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why fire strategies should be reviewed after refurbishment works
Refurbishment projects can significantly alter how a building functions from a fire safety perspective — even when the changes appear relatively minor.
Whether works involve reconfiguring layouts, upgrading services, replacing doors or carrying out phased improvements, these alterations can affect compartmentation, escape routes and the overall effectiveness of the existing fire strategy.
Unfortunately, fire safety documentation is not always reviewed alongside building changes, which can leave gaps between the building’s current condition and its intended fire protection measures.
how refurbishment works can affect fire safety
During refurbishment projects, it is common for contractors to create new service penetrations, remove walls, alter corridors or install temporary partitions. While these changes may support operational or construction requirements, they can also compromise fire-resisting construction if not properly managed.
Common issues identified following refurbishment works include:
Even small changes can impact the assumptions made within the original fire strategy.
the risks of outdated fire strategies
A fire strategy should accurately reflect the building as it currently exists and operates. If refurbishment works have taken place without the strategy being reviewed, there is a risk that:
Evacuation procedures may no longer be suitable
Fire compartments may not perform as intended
Detection and alarm coverage may be inadequate
Escape routes may be compromised
Compliance issues may go unidentified
This is particularly important in complex or high-occupancy environments such as residential buildings, healthcare facilities, schools and commercial premises.
Phased Refurbishment and temporary arrangements
In occupied buildings, refurbishment works are often completed in phases to minimise disruption. While this approach is operationally necessary, it can create temporary fire safety challenges that require careful oversight.
Temporary arrangements such as:
should all be assessed to ensure fire risks remain appropriately controlled throughout the project.
The importance of post-works review
Reviewing a fire strategy after refurbishment works helps verify that fire protection measures remain aligned with the building layout, occupancy and evacuation procedures.
This may involve:
A post-refurbishment review can also help identify issues early before they develop into larger compliance concerns or costly remedial works.
Final thoughts
Refurbishment projects can have a major impact on fire safety performance, even where changes appear relatively straightforward.
Reviewing the fire strategy following building works is an important step in ensuring compartmentation, evacuation arrangements and fire protection measures continue to function as intended.
Fire safety should remain fully integrated throughout the refurbishment process — not revisited only once works are complete.
Need further support? Contact us today
For support with fire strategy reviews, compartmentation surveys, fire door inspections or post-refurbishment fire safety assessments, contact the Assured team today.
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