BAFE has announced releasing a fire safety advisory during the on-going coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic.
The advisory stated, “During this extraordinary situation, it must be noted that fire safety cannot be put on hold. Fire does not discriminate, and it is important that your fire safety policy is well maintained appropriately”.
Fire safety systems and provisions
It further reads, ”BAFE have discussed this fact before, but fire safety systems and provisions are different to security measures. Security systems are usually deactivated and activated on a daily basis, so you would know immediately if there is an issue. Fire systems and provisions are not, which is why a regular maintenance schedule is vitally important (and a legal obligation) to ensure these are fully operational in the event of fire.”
Restriction to site access
BAFE stated that it is understandable that premises management would be restricting access for fire safety providers to their buildings at present. It is also very understandable that business continuity and the welfare of staff is your primary concern.
The advisory adds, “If your business premises are now closed this could be an ideal time to ensure your fire safety systems and provisions have been or could be maintained suitably according to legislation. However, we must stress only do this at present if it is safe to do so. If you are unable to fulfil your scheduled maintenance of fire safety provisions, please take measures to ensure any people in the building will remain safe (and document actions) and return to your regular fire safety policy and scheduled work/maintenance when appropriate. Your specified fire safety providers/local Fire and Rescue Service will be able to advise further.”
Emergency callouts during lockdown
Emergency callouts could prevent any additional/unnecessary false alarms for example
In the event of a lockdown, the fire protection industry has strongly advised Government that Third Party Certificated fire safety providers are listed as key workers, and this has now been confirmed.
Emergency callouts could prevent any additional/unnecessary false alarms for example. This will reduce any strain on emergency services from attending with additional responsibilities that they may face moving forward.
Ensuring fire safety at homes
The fire safety industry actions are somewhat invisible to the public, but it is of extreme importance in reducing risk from fire. The public know that this industry cares so much about fire safety and will endeavour to help everyone as required.
The coronavirus pandemic is affecting the way the whole world works, however, wherever possible BAFE registered companies and their staff will continue to keep the nations safe from needless danger.
When sourcing help, one should make sure to specify competent fire safety providers and verify their Third Party Certification is appropriate and valid for the work required.