Posted By Jonathan Compton Hi All, I have had a classic request for ‘clarification’ on matters concerning surface spread of flame on escape routes and the use of notice boards possibly contravening building regs/RRFSO. I have had a look at Document B2 and have seen something about Class ‘0’ materials for use in wall adornments etc. Before I go ahead and confirm that all notice boards and any notices/posters must be encased in Kryptonite and sealed in a lead container; does anybody have experience with this? Do we really need to encase all notice boards in glass and so on? All your input would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Jon p.s. We are a social registered landlord with over 19,000 units!!!

Posted By Andy Farrall I recently did the 5-day fire risk assessment course at the Fire Service College and then went back to do the NEBOSH fire certificate. During the mock practical the day before the exam the issue of wall coverings such as notice boards was raised with the instructor (who was a senior rank officer on secondment to the College). His answer was that it was really a matter of judgement - the odd notice board or poster was unlikely to have a significant effect on fire spread, but a corridor lined with notices (such as you can find in schools where childrens' work is on display) could pose a significant problem. In that case the flame could rapidly spread down the corridor from one piece of paper to the next. As ever it comes back to doing a risk assessment on the day and making a reasoned judgement.

Posted By Messy Shaw I agree with the reply given by Andy Farrel. It really all does depend on the circumstances. For sleeping risk, say a hotel with a single staircase escape route - I wouldn't be happy about any noticeboards. However, an office (occupants awake & familiar with building) with >1 escape route & AFD, I'd be less bothered

Posted By Jonathan Compton Thanks everybody who has commented so far; this is exactly what I'm looking for, a nice, balanced view. Its nice when you can give managment some good news (as in saving them time and/or money). I think the reduction of excessive numbers of notice boards along with the banishment of flapping paper sounds like an ideal comprimise for purpose built blocks complying with building regs '91 and later. Maybe a tougher stance on old Victorian conversions, HMO's and and supported housing... Thanks again, further comment is welcome.