PHAU00805901 HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH SE5 0XF - Southwark Council
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Asset Identifier PHAU00805901 Address HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Post Code SE5 0XF Code FRA-PB Version 13 Description FRA-PURPOSE BUILT BLOCKS Assessment Date 23/03/2020 Assessment Version Current Assessor Name Paul May Produced using Rowanwood Apex Health and Safety
1 CONTENTS 1.1 Contents ...................................................................................................................................... 1.1.1 Contents - 1.1.2 Introduction - 1.1.3 Summary - 1.1.4 General Building Information - 1.1.5 Maintenance Schedules - 1.1.6 Fire Hazards and their Elimination and Control - 1.1.7 Fire Protection Measures - 1.1.8 Management of Fire Safety - HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 2/22
2 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 2.1.1 Introduction - HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 3/22
3 SUMMARY 3.1 Summary ...................................................................................................................................... 3.1.1 Risk Rating LOW MODERATE 3.1.2 Next Physical Assessment Due 2021 3.1.3 FRA Type PB 3.1.4 Storeys Ground and Above 8 3.1.5 Storeys Below Ground 0 3.1.6 Units 31 3.1.7 Status COMPLETE 3.1.8 Building Dimensions. Length, width and height. 55m x 12m x 17.5/18 to highest residential floor. 3.1.9 List any tasks that once completed can reduce the risk rating of this assessment. This is a stand alone building in terms of means of escape and structural separation from the sister bock(s). It has a simple internal layout and design and with no areas that can be deemed as convoluted for individual(s) who may be required to traverse the routes in a stressful situation like escaping a fire. The risk rating is currently 'Low Moderate' which has been deemed as appropriate as not all areas were accessed. from the point of view of the communal areas and condition of the building coupled with the existing passive and active systems the premises is of an acceptable standard. However, without access to the electrical riser voids and samples of the FEDs it is not considered to be a comprehensive Type 1 FRA. The main concern in this building is the presence of areas of timber cladding which provide a cosmetic element to the building elevation relating to the balconies. The timber cladding is not ideal and measures are being put in place to address this by LBS. However, the fixing of lightning strips to the timber poses another potential fire risk that needs to be explored parallel to any other cladding work. This is a condition shared by all blocks on the estate. The chance of a lightning strike is remote but a realistic one depending on many factors. Should a strike occur and a fire start then the residents are still expected to be able to evacuate via the normal internal escape routes. these areas will likely not be directly or even indirectly affected and should provide adequate means of escape to ultimate safety. In that respect, it is important that the residents control the amount of combustible materials on the balconies. This is a housekeeping requirement and one that can be deemed as fire loading should the amount and type of storage become too great in volume. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 4/22
3 SUMMARY 3.1.10 Does this assessment require a review? Yes No N/A HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 5/22
4 GENERAL BUILDING INFORMATION 4.1 General Building Information ...................................................................................................................................... 4.1.1 Building information This address range forms part of a larger estate of identical blocks that are part of the same estate. This premises (subject to the FRA) is accessed from an end of elevation stair and lift core and is structurally separated from the sister block that forms part of the overall footprint. The design and construction of the premises is typical formed of a concrete frame and floor plates (slab design) under a flat roof with garages located on the ground floor level. The internal stair and lift shaft are formed of concrete. The building includes service rooms/spaces and risers that are part of the original design concept and are located internally from the circulation areas. The internal design/means of escape is based on secondary MOE for the flats which are maisonettes. The ground floor flats have access to gardens, the sixth floor flats have an alternative external MOE leading to the lift lobby on that level. All other maisonettes have internal routes that lead to the corridor above or below according to the location of the flat. The doors that form the final exit from these SMOE are FD30S and secured closed with no opening mechanism on the external side for security reasons. The internal horizontal travel distances are not acceptable according to current standards, however, at the time of construction and with the secondary means of escape for all dwellings, this can be considered mitigated and poses no issue. The refuse arrangements for each floor consists of a small dedicated room housing the refuse hopper opening into the chute that then leads to a ground floor refuse room. The room is provided with permanent ventilation and is separated from the corridor by a metal frame and safety glazing bulkhead. Doors that form part of the original design concept open onto the half landings in the stairway. These doors are no longer needed and are not in use. The external aspect of the building consists of timber spandrel panels between uPVC casement windows. This feature is consistent for the entire height of the building. On the rear elevation are balconies that have timber panels in place as a cosmetic feature. The timber infill panels and spandrels have, in some cases, have had lightning strips fitted directly onto the material which will be raised a s a concern in the relevant section of this FRA. 4.1.2 Any further building comments? Owing to advice given by Government relating to the Coronavirus pandemic Southwark Council has implemented certain measures with regards to undertaking FRAs. This will enable an assessment of the communal areas of a residential block to be made and to comment on any obvious flaws relating to the passive and active systems that may be in place without increasing the exposure to the individual surveyor to the virus. The final risk rating of the building will not include an in-depth sample of the FEDs, only an external assessment of the doors sets, which form part of the protection to the circulation area(s). With regards to the FSS gaining an understanding of the level of AFD in the flats, this will not be possible during the period in which the mitigation measures are in place. Assumptions will not be made relating to the level of PFP and AFD and so any areas relating to these aspects that are deemed to be a concern but cannot be sufficiently determined at the time should be highlighted as such to ensure they are assessed as soon as is practicable following a return to normal operations. This is a type 1 fire risk assessment which focuses on the shared means of escape and samples the FED's (flat entrance doors) where possible. The internal and external aspect is assessed to determine if the general means of escape are adequate and unobstructed. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 6/22
4 GENERAL BUILDING INFORMATION In addition to the external aspect the assessment also considers if any immediate external fire risks are present that may potentially adversely affect the property should a fire break out. This relates predominantly to refuse/recycling bins as well as unkempt shrubbery that may promote external fire spread and areas where obvious signs of anti social behaviour are taking place. The primary focus of the FRA is the active and passive fire safety provisions where applicable. The assessment considers the shared means of escape from the FEDs to the final exit but will also sample the flat doors where possible to determine the type of doors within the stair core that open onto the vertical and horizontal escape route(s) if relevant to the building design. There has been no information provided to the surveyor or FST pre survey of any individual(s) that require a PCFRA or need to be considered as higher than normal risk in regard to being able to self rescue from their dwelling if that is appropriate. The surveyor will consider the occupants as ‘General Needs’ and conduct the survey accordingly. In most cases the residents are expected to be able to self rescue in the event of a fire. They are also encouraged to manage fire safety in the home with safe practice and lifestyle choices that incorporate the control of ignition sources such as candles and proper management of cooking etc. It is impossible to police such elements of peoples lives in private dwellings, the surveyor will attempt to pass on good advice to the resident(s) when making contact during the FRA. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 7/22
5 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 5.1 Maintenance Schedules ...................................................................................................................................... 5.1.1 Maintenance Schedules All equipment relating to fire fighting and fire protection in the building are subject to scheduled maintenance which is recorded and stored off site. This maintenance will be in line with the requirements and test methods as given in the relevant British standard. Where no such record exists or where maintenance has not been undertaken (or carried out appropriately), the surveyor will make comments in the relevant section. This survey will be updated in the near future to provide the last test dates for all active fire safety measures installed in this building. Dry/Wet Riser - Annual Wet Test - 10-Aug-19 Dry/Wet Riser - Visual Inspection - 10-Aug-19 Electrical Periodic Inspection Rep. - 31-Oct-18 Emergency Communal Lighting - 28-Sep-18 Lightning Protection Test - 10-Apr-19 HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 8/22
6 FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION AND CONTROL 6.1 Electrical Sources of Ignition ...................................................................................................................................... 6.1.1 Are there reasonable measures taken to prevent fires of Yes No N/A electrical origin? 6.1.2 Are fixed installations periodically tested and inspected? Yes No N/A 6.1.3 Is the fuseboard/mains intake suitably fire resistant? Yes No N/A 6.1.4 Comments Southwark Council undertake 5 yearly inspections and testing of the landlord's electrical installation. Records of any testing or maintenance are held on the Council's internal database. No portable appliances were observed in communal areas which would be subject to PAT testing. Portable electrical appliances are used in the common areas by councils own staff and approved contractors. The council has a system in place for testing its own portable appliances. Those appliances used by contractors are subject to the contractors own company's Health and Safety arrangements which are required by the council. 6.2 Gas ...................................................................................................................................... 6.2.1 Is there gas supplied in the area of inspection? Yes No N/A 6.2.2 Is gas equipment protected/located so as to prevent Yes No N/A accidental damage? 6.2.3 Are gas installations and appliances free from any obvious Yes No N/A defects? 6.2.4 Comments No observations were made on this inspection of any gas installations which may be prone to accidental damage or have any defects. Gas has been supplied to the estate blocks but no gas related pipework or meters were noted within the communal areas. 6.3 Smoking ...................................................................................................................................... 6.3.1 Is there evidence of smoking in areas where this has been Yes No N/A prohibited? 6.3.2 Comments No evidence of smoking in the internal common areas was observed at the time of inspection. Smoking in the communal areas is not permitted, however it is understood that residents may smoke within their own dwellings. No Smoking signs have been installed. Since 1 October 2012, at least 1 legible no-smoking sign must be displayed but landlords are now free to decide the size, design and location of the signs. No action is needed for anyone who is already complying with the current regulations. But the new smoke-free signs regulations, give landlords the freedom to move, change or remove multiple signs. At least 1 legible no-smoking sign must still be displayed but landlords are now free to decide the size, design and location of the signs. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 9/22
6 FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION AND CONTROL 6.4 Arson ...................................................................................................................................... 6.4.1 Does basic security against arson from outsiders appear to be Yes No N/A reasonable? 6.4.2 Is there an unnecessary fire load within the building or in close Yes No N/A proximity of the premises which is available to ignition from outsiders? 6.4.3 Is there any shrubbery that needs pruning or removing to Yes No N/A prevent fire spread if ignited? 6.4.4 Comments The building has a secure entrance control with fire fighter override. Each residential floor has the same level of security. There are no indications of anti social behaviour in or around the building. 6.5 Portable Heaters and Heating Installations ...................................................................................................................................... 6.5.1 Does the area of inspection have any portable heaters or Yes No N/A heating installations? 6.6 Lightning ...................................................................................................................................... 6.6.1 Does the premises have a lightning protection system? Yes No N/A The LPS has, in some areas, been fixed to the timber infill feature located on the external elevations front and rear. The timber cladding on this building forms part of the balcony design. The LPS should not be fixed to timber as this poses a potential ignition risk with an aspect of fire loading. Overtime the timber cladding has become affected by dirt and affected by the environment making the combustibility more probable. A task action will be raised to address this concern related to the timber infill/cladding aspect. At this point, there is an unknown element to the effect that a lightning strike might have on this timber and so it is deemed prudent to explore this as a potential fire risk. 6.6.2 Comments The lightning conductor system is inspected and tested annually in accordance with BS EN 62305. All records of such inspecting and testing are held centrally at Southwark Council`s offices. The issue relating to the LPS being fixed to the timber infill panels is exploratory to ensure this condition is controlled. A LPS engineer will need to make this assessment and effectively sign off the current format as acceptable. The timber is, at some point in the future, due to be removed but as yet there is no time line for this. In the mean time it is prudent to ensure this condition does not pose an immediate threat relating to fire. 6.7 Housekeeping ...................................................................................................................................... 6.7.1 Is the standard of housekeeping adequate? Yes No N/A HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 10/22
6 FIRE HAZARDS AND THEIR ELIMINATION AND CONTROL 6.7.2 Are combustible materials separated from any sources of Yes No N/A ignition? 6.7.3 Comments All Southwark council properties undergo regular cleaning in communal areas. No storage or combustibles which would either obstruct or impede escape were observed on this inspection. 6.7.4 What is the housekeeping regime for the premises MANAGED This type of managerial approach to housekeeping is deemed to be appropriate. The premises has alternative routes that allows people to bypass the usual corridor means of escape. However, housekeeping is an essential aspect to the day to day management of the building and will require continuous monitoring by RSOs and the residents. 6.8 Dangerous Substances ...................................................................................................................................... 6.8.1 Are there any hazardous substances in the area of Yes No N/A inspection? 6.8.2 Are the general fire precautions adequate to address the Yes No N/A hazards associated with dangerous substances used and stored on the premises? 6.8.3 Comments No dangerous substances were noted to be in or around the building. 6.9 Hazards Introduced by Contractors or Works ...................................................................................................................................... 6.9.1 Are there contractors or works taking place in the area of Yes No N/A inspection? 6.9.2 Is there satisfactory control over works carried out by the on Yes No N/A site contractors (including hot works permits)? 6.9.3 Comments No hot works were being carried out at the time of the inspection with no evidence of any hot works having been carried out was observed. Contractors carrying out work at Southwark Council premises are pre-selected from an approved list. They will have undergone a selection and training process prior to being allowed to carry out work at council premises. All contractors should receive a permit to work. There should be no reliance on council staff to perform safety checks on hot works carried out by contractor. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 11/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.1 Measures to Prevent Fire Spread and Development ...................................................................................................................................... 7.1.1 Is compartmentation suitable? Yes No N/A 7.1.2 Is there reasonable limitation of linings that might promote fire Yes No N/A spread? 7.1.3 Where ducting is provided can it be ascertained if fire Yes No N/A dampers are provided to prevent the spread of fire through compartments to protect the means of escape? 7.1.4 Comments It is considered that the concrete slab and brick/block construction will provide the required fire separation. However this form of construction is subject to general building conditions of age, and incorrectly installed/maintained services/works that can lead to smoke or fire spread. For this standard of construction we deem this risk to be medium to low. Any riser within the building requires inspection for fire stopping between floors. These risks are continually monitored through post fire investigation and the void process. The common parts internal walls are in a good order but it was not possible to ascertain the construction of compartment walls and floors within the individual flats. No ventilation ducts were identified in communal areas which would allow the spread of fire or smoke to other parts of the building. It should be confirmed however that no ducts exist inside the flats which may allow the spread of fire or smoke to other flats or other parts of the building. Internal decoration of the stairwell appeared to be emulsion paint onto a concrete surface. 7.2 Means of Escape from Fire ...................................................................................................................................... 7.2.1 Are there adequate provisions for exits in the area assessed? Yes No N/A 7.2.2 Are exits immediately openable where necessary? Yes No N/A 7.2.3 Are the means for securing the exit doors appropriate? Yes No N/A 7.2.4 Is there suitable protection for the escape routes? This is to Yes No N/A include any glazing. 7.2.5 Are there any inner room scenarios? Yes No N/A 7.2.6 Are the escape routes free from obstructions or Yes No N/A electrical/telecom installations likely to give rise to an obstruction in the event of a fire? All services that are routed to the flats have been located within purpose made risers spaces or within conduit fixed to the upper floor plate. 7.2.7 Do any doors have additional security grilles or gates fitted Yes No N/A over the means of escape that will hamper an individual in the event of a fire? 7.2.8 Where final exit doors are fitted with electrical overrides to Yes No N/A open will this door open in the event of an electrical failure? HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 12/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.2.9 Do the travel distances in the common areas comply with Yes No N/A those escape distances specified in current/previous building regulations? 7.2.10 Comments The building is designed to allow for a single direction of escape from all of the FEDs (and alternative routes within the flats) to a final exit and ultimate safety. The internal layout is simple with no protracted route to any aspect within the building that may potentially confuse evacuating occupant(s). In that regard directional signage is not considered necessary as the natural day to day access/egress is the primary escape route. However, directional signage has been installed and is comprehensive. The fabric of the internal aspect is brick and concrete with no openings or penetrations (other than the FEDs) such as glazing features above the doors that can be considered as a potential 'weak point' in the protected escape route requiring a specific application of fire safety to support an evacuation. Service riser doors are within ventilated lobbies and those that are located in the residential corridors housing water pipe systems and plumbing with sterile voids. The horizontal means of escape from the flats are ventilated by permanent open vents at the storey exit end and openable windows at the end of elevation. The level of permanent ventilation is adequate as there are secondary means of escape from all dwellings mitigating the need for anybody to have to pass through a smoke filled environment to evacuate the floor or building. The stairways are remote from the flats and should therefore be at a safe distance from what is deemed to be the primary risk of fire which are the flats. The vertical means of escape are concrete, sterile and with very little to no intrinsic risk. 7.3 Emergency Escape Lighting ...................................................................................................................................... 7.3.1 Is Emergency Lighting provided and if so is there full Yes No N/A compliance? 7.3.2 Comments Emergency lighting has been installed within the building. It must be assumed that it is installed in line with BS5266: Pt. 1: 2016. 7.4 Fire Safety Signs and Notices ...................................................................................................................................... 7.4.1 Is there reasonable provision for all notices? Yes No N/A The final exit from the roof balcony requires 'fire exit keep clear' sign on the inner side and turn thumb sign to doors that leads into protected lobby. This was raised in the previous FRA and will be duplicated following this assessment. Signage of this type is important to support an evacuation through routes that may not be familiar and by person(s) who may be under stress. The escape route from the adjacent block (1-84) leads into the top residential corridor of this block. This door is openable from the outside only but still forms part of the means of escape from that block. This door is almost invisible to the occupants of this block but it should be denoted with appropriate signage to avoid it becoming blocked or misused in any way preventing persons evacuating from the adjacent block from using it. 7.4.2 Is there suitable signage for automatic, self closing and locked Yes No N/A fire doors? HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 13/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.4.3 Is the fire action notice fitted in the correct area and displaying Yes No N/A the correct information? 7.4.4 Are the 'No Smoking' signs fitted and are there sufficient Yes No N/A notices? 7.4.5 Have 'areas of special risks' such as boiler rooms, oil Yes No N/A transformer rooms, switchgear rooms and telecommunication rooms been appropriately signed? 7.4.6 Comments Directional escape signage is fitted throughout and is considered acceptable. Managerial signage is of a good standard as is the FANs that are clearly displayed in the communal areas. In a premises of this design and use the residents will self rescue typically using the day to day access and egress routes to safety. When alternative routes are available that is when signage is important. Signage denting the dry rising main outlets are displayed in the stairway to the appropriate landing and on the access door to the facility. Images (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-98.jpg (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-97.jpg 7.5 Means of Giving Warning in Case of Fire ...................................................................................................................................... 7.5.1 Does the common area of the building have an automatic Yes No N/A detection and warning fire alarm system? 7.5.2 Is the extent of the detection fitted appropriate for the Yes No N/A occupancy and fire risk? 7.5.3 Is there the remote transmission of alarm signals to an Alarm Yes No N/A Receiving Centre in place? 7.5.4 Comments HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 14/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES In Line with normal practice for purpose built and converted residential blocks designed to facilitate a ‘defend in place’ evacuation strategy there is no need for communal automatic fire detection and alarm system to be fitted in the building. Such a system is not normally required for purpose built residential blocks and is not required under the Building Regulations 2010, other than to activate any automatic opening vents. The restrictions on sampling flats will not allow for an assessment of the level of AFD to be made at this time. 7.6 Smoke Ventilation Requirements ...................................................................................................................................... 7.6.1 Is it considered that the premises has been provided with Yes No N/A reasonable means of smoke ventilation in the event of a fire? 7.6.2 Is the building ventilated naturally? Yes No N/A There are elements of permanent vents in the lift lobbies, corridors and refuse rooms. however, this is not natural ventilation in the same way as an open balcony building design and is a small part of the buildings fabric in regard to area. 7.6.3 If permanently ventilated in the common area is there Yes No N/A sufficient free area? 7.6.4 If permanently ventilated in the stair is there sufficient free Yes No N/A area? 7.6.5 Are vents/openings obstructed in any location where they are Yes No N/A required? 7.6.6 Is the building ventilated naturally by AOV's, shutters or Yes No N/A doors? 7.6.7 Are detectors that operate AOV's, shutters and vents silent Yes No N/A operating? 7.6.8 Is the building ventilated by a mechanical smoke extraction Yes No N/A system? 7.6.9 Comments Smoke ventilation is considered to be adequate for a building of this design. The horizontal escape routes are influenced by permanent vents as is the refuse rooms that are separated from the corridors by a FD60S SC door set and bulkhead. The stairway has PV's on each half landing. The lift lobbies have PV's and manually openable windows to assist with smoke dispersion if required. Residents can opt to use the secondary means of escape from their flat if the horizontal route from the FED is smoke filled. The building met the benchmark standards of the day at the time of construction whereby extended travel distances and cross flow ventilation were negated by the provision of alternative means of escape from each dwelling, subsequent installation of AFD/FED replacement has provided early warning and extended safe evacuation time thus the building is considered to be adequately ventilated where required. 7.7 Fire Brigade Access and Facilities ...................................................................................................................................... 7.7.1 Is there suitable access for fire appliances with adequate Yes No N/A provision for a turning circle, hammerhead or other point a vehicle can turn if required? HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 15/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.7.2 Are there any obstructions in the form of a gate, bollards or Yes No N/A removable posts that may hinder appliance access? 7.7.3 Is the building fitted with either a wet or dry rising main? Yes No N/A 7.7.4 Is the hose distance to the riser or dwelling acceptable? Yes No N/A 7.7.5 Does the front entry door have a firefighter's override? Yes No N/A 7.7.6 Is the current access provision suitable and sufficient for Yes No N/A firefighters? Is there an inappropriate level of security before entry is made into an affected dwelling by Firefighters? 7.7.7 Where locked do all firefighting facilities have FB locks? Yes No N/A 7.7.8 Are firefighting lifts installed? Yes No N/A 7.7.9 Do the lifts in the area inspected have firefighting overrides? Yes No N/A 7.7.10 Where fitted are all wet/dry riser outlets and inlets accessible? Yes No N/A 7.7.11 Is there suitable signage for firefighting facilities that would Yes No N/A allow for effective use during firefighting operations? 7.7.12 Where panels are fitted for smoke ventilation and fire alarm Yes No N/A systems-have zonal charts been sited in a prominent position which have easy to follow instructions and are accurate? 7.7.13 Does the building signage give correct directions to dwellings Yes No N/A in an emergency? 7.7.14 Where fitted does the Premises Information Box contain the Yes No N/A correct and relevant information? 7.7.15 Comments Access to the building envelope is not an issue. There is signage denoting the location of the DRM inlet and additional signage to that affect on each level regarding outlets. Security to the building is standard with fire fighter overrides on each floor. There are no concerns related to fire fighter access in or around this building. 7.8 Fire Doors ...................................................................................................................................... 7.8.1 Are all dwelling front entry doors and hardware (where Yes No N/A required) compliant with certification carried out to BS476- 22/BSEN 1634-1 or of a suitable notional value? (Consider seals and strips) 7.8.2 Are all cross corridor, stair and lobby doors certified to a test Yes No N/A regime under BS476-22 or BS EN 1634-1 or of a suitable notional value? 7.8.3 Are all electrical intake/boiler/utility service room doors Yes No N/A suitably fire resistant as tested under the BS476-22 or BS EN 1634-1 regime or of a suitable notional value? HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 16/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.8.4 Are all ancillary doors (in escape routes) suitably fire resistant Yes No N/A as tested against BS476-22/BS EN 1634-1 or of suitable notional value? Polyurethane (PU) foam fillers was seen by the assessor to have been used to fill large voids and/or openings around the doorframe of electrical intake. Without clear manufacturer's guidance, they shouldn't be used to fill large voids or openings as the foam’s fire-stopping properties may only be effective and tested in narrow voids or gaps. Normally expelled from pressurised cans as a sticky liquid, which quickly expands to around 40 times its original volume to form rigid foam, PU foam is designed to fill small linear gaps or service penetrations. Without clear manufacturer's guidance, they shouldn't be used to fill large voids or openings as the foam’s fire-stopping properties may only be effective and tested in narrow voids or gaps. PU foam products must have their fire performance determined by testing to standards BS 476 Part 20/22 and BS EN 1366-4 for linear gaps and BS EN 1366-3 for service penetration seals. 7.8.5 Are all doors leading to rubbish areas or bin chutes where Yes No N/A they are in the escape routes suitably tested to BS476-22/BS EN 1634-1 regime or of a suitable notional value? 7.8.6 Do all fire doors have self closing devices compliant with BS Yes No N/A EN 1154? Where not applicable are fire doors kept locked shut? 7.8.7 Are any fire doors surveyed at this site constructed of Yes No N/A anything else other than wood? 7.8.8 Do doors on the means of escape open in the direction of Yes No N/A escape where necessary? 7.8.9 Are doors on the means of escape fitted with appropriate Yes No N/A panic bolts or latches where required? 7.8.10 Where applicable are doors appropriate for use by disabled Yes No N/A individuals? 7.8.11 Where applicable does the door have a vision panel fitted? Yes No N/A 7.8.12 Comments The fire doors in the building are of a good standard and appropriate for this building design and use. The FEDs are equally as robust and FD30S with self closers (this from an external assessment only) Doors to the electrical and service risers were locked at the time of the FRA and were noted to be modern and in good condition. Those that were sampled were 54mm timber. It was not possible to sample all doors owing to the fact the surveyor does not have the correct keys for this site. The refuse room door sets can be considered to be old and potentially inadequate compared to today's standard of door set. However, the risk of a serious fire in the refuse lobbies is very low, the chance of smoke migration from a serious refuse room fire to the residential corridors is higher but again, the design of the building will help to mitigate the effects and dissipate smoke to air before it affects the corridor. The secondary means of escape from the flats allows people to turn away from an affected means of escape and reach a storey or final exit without being exposed to the products of combustion. 7.9 External Wall Finish ...................................................................................................................................... HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 17/22
7 FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES 7.9.1 Is this building over 18 metres in height? Yes No N/A 7.9.2 Does this building have an external cladding system which Yes No N/A overlays the original structure? The building is partially clad with timber panelling on the rear elevation, flat balconies and the ground floor rear entrance ceiling, the assessor was not able to determine the level of fire resistance achieved by the cladding. Inspection and testing should be carried out to establish the suitability of the cladding. The building is linked to other purpose built flats therefore considering should be given to the testing of the cladding in order to prevent external fire spread. It could not be clarified on site information about the panels are in line with requirements of Paragraph B4 of Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended) (External Fire Spread). This can be clarified via design information and building records. Where the panel product type can be confirmed on the building, a check of the fire performance with the manufacturer by requesting test certification should be completed. Where there is no information about the panel or there is uncertainty, it will be necessary to investigate the panel composition by sample testing. In addition to the LPS there are garages that from the ground floor of the block. The garages are structurally separated vertically and have secure metal doors on them to avoid anti social behaviour. Historically, fires are fairly common in garages where not only vehicles are kept but also hazardous substances some of which are accelerant's. Garages do not have the same level of control as a dwelling. It was noted that above the garages and below the timber cladding is a row of lites formed of (visual assessment only at this stage) safety glazing (georgian wire). In some places this has been removed, broken and are placed with ply wood or something similar. This would allow a fire originating in the garage to spread beyond the space and affect the cladding. Potentially very quickly owing to the fact the lites are at the top of the garage space and will be directly affected by fire and heat from the start. The advice at this time is to replace any broken or missing lites with a suitable fire stopping product to achieve 60 minutes fire resistance between the two aspects. The product used does not have to be expansive fire resisting glazing and so a product such as ablative coated batt will suffice. A third part accredited contractor will be able to decide the most appropriate product for this use. This will be deemed as a 'high' risk task action where appropriate but it is still expected that occupants can evacuate internally via the normal routes if required. 7.9.3 Does the building's exterior wall contain infill panels? Yes No N/A This relates to the timber infill panels associated with the balconies. This has been highlighted and detailed in the section on LPS and cladding. 7.9.4 Comments All buildings at the time of construction and/or alteration the external walls would have complied with the building regulations at the time. Southwark Council has an assessment process in place that will ensure the external fabric of a block is compliant to the current building regulations. This assessment not only includes the external finish of the wall but the materials used for insulation and fire breaks and how these materials are fixed to the building. All panels are being examined as part of a process. This includes any that form part of the external fascia and those on escape routes with a single direction of escape. Where found to be deficient or the fire rating cannot be ascertained they will be replaced as part of the Major Works programme. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 18/22
8 MANAGEMENT OF FIRE SAFETY 8.1 Procedures and Arrangements ...................................................................................................................................... 8.1.1 Are procedures in the event of fire appropriate and properly Yes No N/A documented? This is not appropriate for this premises. 8.1.2 Have staff and relevant individuals been given appropriate fire Yes No N/A safety training? 8.1.3 Are checks carried out by staff on fire safety systems where Yes No N/A appropriate and logged? 8.1.4 Are external stairs and in particular those devised as a means Yes No N/A of escape regularly inspected, maintained and appropriate for use in all weathers? 8.1.5 Comments The fire evacuation policy for this building being a purpose built block of flats is; if in a protected dwelling stay put unless affected by fire or smoke. If in the dwelling on fire or in the common parts, leave the building immediately, if safe to do so, and remain a safe distance from the building. It is understood that tenants are provided with a planned evacuation policy in the tenant’s information pack which are given to them on tenancy sign up. Additionally fire action notices displayed throughout the building forms a crucial part of the evacuation policy. It is expected that the person discovering the fire will summon the fire service by telephone. Details of how to summon the fire service are contained within the tenants pack and on fire action notices. It is not considered practicable to provide a controlled emergency evacuation assembly point for purpose built blocks of flats. It should be communicated to residents that in the event of fire, all evacuees should wait in a safe place at a distance from the building so as not to be affected by smoke, flame, possible explosion and fire fighting. Residents should also understand that they should remain local to be available for liaison with the fire fighting crew. Council Staff that frequently visit the building are given regular fire safety training. This training clearly informs them what to do in the event of fire. Employees from other organisations are expected to have regular training on carrying out an evacuation in the event of an emergency. The training records are submitted to the council before these persons are allowed to visit council property. Southwark carry out a strict regime of inspection, testing, repair and maintenance of all building services and systems in accordance with the relevant statutory regulations. Records relevant to testing & maintenance are available for inspection at the council’s offices but not on site as it is not practicable to store them. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 19/22
Action Plan Issue No: 6.6.1.1 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority HIGH Location Floor Question Does the premises have a lightning protection system? Issue LPS fixed to timber infill/cladding features associated with the balconies and rear elevation. Action A qualified electrical engineer must assess the LPS to determine if this is a fire risk or a condition which can remain until the timber is removed in the future. Status Resolved Target Date 25/04/2020 Resolution Issue resolved from Works Order: APEX-HSI-1046762 Images (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-89.jpg (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-90.jpg Issue No: 7.4.1.1 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority MEDIUM Location Floor Question Is there reasonable provision for all notices? Issue The final exit from the flat roof requires 'fire exit keep clear' sign to inner door and 'turn thumb' sign to outer door. Action Provide required signage to door which leads from roof balcony escape into the protected lobby area. Status Outstanding Target Date 24/06/2020 Comments Identified in previous FRA APEX-HSI-1037088 Issue No: 7.4.1.2 ............................................................................................................................................. HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 20/22
Priority LOW Location Floor Question Is there reasonable provision for all notices? Issue No signage on final exit door that leads into the top floor of this block. Action Display 'Fire Exit Do Not Block' or similar signage to this door. Status Outstanding Target Date 02/04/2021 Issue No: 7.8.4.1 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority MEDIUM Location Floor Question Are all ancillary doors (in escape routes) suitably fire resistant as tested against BS476-22/BS EN 1634-1 or of suitable notional value? Issue The FD60s fire doors not installed correctly to level 6 riser with 30mm gaps infilled with foam, doors must be installed and maintained in accordance with manufacturers instructions. Polyurethane (PU) foam fillers was seen by the assessor to have been used to fill large void between doorframe. Without clear manufacturer's guidance, they shouldn't be used to fill large voids or openings as the foam’s fire-stopping properties may only be effective and tested in narrow voids or gaps. Action PU foam products must have their fire performance determined by testing to standards BS 476 Part 20/22 and BS EN 1366-4 for linear gaps and BS EN 1366-3 for service penetrations. Mineral wool and intumescent mastic is normally used for FDO60s installation. Provide the required certification on door and installation once completed. Competent persons should inspect all the electrical riser door installations. Status Outstanding Target Date 24/06/2020 Comments Identified in previous FRA APEX-HSI-1037089- Issue No: 7.8.4.2 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority LOW Location Floor Question Are all ancillary doors (in escape routes) suitably fire resistant as tested against BS476-22/BS EN 1634-1 or of suitable notional value? Issue Doors along the corridors on the ground floor, 6th floors were rising butt hinges, it was assumed these are redundant dry rooms however no access was possible Action Rising butt hinges are no longer accepted as a component for 'notional' fire doors, a total of x 12 doors had these along ground and level 6 corridors. It is understood these were drying rooms/storage, have these areas inspected to assess if they are still being used and replace with FD30 doors. Status Outstanding Target Date 27/03/2021 Comments Identified in previous FRA APEX-HSI-1037090 - In programme of works. Images (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-72.jpg HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 21/22
Issue No: 7.9.2.1 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority HIGH Location Floor Question Does this building have an external cladding system which overlays the original structure? Issue The building is partially clad with timber panelling on the rear elevation, they cover approximately over 60 % of the building. Action Southwark Council has an assessment process in place that will ensure the external fabric of a block is compliant to the current building regulations. This assessment not only includes the external finish of the wall but the materials used for insulation and fire breaks and how these materials are fixed to the building, add this block to the assessment process. Status Outstanding Target Date 26/04/2020 Comments Identified in previous FRA APEX-HSI-1037091 - In programme of works. Images (HSA)PHAU00805901-FRA-SITE-3-1-1-4-1-0-90.jpg Issue No: 7.9.2.2 ............................................................................................................................................. Priority HIGH Location Floor Question Does this building have an external cladding system which overlays the original structure? Issue Broken or missing glazing/lites above garages with potential for fire spread to cladding. Action Where broken/missing an approved contractor should apply appropriate fire stopping to separate the garage from the external facade. Status Resolved Target Date 14/05/2020 Resolution Issue resolved from Works Order: APEX-HSI-1047178 HANWORTH HOUSE, 13-120,JOHN RUSKIN STREET,BRANDON ESTATE,WALWORTH Page 22/22
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