Fire Regulation Services Limited

Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council – Fire Risk Assessment

CROMWELL HIGH SCHOOL

YEW TREE LANE
DUKINFIELD
TAMESIDE
SK16 5BJ

PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment – BSI (British Standards Institution)
Licensed by Fire Regulation Services Limited - Registered in England No 10614400
Contents

1. Scope of Assessment
2. Introduction
3. Fire Regulations Applicable to this Premises
4. PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment Report
5. Fire Risk Rating
6. Action Plan
7. Advice on Control & Maintenance
1. Scope of Assessment
The purpose of the audit and risk assessment report is to review the safety and fire precautionary arrangements
of the occupier, building and site, to appraise its present use in terms of life preservation. In addition, the report
will make recommendations for the implementation of any additional works, alterations or new works which may
be required to secure effective and efficient fire safety precautionary measures and policies. All observations
and recommendations are made without prejudice to any other legislative provisions, which may apply to the
building.

2. Introduction
The aim of this report is to provide an assessment of the risk to life from fire in these premises, and, where
appropriate, to make recommendations to ensure compliance with fire safety legislation. It does not address the
risk to property or business continuity from fire. The occupier should also prepare and implement an Emergency
Plan that includes where appropriate staff evacuation and fire training.

FIRE REGULATION SERVICES LIMITED has undertaken the Fire Precautions Risk Assessment on behalf of
the client, the legal responsibility for implementing any recommendations contained herein is with the client,
who should seek specialist advice where unusual conditions exist.

This report has been compiled to our best belief and knowledge based on information available at the time of
the survey. Errors and omissions should be notified to FIRE REGULATION SERVICES LIMITED (within 14
days of receipt) who shall not be liable for any claim for consequential liability damage or loss however so
caused. E&OE. Retention of title – this document remains the property of FIRE REGULATION SERVICES
LIMITED until payment has been received in full.

The preparation of this document is generally based upon the recommendations given in ‘PAS 79:2012 Fire risk
assessment – Guidance and a recommended methodology’ produced by bsi (British Standards Institution). This
Fire Risk Assessment has not investigated whether the building materials and building structural design
conform to the Building Regulations Approved Document Part B 2006 where a Structural Survey would be
required to be performed by a suitably qualified Building Surveyor.
3. Fire Regulations Applicable to this Premises
The premises are covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 that came into force on the
1 October 2006 where fire safety is now determined through Fire Risk Assessment. It is assumed that when the
buildings were built or last refurbished they complied with Building Regulations then in force concerning
structural fire protection and that any structural alterations have not been made since that could compromise
fire protection in the building.
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

4. REGULATORY REFORM (FIRE SAFETY) ORDER 2005

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Responsible person (e.g. employer) or ANDREW FOORD – EXECUTIVE HEADTEACHER

person having control of the premises:
(DAY TO DAY CONTROL OF THE PREMISES)

Address of premises: CROMWELL HIGH SCHOOL

YEW TREE LANE
DUKINFIELD
TAMESIDE
SK16 5BJ

Assessor: ANDREW BAKER MIFireE

Date of fire risk assessment:

27th September 2017

Date of previous fire risk assessment:

Interim Fire Risk Assessment – Sept 2017

Suggested date for review: 1) October 2018

The purpose of this report is to provide an assessment of the risk to life from fire in these premises, and,
where appropriate, to make recommendations to ensure compliance with fire safety legislation. The
report does not address the risk to property or business continuity from fire.

Signature: Date - 30th September 2017

1) This fire risk assessment should be reviewed by a competent person by the date indicated above or at such earlier
time as there is reason to suspect that it is no longer valid, or if there has been a significant change in the matters to
which it relates, or if a fire occurs.

PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment – BSI (British Standards Institution)
Licensed by Fire Regulation Services Limited - Registered in England No 10614400

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 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. THE PREMISES

1.1 Number of floors: Single storey

1.2 Approximate floor area: 900m2

1.3 Brief details of construction

Cromwell High School is situated within a large single storey building that is constructed
from traditional masonry. There are internal, and external, loadbearing walls that support
a shallow pitched timber roof finished with metal sheeting. The school shares a site with
Rayner Stephens High School and Astley Sports Village. There is a shared corridor (with
classrooms off) that connects the two schools which enables pupils and staff limited
access from one school to the other. The site is partially enclosed by a perimeter fence,
with vehicle access and car parking provided through a set of gates off Yew Tree Lane.

1.4 Use of premises

Cromwell High is a secondary school for students with severe learning difficulties. In
addition, a sizeable number of students have profound and multiple learning difficulties,
or an autistic spectrum disorder.

2. THE OCCUPANTS

2.1 Approximate maximum number: 129

2.2 Approximate number of employees at any one time: 54

2.3 Maximum number of members of public at any one time: 2

2.4 Associated times/hours of occupation: 7am to 6pm – Mon to Thurs

7am to 5pm Friday

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3. OCCUPANTS ESPECIALLY AT RISK FROM FIRE

3.1 Sleeping occupants: None

3.2 Disabled occupants: All pupils have special needs

3.3 Occupants in remote areas and lone workers: None

3.4 Young persons: 75 Pupils

3.5 Others:

Visiting professionals, specialists, and occasional contractors.

4. FIRE LOSS EXPERIENCE

On the 15th April 2016, the school suffered a serious fire that caused extensive damage
to the building structure. This resulted in the school being closed for a period of 18
months, with staff and pupils being temporarily relocated to Inspire Academy, Mossley
Road, Ashton under Lyne.

5. OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

During lunchtimes, pupils use the catering facilities provided at Rayner Stephens High
School.
The hydrotherapy pool is often used at weekend mornings. Occasional after school
events take place. All visitors are made aware of the fire procedures.

6. RELEVANT FIRE SAFETY LEGISLATION

6.1 The following fire safety legislation applies to these premises:

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

6.2 The above legislation is enforced by:

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

6.3 Other legislation that makes significant requirements for fire precautions in these premises
(other than the Building Regulations 2010):

None

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FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION OR CONTROL

7. ELECTRICAL SOURCES OF IGNITION

7.1 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of electrical origin? Yes ✓ No

7.2 More specifically:

Fixed installation periodically inspected and tested? Yes ✓ No

Portable appliance testing (where appropriate) carried out? ✓ Yes No

Suitable policy regarding the use of personal electrical appliances? ✓ Yes No

Suitable limitation of trailing leads and adapters? ✓ Yes No

7.3 Comments and hazards observed:

• At the time of the survey, there were no records to verify that the fixed electrical
installation has been periodically inspected and tested.
• Portable Appliance Testing was carried on the 29th August 2017.
• Personal electrical appliances are not allowed to be used within the school.

8. SMOKING
8.1 Reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result of smoking? ✓ Yes No

8.2 More specifically:

Smoking prohibited on the premises? ✓ Yes No

Smoking prohibited in appropriate areas? ✓ N/A Yes No

Suitable arrangements for those who wish to smoke? ✓ Yes No

This policy appeared to be observed at time of inspection? ✓ Yes No

8.3 Comments and hazards observed:

In line with national legislation, the school has a no smoking policy in place. If staff wish
to smoke they are required to do so off-site.

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9. ARSON
9.1 Does basic security against arson by outsiders appear reasonable? 2) ✓ Yes No

9.2 Is there an absence of unnecessary fire load in close proximity to the

Yes ✓ No
premises or available for ignition by outsiders?

9.3 Comments and hazards observed:

• All perimeter gates are locked shut when the school is closed.
• CCTV cameras cover all external elevations of the school and some internal areas.
• The site is partially enclosed with a perimeter fence.
• Numerous windows are secured with metal security shutters.
• Waste bins are stored in an unsecured area to the front of the school.
• Due to a previous incident of arson, where the artificial turf was a contributory factor to
an external fire spreading to the school building, the original artificial turf has been
replaced with turf that is manufactured from fire retardant materials.

2)
Reasonable only in the context of this fire risk assessment. If specific advice on security (including security against arson) is
required, the advice of a security specialist should be obtained.

10. PORTABLE HEATERS AND HEATING INSTALLATIONS

10.1 Is the use of portable heaters avoided as far as practicable? ✓ Yes No

10.2 If portable heaters are used:

Is the use of the more hazardous type (e.g. radiant bar
N/A ✓ Yes No
fires or LPG appliances) avoided?
Are suitable measures taken to minimize the hazard of
N/A ✓ Yes No
ignition of combustible materials?
10.3 Are fixed heating installations subject to regular
N/A ✓ Yes No
maintenance?

10.4 Comments and hazards observed:

New gas boilers have recently been installed and serviced.

11. COOKING
Are reasonable measures taken to prevent fires as a result
11.1 N/A ✓ Yes No
of cooking?

11.2 More specifically:

Filters changed and ductwork cleaned regularly? ✓ N/A Yes No

Suitable extinguishing appliances available? N/A ✓ Yes No

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11.3 Comments and hazards observed:

A 2Kg CO2 and 6L Foam extinguisher, along with a wall mounted fire blanket, are
provided in the domestic science classroom/café.

12. LIGHTNING

12.1 Do the premises have a lightning protection system? N/A ✓ Yes No

12.2 Comments and hazards observed:

There is a lightning protection system installed that appears to connect the metal roof to
earth through a metal conductor network.

13. HOUSEKEEPING

13.1 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate? ✓ Yes No

13.2 More specifically:

Combustible materials appear to be separated from ignition sources? ✓ Yes No

Avoidance of unnecessary accumulation of combustible materials

✓ Yes No
or waste?

Appropriate storage of hazardous materials? N/A ✓ Yes No

Avoidance of inappropriate storage of combustible materials? ✓ Yes No

13.3 Comments and hazards observed:

• The housekeeping was found to be to a high standard.

• The hydrotherapy pool treatment chemicals are stored in a locked cupboard within the
pool plant room.

14. HAZARDS INTRODUCED BY OUTSIDE CONTRACTORS AND BUILDING WORKS

14.1 Are fire safety conditions imposed on outside contractors? ✓ Yes No

14.2 Is there satisfactory control over works carried out on the premises
Yes ✓ No
by outside contractors (including “hot work” permits)?

14.3 If there are in-house maintenance personnel, are suitable

precautions taken during “hot work”, including the use of “hot ✓ N/A Yes No
work” permits?

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14.4 Comments:

• Safe system of work policies and “hot work” permits should be provided by
contractors who carry out repair and maintenance work. A copy of these should be
kept in the H&S/fire safety folder.
• Within the interim Fire Risk Assessment dated September 2017, reference is made to
a ’Permit to Work’ document that can be obtained from the front office. At the time of
the survey, this document could not be located.

15. DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES

15.1 Are the general fire precautions adequate to address the
hazards associated with dangerous substances used or stored N/A ✓ Yes No
within the premises?

15.2 If 15.1 applies, has a specific risk assessment been carried

out, as required by the Dangerous Substances and Explosive N/A Yes ✓ No
Atmospheres Regulations 2002?

15.3 Comments:

A small quantity of Sodium Hypochlorite, which is used for the routine control of bacteria
and algae in the hydrotherapy pool, is stored within the plant room.
Employers must assess the risks that may be caused by dangerous substances.
Although the risk from Sodium Hypochlorite is considered to be trivial, it is good practice
to carry out a risk assessment for the safe use, handling, and storage of all dangerous
substances.

16. OTHER SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARDS THAT WARRANT CONSIDERATION

INCLUDING PROCESS HAZARDS THAT IMPACT ON GENERAL FIRE
PRECAUTIONS
16.1 Hazards:

None

16.2 Comments and deficiencies observed:

N/A

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FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES

17. MEANS OF ESCAPE FROM FIRE

17.1 It is considered that the premises are provided with reasonable ✓ Yes No
means of escape in case of fire.

17.2 More specifically:

Adequate design of escape routes? ✓ Yes No

Adequate provision of exits? ✓ Yes No

Exits easily and immediately openable where necessary? ✓ Yes No

Fire exits open in direction of escape where necessary? ✓ Yes No

Avoidance of sliding or revolving doors as fire exits

N/A ✓ Yes No
where necessary?

Satisfactory means for securing exits? ✓ Yes No

Reasonable distances of travel:

Where there is a single direction of travel? N/A ✓ Yes No

Where there are alternative means of escape? N/A ✓ Yes No

Suitable protection of escape routes? N/A ✓ Yes No

Escape routes unobstructed? ✓ Yes No

17.3 It is considered that the premises are provided with

reasonable arrangements for means of escape for disabled N/A ✓ Yes No
people.

17.4 Comments and deficiencies observed:

• All doors fitted with electromagnetic locks are provided with a green box emergency
release device. All electromagnetic locks disengage on actuation of the fire alarm
system.
• With the exception of one classroom, all classrooms are provided with a fire exit that
discharges directly to outside.
• Waste bins are positioned on the shared corridor.

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18. MEASURES TO LIMIT FIRE SPREAD AND DEVELOPMENT

18.1 It is considered that there is:

compartmentation of a reasonable standard 3) ✓ Yes No

reasonable limitation of linings that might promote fire spread. ✓ Yes No

18.2 As far as can reasonably be ascertained, fire dampers are ✓ N/A Yes No
provided as necessary to protect critical means of escape
against passage of fire, smoke and combustion products
in the early stages of a fire? 3), 4)

18.3 Comments and deficiencies observed:

• Although schoolwork is displayed throughout the corridors, which should have a

Class 0 surface spread of flame rating, it only creates a negligible increase in fire
loading and is, therefore, considered to be acceptable.
• During the survey, it was not possible to establish if the voile/curtain suspended over
the window in the SB classroom is manufactured using fire retardant materials.

3)
Based on visual inspection of readily accessible areas, with a degree of sampling where appropriate.
4)
A full investigation of the design of HVAC systems is outside the scope of this fire risk assessment.

19. EMERGENCY ESCAPE LIGHTING

19.1 Reasonable standard of emergency escape lighting system
N/A ✓ Yes No
provided? 5)

19.2 Comments and deficiencies observed:

Emergency lighting is provided throughout the school. The emergency lighting system
appears to conform to BS 5266 (Emergency lighting code of practice for emergency
escape lighting systems).

5)
Based on visual inspection, but no test of illuminance levels or verification of full compliance with relevant British Standards
carried out.

20. FIRE SAFETY SIGNS AND NOTICES

20.1 Reasonable standard of fire safety signs and notices? N/A Yes ✓ No

20.2 Comments and deficiencies observed:

The current provision of fire safety signage is considered inadequate.

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21. MEANS OF GIVING WARNING IN CASE OF FIRE

21.1 Reasonable manually operated electrical fire alarm

N/A ✓ Yes No
system provided? 6)

Yes Yes
21.2 Automatic fire detection provided? ✓ (throughout (part of
premises
No
premises)
only)

21.3 Extent of automatic fire detection generally appropriate for

N/A ✓ Yes No
the occupancy and fire risk?

21.4 Remote transmission of alarm signals? N/A ✓ Yes No

21.5 Comments and deficiencies observed:

The school is provided with an automatic fire alarm system that complies with BS5839
Part 1 and incorporates the following;

• Manual call points are provided to each final exit.

• Heat detection to the food technology classroom, hydrotherapy pool, and boiler house.
• Smoke detection provided throughout school
• Sounders provided throughout school
The fire alarm system covers Cromwell High School, Rayner Stephens High School, and
Astley Sports Village. On actuation of the fire alarm system, the occupants of all three
buildings will commence immediate and simultaneous evacuation.
The fire alarm system is remotely monitored 24/7 by Custodian.
There was a plastic bag covering the detector head within the boiler room. The bag
should be removed now that maintenance works have been completed.

6)
Based on visual inspection, but no audibility tests or verification of full compliance with relevant British Standard carried out.

22. MANUAL FIRE EXTINGUISHING APPLIANCES

22.1 Reasonable provision of portable fire extinguishers? N/A ✓ Yes No

22.2 Hose reels provided? Yes ✓ No

22.3 Are all fire extinguishing appliances readily accessible? N/A ✓ Yes No

22.4 Comments and deficiencies observed:

Adequate number and type of fire extinguishers provided throughout the school.

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23. RELEVANT AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

23.1 Type of system:

None

23.2 Comments:

There is no requirement for an automatic fire extinguishing system to be installed.

OTHER RELEVANT FIXED SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

24.
24.1 Type of fixed system:

None

24.2 Comments:

N/A.

24.3 Suitable provision of fire-fighters switch(es) for

✓ N/A Yes No
high voltage luminous tube signs, etc.

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 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

MANAGEMENT OF FIRE SAFETY

25. PROCEDURES AND ARRANGEMENTS

25.1 Fire safety is managed by: 7)

Mr Ron Perry - Site Manager and Mr Ali Syed - Business Manager.

25.2 Competent person(s) appointed to assist in undertaking the preventive and

✓ Yes No
protective measures (i.e. relevant general fire precautions)?

Comments:

There are seven nominated Fire Marshals, including the site manager, who have all
received formal fire marshal training.

25.3 Is there a suitable record of the fire safety arrangements? Yes ✓ No

Comments:

Although some arrangements for ensuring fire safety have been documented within the
interim fire risk assessment dated September 2017, a more comprehensive and detailed
document is required.

25.4 Appropriate fire procedures in place? ✓ Yes No

More specifically:
Are procedures in the event of fire appropriate and
N/A ✓ Yes No
properly documented?
Are there suitable arrangements for summoning the fire
✓ Yes No
and rescue service?
Are there suitable arrangements to meet the fire and
rescue service on arrival and provide relevant information, N/A ✓ Yes No
including that relating to hazards to fire-fighters?
Are there suitable arrangements for ensuring that the premises
N/A ✓ Yes No
have been evacuated?

Is there a suitable fire assembly point(s)? N/A Yes ✓ No

Are there adequate procedures for evacuation of any disabled

N/A ✓ Yes No
people who are likely to be present?

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Comments:

• A detailed fire evacuation plan is documented within the interim fire risk assessment.
• The assembly point is currently adjacent to the school garage, which is in close
proximity to the access road that the emergency services would use.

25.5 Persons nominated and trained to use fire extinguishing

N/A ✓ Yes No
appliances?

Comments:

The safe use and operation of fire extinguishers was covered during fire marshal training.
Staff are instructed to only tackle a fire if the alarm has sounded, the fire is small and
poses no immediate risk to occupants, and only if staff are confident in the use of
extinguishers.

25.6 Persons nominated and trained to assist with evacuation,

N/A ✓ Yes No
including evacuation of disabled people?

Comments:

Procedures are in place to ensure the school is quickly and safely evacuated. Certain
members of staff are nominated to assist in an evacuation, with some staff having
additional responsibilities i.e. fire marshals.

25.7 Appropriate liaison with fire and rescue service (e.g. by fire and
✓ N/A Yes No
rescue service crews visiting for familiarization visits)?

Comments:

The Fire Service currently only visit high risk premises for the purpose of gathering
operational risk information, however, at some point in the future the school may be
visited by a Fire Protection Officer to carry out a fire safety audit.

25.8 Routine in-house inspections of fire precautions

N/A ✓ Yes No
(e.g. in the course of health and safety inspections)?

Comments:

Routine in-house inspections are carried out daily by the site manager.

7)
This is not intended to represent a legal interpretation of responsibility, but merely reflects the managerial arrangement in
place at the time of this risk assessment.

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26. TRAINING AND DRILLS

26.1 Are all staff given adequate fire safety instruction and training on
N/A ✓ Yes No
induction?

Comments:

All new members of staff are provided with the general fire precautions and evacuation
procedures that apply to the school.

26.2 Are all staff given adequate periodic “refresher training”

N/A Yes ✓ No
at suitable intervals?

Comments:

• At the time of the survey, it was verbally confirmed that members of staff, including
fire marshals, have not received regular fire safety refresher training.
• All members of staff should receive formal fire safety refresher training on an annual
basis.

26.3 Does all staff training provide information, instruction or training on the following:

Fire risks in the premises? N/A Yes ✓ No

The fire safety measures on the premises? N/A Yes ✓ No

Action in the event of fire? N/A ✓ Yes No

Action on hearing the fire alarm signal? N/A ✓ Yes No

Method of operation of manual call points? N/A Yes ✓ No

Location and use of fire extinguishers? N/A Yes ✓ No

Means for summoning the fire and rescue service? N/A Yes ✓ No

Identity of persons nominated to assist with evacuation? N/A ✓ Yes No

Identity of persons nominated to use fire extinguishing

N/A Yes ✓ No
appliances?

Comments:

Fire safety training that is specific to Cromwell High School should be provided to all
members of staff.

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26.4 Are staff with special responsibilities (e.g. fire wardens)

N/A ✓ Yes No
given additional training?

Comments:

Fire marshals have received additional fire safety training, however, refresher training
should be provided on an annual basis.

26.5 Are fire drills carried out at appropriate intervals? N/A ✓ Yes No

Comments:

A fire drill is carried out at least once each school term.

26.6 When the employees of another employer work in the premises:

Is their employer given appropriate information

N/A ✓ Yes No
(e.g. on fire risks and general fire precautions)?
Is it ensured that the employees are provided with
N/A ✓ Yes No
adequate instructions and information?

Comments:

An information handbook that includes instructions on evacuation procedures is given to

all visitors when signing in at reception.

27. TESTING AND MAINTENANCE

27.1 Adequate maintenance of premises? ✓ Yes No

Comments and deficiencies observed:

No building defects were identified during the survey.

27.2 Weekly testing and periodic servicing of fire detection

N/A Yes ✓ No
and alarm system?

Comments and deficiencies observed:

The fire alarm is currently tested every two weeks by the site manager, and periodically
by an electrical engineer. In accordance with BS5839; the fire alarm should be tested
once a week by the site manager.
All tests are recorded in a log book and a copy of the periodic test reports held in the fire
safety folder.

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27.3 Monthly and annual testing routines for emergency

N/A ✓ Yes No
escape lighting?

Comments and deficiencies observed:

The emergency escape lighting is tested monthly by the site manager, and periodically
by a qualified electrical engineer.

27.4 Annual maintenance of fire extinguishing appliances? N/A ✓ Yes No

Comments and deficiencies observed:

All fire extinguishers were serviced in September 2017. A visual inspection is carried out
each month by the site manager.

27.5 Periodic inspection of external escape staircases

✓ N/A Yes No
and gangways?

Comments and deficiencies observed:

N/A

27.6 Six-monthly inspection and annual testing of rising mains? ✓ N/A Yes No

Comments and deficiencies observed:

N/A

27.7 Weekly and monthly testing, six-monthly inspection and annual

✓ N/A Yes No
testing of fire-fighting lifts?

Comments and deficiencies observed:

N/A

27.8 Weekly testing and periodic inspection of sprinkler installations? ✓ N/A Yes No

Comments:

It is not mandatory for sprinkler systems to be installed in schools.

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27.9 Routine checks of final exit doors and/or security

N/A ✓ Yes No
fastenings?

Comments:

A routine check of all final exits and security fastenings is carried out daily by the site
manager.

27.10 Annual inspection and test of lightning protection system? N/A ✓ Yes No

Comments:

The lightning protection system was inspected on the 3rd August 2017.

27.11 Are suitable systems in place for reporting and subsequent ✓ Yes No
restoration of safety measures that have fallen below standard?

Comments:

The site manager and/or business manager are responsible for the reporting and
subsequent restoration of safety measures that have fallen below standard.

28. RECORDS

28.1 Appropriate records of:

Fire drills? N/A ✓ Yes No

Fire training? N/A ✓ Yes No

Fire alarm tests? N/A ✓ Yes No

.

Emergency escape lighting tests? N/A ✓ Yes No

Maintenance and testing of other fire protection systems? ✓ N/A Yes No

28.2 Comments:

All tests (fire alarms, emergency lighting, extinguishers, etc.), staff training, and
evacuation drills are recorded in a suitable Log Book. Copies of periodic tests and
maintenance reports are kept in the fire safety folder.

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5. FIRE RISK RATING

The following simple fire risk level estimator is based on a commonly used health and safety risk level
estimator.

Potential consequences of fire

Likelihood of fire
Slight harm Moderate harm Extreme harm

Low Trivial risk Tolerable risk Moderate risk

Medium Tolerable risk Moderate risk Substantial risk

High Moderate risk Substantial risk Intolerable risk

LIKELIHOOD
Taking into account the fire prevention measures observed at the time of this risk assessment, it is
considered that the hazard from fire (likelihood of fire) at these premises is:

Low ✓ Medium High

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

Low - Unusually low likelihood of fire as a result of negligible potential sources of ignition.

Medium - Normal fire hazards (e.g. potential ignition sources) for this type of occupancy,
with fire hazards generally subject to appropriate controls (other than minor shortcomings).

High - Lack of adequate controls applied to one or more significant fire hazards, such as to result
in significant increase in likelihood of fire.

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

Slight harm ✓ 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 room in which a fire occurs).
Moderate harm - Outbreak of fire could foreseeably result in injury (including serious injury) of one
or more occupants, but it is unlikely to involve multiple fatalities.
Extreme harm - Significant potential for serious injury or death of one or more occupants.

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Accordingly, it is considered that the risk to life from fire at these premises is:

Trivial Tolerable ✓ 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 that has been advocated for general health and safety
risks:

Risk level Action and timescale

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

Tolerable No major additional fire precautions required. However, there might be a need for
reasonably practicable improvements that involve minor or limited cost.

Moderate It is essential that efforts are made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures, which
should take cost into account, should be implemented within a defined time period. Where
moderate risk is associated with consequences that constitute extreme harm, further
assessment might be required to establish more precisely the likelihood of harm as a
basis for determining the priority for improved control measures.

Substantial Considerable resources might have to be allocated to reduce the risk. If the premises are
unoccupied, it should not be occupied until the risk has been reduced. If the premises are
occupied, urgent action should be taken.

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

Note that, although the purpose of this section is to place the fire risk in context, the
above approach to fire risk assessment is subjective and for guidance only. All hazards
and deficiencies identified in this report should be addressed by implementing all recommendations
contained in the following action plan. The fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly.

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6. ACTION PLAN
It is considered that the following recommendations should be implemented in order to reduce fire risk
to, or maintain it at, the following level:

Trivial ✓ Tolerable

Control measures recommended in the reports are tailored to the specific hazards and risks associated
with the premise – when assessing the level of risk, three ‘risk categories’ are used in the Significant
Finding action schedules

A - Urgent remedial action is necessary to significantly reduce the level of risk

B - It is essential that action is taken to reduce the level of risk within a defined timescale.

C - Improvements that should be made when the opportunity arises – such as part of major
refurbishments or alterations

Recommended time scales –

Management
Category Premises Defects
Practises

A Immediate 4 weeks with possible immediate additional control measures

B 4 weeks 12 weeks

C 12 weeks Next development

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Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
Confirm that the fixed electrical installation has been
periodically inspected and tested within the last five
years.
At the time of the survey, there were no records to An Electrical installation condition report (EICR) or
7.3 verify that the fixed electrical installation has been Periodic Inspection is an inspection on the condition B
periodically inspected and tested. of an existing electrical installation to identify any
deficiencies against the national safety standard for
electrical installations - BS 7671 Requirements for
Electrical Installations (IEE Wiring Regulations).

Guidance regarding the frequency of PAT testing has

changed. Not all appliances need testing annually.
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is currently being N/A
7.3 carried out annually with the last PAT testing All portable appliances should be tested and
advice
completed on the 29th August 2017. maintained in accordance with HSE guidance which only
can be downloaded free of charge using the following
link - http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg107.pdf

Waste bins are stored in an unsecured area to the

front of the school.

To reduce the potential for arson, waste bins should

always be stored remote from any part of a building
9.3 B
and, if possible, in a lockable bin compound or
secured in position.

21
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
No procedures are currently in place to demonstrate
Safe system of work policies, and “hot work” permits,
that safe systems of work, including ‘hot works’, will
should be provided by contractors who carry out
be safely managed.
repair and maintenance work. A copy of these should
14.4 Within the interim Fire Risk Assessment dated be kept in the H&S/fire safety file. B
September 2017, reference is made to a ’Permit to
How safe systems of work, including ‘hot works’, will
Work’ document that can be obtained from the front
be safely managed should be recorded within the fire
office, however, at the time of the survey this
safety arrangements.
document could not be located.

A small quantity of Sodium Hypochlorite, which is Employers must assess the risks that may be caused
used for the routine control of bacteria and algae in by dangerous substances. Although the risk from
the hydrotherapy pool, is stored within the plant Sodium Hypochlorite is considered to be trivial, it is
15.3 B
room. good practice to carry out a risk assessment for the
safe use, handling, and storage of all dangerous
substances.

Waste bins are positioned within the shared corridor.

The corridors form part of the fire escape routes, and

therefore, should be free from obstruction and
17.4 combustible items. It is recommended that the waste B
bins are relocated to a position outside of the school
building.

22
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
18.3 During the survey, it was not possible to establish if The voile/curtain should be removed, or replaced
the voile/curtain suspended over the window in the with one that is labelled as being manufactured using
SB classroom is manufactured using fire retardant fire retardant materials and conforms with the B
materials. requirements of BS 5867 (Flammability requirements
for fabrics used for curtains & drapes).

a) All fire alarm break glass call points should be

highlighted by signs and notices.
b) A Staff/General Fire Routine Notice stating, in
concise terms, the action to be taken upon
discovering a fire or upon hearing the fire alarm
should be displayed in the vicinity of each fire
alarm break glass call point.
The current provision of fire safety signage is
20.2 B
considered inadequate. c) All doors fitted with a push bar should be provided
with signage stating, "PUSH BAR TO OPEN".
d) All fire exit doors provided with thumb turn locks
should have the method of operation displayed
above the lock.
All signs should comply with the Health & Safety
(Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.

23
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
To prevent false alarms during maintenance works a
plastic bag was placed over the detector head within
the boiler room.

At the time of the survey, the site manager was

21.5 informed that the bag should be removed now that A
maintenance work has been completed.

The Fire Safety Policy, Procedures & Arrangements

should be recorded in detail. They should explain
how fire safety will be managed, communicated,
Although some arrangements for ensuring fire safety monitored, and reviewed.
have been documented within the interim fire risk
25.3 They should identify key personnel who have been B
assessment dated September 2017, a more
comprehensive and detailed document is required. assigned specific duties or responsibilities, what
those duties and responsibilities are, and the training
required to ensure they are competent within the
role.

24
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
The fire evacuation plan detailed within the interim
A detailed fire evacuation plan is documented within
25.4 fire risk assessment should form the basis of a formal B
the interim fire risk assessment.
Emergency Action Plan.

The assembly point is currently adjacent to the It is recommended that the assembly point is
25.4 school garage which is in close proximity to the relocated to the rear of the school, therefore, B
access road that the emergency services would use. removing the risk of injury from passing vehicles.

All members of staff should be provided with formal

fire safety training that is specific to Cromwell High
School, with the training being repeated annually.
It should include the duties that members of staff
would be expected to carry out if a fire occurred.
The type of training should be based on the particular
features of the premises and include the following -
26.2 At the time of the survey, it was verbally confirmed • The actions to take on discovery of a fire.
that members of staff, including fire marshals, have B
26.4 • The actions to take when the fire alarm is operated.
not received regular fire safety refresher training.
• Evacuation procedures (including disabled persons)
• How to reduce the risk of fire.
• Types and use of fire fighting equipment.
All persons identified in the emergency plan as
having a supervisory role in a fire emergency, i.e.
Fire Wardens/Marshals, should receive additional
training.

25
 PAS 79: 2012 Fire Risk Assessment

Action Items / Recommendations

Date
Item Ref Observation Recommendation Priority Signature
Actioned
The fire alarm is currently tested every two weeks by In accordance with BS5839; the fire alarm should be
27.2 B
the site manager. tested once a week.

There were no staff training records available.

Although it is not mandatory that records of training,
inspections, testing, maintenance, etc. are kept; such
records are an important means of demonstrating It is recommended that all tests (fire alarms,
that all legislative obligations have been satisfied. emergency lighting, extinguishers, etc.), staff training,
28.2 B
and evacuation drills are recorded in a suitable Log
These records can also be important in
Book.
demonstrating that there have been no breaches of
good practice potentially resulting in litigation in the
event of injury to an occupant of the premises during
a fire.

26
7 Advice on Control & Maintenance of Preventative Measures

• Fire Alarm
The fire alarm should be tested weekly by a competent person. A different call point should be tested each
week using a purpose made test key. Faults should be reported to someone who can authorise repairs. If
the system cannot be repaired immediately a risk assessment should be undertaken to ensure that the
area can continue to be safely used. The person carrying out the risk assessment should be competent.
The system should be serviced by suitably qualified persons every six months or as agreed by the
installers. Further advice can be found in BS5839: Part 1

• Emergency Lighting
The emergency lighting should be checked monthly by a competent person to ensure that it functions
correctly. This may be carried out by purpose made switches that will require a specific key or by isolating
the local lighting sub-circuit. It is important that the lighting works when the local lighting circuit fails and
does not rely on the failure of the overall circuit.
The system should be serviced annually by suitably qualified engineers. Further advice can be found in
BS5266:Part 1

• Staff Training
All staff must receive training in what to do in the event of discovering a fire or hearing the alarm. This
training should be given by a competent person and should take place as soon as possible after
employment. Staff should receive refresher training periodically. Staff should complete an evacuation drill
periodically, not less than once every 12 months.

• Fire Fighting Equipment

Fire fighting equipment should be hung on purpose made brackets approximately 1 metre above the floor
or sat on purpose made floor holders. The equipment should be checked weekly to ensure that it is in
position and appears undamaged.
The equipment should be serviced annually by a competent person. Further advice can be gained from
BS5306.

• Maintenance of Escape Routes

Fire doors should be self-closing or kept locked shut. Fire doors should only be held open by a device that
is designed to release the door on activation of the fire alarm. The decision to fit such a device can only be
taken following a risk assessment of the door location. Fire doors must not be wedged open. Corridors and
fire exits must be kept clear of all combustible materials and obstructions.

• Portable Appliance Testing

All portable electrical equipment should be subject to a system of maintenance and inspection to ensure it
is safe to use and does not present a risk of electrical short or overheating. PAT testing should be carried
out annually by a suitably qualified and experienced engineer. Further information can be found in the
publication http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf

• Fixed Electrics
Fixed electrics in the premises should be periodically inspected by a suitably qualified engineer

• Gas Safety
All gas burning equipment should be subject to an annual inspection by a technician who is registered on
the Gas Safe Register http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ Emergency shut down valves must be signed
accordingly.

• Record Keeping
Records should be kept of all testing, maintenance and staff training to enable the responsible person to
demonstrate they have taken all reasonable steps to maintain adequate fire safety standards. A fire log
book should be maintained for all such information – templates for fire safety log books can be obtained
from your Property Manager

• Competent Person
A competent person is someone who has the relevant training, knowledge, and experience.
 Company No - 10614400
Tel – 07747448083
Email – [email protected]