Portable Fire Extinguishers maintained properly are essential as they ensure you can rely on them in an emergency to tackle a small fire, reducing damage and risk to life. However, fire extinguishers are often forgotten about.

Unfortunately, one of the most common uses of fire extinguishers is to hold open doors or just generally abused, they can lead a hard life and this is why annual servicing by a competent person is vital.

Playing an important role in firefighting, and essential for full compliance, fire extinguishers which are not properly maintained carry a risk that they will fail to operate when you need them most. This could be as a result of corrosion, damage or a loss of pressure as they are mechanical devices and like anything of that nature require servicing regularly.

Why having your Fire Extinguisher Servicing Is Important?

When a fire extinguisher technician who has the relevant training, qualifications, tools and equipment attends, they carry out a thirty-point check on every extinguisher. This means that potential issues can be identified and rectified before it’s too late, giving you peace of mind. This could be from something as simple as lubricating a pin or tightening something up, to replacing the unit.

Every fire extinguisher sold in the Ireland is manufactured in accordance with the EN3-7 and the Irish Standard Legislation IS:291-2015+A1:2022. This same standard states that servicing should be carried out annually, and failure to do so will also void your fire extinguisher warranty.

On top of that, the Fire Safety Act 1981 legislation for Republic of Ireland says that the responsible person should do everything practically possible to prevent and prepare for a fire, in accordance with the relevant standards. In Northern Ireland, other fire safety legislation applies, but the message is broadly the same.

To this effect, commissioning of new fire extinguishers is also essential to ensure no damage has occurred in transit.

Choosing A Fire Extinguisher Technician

When selecting a maintenance company, firstly ensure that their technicians have undergone and passed all of the relevant training. This is to ensure the competence of the company and/or individual being employed to carry out inspection and maintenance. Ask them for the most up to date Certificate of Competency here at GD Gendist Fire & Safety we undertake this training every two years for all of our staff, technicians and administrators.

You should also be wary of prices. While one company may look cheaper, it’s possible that they will then add charges for new washers, pins, seals, extinguisher gauges which another may include as standard, but worse of all as we will cover in our next article just update the Service Label and do not work at all on the Extinguisher units.

At GD Gendist Fire & Safety we have fully-trained and experienced technicians across the island of Ireland we carry out a free of charge survey on your premises and give you a list of what is required to make your building/business compliant and the cost for doing same with no hidden extras.

Contact us today on 01/4137300 or enquiries@gdgroup.ie

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Have you been approached by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and asked about the foam on your premises specifically the AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) used for fire fighting purposes.

The reason for this is that EPA has set groundwater and drinking water health advisory levels for only two compounds: PFOS and PFOA, the eight-carbon molecules that have been used in nonstick products, as well as fire fighting foam.

PFAS is the abbreviation for per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances which are organic chemicals containing carbon-fluorine bonds. PFAS chemistry was discovered in the late 1930s and these substances have been widely manufactured and used around the world since the 1950s.

PFAS have been used in industrial and consumer applications since the 1950s owing to their physical and chemical properties which impart friction reduction, surfactant abilities, repellence against oil and water as well as chemical and thermal stability in products to which they are added. The result is that PFAS are used in many sectors including the semiconductor, aerospace, automotive, medical, construction, and electronics industries. PFAS are common in everyday consumer products such as outdoor equipment, food packaging, carpets, clothing, furniture, cleaning products, paints, cosmetics and fire retardants.

The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) 7 was adopted in 2001 and came into force in 2004. This global treaty requires its parties to take measures to eliminate or reduce the release of POPs into the environment.

The POPs and resulting actions for the Parties are categorised under three annexes:

• Annex A: Parties required to take measures to eliminate the production and use. The specific
exemptions for use or production as listed only apply to Parties that register for them
• Annex B: Parties required to take measures to restrict the production and use of the listed chemicals,
unless for acceptable purposes/ specific exemptions detailed in the Annex; and
• Annex C: Parties required to take measures to reduce the unintentional release of chemicals, with the
goal of continuous minimisation and where feasible, ultimate elimination.

The range of PFAS substances includes some 4,700 chemicals.

1 The terms AFFF and fire fighting foams are used interchangeably in this report
2 Technical and Regulatory Guidance: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). The Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council,

The highly stable chemical bonds between carbon and fluorine atoms in PFAS means that they are highly resistant to degradation and in turn highly persistent within the environment. Consequently, as long as PFAS continue to be released to the environment, humans and other ecosystems will be exposed to higher concentrations of PFAS as they will accumulate in the environment. Even if all releases of PFAS would cease immediately, they would continue to be present in the environment, and humans, for generations to come3
.
PFAS are divided into polymeric and non-polymeric substances. PFAS found in AFFF are typically nonpolymeric, of which there are four groups:

1. Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs)
2. Compounds derived from perfluoroalkane sulfonyl fluoride (PASF)
3. Fluorotelomer (FT) – based compounds; and
4. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl ether (PFPE)-based compounds.

Most PFAS found in fire fighting foams (FFF) are PFAAs of which two important groups are perfluoroalkyl
carboxylic acids (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkane sulfonic acids (PFSAs). In the lates 1990’s it was discovered there were issues with AFFF Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA); known as “C8” Chemistry, in the manufacture of firefighting foam which, effectively, comes into force on 1 January 2023.

From 2016 to date, AFFF was supplied (C6) containing PFHxA.

Alcohol-resistant foam is AFFF (C6) based which contains PFHxA.

The legislation relates to any substance that can degrade to produce PFOA. “Long chain’ C8 fluorinated Firefighting foam is one of those. The use of PFOA, its salts and PFOA-related compounds shall be allowed in fire-fighting foam for Class B fires already installed, until 4th July 2025, subject to the following conditions:

a. Fire-fighting foam that contains or may contain PFOA, its salts and/or PFOA-related compounds shall not be used for training.

b. Fire-fighting foam that contains or may contain PFOA, its salts and/or PFOA-related compounds shall not be used for testing unless all releases are contained.

c. As from 1 January 2023, uses of fire-fighting foam that contains or may contain PFOA, its salts and/or PFOA-related compounds shall only be allowed in sites where all releases can be contained.

d. Fire-fighting foam stockpiles that contain or may contain PFOA, its salts and/or PFOA-related compounds shall be managed in accordance with Article 5.

Note: At the time of writing, two possible future restrictions are being considered by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). They relate to (a) PFHxA and (b) per- and polyfluoroalkyl carbon-chain molecules (PFAS); both of which are used in the current range of extinguishers. Evidence has been submitted during the consultation period which has now concluded. Recommendations will be submitted to legislators in 2022 with any requirements being laid down in 2023/24 along with a transition timetable.

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Our certified online eLearning courses are simple to use and offer the advantage over conventional training of been accessible 24/7.

All you need is a Laptop or Desktop Computer and you’re ready to go. We provide a number of different certified e-learning courses and completion you are awarded CPD points.

We also offer substantial multi-buy discounts and can offer multi-buy customers administrative control over the courses they purchase so you can ensure your staff can learn and train at their own pace whilst meeting your Health & Safety requirements in the time lines you need all from the comfort of your own desk or home in these Covid times.

Please browse and sample our certified e-learning courses by clicking the FULL LIST OF ONLINE COURSES with a breakdown of modules and approximate course completion times.

• Asbestos Awareness
• Manual Handling
• Basic Fire Safety Awareness Care Homes
• Basic Fire Safety Awareness
• Fire Marshall
• Fire Extinguisher
• Working at Heights
• Abrasive Wheels
• EFA Refresher
• Fire Marshall for Care homes

if you require any further information please telephone our office on 01/4137300 or email enquiries@gdgroup.ie

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WE get ASKED Quite A LOT on the SITUATION with REGULAR INSPECTions on PoRTABLE Fire Equipment this is something we can carry out for our customers or if you wish to undertake yourself here are the requirements under IS:291-2015

IS291: 2015 Inspection and Maintenance of PFEs (Portable Fire Extinguishers)

8.1 Frequency of Inspection

All PFEs shall be subjected to a visual examination in accordance with this Clause to ensure that they are available for use if needed. Inspection intervals shall be no greater than monthly. Subject to a risk assessment and/or legislative/regulatory requirements, it may be considered that such inspection should take place more frequently.

8.2 Person responsible

The responsible person, having control over fire safety provisions as defined in this Standard, shall be responsible for ensuring that PFEs are visually inspected according to this Standard. This person can nominate another to carry out the visual inspection e.g. their agent, an internal/external contractor appointed by them such as the supplier of the PFEs, a competent PFE maintenance agent etc.

8.3 Procedure for inspection of PFEs

Installed PFEs shall be visually inspected regularly and the following checked as a minimum;

1. a) each PFE is in its designated location, outward facing and is correctly and suitably wall mounted or on a suitable stand/in a suitable cabinet,
2. b) access to and visibility of each PFE is not obstructed,
3. c) seal, tamper or a used indicator are not broken, missing or activated,
4. d) any seal can be easily removed if required and will not interfere with the operation of any PFE in an emergency,
5. e) readings of pressure gauges, where fitted, are in the operable range/position,
6. f) there is no visible damage to the PFE,
7. g) the PFE has no obvious defects such as a visually clogged nozzle, corrosion, leakage, a loose or damaged hose etc.,
8. h) where fitted, the discharge hose/horn is properly secured,
9. i) the operating instructions of each PFE are clear, legible and outward facing,
10. j) the service label/record is correctly attached to the PFE

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You must get help from a competent person to enable you to meet the requirements of Irish health and safety law.

A competent person is someone who has sufficient training and experience or knowledge and other qualities that allow them to assist you properly. The level of competence required will depend on the complexity of the situation and the particular help you need.

When getting help, you should give preference to those in your own organisation who have the appropriate level of competence (which can include the employer themselves) before looking for help from outside. You must consult health and safety representatives in good time on the arrangements for competent help.

Guide to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007

Regulation 13: Fire detection and fire fighting

13. Without prejudice to section 11 of the Act, the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003

(No. 30 of 1981 and No.15 of 2003) and other relevant legislation,

an employer shall ensure that—

(a) a place of work is equipped with appropriate fire-fighting equipment and, as necessary, fire detectors and an alarm system, taking account of—

(i) the dimensions and use of the buildings,

(ii) the equipment they contain,

(iii) the physical and chemical characteristics of the substances present, and

(iv) the maximum potential number of people present,

(b) non-automatic fire-fighting equipment is—

(i) easily accessible and simple to use, and

(ii) indicated by signs in accordance with Part 7, Chapter 1 and the signs are placed at appropriate points and are adequately durable, and

(c) fire detection equipment and fire-fighting equipment is—

(i) inspected and maintained as frequently as necessary to ensure that it is in good working order, and

(ii) serviced by a competent person as frequently as necessary.

Fire Safety Legislation – Competent Persons Meaning

A/ Definition of a competent person

Safety Health & Welfare at Work Act 2005 –

For the purposes of the relevant statutory provisions, a person is deemed to be a competent person where, having regard to the task he or she is required to perform and taking account of the size or hazards (or both of them) of the undertaking or establishment in which he or she undertakes work, the person possesses sufficient training, experience and knowledge appropriate to the nature of the work to be undertaken.

B/ Definition of a competent person as per IS291

• person, having regard to the task that is required to be performed and taking account of the size and/or hazards of the undertaking or establishment in which the work is undertaken, who possesses sufficient training, experience and knowledge appropriate to the nature of the work to be undertaken.

 C/ Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act – General Application Regulations 2007: Regulation 13 – Fire Detection and Fire Fighting “

an employer shall ensure that fire-fighting equipment is serviced by a competent person as frequently as necessary.”

Practical Requirements for Competent Person carrying out the Service of Equipment  

What does this mean for you and your company in relation to the Annual Service and Maintenance of Portable Fire Equipment Under IS:291-2015.

1) All extinguishers are refilled and discharged tested in accordance with IS291-2015. This is an amount of 33 1/3% per annum required so over 3 years all extinguishers on your premises are tested.

2)   Stored Pressure Extinguishers discharge tested will be fitted with a standard collar which shows the month and year of discharge testing. The only exception to this is CO2 units where a collar is fitted after a pressure test instead. This collar ensures the head of the extinguisher was removed so you can rest assured that the internal body and lining of the extinguisher will be checked during the testing / refilling process.

3)    Any extinguishers aged 10 years or older are deemed to be obsolete and will require replacing under IS:291-2015.

4)   Weights are recorded when an extinguisher are commissioned and subsequently each year during the Annual Service they must be updated accordingly to monitor any movement or tolerance change in the contents weight of the extinguisher which will effect performance.

5)   Factory fitted seals are removed and holding pin is tested every year during Service to ensure the extinguisher can operate as quickly as possible

6)  Appropriate signage which is mandatory in place including Fire Point and Extinguisher               content Identification Signs.

7)   The Fire Register Book for the premises is completed and updated on the day by the competent person carrying out the Annual Service and Maintenance of Portable Fire Equipment.

8)  Portable Fire technicians are required to receive third party training to ensure they have the necessary knowledge required to complete their role.

Should you have any questions on this or on any fire safety related matter, please do not hesitate to contact:

GD Gendist Fire & Safety

01 413 7300

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When it comes to safety signs reliability is a big issue. Think of a scenario where a building needs to be evacuated and the electricity has gone out. Photoluminescent safety signs could be your only hope of ensuring that people are lead to safety. Photoluminescent safety signs are powered by ambient light and as such, they glow in the dark. They are not designed to light up a space, but rather to define a space and ensure that those in potential danger or an emergency can find their way to safety with ease and confidence. These types of safety signs have been used with great success in the marine and aviation industries for many years.

How does photoluminescent material work?

Material that is photoluminescent actually implements inorganic phosphors. These phosphors collect or draw light from nearby light sources. The phosphors absorb the light and this is what glows when the light is placed in a dark setting. Photoluminescent lights are undoubtedly superior to other illuminated signage types.

Photoluminescent safety signs are quickly becoming a standard feature in buildings open to the public.

What Are Photoluminescent Safety Signs?

Photoluminescent safety signs are interior displays made from a special kind of material. This material absorbs natural or ambient light through the process of photoluminescence. The light is then stored, allowing the display to glow in the dark. 

What does this mean?

Unlike traditional emergency signage, photoluminescent signage itself doesn’t need electricity. Instead, it can be “charged” by an external light source of at least 54 lux. On average, these signs require 60 minutes to fully charge.

Once fully charged, photoluminescent safety signs give off a highly visible glow for at least 90 minutes.

Why Are Photoluminescent Safety Signs Important?

These displays are important because they can improve your building’s egress path-marking system. 

Here’s how…

During an emergency, staff members and visitors will rely on the signs in your building to guide them to the right exit. In the event that you have a power outage, your photoluminescent safety signs will make the evacuation process much smoother. Even in blackout conditions, the people in your building will be able to see photoluminescent exit signs with ease.

Further, installing these displays can give you peace of mind that your evacuation plan is supported by the proper tools.

What Are the Benefits of Photoluminescent Signs?

Depending on when your building was built, you may already have electric emergency exit signs and lighting in place. If that’s the case, you may be wondering whether it’s worth switching to photoluminescent safety signs…

Rest assured that it is.

Here are a number of benefits of why to choose photoluminescent signage for your building. 

1) They Can Reduce Operating Costs.

Traditional electric exit signs come with a number of expenses, such as…

• Hiring an electrician for installation
• Paying the monthly electric bill
• Replacing the battery backup systems

One of the benefits of installing photoluminescent safety signs is that you can cut down on these expenses.

As mentioned above, these displays don’t require additional electricity. Since they operate by absorbing existing light, they are a cost-effective alternative to traditional electric signage. 

Moreover, installation is quick and easy, and is included in our price.

2) They Are Reliable.

In case of an emergency, you want to be sure that you have enough light to guide people to safety. Unfortunately, electrically powered signs aren’t always reliable, especially during a blackout.

If the signs are old or the backup battery systems need to be replaced, there’s a chance the displays won’t be clearly visible.

However, photoluminescent safety signs provide a dependable source of illumination—no matter the conditions. In fact, these displays have proven to work even when smoke makes it difficult to see.

Additionally, photoluminescent exit signs have a longer lifespan than incandescent, LED, and tritium exit signs. On average, a photoluminescent display can last for 25 years before you’ll need to replace it.

3) They Require Little to No Maintenance.

One of the drawbacks of electric signage is that it requires regular maintenance. Along with being costly, it’s also inconvenient.

This is another way in which photoluminescent safety signs have the advantage. 

• No backup battery testing
• A short charging time
• No breakable parts

Although you should clean the signs every so often to remove dirt and debris, they require no other upkeep. When sign maintenance is cut down, your staff can focus on tasks that are more important.

4) They Require Little to No Maintenance.

One of the many advantages of Photo Luminescent signage is the variety available

This is another way in which photoluminescent safety signs have the advantage. 

• Emergency Evacuation plans
• Safety Signs
• Signs for Tunnels
• Signs for Information
• Fire Equipment signage

The list is endless and a catalogue in hard copy or by electronic means is available by request.

Summary

With photoluminescent safety signs, you can provide visual support in case of emergency, making it easy for those in your building to evacuate safely.

So, if your building is in need of new exit signage, it’s well worth looking at photoluminescent options.

For more information please email enquiries@gdgroup.ie or phone our office on 01/4137300

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What is a Fire Safety Certificate?

The Building Control Authority in the local City or County Council assess applications for a Fire Safety Certificate.  Once approved, the Building Control Authority issue a Fire Safety Certificate which states that the works or building will comply with the requirements of Part B of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 1997, if built in accordance with the submission made and any Conditions that may be attached to the Certificate.

Is there any legislation governing Fire Safety Certificates?

The Building Regulations 1997 sets standards for building works and the Building Control Regulations 2007 puts procedures in place to control building works.

Does my proposed development require a Fire Safety Certificate?

The following developments require a Fire Safety Certificate:-

• Works in connection with the design and construction of a new building
• Works in connection with the material alteration of:
  1. A day centre
  2. A building containing a flat
  3. A hotel, hostel or guest building
  4. An institutional building
  5. A place of assembly
  6. A shopping centre
• Works in connection with the material alteration of a shop, office or industrial building where additional floor area is being provided within the existing building or where the building is being sub divided into a number of units for separate occupancy.
• Works in connection with the extension of a building by more than 25 square metres
• A building as regards which a material change of use takes place.
• And all will also require a “Disability Access Certificate

What happens if I ignore the legislation & build anyway?

You will leave yourself open to prosecution under building control legislation if you build without a fire safety certificate. If you then decide to sell your premises, the buyer’s solicitor should seek a copy of the fire safety certificate & disability access certificate for the building. If you are unable to produce these certificates you may find it difficult to sell. If you build or extend a public house/licensed premises without a fire safety certificate you will even run into difficulties obtaining or renewing the license.

Can construction commence before I have a Fire Safety Certificate?

Of course construction can start whenever you’re ready; however, legally where a Fire Safety Certificate is required in respect of works or a building, then no works should be undertaken until a Fire Safety Certificate has been issued. There is one exception, you are allowed to apply for the Fire Safety Certificate with a seven day commencement notice application, but pay double the City/Council fee if you take this option.

Can I prepare & submit my own Fire Safety Certificate application?

Usually a Fire Safety Certificate application is made by a Fire Safety Consultant, Architect or Engineer who is familiar with the Building Regulations and the procedure for applying for a Fire Safety Certificate. The content of the application needs to be comprehensive in nature. A person preparing a fire safety certificate should have a sound knowledge of building construction and fire safety design. If the application submitted is lacking in information or drawings, then the local authority will consider it invalid and will return it to you together with your fee.

How much are the City/County Council fees for a Fire Safety Certificate?

This depends on the type of application required, €2:90m2 for a normal application, €5:80m2 for a 7 Day Notice application and €11:60m2 for a Regularisation application.

The normal way, seeking the Fire Safety Certificate prior to works commencing.

Making a normal Fire Safety Certificate application or a revision to an existing Fire Safety Certificate. In this case work cannot commence until the Fire Safety Certificate is granted and for 14 days after a commencement notice is served. The local authority fee of €2.90/m² up to a maximum of €12,500 still applies.

The quick way, if you want to get on site almost quickly.

A 7 Day (Commencement) Notice application, where the applicant notifies the local authority of their intention to start work in 7 days time. The notice must be accompanied by:-

(a) A valid Fire Safety Certificate Application

(b) A completed FSC application form

(c) A completed 7 Day Commencement Notice form.

(d) A Statutory Declaration. This is a declaration that any works carried out before the grant of the Fire Safety Certificate will comply with the Building Regulations and gives an undertaking to carry out any modifications or alterations required by the Building Control Authority under the grant.

The local authority fee increases to €5.80/m² with a maximum fee of €25,000.

The hard way, getting the Fire Safety Certificate after you’ve built.

A Regularisation Fire Safety Certificate Application. This type of application applies where works have started or completed, without either a normal Fire Safety Certificate Application or a 7 Day Notice application. Unlike an application for a design, this will need to confirm that the completed building complies with the Building Regulations. The local authority can also inspect the premises.

A statutory declaration is also required stating that the works carried out to date do comply with the Building Regulations and that the applicant will comply with any modifications or conditions imposed by the local authority.

In addition the local authority fee in this case increases to €11.60/m² up to a maximum of €50,000.

When can a fire safety certificate application be submitted?

Some people like to make their Fire Safety Certificate & Disability Access Certificate applications within a couple of weeks of their planning applications being lodged. Providing things run smoothly then all permissions arrive within a week or two of each other. The disadvantage of this system though is if the planners make alterations to the designs. Such alterations may make the Fire Safety Certificate & Disability Access Certificates unsuitable or requiring alterations, in which case revised Certificates can be sought. The development won’t be delayed in commencing because you’ll have a valid Certificate until the changes commence taking place. That may well be long after the foundations have been poured which won’t cause anyone any grief!

What process does a Fire Safety Certificate application go through?

• An application for a Fire Safety Certificate is submitted to the local Building Control Authority in the County or City concerned by the applicant or their agent.
• Valid applications are date stamped and an acknowledgement stating date of receipt is meant to be sent to the applicant/agent. Where an application is incomplete and therefore not valid, the Building Control Authority may request the applicant to submit the necessary documentation to enable the application to be validated.  A considerable number of City & County Council do not validate the application until they are happy that they can issue a Fire Safety Certificate.
• The application is examined technically for compliance with Technical Guidance Document B, 2006
• Where it is considered that additional information or modifications are required to the application, the officer examining the application may request such additional information/modification from the applicant/agent.
• A Fire Safety Certificate will issue after all required additional information has been submitted.
• The Building Control Authority must notify the applicant of the decision on the application within two months of the application being validated or within such extended period of time as may be agreed between the applicant and the Authority at any time.

What must be included in a valid Fire Safety Certificate application submission?

A valid Fire Safety Certificate application must include:

1. A completed application form
2. Relevant fire safety drawings in duplicate
3. A fire safety report in duplicate.
4. Site location maps in duplicate.
5. The appropriate fee

What must be included in the fire safety report?

The application is required to demonstrate that the development complies with TGD’B’, 2006. One way to achieve this is to systematically address each relevant clause of the particular Codes and Guidance documents which are being used in the fire safety design of the building. These include Irish and British Standards for various aspects of the design. Much of our means of escape design is based on British Standards such as BS 9991:2015, BS 9999:2017 & HTM 05-02 to name but three, there are more.

How long does it take to get the Fire Safety Certificate?

That depends on a number of factors. If you deal with the Fire Authority concerned prior to making the submission and sorting everything out before making the submission you can have a Fire Safety Certificate within a matter of days. Alternatively you can make the submission and iron out any problems once the application is in. You should allow at least three weeks and upwards, depending on where the application is being made.

Are changes in the design permitted after a Fire Safety Certificate has been granted?

Yes. Alterations during construction from the granted Fire Safety Certificate might call into question it’s validity as it applies to the proposed scheme. Revisions are permissible to a Fire Safety Certificate, in some instances a new Fire Safety Certificate application will have to be lodged for the revisions made to the development. Naturally, it would be wise to seek clarification while works are on-going to ensure that the desired alterations will comply with the Fire Regulations before making them.

Will one Fire Safety Certificate cover a number of buildings of the same design?

No. The building control legislation requires that a fire safety certificate be obtained for each & every building.

Will the City/County Council certify the development upon completion?

No. The Building Control Authority may inspect the project on an on-going basis and may intervene if they see something untoward, however they will never certify the finished development. You must employ your own consultant to oversee the works. Under  the new Building Control Regulations, you are required to have a registered Architect, Engineer or Surveyor supervise the works. This person is now referred to as The Assigned Certifier, which is a particularly onerous task. When the works are finished and the Assigned Certifier is satisfied, s/he will issue a Certificate of Compliance. This should certify that your building has been constructed in accordance with the Planning Permission granted and the Building Regulations including the Fire Safety Certificate and the Disability Access Certificate.

Are there any works exempted from having a Fire Safety Certificate?

Yes, the following buildings are exempted from the requirement to obtain a Fire Safety Certificate:

• Certain single storey agricultural buildings.
• A building used as a dwelling other than a flat.
• A single storey domestic garage.
• A single storey building ancillary to a dwelling which is used exclusively for recreational or storage purposes or the keeping of plants, birds or animals for domestic purposes and is not used for any trade or business or for human habitation.
• Works by a Building Control Authority in its functional area.
• Works in connection with a Garda station, a courthouse, a barracks and certain government buildings.

More specifically:-

S.I. 496 of 1997.  BUILDING CONTROL REGULATIONS, 1997.

PART III

Fire Safety Certificates

(2) For the purposes of this Part, the following buildings are exempted—

(a) a single storey building which —

(i) is used exclusively for the storage of materials or products, for the accommodation of plant or machinery or in connection with the housing, care or management of livestock,

(ii) is used solely for the purpose of agriculture and

(iii) is a building in which the only persons habitually employed are engaged solely in the care, supervision, regulation, maintenance, storage or removal of the materials, products, plant, machinery or livestock in the building and which is either attached to another such building or detached from any other building,

(b) a building used as a dwelling other than a flat,

(c) a single storey building used as a domestic garage,

(d) a single storey building (other than one described in (c)) ancillary to a dwelling (such as a summer house, poultry-house, aviary, conservatory, coal shed, garden tool shed or bicycle shed)  which is used exclusively for recreational or storage purposes or the keeping of plants, birds or animals for domestic purposes and is not used for the purposes of any trade or business or for human habitation or to works in connection with such a building provided that, after the works are carried out, the building is or continues to be a building referred to in paragraphs (a)to(d).

Article 5 of the Act defines:-

‘‘agriculture’’ includes horticulture, fruit growing, seed growing, dairy farming, the breeding and keeping of livestock (including any creature kept for the production of food, wool, skins or fur, or for the purpose of its use in the farming of land), the use of land as grazing land, meadow land, osier land, market gardens and nursery grounds, the use of land for turbary, and the use of land for woodlands where that use is ancillary to the farming of land for other agricultural purposes;

‘‘industrial building’’ includes a factory or other premises used for manufacturing, altering, repairing, cleaning, washing, breaking-up, adapting or processing any article, generating power or slaughtering livestock;

Under the Building Control Act two main sets of regulations have been issued, the Building Regulations which sets standards for building works and the Building Control Regulations which puts procedures in place to control building works.

Your Local Authority Fire Department will processes the Fire Safety Certificates applications for buildings and works in your area, on receipt of a valid Fire Safety Certificate Application prepared by your Architect/Fire Consultant on your behalf.

A Fire Safety Certificate is a certificate issued by the Building Control Authority which states that the works or building to which the application relates will, if constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications submitted, comply with the requirements of Part B of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations.

The following developments (other than those listed as exempt below) require a Fire Safety Certificate;

1. works in connection with the design and construction of a new building,
2. works in connection with the material alteration of—(i) a day centre, (ii) a building containing a flat, (iii) a hotel, hostel or guest building, or (iv) an institutional building, or (v) a place of assembly, or (vi) a shopping centre, but excluding works to such buildings, consisting solely of minor works,
3. works in connection with the material alteration of a shop, office or industrial building where— (i) additional floor area is being provided within the existing building, or (ii) the building is being subdivided into a number of units for separate occupancy,
4. works in connection with the extension of a building by more than 25 square metres,
5. a building as regards which a material change of use takes place,

to which the requirements of Part B of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations

The following buildings are exempted from the requirement to obtain a Fire Safety Certificate:

1. a single storey building which— (i) is used exclusively for the storage of materials or products, for the accommodation of plant or machinery or in connection with the housing, care or management of livestock, (ii) is used solely for the purpose of agriculture, and (iii) is a building in which the only persons habitually employed are engaged solely in the care, supervision, regulation, maintenance, storage or removal of the materials, products, plant, machinery or livestock in the building, and which is either attached to another such building or detached from any other building,
2. a building used as a dwelling other then a flat,
3. a single storey building used as a domestic garage,
4. a single storey building (other than one described in (c)) ancillary to a dwelling (such as a summer house, poultry-house, aviary, conservatory, coal shed, garden tool shed or bicycle shed) which is used exclusively for recreational or storage purposes or the keeping of plants, birds or animal for domestic purpose’s and is not used for the purposes of any trade or business or for human habitation,

or to works in connection with such a building provided that, after the works are carried out, the building is or continues to be a building referred to in paragraphs (1) to (4).

Under the current Building Control Regulations there are 3 separate types of Fire Safety Certificates when dealing with fire safety of building design:

1. Fire Safety Certificate
2. Revised Fire Safety Certificate
3. Regularisation Fire Safety Certificate

Fire Safety Certificate

Before you begin any construction works or make a material change of use, you should apply for a Fire Safety Certificate. You may submit a 7-Day notice form along with the application in which case you may begin works after 7 days. The Local authority fee will increase for this fast tracked application process of 7 Days. A 7-Day notice form must be accompanied by a statutory declaration form declaring that any works carried out before the cert is granted will comply with fire safety regulations.

There is a risk associated with the 7 Day notice option. If, during the 8 week application process, the fire authority requires any changes to the initial design or if conditions attached to the fire safety certificate stipulates changes to the initial design, any construction works already carried out that are not in compliance may need to be removed or altered in order to comply.

Revised Fire Safety Certificate

An application for a Revised Fire Safety Certificate should be made before works commence in respect of works where:

1. A fire safety certificate is granted before grant of planning permission, and the planning permission requires changes to the initial design.
2. Significant revision is made to the design or works of a building for which a fire safety certificate has already been granted.

You may submit a 7-Day notice form along with the application in which case you may begin works after 7 days.

Regularisation Fire Safety Certificate

A Regularisation Fire Safety Certificate is required where a building has been commenced or completed without a fire safety certificate being granted where one is required. The local authority fee is increased for this process and the authority has 8 weeks to make a decision. A regularisation fire safety certificate application must be accompanied by a statutory declaration form declaring that the documents submitted are true and accurate and properly represent the actual building.

The post What is required in obtaining a Building Fire Safety Certificate appeared first on GD Gendist Fire and Safety Limited.

We here at GD Gendist Fire & Safety would like to wish all our customers a Merry Xmas and a happy and healthy 2020.

This Christmas season is unlike any other, to cap off a year unlike any other.

Throughout this season, and as we move into a new year, we wish you moments of peace amid the difficulties, connections with family and friends even if they can’t be in person, the warmth of memories from holidays past, and wonderful glimpses of the joy that still lives under the surface.

We look forward to serving your needs and requirements in 2021 and beyond,

Thank you from all at GD Gendist Fire & Safety

The post Merry Xmas appeared first on GD Gendist Fire and Safety Limited.

Fire safety is imperative to protect buildings and their occupants from danger. Here, the Fire Industry Association outlines the duty of a Responsible Person for a premises

Legal Requirements in fire safety

The Building Control Regulations provide for a system of Fire Safety Certificates to demonstrate that building designs comply with fire safety requirements. Persons developing a new building must therefore obtain a Fire Safety Certificate from the fire services staff attached to their local authority.

The Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003.

To comply with the law, a responsible person should conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify

• Ignition sources
• Suitable means of detecting and raising the alarm in the event of a fire
• Adequate emergency escape routes and exits
• Appropriate type and numbers of fire extinguishers
• Correct type and sufficient numbers of fire signs and notices
• Provision for the correct maintenance of fire equipment
• Suitable provision for the protection of Fire Service personnel
• Ensure the occupants receive the appropriate instruction/training in actions to be taken in the event of a fire using evacuation drills
• The effect a fire could have on neighbours.

Who is the responsible person in fire safety law

The duty of care in respect of fire safety on buildings rests with the owner/occupier, which could include,

• An employer with control of the workplace
• A person with overall management control of a building
• An occupier of the premises
• The owner of a premises
• The landlord where building is in multi-occupancy.

Every person who has control over premises has a duty to;

(a) take all reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire on the premises

(b) provide reasonable fire safety measures for the premises and prepare and provide appropriate fire safety procedures to ensure the safety of persons on the premises,

(c) ensure  the fire safety measures and procedures referred to in paragraph (b) are applied at all time

(d) ensure as far as reasonable practicable the safety of persons on the premises in the event of an outbreak of fire.

However, many people still do not understand their responsibilities as defined by the legislation, which is a possible reason why there are still regular reports of breaches of fire safety in the news every week.  Better education in the responsibilities towards fire safety will lead to safer communities for all.

Who does the Fire Services Act apply to?

The Fire Services Act applies whether the business employs 2 or 5000 people – the size does not exclude them from the legislation.  It applies whether the company is a large, well-known brand or a small self-employed family business.  The premises could be a charity or not-for-profit, or a business focussed on profit, whether that is an office, a shop, a museum, or any other building accessed by the public.  Whatever the nature of the premises – if the building is not a private residence, then the Act applies.  The Act also applies to the communal areas of multiple occupancy residences or blocks of flats.

The legislation applies directly to anyone and everyone that owns or is responsible for non-domestic premises. This person is called the ‘Responsible Person’, In the case of a business, it is almost always the employer. In a public building such as a school or hospital, it could be the trust, academy chain, or local authority.

So when it comes to breaching fire safety law, there are millions of people that can be held responsible for their actions (or lack thereof) to protect people from fire.  These people all need to have a good understanding of how the law applies to their business or premises so that they can create a safe environment for themselves and all of the people within their buildings – whether they are employees, customers, visitors, patrons, residents, schoolchildren, or patients.

How is the order enforced?

Fire safety legislation is enforced by Fire Safety Enforcement Officers from the local Fire and Rescue Service. They can enter any workplace at any suitable hour, without giving notice, though notice may be given when the inspector thinks it is appropriate. The EO will then conduct an inspection to check out the workplace, the work activities, the management of fire safety, and audit the Responsible Person’s fire risk assessment to ensure that they are fulfilling their duties on fire safety law. The EO may offer assistance or advice to help, but they may also talk to employees or their representatives, take photographs, serve notices, or take action if there is a risk to fire safety that needs to be dealt with straight away.

The problem is that there is a huge lack of understanding of the law by Responsible Persons and how it is enforced.  Whether this is down to a lack of education on the implications, or simply a reluctance to find out about fire safety law is only conjecture – but what is surmisable is that breaches of fire safety law happen regularly.

But there is a way to ensure that all responsible persons are aware of their responsibilities: education.  Getting people interested in fire safety and helping them to learn about the legislation is a necessary step towards a future where devastating incidents are greatly reduced.

Fire protection is not a subject to be taken lightly – fires can destroy lives, ruin businesses, disrupt services in the vicinity, and release dangerous chemicals into the environment.  The effects can be lifelong.

In light of this problem, the Fire Industry Association in the UK has created a short video to explain to all Responsible Persons what their responsibilities are and what steps they need to take to protect themselves from fire and comply with fire safety legislation.

The video, developed by a team of fire safety experts from across the fire safety industry, took almost a year to create and release and delivers fire safety information for Responsible Persons in a clear and concise manner.

The post Who is The Responsible Person for A Premises appeared first on GD Gendist Fire and Safety Limited.