New Fire Safety Regulations for Serviced Accommodation in England: Ensuring Guest Safety

In the idyllic landscape of Serviced Accommodation and cottages across England, safety has always been a top priority for both property owners and guests. The assurance of a secure and enjoyable stay is paramount. As such, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest fire safety regulations that will be coming into effect in England from 1st October 2023. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into these new regulations, providing a detailed understanding of each aspect to help property owners ensure the safety of their guests.

1. The Rationale Behind New Regulations

The new fire safety regulations have been introduced by the UK government to enhance the level of fire safety in Serviced Accommodation. The primary goal is to reduce the risk of fire incidents and ensure that holiday properties are equipped to handle emergencies effectively. By implementing these measures, property owners can contribute to a safer environment for their guests, preventing potential disasters.

2. Comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments

One of the key changes that property owners need to be aware of is the requirement for comprehensive fire risk assessments. Regardless of the size or type of the property, all Serviced Accommodation must have a full-length, written fire risk assessment that covers every aspect of fire risk within the premises. It is essential to have a clear understanding of what this assessment should entail.

The assessment should not be a superficial overview but a detailed analysis that includes factors such as:

• Identification of fire hazards within the property.
• Evaluation of the likelihood of a fire occurring.
• Assessment of the potential impact of a fire on the property and its occupants.
• Measures in place to mitigate and manage fire risks.
• Evacuation procedures in case of a fire.
• Information on fire safety equipment and their locations.

To ensure compliance with this regulation, a copy of the complete fire risk assessment must be prominently displayed in your property, ideally in the welcome folder for guests.

Given the complexity of these assessments, property owners are strongly encouraged to consult with a fire safety professional. These experts can provide an up-to-date assessment tailored to

?the new legislation. They can also offer guidance on meeting the requirements effectively, reducing the risk to both property owners and guests.

3. Emergency Lighting

Emergency escape lighting is another critical aspect of the new regulations. It is now mandatory to have emergency escape lighting in all bedrooms and along the designated escape route. This lighting can include plug-in torches and, in some cases, borrowed light from an external source, such as a streetlight, may be considered sufficient.

For larger properties, simply relying on torches may not meet the safety standards. In such cases, full escape lighting might be necessary. The determination of what is suitable should be made in consultation with a fire risk assessor during your risk assessment.

4. Escape Routes and Fire Doors

Protected escape routes must have doors with a 30-minute fire protection capability or an adaptation that provides an equivalent level of protection. This measure is essential in ensuring that, in the event of a fire, occupants have enough time to evacuate the property safely.

5. Smoke Detectors

Another crucial requirement is the installation of linked hard-wired smoke detectors. These detectors should be placed not only in bedrooms and living rooms but also along protected escape routes, such as hallways, corridors, staircases, sitting rooms, and dining rooms leading to the main fire exit.

For larger properties or those with complex layouts, more sophisticated detection systems may be necessary. A professional fire assessor can provide valuable advice on the most suitable options during the risk assessment.

6. Hot Water and Heating Systems Inspection

To prevent potential fire hazards, the new regulations stipulate that all hot water and heating systems must undergo annual inspections. This requirement extends to systems powered by renewable energy sources, such as air/ground source heat pumps.

Regular inspections help identify and rectify any issues with these systems, reducing the risk of fire incidents.

7. Locks

Thumb turn locks are now strongly recommended on all exit doors. These locks are easy to operate and can be retro-fitted to most doors. While there may be rare instances where thumb turn locks are deemed unnecessary, it is generally a wise safety measure.

Properly functioning locks are essential not only for guest safety but also for ensuring that escape routes are accessible in case of an emergency.

8. Electrical Testing

Electrical safety is a significant concern in Serviced Accommodation. To address this, the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is now required every five years. This requirement also extends to smaller properties, including glamping pods.

Regular electrical testing helps identify potential hazards, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, which can be fire risks. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining a safe environment for guests.

9. Chimney Sweeping

Chimney fires can be particularly dangerous, and they are often preventable with regular maintenance. Hence, the new regulations stipulate that chimneys should be swept annually. By ensuring that chimneys are clean and free from creosote buildup, property owners can significantly reduce the risk of chimney fires.

10. Regular Fire Checks

Routine fire safety checks are an essential part of ensuring the safety of your property. According to the new regulations, fire safety equipment and exit routes must be checked at each changeover. These checks should be thorough, and the results should be recorded.

Regular fire checks help identify any issues with fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers or fire blankets, ensuring that they are in good working condition and readily accessible when needed.

11. Candles

While candles may create a cozy atmosphere, they can also pose a fire hazard. To mitigate this risk, the new regulations recommend prohibiting the use of candles in your holiday home. It is crucial to have a clear policy in place regarding candles for your guests.

What to Do Next

Understanding these new regulations is the first step towards ensuring the safety of your holiday home and its occupants. To navigate this complex landscape effectively, it is strongly recommended that you enlist the services of a professional, accredited Fire Safety Risk Assessor to conduct your Fire Risk Assessment.

A professional assessor brings several advantages:

• Expertise: They have a thorough understanding of the new guidelines and can ensure your compliance.
• Safety: They reduce risks for both property owners and guests by identifying and addressing potential hazards.
• Peace of Mind: With a professional assessment, you can rest assured that you are taking all necessary measures to ensure guest safety.

If you have any questions or need assistance finding a local Fire Risk Assessor, please feel free to get in touch with us. Your guests' safety is our priority, and we are here to help you navigate these new regulations seamlessly.

We would love to hear your thoughts on these new regulations. Do you have any additional tips or insights to share? Please leave your comments below, and let's start a conversation on ensuring the safety of Serviced Accommodation in England. Together, we can create a safer environment for all our guests and uphold the highest standards of fire safety in the industry. Your input matters, so please share your thoughts with us.