Retrospective Fire Strategy

A Retrospective Fire Strategy service is a comprehensive evaluation designed to assess the current fire safety measures of an existing building

Many existing buildings lack comprehensive fire safety information, often when the original fire safety design documentation is either unavailable or incomplete.

Our Retrospective Fire Stragegy service aims to provide an informed opinion on the building’s compliance with the fire safety requirements that were in place at the time of its construction, recognizing that fire safety regulations, guidance, and standards have evolved over time.

The retrospective fire strategy acknowledges that fire safety regulations have continually been updated and refined in response to advances in firefighting techniques, technological developments, and lessons learned from historical incidents.

These updates often reflect more stringent safety measures aimed at enhancing the overall fire protection and safety levels within buildings.

As such, while the building may have been compliant with the standards at the time of construction, it may no longer align with current regulations.

Retrospective Fire Strategy - Key Objectives

The primary objective of the Retrospective Fire Strategy is to assess the effectiveness of the existing fire safety arrangements within the building.

This involves conducting a detailed gap analysis comparing the building’s current fire safety provisions against today’s Building Regulation guidance. The gap analysis helps identify areas where the building may fall short of current standards.

Key elements of a retrospective fire strategy include:

Fire Risk Assessment : Analysing the building's layout, materials, and current fire risks.

Upgrading Fire Detection and Alarm Systems : Installing modern fire alarms, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting.

Improved Fire Suppression : Adding or upgrading fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and other suppression methods.

Structural Fire Safety Enhancements : Strengthening fire-resistant walls, floors, and doors to prevent the spread of fire.

Emergency Evacuation Plans : Developing or refining evacuation procedures and ensuring adequate escape routes are accessible.

Compliance with Regulations : Ensuring that the building meets current fire safety regulations and codes, even if it wasn't originally designed to do so.

It is important to note that there is no legal obligation to upgrade the building to meet modern regulations unless significant alterations are planned. However, there remains a statutory duty under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to regularly review and maintain effective fire prevention and protection measures.

Risk-Based Approach

When gaps or deficiencies in fire safety measures are identified, the Retrospective Fire Strategy service utilizes a risk-based approach, as recommended by PAS 79 (Section 9).

This approach helps assess whether the identified gaps present a level of risk that warrants upgrades to the building’s fire safety precautions to align with current standards.

In cases where the risks are deemed significant, specific recommendations for improvements will be outlined in the final report.

Retrospective Fire Strategy - Recommendations and Outcomes

The final report, produced as part of our Retrospective Fire Strategy service, provides not only an assessment of compliance with historical standards but also risk-based recommendations for improvements where needed.

The aim is to enhance safety without imposing unnecessary upgrades, striking a balance between practical solutions and modern safety standards.

Limitations of a Retrospective Fire Strategy

It is crucial to understand that this retrospective strategy and appraisal do not substitute for a formal fire risk assessment. The service is focused on analyzing the building’s design and structure in relation to historical and current fire safety regulations, whereas a fire risk assessment addresses the ongoing operational risks within the building.

In summary, the Retrospective Fire Strategy service provides building owners and managers with a thorough understanding of their building’s fire safety standing, offering insight into potential risks and a roadmap for addressing any gaps in fire precautions.

This service ensures that even older buildings can meet adequate safety standards without unnecessary disruptions or costly renovations, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for occupants.