Fire safety is a critical aspect of building management, yet myths and misconceptions often cloud judgment and lead to ineffective practices. At IMS Group, we’ve encountered many of these myths firsthand, and we’re here to set the record straight. In this blog, we bust some of the most common fire safety myths and provide the facts that every building manager needs to know.
Myth 1: “Fire Doors Should Always Be Left Open for Easy Access”
The Truth: Fire doors are designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, providing occupants with safe evacuation routes. Leaving them open compromises their functionality and puts lives at risk. If access is needed, ensure that doors are equipped with automatic closing devices that activate during a fire alarm.
Myth 2: “Sprinkler Systems Will Always Stop a Fire”
The Truth: While sprinkler systems are highly effective at controlling fires, they are not foolproof. They work to contain the spread of a fire but may not extinguish it entirely, especially if maintenance is neglected. Sprinklers are a part of a broader fire safety strategy and should not be relied upon as the sole measure.
Myth 3: “Regular Maintenance Is Enough to Ensure Compliance”
The Truth: Maintenance is crucial, but it’s not the whole story. Compliance requires regular inspections, up-to-date documentation, and adherence to evolving regulations. Relying solely on maintenance without proper oversight can lead to overlooked risks and non-compliance issues.
Myth 4: “All Fire Doors Are the Same”
The Truth: Fire doors vary in their design, ratings, and intended use. For instance, some doors are rated to withstand fire for 30 minutes, while others can endure up to 60 minutes or more. Building managers must ensure that the fire doors in use meet the specific needs and compliance requirements of their property.
Additionally, having a certificate of installation is not enough. Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO 2005) states that a suitable maintenance regime must be in place. Without maintenance logs, there is no way of proving this.
Myth 5: “Smoke Alarms Are Enough to Keep Occupants Safe”
The Truth: Smoke alarms are essential for early fire detection but are not sufficient on their own. Effective fire safety also requires clear evacuation plans, properly maintained fire doors, and functional fire stopping measures to ensure the safety of all occupants.
Myth 6: “Compliance Only Matters During Audits”
The Truth: Fire safety compliance is a 24/7 responsibility. Fires don’t wait for audits, and neither should your preparedness. Proactive compliance ensures that your building remains safe year-round, protecting lives and assets. Moreover, relying solely on a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is insufficient. An FRA provides an overview and highlights visible issues, but it does not guarantee compliance or cover every potential risk.
Myth 7: “Fire Stopping Is Only Necessary Around Fire Doors”
The Truth: Fire stopping involves sealing openings and gaps in fire-rated walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. It’s essential in areas where services like pipes, cables, or ducts pass through, not just around fire doors. Simply filling gaps with expanding foam is not a solution—most foams are not tested as part of a fire-stopping system and do not meet compliance standards.
Myth 8: “Anyone Can Perform Checks on Fire Doors”
The Truth: Fire door inspections must be conducted by a competent person, as stated in the RRO 2005. Competency often requires engaging third-party accredited contractors who can demonstrate expertise and compliance.
Myth 9: “We Don’t Need Fire Stopping if We Have Sprinklers”
The Truth: Sprinklers are not a one-stop solution; they are part of a fire safety system. Effective fire stopping ensures that fire and smoke do not spread through structural gaps, complementing the role of sprinklers.
Myth 10: “Unless I Can See a Hole, There Isn’t a Fire Stopping Issue”
The Truth: Fire stopping issues are not always visible. Improperly installed or concealed fire stopping measures can compromise safety. Only an expert can identify and address these hidden risks.
The IMS Group Approach to Fire Safety
At IMS Group, we prioritize education and proactive solutions to dispel these myths and enhance fire safety practices. Here’s how we help building managers achieve optimal safety:
- Comprehensive Inspections: Our 34-point fire safety survey identifies risks and ensures compliance.
- Tailored Solutions: We provide expert advice and sustainable remediation options to meet your building’s unique needs.
- Transparent Documentation: Our bespoke app tracks and records all work, ensuring peace of mind and audit readiness.
Don’t Let Myths Compromise Your Fire Safety
Fire safety myths can lead to costly mistakes and unnecessary risks. By understanding the facts and working with a trusted partner like IMS Group, you can ensure that your building is truly safe and compliant. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your fire safety goals.
Ready to solve your fire safety challenges? Reach out now for a free consultation and see how IMS Services can make a difference.
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