Fire Safety — Working in Occupied Buildings

Before You Start

Find out who the Responsible Person (RP) is — ask before work begins Get a copy of the building's fire safety plan Know the escape routes and assembly point

The Rules

Escape routes	Never block, even temporarily. No materials, cables, or tools in corridors or stairwells
Fire doors	Never wedge open. Replace like-for-like with certificated doors only. Closers must work
Fire alarms	Never disable without written agreement from the RP. Re-enable same day. If isolated, post a fire watch
Hot work	Always use a hot work permit. Clear combustibles within 10m. 60-minute fire watch after finishing
Compartmentation	Fire-stop ALL penetrations (pipes, cables, ducts) the same day. Use correct rated materials
LPG	Minimum quantity on site. Valves closed when not in use. Never leave lit in voids or ceiling spaces

If You Find Problems

Missing fire stopping around existing services	Tell the RP in writing — it is their responsibility
Fire doors missing, damaged, or wedged	Tell the RP in writing
Alarm faults	Report immediately to the RP
Blocked escape routes (not your doing)	Report immediately to the RP

You are responsible for fire safety in your work area. The Responsible Person is responsible for the building. Both of you need to communicate.

🔥 Fire in progress: call 999. Get everyone out first.

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Related guides:

Guide 4.27 — Fire Safety →