A stay put policy is a fire evacuation strategy commonly used in purpose-built blocks of flats. It relies on effective compartmentation, fire doors and fire safety management to help prevent fire and smoke spreading from one flat to another. This guide explains what stay put means, when it may be suitable, when it should be Read more »
Fire extinguisher regulations in the UK are risk-based. The law does not usually prescribe a fixed number of extinguishers for every building. Instead, the responsible person must make sure suitable fire-fighting equipment is provided where needed, maintained in efficient working order and supported by suitable instruction and records. This guide explains the legal duties around Read more »
A fire evacuation strategy sets out how people will move to safety if a fire occurs. The right strategy depends on the building design, fire protection measures, occupants, management arrangements and the findings of the fire risk assessment. Fire and smoke can spread rapidly, potentially trapping people if an appropriate evacuation strategy is not in Read more »
Emergency lighting helps people escape safely if the normal lighting fails during a fire, power cut or other emergency. It can illuminate escape routes, stairs, changes in level, fire exits, firefighting equipment, call points, high-risk task areas and other parts of a premises where people may need clear visibility. For employers, landlords, managing agents, facilities Read more »
Wet chemical fire extinguishers are the only choice recommended for a cooking oil fire, making them essential for safety in a professional kitchen. Where Can Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers Be Used? A wet chemical fire extinguisher can be used in the following scenarios: Class F fires; cooking fires that include the use of cooking oils, Read more »
Water fire extinguishers are the original form of portable fire extinguisher and remain a common choice for tackling Class A fires involving combustible solids. Where Can Water Fire Extinguishers Be Used? A water fire extinguisher will only work in situations where the fire involves flammable solids. These are often known as Class A fires and Read more »
Foam fire extinguishers are commonly used in commercial and public buildings where fires involving solid materials or flammable liquids may occur. They work by smothering flames and cooling the burning material, helping to prevent re-ignition. What Are Foam Fire Extinguishers Used For? Foam fire extinguishers are primarily designed for: Class A fires – involving solid Read more »
A CO2 fire extinguisher is commonly used for fires involving live electrical equipment and flammable liquids (Class B). It is widely specified for electrical risks because it does not conduct electricity and leaves no residue. Where Can a CO2 Fire Extinguisher Be Used? CO2 extinguishers are most effective on small, contained Class B fires and Read more »
A dry powder fire extinguisher is an extremely versatile extinguisher choice since it can be used on a wide range of fire types. That being said, it is not recommended to use a dry powder fire extinguisher in an enclosed space. These fire extinguishers fall into one of the following types: Standard dry powder fire Read more »
ASET and RSET are important fire engineering concepts used to assess whether people have enough time to escape before conditions become unsafe. They are commonly used in fire strategy work, evacuation analysis, smoke control design and complex building assessments. Quick Answer ASET means Available Safe Egress Time. RSET means Required Safe Egress Time. In simple Read more »
