COVER SHEET FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW

in accordance with Publicly Available Standard PAS 79:2011 (British Standards Institute): Fire Risk
Assessment - Guidance and a recommended methodology (with additions)

Responsible Person: Head of Biosciences in conjunction with Council & the Vice Chancellor

Address of Property: Stacey Building, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NJ

Person(s) Consulted: Occupants; Estates staff including FM team

Assessor: Andrew Briggs, MIFSM, MIIRSM

Date of Fire Risk Assessment: 15th January to 2nd February 2016

Date of Previous Fire Risk Assessment: 30th June 2010, 15th February 2006

Suggested Date for Review: February 2018, or as per UoK SHEU official schedule, or in event of significant change

Document dated 5th February 2016

Amended 8th February (review due date error corrected)
GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

1.0 The Building

1.1 Number of floors 3

1.2 Approximate floor area: Not reviewed at this time

1.3 Construction Details: Traditional brick & concrete

1.4 Occupancy: Academic, research & administrative

2.0 The Occupants

2.1 Approximate maximum number: Not reviewed at this time (except former Hub - se 17.2 ii).

2.2 Maximum number of staff at any one time: Not reviewed at this time

2.3 Maximum number of members of public: Not reviewed at this time

(Add more detail by area or room as appropriate)

3.0 Occupants at Special Risk

3.1 Sleeping occupants: Nil

3.2 Occupants with disabilities: Nil specific; general provision

3.3 Occupants in remote areas: N/A

3.4 Others: N/A

4.0 Fire Loss Experience

4.1 Fires in past 10 years: Total 6 inside building

5 Bunsen burner related; 1 electrical fault (Hydrovane compressor)
(plus 1 vehicle set alight outside)
GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Fires in 10 years prior to last fire risk assessment,

4.1 a June 2010, for comparison: Total 4 inside building
(note overlap with current data at 4.1 above) 2 Bunsen burner related; 2 electrical fault (Hydrovane compressor; light fitting)
(plus 1 external litter bin)
4.2 Cost of fire losses: N/A

5.0 Other Relevant Information

5.1 Detail: N/A

6.0 Relevant Fire Safety Legislation

6.1 Primary statutory provisions etc: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, referred Official Guidance & related
British Standards/Euro Norms
6.2 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service

6.3 Other legislation significant to fire safety Fire Safety (Employees' Capabilities) (England) Regulations 2010
provisions in this building:
6.4 Enforced by: Kent Fire & Rescue Service
RISK SUMMARY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

The following is based on BS 9999 concepts and principles, which may be used in conjunction with official guidance in assessing risks.
Categories relevant to the building are highlighted.
Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist.

Occupant risk categories

Risk category Description Comments
A Occupants who are awake and Staff; students
familiar with the building
B Occupants who are awake and New students and occasional visitors, but under supervision
unfamiliar with the building
C Occupants who are likely to be
asleep:
Ci long-term individual occupancy
Cii long-term managed occupancy
Ciii short-term occupancy
D Occupants receiving medical care
E Occupants in transit

Fire growth rate(s)

Category Fire Typical fire growth parameter, Locations (where specific) & categories
growth kJ/s3
rate
1 Slow 0.0029
2 Medium 0.012 Most locations
3 Fast 0.047 Minority of laboratories; some store areas
4 Ultra-fast 0.188 Possible - certain occasional laboratory situations - but subject to controls
including DSEAR risk assessment; suitable mitigation of risks will reduce
growth rate to category 2 or 3

Risk profiles: Range A1 to A3

Management level therefore required: 1
1 = fully proactive; optimally staffed, controlled & resourced etc.
See BS 9999:2008 section 8.3 2 = reliably reactive; compliant with legislation & direct requirements
( 3 = N/A, less than compliant with legislation )
RISK SUMMARY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Environmental risks Fire-fighting water runoff and temporary release of combustion products to
atmosphere. Possible release of asbestos. Depending on location and extent
of fire, possible environmental impacts from release of various substances to
soil, watercourse and/or air. Possible radiological and biological releases.

Heritage aspects Building does not have Listed status.

Business continuity (University) Minor to moderate
Business continuity (department) Serious to catastrophic
FIRE HAZARDS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

INDEX DETAIL YES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC

7.0 Electrical Sources of Ignition
7.1 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of
electrical origin?
7.2 Fixed installation periodically inspected and
tested? Portable appliance testing carried out?
Suitable policy regarding use of personal
electrical appliances? Suitable limitation of
trailing leads and adaptors?
Continue insofar as possible to maintain/encourage safe separation distance of
½ metre between appliances and combustible materials in all areas, to ensure
that sources of heat do not arise from faulty or overloaded electrical equipment,
to ensure that all electrical fuses and circuit breakers etc are of the correct rating
and suitable for the purpose, and to switch equipment off at the end of the
working day.
Y The adjoining brick shed (site of a previous fire involving a compressor, now
disconnected) is currently disused.
Y Continue to ensure PAT and fixed installation testing is carried out regularly.

8.0 Smoking
8.1, 2 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a Y Ensure University smoking policy continues to be implemented, publicised and
result of smoking? Prohibited where appropriate? enforced insofar as possible. See also 20.1 (1).
Arrangements for smokers? No evidence of
breaches?

9.0 Arson
9.1, 2 Does basic security against arson appear Y
reasonable? Absence of fire load available for
ignition in vulnerable areas? (Proximity to or
presence within building)

10.0 Portable Heaters & Heating Installations

10.1 Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as Y Continue to ensure that additional appliances are used only where strictly
practicable? necessary and with management knowledge and control.
10.2 If portable heaters are used: is the use of the Maintain safe separation distance between appliances and
more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar fires or lpg flammable/combustible materials. Portable electrical heaters with open
appliances) avoided? Are suitable measures elements, such as halogen or radiant heaters, must not be used.
taken to minimize the hazard of ignition of
combustible materials?
10.3 Are fixed heating installations subject to regular Y
maintenance?

11.0 Cooking
11.1 Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires X
as a result of cooking? Is all essential
maintenance up to date and recorded?
11.2 Are filters changed and ductwork cleaned X
regularly? Are suitable extinguishing appliances
available?

12.0 Lightning
12.1 Does the building have a lightning protection Y
system?
FIRE HAZARDS
13.0 Housekeeping
13.1 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate?
13.2 Are combustible materials separated from ignition Y
sources?
13.3 Is there an avoidance of unnecessary
accumulation of combustible materials or waste?
13.4 Is there appropriate storage of combustible
materials?
13.5 Is there avoidance of inappropriate storage of
combustible materials?
14.0 Outside Contractor, Building Works and
Maintenance Hazards
14.1 Is there satisfactory control over works carried Y
out in the building by maintenance personnel and
outside contractors?
14.2, 3 Are adequate fire safety conditions imposed on
outside contractors?
15.0 Dangerous Substances
15.1 Have the hazardous properties of dangerous
substances been considered? If relevant, have
risk assessments been carried out according to
the Dangerous Substances and Explosive
Atmospheres Regulations 2002?
15.2 Is there adequate information on safety provided Y
by the supplier on any relevant safety data sheet?
15.3
Has account been taken regarding:
● the special, technical and organisational
measures and the substances used and their
possible interactions.
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
Y Ensure that housekeeping programme continues to include prompt removal of
combustible materials and waste.
Continue to maintain safe separation distance of ½ metre between appliances
and combustible materials throughout building .
N Remove chairs, packaging, trolley, cleaning materials, equipment etc from the Escape routes should be maintained as fire-sterile as possible; this is
rear staircase and former Hub staircase which must must not contain especially critical in staircases and where there is no alternative
combustible materials at any time - strict requirement. See also 13.5. direction of escape.
Y Continue to ensure that open skips and other combustible materials, including in 8 metre distance is understood to be a requirement of the University's
Kier Construction's compound adjacent, are placed at least 8m from the building insurers; other sources specify variously from 5 to 12m.
and secure.
N See 13.3 - combustible materials such as timber pallets, plastic packaging and
housekeeping materials were seen in the rear staircase on several recent
occasions. Kent Fire & Rescue Service enforcement officers require that no
items are stored in protected escape staircases, even non-combustible, since
the introduction of other materials may in effect be encouraged. It is strongly
recommended that the rear and former Hub staircases should therefore not
contain noncombustible items either, unless regular and reliable inspections can
be implemented (see 25.8).
Appropriate control (including Permits To work where appropriate) usually
administered by Estates. Biosciences should however ensure that contractors
are briefed on, and accounted for under, building Fire Emergency Plan (also that
contractors' dangerous substances are known & logged - see 15).
Y As above.
N DSEAR risk assessments should be carried out for all relevant substances and A. Flammable compressed gases have been removed from B210
conditions, taking account of aspects listed in section 15.3. In many cases, such since the last fire risk assessment. B.
as small-scale use of solvents, risks may be relatively low and largely covered by Continue to apply risk reduction hierarchy - eliminate, substitute,
other risk assessments; some, such as use of compressed methane, will need enclose/segregate, reduce, control - including use, storage and
detailed attention. possible release of dangerous substances. Ensure that any release
of a dangerous substance which may give rise to risk is suitably
collected, safely contained, removed to a safe place, or otherwise
rendered safe, as appropriate. Avoid ignition sources including
electrostatic discharges. Avoid such other adverse conditions as
could result in harmful physical effects from a dangerous substance
Continue to ensure that safety data sheets are readily available for all dangerous
substances.
Generic/indicative comments below are included towards
DSEAR risk assessments and control measures.
Ensure that suitable special, technical and organisational measures
are provided, implemented and maintained so as to reduce risk.
FIRE HAZARDS
● the amount of the substance involved
● where the work will involve more than one
dangerous substance, the risk presented by such
substances in combination
● the arrangements for the safe handling, storage
and transport of dangerous substances and of
waste containing dangerous substances
● any other measures introduced as a result of the
RRO
15.4 Are there safe systems of work for maintenance,
where there is the potential for a high level of
risk?
15.5 Are sufficient control measures in place to
counter the likelihood that an explosive
atmosphere will occur and its persistence
including adjacent areas?
15.6 Are sufficient control measures in place to
counter the likelihood that ignition sources,
including electrostatic discharges, will be present
and become active and effective
15.7 Has account been taken regarding the scale of
the anticipated effects?
15.8 Is sufficient additional safety information available
to enable the assessment to be completed?
16.0 Other Significant Risks
16.1 Are there other significant ignition sources
present?
16.2 Are there other significant fuels present?
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
G29, Technical Services: store all flammables in a suitable marked cabinet.
See also 23.1.
Y Ensure all laboratory equipment etc. is maintained according to useage and
manufacturers' instructions, and kept clean at all times.
N Labs that have been refurbished in recent years have local emergency gas
shutoff controls. See also 24 suppl. 2.
Reduce quantities or substitute for a less volatile substance, etc.
Introduce appropriate segregation measures to ensure that
incompatible substances do not come into contact with each other.
Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the requirement
to prevent confusion between connecting devices. Risk assess and
design laboratory procedures and reactions so as to minimise risk.
Account should be taken of potentials for unintended or uncontrolled
reactions including runaways, including the effect of possible failure
of equipment or power supply.
See also 16.3.
Implement the requirement to train appropriate staff in the use of
appropriate fire fighting equipment suitable for the risks present (see
25.5).
Ensure that appropriate safe systems of work are in place and that
written instructions for the carrying out of particular high-risk work are
issued. Ensure that workers are suitably trained, informed and
instructed. Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the
requirements where power failure can give rise to the spread of
additional risk; if/where critical, equipment and protective systems
must be capable of safe operation independently of the rest of the
building in the event of power failure. Ensure that appropriate
requirements for emergency manual override, shutdown etc are
safely met.
Prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere, including e.g. by
appropriate ventilation.
Ensure that equipment and protective systems meet the
requirements where on operation of emergency shutdown,
accumulated energy must be dissipated as quickly and as safely as
possible or isolated so that it no longer constitutes a hazard.
Where relevant, reduce to a minimum the number of persons
exposed in the risk area. Introduce additional measures to avoid the
propagation of fires or explosions. Provide explosion pressure relief
arrangements. Provide explosion suppression equipment. Provide
plant which is constructed so as to withstand the pressure likely to be
produced by an explosion. Provide suitable personal protective
equipment.
Provide appropriate safety information as full implementation of
DSEAR risk assessments progresses.
FIRE HAZARDS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

16.3 Other risks relating to fire Various non-flammable compressed gas cylinders are present within
laboratories, including those recently refurbished. These should preferably be
relocated outside the building and the gases piped in.
FIRE PROTECTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

INDEX DETAIL YES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC

17.0 Means of Escape from Fire

17.1 Is it considered that the building is provided with Y Following the previous fire risk assessment, several freezers have been
reasonable means of escape in case of fire? removed from escape routes and the main rear staircase.

17.2 i Adequate design of escape routes? (Calculate Y

for room and premises occupancy numbers &
types, where relevant.)
17.2 i Is a suitable assembly point specified?
suppl.
17.2 ii Adequate provision of exits? (Calculate for room Y
and premises occupancy numbers & types,
where relevant.)
Y Sunken garden NE of main entrance.
Note - the former Hub main entrance is no longer in use as such, but is a
designated escape route and must remain available in case of fire, unless
permissible building occupancies are reassessed definitively.
The former Hub entrance and fire exit could be closed off if
desired, on condition that a limit of 100 persons is applied
to the entire former Hub, that suitable changes are made
in automatic fire detection and compartmentation, and that
signage is removed accordingly.
Note - according to guidance the above limit of 100 would apply to the
ground floor only, but should be taken to include the first floor since (a)
those occupants cannot be reliably expected to evacuate by the external
staircases in all instances, and (b) resorting back up the internal staircase
to escape if confronted by fire conditions on the ground floor is not
considered tenable.

17.2 ii In the case of roof access, are there adequate
suppl. exits/routes?
17.2 iii Are exits easily and immediately openable where Y
necessary? (Alarm-linked features such as
electronic door release mechanisms to be
verified as compliant, functional and suitably
failsafe)
17.2 iv Do escape exits open in the direction of escape Y
where necessary?
17.2 v Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire
exits where necessary?
17.2 vi Are there satisfactory means for securing exits?
A Permit to Work system applies for roof access - account should be taken of
extended travel distances, limited audibility of fire alarm signal and Campus
Security awareness in case of fire evacuations.
The fire exit door at the foot of the rear staircase should release automatically
on activation of the fire alarm (the green breakglass should not need to be
operated).
Confirmed that sliding doors have battery backup and are linked to the fire
alarm system. Information has been requested from Estates to confirm nature
of other failsafe arrangements.
Y
The fire exit door at the former Hub entrance is non-
compliant having two turnbuttons requiring to be opened,
but is viewed as tolerable temporarily pending
refurbishment and/or reassessment of means of escape.
Alternatively, doors should be openable in emergency by
outward pressure and have escape signage to that effect,
or suitable relief exit doorways should be provided.

17.2 vii Are there reasonable travel distances where
there is a single direction of travel?
17.2 viii Are there reasonable travel distances where
there is an alternative means of escape?
Y Dead end conditions exist on all upper floors at the South end of the main block
(see also further comments at 17.2 ix)), and on the ground floor at the far end of
the former Enterprise Hub.
Y Previous dead end conditions on the upper floor of the former Enterprise Hub,
although not exceeding travel distance limits, have been relieved by the
addition of external escape staircases.
FIRE PROTECTION
17.2 ix Is there suitable protection of escape routes?
17.2 ix Are escape routes suitably/tolerably fire sterile?
suppl. 1
17.2 ix Where automatic devices are fitted to designated Y
suppl. 2 fire doors, is appropriate automatic fire detection
fitted, and are they of an appropriate type?
17.2 x Suitable fire precautions for all inner rooms?
17.2 xi Are all escape routes unobstructed and safely
passable?
17.3 Is the building provided with reasonable
arrangements for occupants who may have
difficulty escaping?
17.3 Are disabled refuges suitably provided,
suppl. 1 protected, signed and accessible?
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
N The main staircase and refuges are not fully protected at present - 201
Reception room should be half hour fire-separated from the staircase (both
doors to FD30S standard).
N (1) Remove freezer from South corridor on L1, or enclose in fire resisting
construction. (2) Remove photocopier from South corrdor on L2, or enclose in maintained fire-sterile. Regarding actions (1) and (2), see
fire resisting construction. (3) Electrical control units above the door at the foot further comments at 17.2 ix above: option (b) is only viable
of the internal staircase in the former Enterprise Hub should be enclosed in fire if the corridors contain lesser fire risks compared with the
resisting materials. (4) Remove open pinboard from ground floor foyer - no
open combustible postings are permissible in the staircase enclosure.
Not all to previous CFOA requirement of 1.5m, but acceptable.
Y B214 must be used as a store room only, i.e. not "occupied" at any time, unless
suitable provisions are made to relieve its inner room condition.
Y Continue to ensure that all escape routes and gangways, including through
rooms, remain unobstructed at full width at all times. The gangway through
B211 (escape route from B210) required furniture removing when inspected and
should continue to be monitored.
Y Ramps from final exits from teaching labs lead immediately to grassed area.
Paths should be provided to allow people with mobility impairments to move to
a place of safety irrespective of ground conditions.
N Positioning of the new refuges in the rear staircase should be corrected so that
a wheelchair will not impede the escape route width.
A. All rooms off the L1 & L2 South dead-end corridors
(main block) should be designated fire doors; alternatively,
(a) all rooms (as well as the corridors) should be provided
with smoke detectors, or (b) the corridors could be
considered as "rooms" and the rooms "inner rooms" off
them (i.e. tolerable at present if requirements in 17.2 ix
suppl. 1 below are met).
B. Some fire doors to rooms are of older design, lacking
intumescent strips and smoke seals - tolerable if
maintained in good condition such that door leaves self-
close fully into rebates and latch shut.
C. The Stores hatch shutter does not require full fire
resistance for life safety purposes, given dual escape
directions in the corridor outside, but provides protection
and should be shut if safe to do so in the event of the fire
alarm sounding.
D. External windows within 1.8m of the external escape
staircases are fire resisting.
E. Designated fire doors must not be wedged or propped
open at any time.
A. Dead-end corridors and escape staircases should be
rooms off them. See also 13.3.
B. The main staircase is not entirely fully fire sterile (small
social areas on ground floor and L2 including tables with
minimal leaflets etc), but tolerable with requirement (4) met
and so long as combustible materials do not proliferate
further.
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans must continue to
be devised for all persons with impairments who may
require assistance to escape safely.
See also 17.2 ix (1) - refuges in main staircase are
currently not sufficiently protected, and (further comment
B) not fully fire sterile, but relieved by alternative refuges in
the rear staircase and (on L2) in Ingram Phase 2.
FIRE PROTECTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

17.3 Is the EVC (emergency voice communication) Y

suppl. 2 system compliant with BS 5839-9:2011 (or
functional equivalent) provided at all disabled
refuges?
17.3 Are provisions and resources for assisting Y Escape requirements should be reviewed in advance whenever groups of Campus Watch assistance is expected to be adequate for
suppl. 3 escape adequate for the number of people who persons with disabilities are to use the premises. normal user levels.
may require assistance?

18.0 Measures to Limit Fire Spread and

Development
18.0 Are marked up plans available showing all fire
suppl. resisting construction?
18.1 i Is it considered that there is compartmentation of
a reasonable standard? (Including e.g. fire-
stopping of service penetrations)
18.1 i Is there potential for fire spread between
suppl. compartments through void spaces?
18.1 ii Is it considered that there is reasonable limitation Y
of linings that may promote fire spread?
Y Estates plans should be verified as fully correct and detailed regarding fire
compartmentation, or updated as necessary.
It was not possible to check passive fire protection intrusively during this fire
risk assessment. Integrity of compartmentation, voids, ventilation dampers etc
should be verified. See further comments and also 17.2 ix.
See 18.1 i.
See also 17.2 ix suppl. 1.
A. Likely breaches of fire compartmentation were noted in
plant rooms G06/07 and G32, and similar probably exist
elsewhere, e.g. around service penetrations.
B. Compartmentation elements such as fire doors,
partitions and fire stopping around service penetrations etc
are of some age and to an older design in some areas -
approximately tolerable for life safety puroses (see 17.2 ix)
but likely to be of poor effectiveness for property protection
and business continuity.

18.2 As far as can be reasonably ascertained, are fire Unknown - see 18.1 i.
dampers provided as necessary to prevent
critical means of escape against passage of fire,
smoke and combustion products in the early
stages of a fire?

19.0 Escape Lighting

19.1 Is a reasonable standard of escape lighting Y Not compliant to current standards in some areas, and should be upgraded
provided? during future refurbishments, but appears adequate subject to ongoing checks
by Estates.

20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices

20.1 Does the building have a reasonable standard of
fire safety signs and notices?
N (1) Provide statutory/University No Smoking signs at the main entrance and (if
to be used in future) former Enterprise Hub entrance. (2) Provide "Fire escape
keep clear" sign on inner door in B211 (relief fire exit from B210). (3) Many
cross-corridor fire doors are incorrectly marked "automatic" - the missing
magnetic holdbacks should preferably be provided, or the signs corrected. (4)
Replace various missing or loose Fire Action Notices and directional escape
route signs, following the recent refurbishment work. (5) Location of the L1
refuge in the former Hub should be marked on its sign. (6) Provide "do not use
lift in event of fire" signs at both lifts on upper floors. (7) Care must be taken in
the teaching labs not to allow blinds to obscure fire exit signs.
A minority of directional escape route signs are of an older
non ISO 7010 format and should be replaced when
convenient, but are tolerable.
Various doors to plant rooms, risers etc are not marked
"Fire Door Keep Locked" but are routinely kept locked;
where this management practice is reliable, the absence of
such signs is tolerable.
FIRE PROTECTION
20.1 Are fire safety signs of appropriate size for
suppl. 1 viewing distances?
20.1 Are fire safety signs specific to persons with
suppl. 2 disabilities provided in suitable locations and
positions?
21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire
21.1 Is a reasonable manually operated electrical fire Y
alarm system provided?
21.2, 3 Is automatic fire detection provided in building? Y
(Throughout building? Part(s) of building only?)
Is the extent of automatic fire detection generally
suitable for the occupancy and risk?
21.4 Is there a remote transmission of alarm signal?
Are measures in place relating to "call
challenging" by the Fire & Rescue Service?
21 suppl. Is the fire alarm system audible throughout the
1 premises?
21 suppl. Is the fire alarm system perceptible throughout
2 the premises to persons who might not hear the
alarm signal?
21 suppl. If unwanted fire alarm signals occur, are they
3 acceptably infrequent?
22.0 Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances
22.1 Is the provision of portable fire extinguishers
reasonable?
22.2 Are hose reels provided?
22.3 Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily
accessible?
23.0 Automatic Fixed Systems
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
Y
X Routes to refuges do not differ significantly from other signed escape routes.
Fire alarm call point in plant room G40 should be moved to the doorway.
(1) Heat detectors in rooms such as lecture theatres and offices should (a) Fire alarm system was designed over 10 years ago -
preferably be replaced with smoke detectors. (2) AFD in G14 should be detector coverage in labs and offices (mostly heat only
relocated away from ventilation fitting. (3) Fire alarm system should be where provided) is not compliant with current standards,
upgraded or replaced when possible, but remains adequate/tolerable (see but is viewed as sufficient at least for life safety purposes.
further comments). It is reported that at time of installation, Estates had
dispensation from KFRS to cover only escape routes due
to asbestos issues.
(b) Portakabins <5m from the building to the SW - unclear
whether fire alarm system has been extended into this
structure - noncompliant but tolerable for life safety risk if
not.
Y
Y Appears adequate, subject to ongoing verification by Estates that 65dB is
attained in all locations. In room 212, the alarm is audible may be lower -
justified on basis of operational need - staff accessing the room must be
suitably briefed.
N Flashing beacons should preferably be fitted at least in circulation areas and
rooms people with hearing impairments may at times occupy alone.
Y
N Extinguisher provision should be reviewed and adjusted - (a) provide
extinguishers on or near the upper levels of the rear staircase, and at the former
Hub entrance fire exit; (b) reposition CO2 extinguisher in G40 plant room
adjacent to door; (c) the extent of bias towards dry powder type may no longer
be valid in some areas, given the change of use of many spaces to office use.
N
Y
FIRE PROTECTION FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

23.1 Is there a suitable sprinkler or water based N Consider providing fume cupboards/hoods with suppression systems where Any fume cupboard/hood ducting installed in future should
system, gaseous local application or total work undertaken carries a fire risk, especially where ducting passes through fire pass up the exterior of the building wherever practicable.
flooding provided that is adequate for the risk compartmentation.
present?

24.0 Other Fixed Systems and Equipment

24.1 Are there suitable smoke control facilities for the N X As per 21 suppl. 2 below, it is believed that activation of the fire alarm results in
risk present? extraction from fume cupboards etc. continuing.
24 suppl. Is there suitable provision of a fire-fighters' X
switch(es) for high voltage luminous discharge
tube signs etc? Has suitable notice of these
been given to the Fire & Rescue Authority,
including switch colouring and marking?
24 suppl. 2 Does automatic control or shutdown of Verify that BMS actions in the event of fire alarm activation result in safe
ventilation systems in the event of fire alarm conditions throughout, including ventilation and gas shutoff.
activation result in safe conditions throughout
(e.g. fire doors unimpeded by air movements
from closing)?
MANAGING FIRE SAFETY
INDEX DETAIL
25.0 Procedures and Arrangements
25.1 Fire safety is managed by:
25.2 Are suitably and sufficiently competent persons
appointed to assist in undertaking and ensuring
the preventive and protective measures (i.e.
relevant general fire precautions)?
25.3, 4 Is there a suitable record of fire safety
arrangements? Procedures properly
documented? Suitable arrangements for
ensuring that the premises have been evacuated?
Suitable fire assemply point(s)? Adequate
procedures for evacuation of persons with
disabilities?
25.3,4 Are suitable and sufficient arrangements in place Y
suppl. for investigating fire alarm activations,
summoning the Fire & Rescue Service, meeting
them on arrival and providing relevant information
including hazards to firefighters?
25.5 Are persons nominated and trained to use fire
extinguishing appliances?
25.6 Are persons nominated and trained to assist with Y
evacuation, including evacuation of persons with
disabilities?
25.7 Is there appropriate liaison with the Fire & Rescue Y
Service (e.g. any relevant notifications,
familiarization visits etc)
25.8 Is a system of routine in-house, local inspections Y
of fire precautions implemented?
25 suppl. Is there local awareness of PEEP requirements
for regular building users with disabilities,
impairments and other relevant conditions?
Would such persons be identified and referred?
26.0 Training and Drills
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT
YES NO N/A COMMENTS, CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED ETC. FURTHER COMMENTS, DETAIL, CLARIFICATION ETC
Head of Biosciences and line management.
Y
Y The fire emergency plans should be reviewed for adequacy in common
with other University buildings.
Campus Security response. Kent Fire & Rescue Service statements, reflecting national fire
brigade policy: "From 2 April 2013, any premises reporting an
automatic fire alarm sounding will be required to confirm to 999 staff
that there is a fire, or signs of fire, before any fire fighting response
is sent", requiring "trained, designated people who can safely
investigate the cause of the fire alarm and escalate or downgrade
the situation as required".
Y It is recommended that key laboratory staff receive hands-on training in fire Campus Watch / FM staff are nominated and trained, but cannot be
extinguisher use at not less than 3 year intervals. expected to enter areas of special risk to carry out first-aid
firefighting. For all
persons except those fully trained, fire extinguishers should not be
used unless necessary in order to escape.
Efforts should be made to appoint more fire marshals and deputies in Campus Security arrangements facilitate assisted evacuations
order to achieve full coverage of evacuation management. except where otherwise specified in PEEPs. Session
leaders (lecturers etc) must take reasonable responsibility for
ensuring and confirming the safe evacuation of all persons present,
but without putting themselves at risk.
N Local checks and inspections of fire safety features by fire marshals or
other nominated persons should be extended throughout the building. Key
requirements of this fire risk assessment should be covered.
Y Ensure awareness and continue to identify where PEEPs might be
required; contact Michelle Dawson, SHE Unit confidentially in each case.
See also section 17.3.
MANAGING FIRE SAFETY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction Y

and training on induction?
26.1 Are all students and/or visitors given adequate Y Continue to provide adequate induction to students at the earliest
suppl. fire safety information and instruction at an opportunity. Lecturers, tutors, seminar leaders, facilitators etc. should
appropriate time? deliver basic fire safety information to students on the first occasion in any
given location.
26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic fire safety Y
refresher instruction and training at suitable
intervals?
26.3 Does all staff training (and student/visitor Y
information, as appropriate) provide information,
instruction or training on the following: fire risks in
the building, fire safety measures, action in the
event of fire and on hearing the alarm signal,
operation of manual call points, location and use
of fire extinguishers, means of summoning the
Fire & Rescue Service, identity of persons
nominated to assist with evacuation, identity of
persons nominated to use fire extinguishing
appliances?

26.4 Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire Y

marshals) given additional training?
26.5 Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals, Y
and in accordance with official guidance?

26.6 When the employees or visitors of another

employer work or are accommodated in the
premises:
26.6 i Is the employer given appropriate information Y
(e.g. on fire risks and general fire precautions)?
26.6 ii Is it ensured that the employees and visitors are Y
provided with adequate instructions and
information?

27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance

27.1 Adequate maintenance and inspection of Y
premises by competent persons?
27.2 Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire Y
detection and alarm system?
27.3 Monthly and annual testing routines for Y
emergency lighting?
27.4 Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing Y
appliances?
27.5 Periodic inspection of external escape staircases Y
and gangways?
MANAGING FIRE SAFETY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

27.5 Is there adequate provision for ensuring external Implement reliable de-icing and snow clearing arrangements for external
suppl. escape staircases and gangways remain escape staircases and walkways. Note that at times when these are not
passable at all material times during inclement safely passable, occupancy of teaching laboratories and L1 of the former
weather? Hub should be limited. Estates are unlikely to be able to provide sufficient
priority for immediate occupancy.
27.6 Six-monthly testing and annual inspection of X
rising mains and/or hydrants?
27.7 Weekly and monthly testing, six monthly X
inspection and annual testing of evacuation
and/or fire-fighting lifts?
27.8 Weekly testing and periodic inspection of X
sprinkler installations?
27.9 Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security Y
fastening?
27.10 Annual inspection and test of lightning protection Y
systems?
27.11 Other relevant inspections or tests: (including Y Subject to findings of 18.1i.
e.g. ductwork dampers, fire shutters, venting
systems, door holdback devices, electronic door
release systems)

28.0 Records
28.1 Are appropriate records kept for:

28.1 i Fire drills? Y

28.1 ii Fire training? Y
28.1 iii Fire alarm tests? Y
28.1 iv Emergency escape lighting tests? Y
28.1 v Maintenance and testing of other fire protection Y
systems?

29.0 Young Persons

Have the following matters been taken into
particular account in risk assessment in respect
29.1 of young persons:
the inexperience, lack of awareness of risks and
29.2 immaturity of young persons X
29.3 the fitting-out and layout of the premises X
the nature, degree and duration of exposure to
29.4 physical and chemical agents X
the form, range, and use of work equipment and
29.5 the way in which it is handled; X
29.6 the organisation of processes and activities X
the extent of the safety training provided or to be
29.7 provided to young persons X
risks from agents, processes and work listed in
the Annex to Council Directive 94/33/EC on the
29.8 protection of young people at work X
MANAGING FIRE SAFETY FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

30.0 Behavioural Aspects

Is there evidence from previous fire drills and
other emergencies indicating that some
occupants may be unaware, unwilling or fail to
30.1 evacuate? (Aside from disability-related) N
Is there evidence of disregard of fire safety
provisions amongst building occupancy and/or
30.2 management? N
Is there evidence of significant human
30.3 interference with fire safety provisions? N
Are other significant behavioural aspects Management should ensure no person ever sleeps on the premises, and
foreseeable? prevent/minimise the possibility of occupants' inebriation due to the effects
30.4 Y of alcohol and other substances.
INDEX DETAIL DESCRIPTION

31.0 Fire Strategy - building design/layout

31.1 The main part of the building is on three floors each served by a subdivided corridor, plus a roof plant
room (i.e. 7 in total), with two protected staircases. On L2 the main staircase links via a lecture theatre
and corridor to the adjacent Ingram Phase 2 building.
31.1a The building includes the former Enterprise Hub on two floors with a central protected staircase and two
external escape staircases.
31.2 The evacuation strategy is simultaneous and immediate for the entire building and all occupants except,
briefly, those tasked with coordinating the evacuation.
31.3 The building is adequately provided with access routes for firefighting by the Fire & Rescue Service. Fire
hydrants are available to the front of the adjacent Sports Centre and to the rear (former Giles Lane
Teaching Annexe area) and are maintained in an operational state.

32.0 Fire Strategy - systems

32.1 The fire alarm system provides for manual operation and/or automatic detection in order to give
sufficiently early warning of fire to all occupants, and is configured for immediate full alarm on activation
of any device.
32.2 Various alarm-linked devices (automatic fire doors and door locks) support the safe use of escape routes
by occupants and the tenable use of escape routes by firefighters.

33.0 Fire Strategy - particular risks

33.1 Many areas of the building contain particular risks in the form of chemical and biological agents,
specialist equipment and scientific operations/procedures involving them. A proactive safety culture
continues to be promoted. Direct fire risks are thus reduced to low or tolerable levels, and (following
completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment) only a moderate rate of fire spread can be
expected in most spaces.
33.2 Various persons with disabilities/impairments may be present at any time. Some of these may be at
significant enhanced risk due to their inability to perceive or respond to the alarm signal, or inability to self-
evacuate. However, no regular users of the building, staff or students, are known to have particularly
significant disabilities at present (subject to further and ongoing checks). Standard University procedures,
supplemented by local measures, are in place to plan and facilitate their safe evacuation.
 34.0 Fire Strategy - management
34.1 Building management will maintain an active policy of suitable fire training, fire prevention, inspection,
evacuation arrangements/procedures and regular review of all these.
34.2 Evacuation is full and immediate for the entire building on activation of the fire alarm. Evacuation
arrangements include central coordination by Campus Security; sweeping of designated areas by trained
fire marshals to confirm full evacuation insofar as practicable; assistance of persons with disabilities as
necessary and/or according to individual Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans; prevention of persons
re-entering the building; etc.
31.3 Where Fire Marshalling is not practicable, standard University arrangements for lecturers/tutors/session
leaders taking reasonable reponsibility for students/attendees apply. When/where local staff are not
available, Campus Watch provide assistance to persons with disabilities.

34 suppl. Regarding business continuity comments (Risk & Fire Growth worksheet) - BFPEM Evaluator L-curve (Fire Service College, Feb
2006) predicts a moderate to high probability that a fire will be limited, based on a design fire originating in a first floor office.

34.0 Fire Strategy - significant change

34.1 This fire risk assessment must be reviewed in the event of significant change.
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

This simple risk level estimator is based on a more general health and safety risk level estimator in BS 8800.

Assessment of risk is on a "probable" basis, recognising the degree to which this Fire Risk Assessment is based on sampling; undetected risks may exist.

Potential consequences of fire ► Slight harm Moderate harm Extreme harm

Fire hazard ▼
Low Trivial OR tolerable risk * Tolerable risk Moderate risk
Medium Tolerable risk Moderate risk Substantial risk
High Moderate risk Substantial risk Intolerable risk
* at discretion of Fire Risk Assessor

Taking into account the fire prevention measures observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the
hazard from fire (probability of ignition) at this building is:

Low / highly unlikely

Medium / unlikely X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

High / likely

Taking into account the nature of the building and the occupants, as well as the fire protection and procedural arrangements
observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is considered that the consequences for life safety in the event of fire would be:

Slight harm X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

Moderate harm

Extreme harm

In this context, a definition of the above terms is as follows:

Slight harm: Outbreak of fire unlikely to result in serious injury or death of any occupant (other than an occupant
sleeping in a bedroom in which a fire occurs).
Moderate harm: Outbreak of fire could result in injury of one or more occupants, but it is unlikely to involve multiple
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

fatalities.
Extreme harm: Significant potential for serious injury or death of one or more occupants.

Accordingly, it is considered that the risk to life from fire at this building is:

Trivial

Tolerable X - following completion of recommendations of this fire risk assessment

Moderate

Substantial

Intolerable

A suitable risk-based control plan should involve effort and urgency that is proportional to risk. The following risk-based
control plan is based on one advocated by BS 8800 for general health and safety risks:

Risk Level Action and Timescale

Trivial No action is required and no additional detailed records need be kept.

Tolerable No major additional controls required. However, there may be a need for consideration
of improvements that involve minor or limited cost, and various corrective actions may
be required.
Moderate It is essential that efforts are made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures should
be implemented within a defined time period.

Where moderate risk is associated with consequences that constitute extreme harm, further
assessment may be required to establish more precisely the likelihood of harm as a basis
for determining the priority for improved control measures.

Substantial Considerable resources may have to be allocated to reduce the risk. If the building is
unoccupied, it should not be occupied until the risk has been reduced. If the building is
occupied, urgent action should be taken.
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Intolerable Building (or relevant area) should not be occupied until the risk is reduced.

Any significant change, occurrence, finding or development should be reported

immediately to the University’s Safety, Health & Environment Unit so that mitigating action
can be taken and this Fire Risk Assessment reviewed and updated.

Important note: this assessment of risk is made on a probable or 'best endeavour' basis, since this report is based on a sampling exercise.
It is possible that greater risks remain undetected in areas or aspects that have not yet been accessed or addressed.
ACTION PLAN FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

ORGANISATION: University of Kent ASSESSOR: Andrew Briggs

BUILDING: Stacey DATE: 5th February 2016

ACTION PLAN
Note - only remedial/salient items appear below. Various other, general requirements are also necessary - see previous worksheets.
REFERENCE ACTION REQUIRED PRIORITY * RESPONSIBILITY TARGET DATE COMPLETE
6 figure numbers = (or √ = carried
Estates Helpdesk forward to Estates
Service Requests spreadsheet **)

13.0 Housekeeping
13.3 Remove chairs, packaging, trolley, cleaning materials, equipment etc from the rear 1A Biosciences Immediate/
staircase and former Hub staircase which must must not contain combustible urgent and
materials at any time - strict requirement. See also 13.5. ongoing

15.0 Dangerous Substances

15.1 DSEAR risk assessments should be carried out for all relevant substances and 1A/B Biosciences Short term
conditions, taking account of aspects listed in section 15.3. In many cases, such
as small-scale use of solvents, risks may be relatively low and largely covered by
other risk assessments; some, such as use of compressed methane, will need
detailed attention.
15.3 G29, Technical Services: store all flammables in a suitable marked cabinet. 2A/B Biosciences Immediate

17.0 Means of Escape from Fire

17.2 iii The fire exit door at the foot of the rear staircase should release automatically on 2A Estates Short term √
activation of the fire alarm (the green breakglass should not need to be operated).
17.2 ix The main staircase and refuges are not fully protected at present - 201 Reception 1A Estates Short term √
room should be half hour fire-separated from the staircase (both doors to FD30S
standard).
17.2 ix suppl. 1 (1) Remove freezer from South corridor on L1, or enclose in fire resisting (1, 2, 4) 1A/2B (1, 2, 4) (1, 2) Short (1, 2, 3) √
construction. (2) Remove photocopier from South corrdor on L2, or enclose in fire (3) 2A/B Biosciences term, urgent
resisting construction. (3) Electrical control units above the door at the foot of the (3) Estates (3) Short term
internal staircase in the former Enterprise Hub should be enclosed in fire resisting (4) Immediate
materials. (4) Remove open pinboard from ground floor foyer - no open
combustible postings are permissible in the staircase enclosure.
17.3 Ramps from final exits from teaching labs lead immediately to grassed area. Paths 2A Estates Short term √
should be provided to allow people with mobility impairments to move to a place of
safety irrespective of ground conditions.
ACTION PLAN FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

17.3 suppl. 1 Positioning of the new refuges in the rear staircase should be corrected so that a 2A Estates Short term √
wheelchair will not impede the escape route width.

18.0 Measures to Limit Fire Spread and Development

18.1 i It was not possible to check passive fire protection intrusively during this fire risk 2A/B Estates Medium term √
assessment. Integrity of compartmentation, voids, ventilation dampers etc should
be verified. See further comments and also 17.2 ix.

20.0 Fire Safety Signs and Notices

20.1 (1) Provide statutory/University No Smoking signs at the main entrance and (if to (1, 5) 2B (1) 522706 (5) Ongoing
be used in future) former Enterprise Hub entrance. (2) Provide "Fire escape keep (2) 2A (2) 522707
clear" sign on inner door in B211 (relief fire exit from B210). (3) Many cross- (3, 4) 2A/B (3) 522708
corridor fire doors are incorrectly marked "automatic" - the missing magnetic (6) 1A (4) 522709
holdbacks should preferably be provided, or the signs corrected. (4) Replace (5) 522710
various missing or loose Fire Action Notices and directional escape route signs, (6) 522730
following the recent refurbishment work. (5) Location of the L1 refuge in the former (7) Biosciences
Hub should be marked on its sign. (6) Provide "do not use lift in event of fire" signs
at both lifts on upper floors. (7) Care must be taken in the teaching labs not to
allow blinds to obscure fire exit signs.

21.0 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire

21.1 Fire alarm call point in plant room G40 should be moved to the doorway. 2A/1B Estates Short term √
21.2, 3 (1) Heat detectors in rooms such as lecture theatres and offices should preferably 2A/B Estates Medium term √
be replaced with smoke detectors. (2) AFD in G14 should be relocated away from
ventilation fitting. (3) Fire alarm system should be upgraded or replaced when
possible, but remains adequate/tolerable (see further comments).

21 suppl. 2 Flashing beacons should preferably be fitted at least in circulation areas and rooms 2 to 3A Estates Medium term √
people with hearing impairments may at times occupy alone.

22.0 Portable Fire Extinguishing Appliances

22.1 Extinguisher provision should be reviewed and adjusted - (a) provide extinguishers 1A/2B Estates Short term √
on or near the upper levels of the rear staircase, and at the former Hub entrance
fire exit; (b) reposition CO2 extinguisher in G40 plant room adjacent to door; (c) the
extent of bias towards dry powder type may no longer be valid in some areas,
given the change of use of many spaces to office use.

23.0 Automatic Fixed Systems

ACTION PLAN FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

23.1 Consider providing fume cupboards/hoods with suppression systems where work 2A/B Biosciences Ongoing
undertaken carries a fire risk, especially where ducting passes through fire recommen-
compartmentation. dation

Other Fixed Systems and Equipment

24 suppl. 2 Verify that BMS actions in the event of fire alarm activation result in safe conditions 2-3A/2B Estates & SHE Short term
throughout, including ventilation and gas shutoff. Unit

25.0 Procedures and Arrangements

25.3, 4 The fire emergency plans should be reviewed for adequacy in common with other 2A/B SHE Unit Short to
University buildings. medium term
25.5 It is recommended that key laboratory staff receive hands-on training in fire 2-3A/B Biosciences Ongoing
extinguisher use at not less than 3 year intervals. recommendation

25.6 Efforts should be made to appoint more fire marshals and deputies in order to 2A Biosciences Short term and
achieve full coverage of evacuation management. ongoing
25.8 Local checks and inspections of fire safety features by fire marshals or other 2A/B Biosciences Ongoing
nominated persons should be extended throughout the building. Key requirements
of this fire risk assessment should be covered.

27.0 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance

27.5 suppl. Implement reliable de-icing and snow clearing arrangements for external escape 1A Biosciences (& Immediate and
staircases and walkways. Note that at times when these are not safely passable, Estates depending ongoing
occupancy of teaching laboratories and L1 of the former Hub should be limited. on outcome)
Estates are unlikely to be able to provide sufficient priority for immediate
occupancy.

35.0 Fire Strategy - significant change

34.1 This fire risk assessment must be reviewed in the event of significant change. 1A/B All Ongoing

* PRIORITY (N.B. approximately to Fire Service College Fire Safety Engineering Division scale, not PAS 79)
Category A. Fire Risk to Persons:
1A - A serious life safety risk and/or a major, serious or overt contravention of current fire safety
legislation and/or official guidance.
This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority.
2A - An important life safety issue and/or a contravention of current fire safety legislation and/or official
guidance, that may lead to enforcement action if not addressed.
This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay.
ACTION PLAN FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

3A - A significant life safety issue which, in combination with other significant findings, may result in an
increased risk to persons.

Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire safety practice.

4A - A life safety issue recommended for consideration in accordance with good fire safety practice.
Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate.

Category B. Fire Risk to Property, Business Continuity, Environment, Amenity, Heritage etc.
1B - A serious risk of damage by fire (with possible legal implications, depending on the enforcing
authority involved).
This matter requires immediate attention and must be given high priority.
2B - An important potential fire damage issue (with possible legal implications, depending on the
enforcing authority involved).
This matter requires attention with the minimum of delay.
3B - A significant potential fire damage issue which, in combination with other significant findings,may
result in an increased risk to the property.
Advised to implement programme of work or action in accordance with good fire protection/prevention
practice.
4B - A property protection issue recommended for consideration as a medium of longer term objective in
accordance with good fire prevention/protection practice.
Advised to implement action or programme of work as appropriate.

** Capital items are subject to a further scored priority system via the Estates
fire safety planning spreadsheet