Planning For Safety with a Fire Strategy

When undertaking the design of a new-build property, or carrying out development works that alter the layout, structure, or existing fire safety provisions of a building, it is essential to commission a fire strategy.

This should be prepared or reviewed by a suitably qualified fire safety design and engineering specialist.

⁠Don’t fall foul of the latest legal requirements for your property.

Fire Risk Assessments

A fire strategy is typically required for a wide range of projects, including renovations, extensions, building conversions, the addition of extra storeys, significant layout changes, and the installation or removal of fire suppression or smoke control systems.

The fire strategy itself is a formal document that clearly defines the fire safety principles and systems incorporated within a building. It is developed in accordance with current Building Regulations and relevant British Standards, ensuring that each solution is tailored to the specific characteristics and use of the property. The aim is to provide a robust, compliant, and effective approach to fire safety for every individual project.

Key considerations within a fire strategy include the building’s layout and compartmentation, as well as the fire resistance of structural elements such as walls, floors, and doors. These measures are critical in ensuring that occupants are afforded safe, protected escape routes in the event of a fire.

Fire detection and alarm systems are also carefully assessed, with clear recommendations provided regarding the appropriate type and grade of system required for the property. In more complex or higher-risk buildings, additional measures such as fire suppression systems may be necessary and will be designed accordingly.

Provision for firefighting access and facilities is another essential component. This includes considerations such as fire appliance access, hose reach distances, hydrant locations, and suitable access to the building façade.

Finally, effective fire safety extends beyond design alone. The ongoing management and maintenance of fire safety systems and procedures play a vital role in ensuring continued compliance and protection. Professional guidance and advice should therefore be provided to support building owners and responsible persons in maintaining these standards over time.

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What You Need to Know About Fire Strategy for a Building

A well-developed fire strategy forms the foundation of a safe and compliant building. It is both a technical document and a practical framework, setting out how a property is designed, constructed, and managed to protect life and limit the impact of fire.

The following provides a clear and structured overview of the key components.

What is a Fire Strategy?

A fire strategy is a formal document that defines how a building prevents fire, restricts its spread, and ensures the safe evacuation of occupants. It brings together the requirements of Building Regulations, relevant British Standards, and the specific characteristics of the property.

For existing buildings—particularly multi-storey residential properties—it also serves to guide improvements, justify design decisions, and demonstrate compliance to Building Control, insurers, and fire risk assessors.

Building Layout and Compartmentation

This is a fundamental element of any fire strategy.

Key considerations include:

Compartmentation: Fire-resisting walls, floors, and doors that restrict the spread of fire
Fire resistance ratings: Typically 30, 60, or 120 minutes, depending on risk
Protected escape routes: Such as enclosed stairways leading to a final exit
Openings and service penetrations: Ensuring these do not compromise fire separation
Fire doors: Including specification, hardware, seals, and ongoing maintenance

A fire strategy will document these elements in detail and identify where improvements are required.

Means of Escape

This section outlines how occupants can safely exit the building in the event of a fire.

It addresses:

Travel distances and escape route lengths
Number and arrangement of escape routes
Door widths, direction of opening, and hardware
Final exit requirements
Emergency lighting
Fire safety signage

In buildings with a single escape stair, the strategy will also define how that route is protected and what additional measures may be necessary to maintain safety.

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

A fire strategy specifies the appropriate detection and alarm systems for the building.

This includes:

System type and coverage in line with relevant standards
Detector types and locations
Interconnection between alarms
Power supply and standby arrangements

Recommendations are tailored to the building’s layout, occupancy, and level of risk.

Fire Suppression Systems

In certain buildings, particularly those with increased complexity or risk, suppression systems may be required.

The strategy will define:

System type (e.g. sprinklers or water mist systems)
Water supply requirements
Storage and pumping arrangements
System coverage and layout
Integration with the overall fire safety design

These systems are often used to support or enhance other fire safety measures.

Firefighting Access and Facilities

Adequate provision must be made for firefighting operations.

This includes:

Access for fire service vehicles
Hose reach distances
Hydrant locations
Access to the building façade
Additional facilities where required for larger or more complex buildings

Even where requirements are straightforward, they must be clearly documented.

Building Services and Fire Safety Integration

A fire strategy considers how building services perform under fire conditions.

This covers:

Smoke ventilation systems (natural or mechanical)
Ventilation of corridors and stairways
Fire stopping around service penetrations
Fire dampers within ductwork
Emergency shutdown systems
Lift operation during fire events (where applicable)

This aspect is particularly important in existing buildings, where upgrades may be necessary.

Management and Maintenance

Fire safety extends beyond design and construction. Ongoing management is essential to ensure continued compliance and effectiveness.

This includes:

Fire risk assessment requirements
Maintenance of all fire safety systems
Inspection and testing schedules
Evacuation procedures
Occupant information and responsibilities

Clear guidance in this area supports long-term safety and regulatory compliance.

Regulatory Framework

A comprehensive fire strategy references all relevant legislation and standards, including:

Building Regulations 2010
Approved Document B
BS 9991 (residential fire safety)
BS 9999 (non-residential fire safety)
BS 5839-6 (domestic fire detection and alarm systems)
BS 9251 and BS 8458 (suppression systems)
BS EN 13501 (fire classification of construction products)

Adherence to these standards ensures that the strategy is both compliant and robust.

When a Fire Strategy Is Required

A fire strategy is typically required when:

Renovating or extending a property
Converting a building
Adding additional storeys
Altering internal layouts
Installing or modifying fire safety systems
Submitting proposals to Building Control
Addressing findings from a fire risk assessment

For existing multi-storey properties, a fire strategy is particularly valuable in aligning older building layouts with modern safety expectations.

Professional Support

Every building presents unique challenges. Engaging a qualified fire safety professional ensures that your fire strategy is appropriately designed, compliant with current standards, and tailored to your specific project.

If required, a bespoke fire strategy framework or project-specific guidance can be developed to support your design, approval process, and ongoing building management.