BAFE Launches Evacuation Alert Systems Scheme

BAFE is pleased to announce the SP207 Evacuation Alert Systems Scheme Document. 

BAFE SP207 Scheme

Supporting British Standard 8629 (Evacuation Alert Systems for use by fire and rescue services in buildings containing flats), the BAFE SP207 Scheme document covers demonstrating quality evidence of competency for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government published the outcome of the consultation regarding sprinklers and other fire safety measures in new high-rise blocks of flats in May 2020. 

emergency evacuation system

An evacuation alert system being in place would provide both clarity and reassurance"

Within this document, an overwhelming 92% of respondents agreed that Approved Document B should include a requirement for an emergency evacuation system (which could support fire and rescue services' operational response by alerting residents if they need to escape).

The document added that “Several respondents noted that an evacuation alert system being in place would provide both clarity and reassurance to residents.”

Third-Party Certification

Chris Auger, Director of Schemes – BAFE, said, “The demand shown following the MHCLG consultation is unprecedented and represents a far greater awareness of systems and competency of their installers required following the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower Fire."

He adds, "With the work, BAFE has performed in conjunction with the industry and Fire and Rescue Service, we are pleased to release this document and offer a route to achieving this important Third-Party Certification."

Filling the gap

This scheme will fill this crucial gap in providing confidence to specifiers knowing they are fulfilling their due diligence"

Chris Auger continues, "Quality evidence of competency is going to have far greater scrutiny for everyone working in high-rise blocks in the very near future which can only be a good thing."

He further said, "This scheme will fill this crucial gap in providing confidence to specifiers knowing they are fulfilling their due diligence and continuing the ‘golden thread’ of accountability for the life safety of residents within the building.”

quality evidence of competency

Chris Auger adds, “The expanding portfolio of BAFE Schemes represents the necessity of quality evidence of competency required for niche but extremely important areas of the industry."

He continues, "Third Party Certification is going to be a key focus of attention for the built environment moving forward and BAFE needs to position itself to offer schemes that are both needed and, reflect the current concerns of occupants, regulators, service providers, and building owners/managers.”