Buildings undergoing refurbishment As with any building, the basic means of escape principle is that a person confronted by a fire can turn their back on it or pass it safely to reach a place of safety. For example, this can be a place of relative safety (such as a protected staircase) or a place of ultimate safety (outside the building). building. Where building refurbishment is taking place close to neighbouring properties issues can arise with blocked exits from the existing building, particularly in urban situations where access is restricted. Buildings where there is high combustible loading (for example, timber framed buildings) radiated heat and fire spread needs to be considered. Exit routes need to be clear and unblocked and appropriately signed and lit. Where stairways are involved, these may be temporary stairs or part of the ongoing construction in which case they will need to be fire separated as soon as possible from the remainder of the building. Horizontal and vertical fire compartmentation may be required to stop a fire from spreading during refurbishment, particularly for high-rise buildings, to protect the means of escape. Fire detection and alarm systems need to be considered. On small refurbishment works a standalone unit may be adequate (such as a Klaxon). On large refurbishment, however, a full fire detection and interconnected alarm system may be required. Finally, the use of Hot Work permits may be appropriate, particularly if the refurbishment involves the extensive use of flammable materials. E4.2 Summary In this section we have covered: Means of escape • The need for emergency routes and exits to be kept clear at all times • Principles, features, and general requirements of emergency routes and exits • The need for means of escape for people at greater risk i.e. vulnerable people • The need to maintain sufficient emergency routes and exits in occupied buildings undergoing refurbishment
©SHEilds – All rights reserved FC V 5 JUN 2021
Page 24 of 41
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software