Fire Safety Arrangements

The University takes Fire Safety very seriously. We have a dedicated Fire Safety Officer in the Health & Safety Advisory Service. All University property has been assessed under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and conforms to the stipulations of the Building Regulations.

Fire Risk Assessments are in place and set the standards for fire safety and the measures necessary to reduce the risk as far as reasonably practicable. These are reviewed regularly and if there are any significant changes. In addition, our arrangements are audited by the Fire Service annually.

Training in basic fire awareness is provided to all staff; information and training are available to students. This is augmented with additional training for managers, residents, evacuation stewards and fire marshals.

Fire hazards are the potential sources of ignition and are controlled as far as is reasonably practicable. We ensure that all electrical systems are regularly tested. Our Electrical Safety Standard sets out our arrangements for ensuring the electrical safety of portable electrical equipment. It includes our requirements for Portable Appliance Testing. Naked flames are not permitted without a risk assessment and adequate controls, candles are generally banned. Fixed heating systems are in place and privately owned heaters and toasters are not permitted.

Naked flames are not permitted without a risk assessment and adequate controls, candles are generally banned. Fixed heating systems are in place and privately owned heaters and toasters are not permitted. Smoking is banned in most buildings and receptacles for safe disposal are provided. Measures are in place to reduce the risk of arson.

The size of a fire will depend on the available fuel, the stage at which it discovered, how much it can spread and when it is extinguished. The fuel available may include the flammable structure of buildings, combustible materials and furniture, flammable liquids and gas. We ensure that combustible or hazardous materials are stored in appropriate places with suitable protection away from sources of ignition.

The potential spread of a fire is controlled by the nature of the internal structure of a building, the closing of doors and windows. Most of our rooms will contain a fire for at least thirty minutes if the doors are shut. Please ensure you shut doors behind you on your way out.

Means of escape from a fire are a very important precaution. Stairways, corridors and doors generally offer protection from fire for at least thirty minutes giving ample time for evacuation. Escape routes are indicated by green running man arrow and exit signs which indicate the shortest routes from any point. Evacuation routes are kept clear of obstructions to the minimum width required, and emergency lighting is in place in case of power failure. They are also kept clear of flammable materials and ignition sources as far as is reasonably possible. It is important that doors are closed to preserve the protection. Lifts should not be used.

The alarm may be raised verbally or by use of the red break glass call points. Sophisticated automatic fire detection and alarm systems are fitted in all our premises to provide early detection. 24hr security staff, trained as Fire Wardens, also constantly monitor extensive CCTV systems.

Safe Evacuation is vital. See http://www.essex.ac.uk/OHSAS/fireSafety/EvacuationPolicy.htm and  http://www.essex.ac.uk/OHSAS/fireSafety/EmergencyAction.htm

Fire Fighting equipment is provided and maintained on a contract basis for the use of trained persons only. The fire service will be summoned whenever a fire is discovered or there is a strong reason to suspect one. The operational arrangements for the Fire Service are well known and the local stations are familiar with them.