Category Archives: Fire News

Is Your Fire Alarm Too Old to Comply? How to Check the System’s Age

Modern Smoke Detector Positioned by Hand on Ceiling Wall

Fire alarm systems are one of the most vital pieces of life safety equipment in any building, but like all technology, they don’t last forever. Even if your fire alarm still activates when tested, that doesn’t necessarily mean it meets current safety standards. In fact, many older systems may no longer be compliant with BS […]

Is Your Intumescent Seal Installed the Right Way Round?

Burning corridor with collapsing ceiling engulfed in bright flames and smoke creating apocalyptic destruction

When it comes to fire door safety, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. One such detail? The orientation of the intumescent fire seal. It might seem like a minor installation step, but fitting the seal the wrong way round can seriously compromise your fire door’s performance, and may even render your certification invalid. […]

Is a Visual Alarm Needed in Your Workplace?

When planning your workplace fire safety system, sounders and bells are often the first things that come to mind. But what if someone can’t hear them? Whether due to a hearing impairment, high background noise, or specific environmental conditions, audible alarms alone may not be enough to keep everyone safe. That’s where visual alarms, also […]

The ‘Temporary’ Fixes That Become Permanent Fire Hazards

A virtual scenario where the user must identify and address potential fire safety hazards in a residential setting such as overloaded electrical sockets or blocked fire exits.

Why small workarounds and quick fixes can quietly undermine your fire safety strategy In the fast pace of daily operations, it’s not unusual to see a “temporary” workaround in a building. This could be a fire door wedged open “just for airflow”, a blocked riser cupboard “just until we sort storage”, or a cable hole […]

Can Your Building’s Fire Alarm Be Heard in the Toilets? Why It Matters

Interior of a clean public toilet

When most people think about fire alarm coverage, they picture detectors in corridors, call points by exits, and sounders in busy rooms. But one space is often forgotten, the toilets. It might seem minor, but if your fire alarm can’t be heard clearly in the toilets, it could pose a serious risk to life. In […]

Do You Need a Fire Drill if You Have Fewer Than 5 Employees?

Small business growth stages illustrated with images of a small office transforming into a larger corporate space

If you run a small business with fewer than five employees, you may be wondering whether you’re legally required to carry out fire drills. After all, the fire safety rules often mention written risk assessments for businesses with five or more staff, but what does that mean for your fire procedures? The short answer is: […]

What Happens If Your Fire Door Doesn’t Self-Close?

Stairwell fire escape behind the slightly ajar door

Fire doors are a critical part of a building’s passive fire protection system, designed to contain fire and smoke, protect escape routes, and ultimately save lives. But for a fire door to do its job, it must close fully and securely every time. If it doesn’t self-close properly, that protection is compromised. In this blog, […]

Why Escape Routes Aren’t Just About Width

green emergency exit sign in hotel showing the way to escape

When it comes to fire safety, most people think of escape routes in terms of clear walkways wide enough to let people pass through quickly. While width is important, it’s only one part of a much bigger picture. In reality, a compliant and effective escape route depends on accessibility, visibility, obstructions, lighting, signage, and more. […]

The Dangers of Repainting Intumescent Seals

Paintbrush are used by a contractor painter to paint wooden moldings on door trims

Intumescent seals play a vital role in passive fire protection, particularly around fire doors. These seals are designed to expand under heat, filling gaps to prevent the spread of smoke and flames. However, many building owners, caretakers, and decorators don’t realise that something as simple as a fresh coat of paint could render them ineffective. […]