New COVID-19 Restrictions Do Not Affect Fire Safety Work, But The Industry Can Continue Good Practice To Limit Virus Transmission

New COVID-19 restrictions have been introduced by the Government, announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 

While this does not directly affect fire safety work, BAFE would fully support the advice that the stronger requirements for face coverings should be implemented consistently within the fire safety industry. This is especially important with technicians working on-site at care facilities and other buildings where vulnerable people may be exposed to the virus.

Controlling COVID-19 virus spread

Michelle Roberts, Health Editor for BBC News Online reports that “COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is spread when droplets are sprayed into the air when infected people talk, cough or sneeze. Those droplets can then fall on surfaces."

She adds, "The WHO says there is also emerging evidence of airborne transmission of the virus, with tiny particles hanging in aerosol form in the air."

Ways to reduce COVID-19 spread

Taking a face covering on and off can also risk contamination, the WHO says"

Michelle Roberts continues, "Homemade cloth face coverings can help reduce the spread from people who are contagious but have no symptoms, or are yet to develop symptoms."

She adds, "Scientists in Singapore suggest the contagion risk is especially high in the 24-48 hours before an infected person is even aware they might have the disease. Taking a face covering on and off can also risk contamination, the WHO says.”

wearing face masks

Stephen Adams, Chief Executive - BAFE, comments, “The industry must lead by example. Simple actions such as wearing face masks and keeping hands sanitized when working on site can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 whilst continuing to help people meet their fire safety responsibilities."

He adds, "This is especially important in the upcoming colder months of the year, where ventilation may become worse inside.”

Fire safety personnel continue to remain Key Workers

Security & fire safety personnel can play a vital role at this time of national challenge"

Back in March Ian Moore, CEO of the Fire Industry Association, was informed by James Brokenshire, Minister of State for Security at the Home Office, that “security & fire safety personnel can play a vital role at this time of national challenge."

He adds, "People working in these sectors who are essential to national infrastructure are 'Key Workers' for the Government’s guidance on COVID-19. This categorically has not changed, and fire safety legislation continues to be enforced."

COVID-19 safety measures

James Brokenshire continues, "We continue to prompt all BAFE Registered Companies that they should be in contact with their clients to remind them of their legal obligations in the interest of life safety."

He concludes, "It is imperative with any changes made to accommodate COVID-19 safety measures that any fire safety in place has not been compromised. Fire Risk Assessments must be reviewed as soon as possible if they have not been already, and then any changes are implemented as quickly as possible to keep buildings compliant with fire safety legislation."