Common Fire Safety Compliance Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Fire safety compliance is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a critical aspect of protecting lives and property. Yet, many Property Managers and Building Owners unintentionally fall into common compliance pitfalls, leading to unsafe conditions, legal consequences, and costly remediation.

Here are some of the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Neglecting Fire Door Maintenance

Fire doors play a vital role in compartmentation, slowing the spread of fire and smoke. However, they are often overlooked in routine maintenance. Issues such as excessive gaps, missing intumescent strips, and damaged self-closing mechanisms can render them ineffective. How to avoid it: Schedule regular inspections, ensure proper installation, and repair or replace any damaged components promptly. This work should be carried out by certified professionals.

2. Poorly Installed or Inadequate Firestopping

Firestopping ensures that service penetrations (such as pipes and cables) do not compromise fire compartmentation. A common mistake is the use of incorrect materials or improper installation, allowing fire and smoke to spread between compartments. How to avoid it: Work with accredited firestopping professionals, like R2R, and use third-party certified materials to ensure compliance.

3. Failing to Meet EWS1 Requirements

External Wall System (EWS) compliance is essential for buildings with cladding or other combustible materials. Many Property Managers delay or overlook obtaining an EWS1 form, which can lead to financial and legal complications, especially during property transactions. How to avoid it: Employ professionals to conduct thorough EWS assessments and ensure your building meets fire safety standards to avoid delays and legal risks.

4. Skipping Routine Fire Risk Assessments

Fire risk assessments (FRAs) identify potential hazards and necessary safety measures. Some Property Owners conduct a single assessment and fail to update it as conditions change. How to avoid it: Conduct regular FRAs, especially after building modifications or regulatory updates.

5. Non-Compliance with Signage and Escape Routes

Blocked fire exits, missing signage, or poorly maintained escape routes can cause chaos in an emergency, leading to severe consequences. How to avoid it: Regularly inspect exit routes, keep them clear, and ensure all fire signage is compliant and visible.

Avoiding these common fire safety compliance pitfalls requires diligence, regular inspections, and professional expertise. Ensuring compliance not only keeps occupants safe but also protects against legal and financial repercussions.

For expert advice and certified fire safety services, get in touch with our team today.