Attachment 2 - 20170421-D2C_New_Works_Compliance_Guide.pdf

DEFENCE FIRE SAFETY NEW WORKS COMPLIANCE GUIDE

Introduction

1. This document is a guide to the fire safety standards required where applicable for all fire safety related works on MOD Estate.

Authority

2. The Defence Fire Safety Regulator (DFSR) is the appointed fire safety enforcing authority for the MOD and as such determines the necessary fire safety measures to be incorporated in all fire related new works on the MOD Estate. The process to be followed is mandatory and is detailed in relevant MOD policy.

Bibliography

3. All fire safety related works on MOD Estate are to comply with the relevant current standards (Scotland and Northern Ireland equivalents) as referenced in the Department for Communities and Local Government Guides to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and includes but not restricted to:

a. Approved Document B to the Building Regulations.

b. Relevant Defence Fire Regulations

c. Joint Service Publications.

d. British Standards for passive and active fire safety measures.

e. Defence Infrastructure Organisation Policy Instructions.

f. Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signal) Regulations.

g. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

h. British Standard 9999 Code of Practice for Fire Safety in the Design, Management and use of Buildings.

Information for Approval - Regulatory Route

4. If the fire related works attract Building Regulations’ approval and the DFSR is satisfied the proposed design does not breach relevant fire safety legislation and/or Defence fire regulations, Certificate A will be issued by the Fire Safety Inspector (FSI). The following are examples of information the FSI may request where necessary:

a. Details of fire compartmentilisation

b. Identification of means of escape routes with travel distances indicated

c. Location of special hazards and/or places of higher fire risk.

d. Location and details of stairs and lifts.

e. Details of plant room access and associated escape routes.

f. Space separation and surface spread of flame standards.

g. Signage, furniture and other equipment/machinery layout to be shown (where known).

h. Fire fighting equipment.

i. Location of fire alarm and associated control equipment.

j. Emergency escape lighting.

k. Access and facilities for the Fire & Rescue Service.

l. Water for fire fighting.

Variation from Building Regulations

5. In cases where designs vary from the relevant Building Regulations/Standards and/or propose fire engineering schemes, the BCA will apply for a determination directly to DIO Building Standards in consultation with the FSI. On receipt of a copy of details of the Determination application together with justification details, the FSI will submit a report to the RFSM to consult with DIO Building Control Principal Surveyor.

Information - Non-Regulatory /Non-Complex Works

6. Works that comprise replacement like-for-like, life maintenance and/or minor non-complex works where Building Regulations approval is not required, the same standard of fire safety provision as listed above is to be incorporated where applicable.

Introduction