provided in:-a) dead end situationsb) where bedrooms doors are left open at nightc) bedrooms that share a corridor with a day room, that has no alternative

exit.

5.4.5 All other openings in walls to bedrooms should be fire stopped as setout in section 5.1.5.

5.4.6 It is not expected that bedroom doors will necessarily open in thedirection of escape and it is not necessary to use fire signs on bedroomdoors.

5.4.7 It may be necessary to provide the potential for bedroom doors to belocked from the inside. However, if this is required, ironmongery should bespecified which can be opened from the outside in an emergency.

5.4.8 The National Minimum Standards for care homes do not permit morethan two beds in any one bedroom.

5.5 Fire hazard rooms

5.5.1 Fire hazard rooms are rooms or other areas, which, because of theirfunction and/or contents, present a greater hazard of fire occurring anddeveloping then elsewhere. Such rooms may include : plant rooms; kitchens;laundry rooms; stores for highly flammable or combustible materials (e.g.linen stores); boiler rooms; lift motor rooms; and large dayrooms.

5.5.2 In medium and large premises, all fire hazard rooms should be fully

enclosed in construction that offers 30 minutes fire resistance.


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5.5.3 In small premises no requirements are made.

5.5.4 The fire resisting enclosure will be formed by the walls, doors, and theceiling (unless the walls are taken up to the underside of the roof).

5.5.5 Doors should be FD30S [E30 Sa], and fitted with an automatic self-

closing device of an acceptable type (see 5.2.4).

5.5.6 All other openings in walls to fire hazard rooms should be fire stoppedas set out in section 5.1.5.

5.5.7 Large dayrooms are those intended for more than nine service usersand which have a floor area exceeding 25m

2.


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ROOM DATA SHEET

30minFRwall

30minFR

Ceiling

FD30SDoor

E30 Sa].

Self-closingdevice

Holdopen

device

Firesign on

door

Escapelighting

Accessto

protectedshaft

DoorKeep

LockedShut plus

Notice

Dayrooms Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes No No

Bedrooms Yes Yes Yes No (1) Yes (1) No No No No

Dining room Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (1) No Yes No No

Office Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (1) Yes No No No

Sanitaryaccommoda

tion(low risk)

No No No No No No No Yes No

Stairways Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes - No

Corridor Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Kitchen Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (2) Yes Yes No No

Laundryroom

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (2) Yes No No No

Store Yes Yes Yes No No Yes No No Yes

Plant /BoilerRooms

Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes No Yes

(1) other than in dead ends.

(2) must be risk assessed.

This room data sheet only applies to medium and large premises, lowerstandards are acceptable in small premises.

It is only a summary table, for full explanations please refer to the relevantsections.


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PART SIX EXTERNAL FIRE SPREAD

6.1.1 In new buildings the external walls should resist the spread of fire overthe walls and from one building to another, having regard to the use andposition of the building. In new buildings the roof should resist the spread offire from one building to another, having regard to the use and position of the

building.

6.1.2 The importance of external envelope protection depends on theproximity of adjacent buildings, or other sub-compartments within the samebuilding. In an isolated building, surrounded by parkland, for example, theexternal envelope protection may not be important. However, where thebuilding is surrounded by similar buildings on a compact urban site, theexternal envelope protection may be very important.

6.1.3 In new buildings the maximum percentage of unprotected area in anexternal wall is related to a minimum distance between the side of the building

and the relevant boundary as follows:

1 metre 8%2.5 metres 20%5 metres 40%7.5 metres 60%10 metres 80%12.5 metres 100%

6.1.4 In existing premises there are no requirements.

6.1.5 The relevant boundary is the actual boundary of the premises; or thecentre line of a road, river or canal which adjoins the actual boundary; or anotional boundary established if two or more buildings share the same site,mid-way between the buildings.

6.1.6 Unprotected area is any window, door or other opening; and any partof the external wall which has a period of fire resistance less than thatrequired for the elements of structure (integrity and load-bearing capacityonly), and which provides less than 15 minutes fire resistance (insulation).


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PART SEVEN ACCESS AND FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE

7.1.1 The building should be designed and constructed so as to providefacilities to assist firefighters in the protection of life. Provision should bemade within the site of the building to enable fire appliances to gain access tothe building.

7.1.2 There should be vehicle access for a pump appliance to smallbuildings (those of up to 2000m with a top storey up to 11m above groundlevel) to either:

a. 15% of the perimeter; orb. within 45m of every point on the projected plan area (or

footprint) of the building;

whichever is the less onerous.

7.1.3 In new buildings there should also be:

a vehicle access route and a vehicular hardstanding designed andconstructed to the standards given below, capable of taking pumpappliances;

turning circles in any dead-end vehicle access route more than 20m inlength;

vehicle hardstandings, which are as level as possible and do not exceed agradient of 1 in 12;

a door giving access to the interior of the building in every elevation to

which vehicle access is provided; and adequate water supplies for possible fire-fighting operations.

7.1.4 Minimum standards for pump appliances are as follows :

road width (between kerbs) 3.7 metreswidth of gateways 3.1 metresturning circle (between kerbs) 16.8 metresturning circle (between walls) 19.2 metresclearance height 3.7 metrescarrying capacity 12.5 tonnes


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PART EIGHT ADDITIONAL MEASURES

There are three sections in this part. They consider additional precautionarymeasures which should be included; alarm and detection systems, escapelighting, and manual fire-fighting equipment.

8.1 Alarm and detection systems

8.1.1 The provision of adequate means of detecting a fire and raising thealarm are of vital importance in care homes. Early detection permits time fororderly evacuation and allows time for fire to be tackled at an earlier stage,therefore reducing the risk to life and the damage caused.

8.1.2 In small premises (both new and existing) the minimum standard of firealarm system acceptable should be designed to comply with the guidance inBS 5839 : Part 6. A type LD2 Grade C is acceptable, with the installation of

smoke detectors where practicable.

8.1.3 In all new applications for medium and large buildings, a category L1alarm and detection system designed to comply with the guidance in BS 5839: Part 1 should be installed.

8.1.4 Where service users may have difficulty in correctly using manual callpoints, they should only be provided for staff use and sited accordingly.

8.1.5 In large premises the acoustic recommendations for audible alarmsvary with the nature of the care home and the level of staffing. Where thereare always staff on duty and awake it is necessary to provide 65dB(A)throughout the premises. Where there are staff asleep on the premises, it isalso necessary to provide 75dB(A) at the bed-head in staff bedrooms. Wherethe dependency of the service users is such that there is no need for thepremises to be permanently staffed, it is necessary to provide 75dB(A) at thebed-head in service user bedrooms.

8.2 Escape lighting

8.2.1 Escape lighting is that part of the emergency lighting which is providedto ensure the escape routes are illuminated at all material times. (Emergencylighting is the lighting provided for use when the power supply to the normallighting fails).

8.2.2 In small and medium premises escape lighting should cover corridorsand stairways.

8.2.3 In large premises escape lighting should cover the corridors, stairways,large day rooms, other large rooms and any external routes to a place ofsafety.


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8.2.4 Escape lighting should be installed in accordance with the currentversion of BS 5266 : Part 1.

8.2.5 Large dayrooms are those indicated for more than nine service usersand which have a floor area exceeding 25m

2.

8.3 Manual fire-fighting equipment

8.3.1 All care homes should be provided with such means for fighting fire asmay reasonably be required in the circumstances of the case.

8.3.2 In small premises there should be a fire blanket in kitchens.

8.3.3 In medium premises, there should be a fire blanket in kitchens, and asingle 13A rated extinguisher sensibly positioned on each floor level.

8.3.4 In large premises there should be a minimum of one 13A ratedextinguisher for every 200m

2or part thereof and at least two per floor. Other

types of extinguisher should be provided as required. Fire blankets should beprovided in all kitchens.

8.3.5 Fire blankets should comply with the light duty standard as defined inBS 6575.

8.3.6 Portable extinguishers should comply with BS 5423 and be inspectedand maintained in accordance with BS 5306 : Part 3.

8.3.7 Hose reel installations, if installed, should comply with the relevantsection of BS 5306 : Part 1.


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PART NINE - SMALL CARE HOMES (1 3 PERSONS)

9.1 Policy

9.1.1 Providers and Managers should ensure that they have a clearly

defined fire safety policy for the protection of service users, staff and visitors.

9.1.2 They should ensure that there is an up to date emergency plan on tothe actions to be taken in the event of fire regarding evacuation andsummoning assistance.

9.1.3 They should ensure that all means of escape are maintained and freelyavailable for use at all material times.

9.1.4 They should ensure that all means provided such as escape lighting,fire detection and fire fighting equipment are checked for satisfactory

operation by a competent person at least annually and the results recorded.

9.2 Training

9.2.1 Providers and managers should ensure that all staff and service usersare given appropriate information about, and instruction and training in, thefire precautions to be taken or observed in the premises including the actionto be taken in the case of fire.

9.2.2 Fire Safety information, instruction and training should be provided bycompetent persons and recorded.

9.2.3 Practice drills should be held at least once a year and those serviceusers who are able should be encouraged to participate.

9.3 Ignition Sources

9.3.1 Providers and managers of premises should ensure that they take allreasonable measures to reduce the likelihood of fire.

9.3.2 Smoking should be prohibited in bedrooms. In rooms where smokingis permitted, such as lounges, ashtrays and bins should be provided for safedisposal of cigarettes. Periodic inspections should take place to ensure thatany smoking materials have been properly disposed of, especially last thing atnight.

9.3.3 No gas or electrical cookers or portable heating appliances (includinggas water heaters) should be permitted within corridors or stairways.

9.3.4 All electrical equipment should be provided with clear user instructions

and must be used and maintained in line with the manufacturers guidance.


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All work on electrical installations should be carried out only by competentpersons.

9.3.5 Individual heaters, where provided, should be fixed and guarded.Portable heaters should be prohibited if they use LPG, or have a naked flameor exposed element.

9.4 Textiles and Furniture

9.4.1 Providers and managers should ensure that all textiles and furnituresupplied meet the requirements of the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire Safety)Regulations 1988 as amended.

9.4.2 In all cases service users should be allowed to provide their owntextiles or furniture only for their own bedroom. If the bedroom is shared orthe items give particular cause for concern, the situation should be risk

assessed.

9.5 Means of Escape - Single staircase

9.5.1 The maximum distance for single direction of escape is 10 metres. Inthe measurement of single direction of escape, consideration should be givento the layout of walls, partitions and furniture.

9.5.2 In two storey buildings, the single direction of escape distance mayexceed 10 metres provided no point on the first floor is further than 20 metresfrom the final exit to the outside (measured on the first floor, down thestairway and on the ground floor).

9.5.3 For premises exceeding two storeys, additional requirements could bemade following a risk assessment. Advice should be sought from the FireAuthority before any works are undertaken.

9.6 Fire Spread

9.6.1 In small existing premises the surface spread of flame classification forinternal linings should not exceed the following:-

For rooms not exceeding 4m Class 3For all other rooms Class 1For corridors and stairways Class 1 *

* In new buildings the classification is Class 0

9.6.2 Materials likely to be found in existing buildings are often difficult to

assess in terms of their likely contribution to the spread of flame. As a guidethe following materials can be expected to achieve Class 0 :-


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Brickwork, blockwork, concrete, plasterboard, ceramic tiles,plaster finishes, wood wool slab, thin vinyl and paper coverings(on non-combustible sub-strata)

and for Class 1:-

Timber, hardboard, blockboard, particleboard (chipboard) andheavy flock wallpapers.

9.6.3 The building should be so designed and constructed that, in the eventof fire, it maintains its fire resistance for a reasonable time.

9.6.4 In new buildings external walls and roofs should resist the spread offire from one building to another having regard to the use and position of thebuilding.

9.7 Access

9.7.1 There should be vehicle access for a pump appliance to smallbuildings (those of up to 2000m with a top storey up to 11m above groundlevel) to either:-

(a) 15% of the perimeter, or(b) within 45m of every point on the projected plan area (or footprint)of the building

whichever is the less onerous

9.8 Additional Measures

9.8.1 The provision of adequate means of detecting a fire and raising thealarm are of vital importance in care homes. Early detection permits time fororderly evacuation and allows time for fire to be tackled at an earlier stage,reducing the risk to life and the damage caused.

9.8.2 In both new and existing premises, the minimum standard of fire alarmsystem acceptable should be designed to comply with the guidance in BS5839, Part 6.A type LD2 Grade C, with the installation of smoke detectorswhere practicable.

9.9 Escape Lighting

9.9.1 Escape lighting is that part of the system that is provided for use whenthe power supply to the normal lighting fails and operates automatically.

9.9.2 In small premises escape lighting should cover corridors and stairways.


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9.9.3 Escape lighting should be installed in accordance with the currentversion of BS 5266 Part1.

9.10 Manual Fire Fighting

9.10.1 In small premises there should be a fire blanket in the kitchen.

9.10.2 Fire blankets should comply with the light duty standard as defined inBS 6575.


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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

As the technical standards in this document are based upon those containedwithin HTM 84, the terms used are those common to the Firecode set ofdocuments. For the purpose of this guide the following terms are thereforedefined as follows :

Final exit

The termination of an escape route from a building giving direct access to aplace of safety outside the building.

Fire door

A door or shutter provided for the passage of persons, air or objects which,together with its frame and furniture as installed in a building, is intended

when closed, to resist the passage of fire and/or gaseous products ofcombustion and is capable of meeting specified performance criteria to thoseends. Fire doors are identified by their performance under BS 476 : Part 22,in terms of integrity for a period of minutes (e.g. FD30 = 30 minutes) [E30 =30 minutes]. If there is a suffix S (e.g. FD30S))[ E30 Sa ]this indicates thatthey restrict smoke leakage at ambient temperatures. [ European Standard -as determined with reference to Commission Decision 2000/367/EC of 3rdMay 2000 implementing Council Directive 89/106/EEC as regards theclassification of the resistance to fire performance of construction products,construction works and parts thereof. All fire doors should be classified inaccordance with BS EN 13501-2: xxxx, Fire classification of constructionproducts and building elements, Part 2 Classification using data from fireresistance tests (excluding products for use in ventilation systems). They aretested to the relevant European method from the following:

BS EN 1634-1: 2000, Fire resistance tests for door and shutter assemblies,Part 1 Firedoors and shutters;

BS EN 1634-2: xxxx, Fire resistance tests for door and shutter assemblies,Part 2 Fire door hardware;

BS EN 1634-3: xxxx, Fire resistance tests for door and shutter assemblies,Part 3 Smoke control doors.

The performance requirement is in terms of integrity (E) for a period ofminutes. An additional classification of Sa is used for all doors whererestricted smoke leakage at ambient temperatures is needed.

The requirement (in either case) is for test exposure from each side of thedoor separately, except in the case of lift doors, which are tested from thelanding, side only.


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Notes:

1. The designation of xxxx is used for standards that are not yet published.The latest version of any standard may be used provided that it continues toaddress the relevant requirements of the Regulations.

2. Until such time that the relevant harmonised product standards are published, for the purposes of meeting the Building Regulations, productstested in accordance with BS EN 1634-1 (with or without pre-fire test

Fire hazard

A set of conditions in the operation of a product or system with the potentialfor initiating a fire.

Fire hazard room

Rooms or other areas which, because of their function and/or contents,present a greater hazard of fire occurring and developing than elsewhere.

Fire Precautions

Measures which can be taken to reduce the likelihood of ignition occurringand/or to mitigate the consequences should ignition occur. Precautions areconsidered under five headings, each of which is defined below:

Prevention

Precautions to control potential ignition and fuel sources, to ensure that firesdo not start; prevention also includes general fire safety.

Communications

Precautions that inform the occupants and fire brigade when a fire starts;

Means of Escape

Precautions which enable the occupants of the building to turn their back on

the fire and escape to a place of safety away from the fire;

Containment

Precautions that contain the fire to the smallest possible area, and control thethreat to life safety and the extent of property damage;


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Extinguishment

Precautions that ensure that the fire can be extinguished quickly and with theminimum disturbance to the function of the care homes.

Fire Resistance

Ability of an element of building construction, component or structure to fulfil,for a stated period of time, the required load-bearing capacity, fire integrityand/or thermal insulation and/or other expected duty in a standard fireresistance test.

Fire Stop

A seal provided to close an imperfection of fit or design tolerance betweenelements or components to restrict the passage of fire and smoke.

Ignition Sources

Heat sources or flames that will cause ignition.

Limited Combustibility

A material of limited combustibility is either :-

any material of density 300kg/m3

or more which, when tested inaccordance with BS 476 : Part 11 does not flame and the rise intemperature on the furnace thermocouple is not more than 20

OC; or

any material of density less than 300kg/m3

which, when tested inaccordance with BS 476 : Part 11, does not flame for more than 10seconds and the rise in temperature on the centre (specimen)thermocouple is not more than 35

oC and on the furnace thermocouple is

not more than 25oC; or

any material with a non-combustible core of 8mm thick or more, havingcombustible facings (on one or both sides) not more than 0.5mm thick.

Place of Safety

A place where persons are in no danger from fire.

Protected Shaft

A shaft which enables persons, air or objects to pass from one compartmentto another, and which is enclosed with fire-resisting construction.


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Refuge

A place of temporary safety within a building, this should be an adjoining sub-compartment capable of holding all those threatened, without significantchange in level and from which there is the potential for further escape shouldthat become necessary.

Sub-Compartment

Areas into which the building can be divided to reduce travel distance andwhich provide 30 minutes resistance to fire.

Sub-Compartment Wall

A fire-resisting wall used to separate one sub-compartment from another andhaving a minimum period of resistance of 30 minutes.

Travel Distance

The distance to be travelled by a person from any point within the floor areato the nearest adjoining sub-compartment, stairway in a protected shaft, orexternal exit, having regard to the layout of walls, partitions, fittings andfurniture.

Unprotected Areas

Unprotected area in relation to a side or external wall of a building means:

a window, door or other opening; and

any part of the external wall which has a period of fire resistance less thanthat required for the elements of structure (integrity and load-bearingcapacity only), and which provides less than 15 minutes fire resistance(insulation).