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Are fire wardens necessary for unoccupied level of building?
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Gibson39516  
#1 Posted : 19 March 2010 14:29:51(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
Gibson39516
Hi, does anyone have any views on the following?

We occupy an office building and for downsizing reasons, the second (top) floor is now unoccupied. The second floor is still accessible (as the doors are not lockable), although there isn't any reason for anybody to access that floor. The question has arisen do we need a fire warden for the second floor?

My thinking is that no-one should be expected to take a risk in ensuring that the second floor is empty in the event of the fire alarm sounding. Hence we need to explore means of preventing/detering/controlling access to that level instead?

thanks for any advice,

Ian
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Stephen  
#2 Posted : 19 March 2010 14:33:42(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Stephen
Personally, I would say that you would still need to ensure that the area is clear in it's current state, as you can't discount anyone going off "on a frolic of their own". To solve the problem, could you not just fit a lock and keep it locked permanently if it's not used, or restrict entry if there is still a need to get in?
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MaxPayne  
#3 Posted : 19 March 2010 14:42:07(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
MaxPayne
Tend to agree with Stephen's response; would you really be able to tell the Brigade when they arrived that the building is clear unless it's either been checked or the area secured.
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shaunmckeever  
#4 Posted : 19 March 2010 15:12:23(UTC)
Rank: Guest
Guest
Hmmmm.......Is it a large floor with lots of little offices or is it open plan? Does it have two means of escape in opposite directions? In my opinion I would say no but what you would do is inform the fire service when they arrive. Let them know that floor has not been checked. Locking the doors preventing access would also prevent access to the fire service...or at least delay their entry while they use their master key!
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