Andrew Frankum, Director of Health & Safety and Compliance at Concept Housing, discusses the vital importance of competence in fire safety management in social housing
Fire safety in social housing is a critical issue that encompasses various challenges and complexities.
It involves ensuring that all individuals involved in managing these buildings, from ground staff to senior management, have a fundamental awareness of fire safety.
This foundational knowledge is essential for the safety of residents and the effectiveness of fire safety measures.
It is necessary to explore the cumulative impact of decisions and actions related to fire safety, emphasising that even minor measures can significantly influence overall building safety, and highlight the necessity of a culture that fosters ownership and awareness of fire safety within organisations, extending beyond mere regulatory compliance.
An inclusive, multifaceted approach to fire safety is called for in social housing.
There is a need for a collective commitment to safety, innovation, and responsibility, ensuring the protection of every resident with a particular focus on the most vulnerable demographics.
The crucial role of competence
Delving into these complexities, Andrew Frankum, Director of Health & Safety and Compliance at Concept Housing, emphasises the pivotal role of competence at every level.
Frankum astutely observes: “It is important that everyone involved in managing buildings has a basic level of fire safety awareness.” This awareness varies across roles, from ground staff to senior management, yet its foundational importance remains constant.
It is this underpinning knowledge, Frankum notes, that is important to ensure the safety of residents.
He elaborates on the cumulative impact of decisions and actions, highlighting that even the smallest measures can significantly influence the wider safety in buildings.
“Everyone is required to contribute and play their part in ensuring safety,” Frankum asserts.
This notion extends beyond mere regulatory compliance, extending to fostering a culture of ownership and awareness throughout the organisation.
The goal, as Frankum outlines, is to ensure that competent employees are in place, poised to deliver the very best service to residents.
The Lakanal Housing Inquest
A decade on from the pivotal Lakanal Housing Inquest, Frankum reflects on the significant changes in fire safety management.
“Unfortunately, it’s taken another tragedy to make those responsible sit up and take notice,” he laments.
However, he acknowledges the progress made, citing reduced fires, improved fire risk assessment practices, and the advent of technology aiding in managing data and insights for better risk management.
Yet, the journey is far from over.
Frankum points out recurring issues such as cladding, fire doors quality, and a system that sometimes prioritises cost over safety.
“We have seen the industry come together, new legislation is upon us,” he says, stressing the need for continued innovation to keep pace with changing trends and deliver a first-class fire safety system.
Overlooked risks
Turning to recent research from the Home Office, Frankum underscores a concerning trend: a significant number of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties are linked more to individual circumstances than property conditions.
In 2021/22, he notes, “62% of fires occurred in low rise blocks.” While high-rise buildings often capture the public’s attention, Frankum points out that more fire deaths occur in single dwelling houses and low-rise blocks up to three floors.
“The majority of the deaths relate to older people and 74% relate to someone with an impairment that prevented them from escaping from fire,” he reveals.
Frankum stresses the need for better risk management and continued education to protect those most at risk and encourage safe practices.
A landlords’ responsibility
The recent legislative changes in fire safety have brought a renewed focus on landlords’ responsibilities, especially in high-rise properties.
Frankum highlights that these responsibilities are not new, but the changes effective from 1 October 2023 have specified duties for Responsible Persons.
“All residents should be provided with fire safety information relating to their building and their own circumstances,” Frankum explains.
This approach not only offers guidance to prevent fires but also educates residents on the correct actions in the event of a fire.
Frankum advocates for a resident-centric approach in decision-making.
“Understanding should be tested to ensure that information is unambiguous and that residents know what to do in their building,” he stresses.
Furthermore, he underscores the importance of sharing fire safety information with new tenants, a critical step in ensuring ongoing awareness and preparedness.
The role of housing associations
In addressing the need for improvement in fire safety measures, Frankum outlines concrete steps for landlords and housing associations.
He believes that fire safety needs to be regarded as a fundamental risk to the business, necessitating robust management and resident-focused decision-making.
“This requires boards to be asking the right questions of their executive teams and seeking assurance that fire safety management is robust,” Frankum explains.
He calls for organisations to establish a robust fire safety management system, identifying risks, allocating adequate resources for mitigation, and ensuring employee competence.
Additionally, Frankum highlights the necessity of sound procurement practices and third-party assurances to contribute to safer building standards in the future.
He advocates for robust information and communication strategies, utilising technology where necessary to manage data effectively and provide insightful analysis.
However, Frankum notes that this is only part of the solution.
“Residents need to be at the centre of all decision making,” he insists, pointing out that even safe buildings can be hazardous if residents are not engaged in understanding and mitigating real risks.
He emphasises the collective nature of fire safety, requiring a focused, resourceful, and committed approach to foster safe behaviours among employees, contractors, residents, and others.
Enhancing fire safety management
As the population of elderly individuals increases, a demographic more susceptible to fire-related fatalities, Frankum underscores the importance of enhanced fire safety management to protect this group.
He advocates for a comprehensive approach: “Fire safety management is about protecting everyone, whilst vulnerable residents should take a priority.” Frankum believes that getting the basics right is crucial, which involves targeting key risks, learning from past incidents, improving processes and competence, and, importantly, working closely with residents to ensure their safety.
For Frankum, practical steps taken in collaboration with residents are essential.
This includes addressing immediate safety concerns as well as having difficult conversations and educating residents.
“Delivering the fire safety basics and delivering them well provides a firm foundation,” he asserts.
Consistency in approach and practice is key to enhancing fire safety, especially for those most at risk.
Specific strategies for over-80s
The alarming disparity in fire-related fatality rates among individuals over 80, which is almost quadruple that of the average population, calls for specific strategies.
Frankum suggests that landlords should be ready to install fire suppression systems or specific alert systems in properties with a higher risk.
He emphasises a multi-agency approach that includes care providers, ensuring those at most risk receive the necessary support and assistance to stay safe.
Frankum stresses the importance of a person-centred and pragmatic delivery of fire safety measures.
“Whatever approach is taken, it’s important that residents are listened to and understand the actions that are being taken to keep them safe,” he says.
This approach not only addresses the immediate safety needs but also involves residents in the process, ensuring they are informed and aware of the measures in place for their protection.
A comprehensive commitment
Throughout the dialogue with Andrew Frankum, it becomes evident that effective fire safety management, especially in social housing, requires a multifaceted and inclusive approach.
From ensuring the competence of every individual involved in building management to adopting specific strategies for vulnerable demographics like the elderly, Frankum’s insights provide a roadmap for enhancing fire safety standards and practices.
His emphasis on a resident-centric approach, continuous learning, and the adoption of technology highlights the dynamic nature of fire safety management in today’s world.
As we navigate the challenges and lessons learned from past tragedies, Frankum’s perspectives reinforce the importance of a collective commitment to safety, innovation, and responsibility towards safeguarding every resident.
This article was originally published in the December2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.