Fire Safety Regulations For Schools

It is estimated that there are around 500 fire related incidents in schools each year in the UK which in severe cases can leave lasting effects on a community. 

However, schools, local authorities, and the Department for Education can all work together to ensure schools are a safe environment by strictly following fire safety regulations. 

Government regulations are important in relation to fire safety, and must be adhered to in every school premise to prevent buildings being destroyed, loss of life, and education disruption.

Read on to learn about fire safety regulations within schools, how often a fire risk assessment should be performed, and policies that must be adhered to in order to remain compliant. 

What are the fire regulations for schools?

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) states that schools must ensure there are comprehensive procedures in place to reduce the risk of a fire.

All schools including nursery, primary and secondary schools, academies, special schools and pupil referral units, are required to comply with stringent regulations - these include keeping fire safety equipment maintained, and implementing fire risk assessments to have confidence that every precautionary measure has been taken to protect life and property.

Who is responsible for enforcing fire safety legislation in our schools?

All schools in the UK must appoint a responsible person/s who will be accountable for enforcing fire safety within their school.

In addition, the RRFSO requires one or more competent persons (to be known as fire marshals) in assisting prevention and protection activities such as ensuring there are minimal flammable materials stored within school buildings. 

Do schools have to carry out a fire risk assessment?

Fire risk assessments (FRSA) in schools have been made mandatory by the RRFSO, but will be tailored to the needs of the school in question i.e. escape routes will be heavily influenced by the number and capability of people present. 

Learn how to complete a Fire Risk Assessment.

How often do schools need a fire risk assessment?

Schools are legally required to conduct organised and methodical fire risk assessments on an annual basis. This involves looking at the premises, activities conducted there, and the possibilities of a fire starting.

There is also a requirement for an external assessment to be made every 5 years or earlier if significant alterations have been made to the school premises, to ensure fire precautions remain current and adequate. 

Schools are also obliged to welcome fire inspections from local authorities who will attend and inspect your fire risk assessment. If the school is considered unsafe or in breach of the regulations, fines, notices or penalties will be issued, depending on the severity of the violation. 

Establishing a fire safety policy

No matter the size or the number of students, it is imperative that every school has an established fire safety policy in place to suit. This covers many aspects that are set out to prevent, alert, or stop a fire spreading.

Assign a responsible person

The first step in following the legislation is designating a responsible person(s) who is accountable for all measures of fire safety onsite. These duties are often delegated to the headteacher or a governing body who should typically have good knowledge of fire safety protocols. 

Assess and tackle risks

It is then the role of the responsible person to deliver a yearly FSRA with competency to identify fire hazards and communicate these risks with staff members.

Every effort must be made to minimise those risks identified, particularly ones that provide an opportunity for arsonists - a common cause of school fires.

It is important to document significant findings, take action, and consider persons who may be vulnerable, such as those with additional needs. 

Implement fire safety processes

There are a number of fire safety measures that need to be implemented and maintained, these include emergency protocols i.e. fire evacuation procedures and fire assembly points. 

In accordance with the UK government's fire safety guidelines for schools, fire drills should be conducted at least once a year, preferably once a term, at different times of day.

Systems such as fire fighting equipment, fire alarms, and fire doors are also the responsibility of the appointed person(s), and should be in good working order

Fire doors are an extremely important element of a fire safety strategy, and should never be wedged open. Doors must be kept closed by installing a door closer, and all seals must remain intact to provide fire and smoke protection should a fire break out. 

How we can help

We at FireSealsDirect have helped a number of schools with their passive fire protection projects, and we want to help you with yours too.

If you have any concerns or queries with your school project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our technical team at [email protected] or 02920 857 959.