Page 123 - HIL Operatives Training Manual V4 16022024_Neat

O P E R A T I V E S T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 4

25.5 Means Of Escape

• In the event of fire occurring, it is vital that staff and other persons are able to evacuate
the premises quickly.
• Escape routes will be clearly identified and always be maintained free from obstruction
to any fire exit doors.
• Stairways in buildings will be free from any risk of fire or spread of fire by ensuring that
no combustible materials or equipment is stored within them.
• Doors fitted with self closing devices are usually fire resisting and must not be wedged
open in any circumstance.

25.6 Evacuation Training
• All staff will be instructed in what to do in the case of fire. Staff includes contract or part
time workers, and cleaners, and any other employed or self employed persons or
outside contractors who may work in the premises at any time.
• Evacuation drills will be carried out at least twice per year and the fact recorded in the
Fire Register, held by the Projects Engineer.
• Written instructions on the action to be taken in the case of fire will be displayed in
prominent locations throughout the premises.

25.7 Fire Alarm System
Existing fire alarm system will be tested weekly, using a different break glass call point, and
the results of test recorded in a fire register, kept for that purpose. The audibility will be checked
throughout the entire premises. No person should have to travel more than 30m to their nearest
call point.

26 Fire & Smoke Dampers

26.1 What Is A Fire/Smoke Damper?

Almost any large office building with ventilation will have ducting, often hidden behind false
ceilings. It’s very efficient for moving air around, but equally, every bit as efficient at moving
smoke and fire too. Whether it’s between walls, floors or even neighbouring buildings, fire will
travel, so there needs to be a system to stop this.

One simple looking, but vitally important component in fire prevention is called a fire damper.
Fire dampers are passive fire protection components used extensively within heating,
ventilation and air conditioning ducts to prevent the spread of fire throughout a building.

When a fire starts, there will be a rise in the ambient room temperature and as heat rises, it
will begin to transfer heat into the ducting system, normally housed in the ceiling. This rise in
temperature, activates a thermal element which melts at temperatures that are higher than the
hottest ambient temperature, but low enough to indicate there is excess heat in the system.
(Normally around 75 degrees celsius).

Page 122 of 142