Fire Safety Practices

All students and staff are given basic fire awareness training. This is augmented with additional training for managers, residents, evacuation stewards and fire marshals. We also have a dedicated Fire Officer in the Health & Safety Section.

All University property conforms to the stipulations of Building Regulations, requirements of the Fire Service and other relevant legislation. This should effectively limit the spread of any fire.

Stairways, corridors and doors generally offer protection from fire for at least thirty minutes giving ample time for evacuation. Evacuation routes are well signed and emergency lighting is in place in case of power failure.

There are sophisticated fire detection and alarm systems in all our premises. Due to the type of occupancy and the alarm system, early detection is highly likely. There are also 24hr security and constantly monitored CCTV systems.

The University operates a general no-fire fighting policy. Fire fighting equipment is suitable, sufficient and maintained on contracts. This is only for the use of designated trained staff. The operational arrangements for the Fire Service are well known and the local stations are familiar with them.

We have an evacuation policy which includes Evacuation Stewards and Patrol Staff to sweep areas, checking on evacuation and acting as guides to the Fire service.

We have instigated the PEEPs system for the disabled and have extended it to any persons who may experience difficulty, even if they do not fit the precise definition. In general, we have adopted the policy of horizontal escape into unaffected areas but have upgraded some of our lifts and have some refuges.

Fire loading is kept as minimal as can reasonably be expected. We ensure that combustible or hazardous materials are stored in appropriate places with suitable protection.

Potential causes of fire are controlled as far as is reasonably practicable. We ensure that all electrical equipment and systems are regularly tested. Naked flames are not permitted without a risk assessment and good controls. Smoking is restricted as far as possible. Fixed heating systems are in place. Candles are generally banned.