The following critical fire safety issues were highlighted:
Electrical Safety:
- No regular testing of the wiring structure.
- Lack of a Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) regime for electrical equipment.
- Use of portable heaters, increasing fire risk.
Combustible Materials Management:
- Inadequate separation of combustible materials from ignition sources, especially near the kiln.
- Poor housekeeping on the first floor, with a buildup of combustible materials.
Signage and Notices:
- Missing 'No Smoking' signs at entrances and communal areas.
- Missing fire action notices at the main entrance.
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems:
- No fire alarm system installed.
- Lack of periodic servicing of smoke detection systems.
Fire Extinguishers:
- Portable fire extinguishers were not serviced annually, as required by BS5306.
Fire Safety Policy and Emergency Plan:
- No documented fire safety policy or emergency plan tailored to the premises.
Staff Training and Drills:
- Staff lacked formal fire safety training, including the use of firefighting equipment and evacuation procedures.
- No documented fire drills or training records.
Record-Keeping:
- No records of weekly testing for fire detection/alarm systems, fire drills, or training sessions.
Solution Provided
RiskFire implemented a comprehensive action plan to address these challenges:
Electrical Safety Measures:
- Scheduled a full inspection and testing of the wiring structure by a competent electrical contractor.
- Established a PAT testing regime for all portable electrical equipment.
- Advised against the use of portable heaters wherever possible.
Combustible Materials Management:
- Relocated combustible materials away from the kiln.
- Conducted a deep clean of the first floor to remove the buildup of combustible materials.
Signage and Notices Installation:
- Installed 'No Smoking' signs at all entrances and communal areas.
- Added fire action notices at the main entrance.
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems:
- Installed a fire alarm system meeting BS5839 standards.
- Arranged for periodic servicing of the smoke detection and alarm system by a qualified provider.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance:
- Scheduled annual servicing of portable fire extinguishers by a competent provider accredited under BS5306.
Fire Safety Policy and Emergency Plan:
- Drafted a detailed fire safety policy outlining responsibilities at board level, the role of the Responsible Person, and nominated tasks for maintenance and testing.
- Developed a site-specific emergency plan covering evacuation procedures, fire warden duties, and actions in the event of a fire.
Staff Training and Drills:
- Provided fire warden/marshal training for key staff, focusing on the use of firefighting equipment and evacuation procedures.
- Conducted a fire drill and implemented annual fire drills for all staff.
- Designed a staff induction program covering fire risks, safety measures, alarm systems, and evacuation processes.
Record-Keeping:
- Established a record-keeping framework for fire alarm testing, staff training, and fire drills.
- Ensured records were readily available for inspection on-site.
Results
The fire safety upgrades and compliance measures delivered the following outcomes:
1. Compliance Achieved:
- The White Nettle now complies with The Fire Safety Order (2005) and industry standards, including BS5839 and BS5306.
2. Reduced Fire Risk:
- Improved housekeeping and relocation of combustible materials reduced fire hazards.
- Electrical safety risks were mitigated through regular PAT testing and inspection of wiring.
3. Enhanced Safety Preparedness:
- Staff received comprehensive fire safety training, enabling effective response to fire incidents.
- Clear evacuation procedures and regular drills improved readiness.
4. Improved Documentation:
- Accurate records of fire safety activities ensured transparency and audit readiness.
5. Increased Awareness:
- Signage and notices provided clear guidance for staff and customers, enhancing safety awareness.
Conclusion
RiskFire's interventions at The White Nettle transformed the gift shop into a safer, compliant, and well-prepared establishment. The implementation of practical measures and comprehensive staff training addressed immediate risks and established a framework for long-term fire safety management.
This FRA was completed using the Firehub app.
