Fire compartmentation works in Kent

Fire compartmentation works in Kent UK: what it is and why it matters

Fire compartmentation works are one of the most effective ways to protect people property and business continuity. In simple terms this approach divides a building into fire resisting sections so that if a fire starts it is contained within a defined area for a set period of time. This slows the spread of flames smoke and heat. It buys time for safe evacuation and for the fire service to respond. For building owners duty holders and facilities managers across Kent this is not only best practice. It is also a legal responsibility under the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order.

What fire compartmentation involves

• Fire resisting walls and floors. These create physical barriers that resist fire for a specified duration such as thirty minutes sixty minutes or more depending on the building and use.

• Fire stopping. Services such as pipes cables and ducts pass through walls and floors. Any gaps and penetrations must be sealed using approved fire stopping materials to maintain the fire rating.

• Fire doors. Correctly rated installed and maintained doors restrict the movement of fire and smoke between compartments. Hardware closers seals and glazing all need to be compatible and certified.

• Cavity barriers and fire curtains. These control fire and smoke in concealed spaces such as roof voids and cladding cavities. They are essential in modern constructions and refurbishments.

• Compartmentation in roof spaces. Fire can move quickly through lofts and voids. Fire resisting partitions and barriers limit this risk.

• Structural protection. Steel columns and beams may need fire protection to ensure the compartment remains stable for the required time.

Why fire compartmentation matters in Kent

Kent has a diverse mix of building stock. From coastal apartments and seaside hotels to industrial units rural estates historic properties and large retail centres. Many of these buildings have been extended refurbished or converted over time. This can leave hidden weaknesses where services have been added or layouts changed. Effective fire compartmentation works address these weak points and bring the building in line with current standards and guidance such as Approved Document B and relevant British Standards.

Well designed and properly installed compartmentation helps to:

• Protect life by keeping escape routes tenable for longer

• Reduce damage and business interruption

• Support compliance and reduce enforcement risk

• Enhance insurance resilience and potentially improve premiums

• Assist Kent Fire and Rescue Service by slowing fire growth

Common issues found during surveys

• Unsealed service penetrations around cables pipes and ducts

• Missing or damaged intumescent seals around fire doors

• Inconsistent or unknown fire ratings of walls and partitions

• Gaps at the head of walls above suspended ceilings

• Poorly protected risers and shafts

• Incomplete cavity barriers in voids or cladding systems

• Ad hoc repairs using non compliant foams or mastics

These issues are frequently uncovered in offices schools healthcare settings warehouses hospitality venues and blocks of flats across Kent towns such as Maidstone Canterbury Ashford Medway and Thanet.

The process for fire compartmentation works

1. Fire compartmentation surveyA competent surveyor inspects the building fabric escape routes risers roof voids and plant areas. The survey identifies existing compartment lines and any breaches. Findings are recorded with photographs locations and recommended remedial actions.

2. Design and specificationSolutions are matched to tested systems. This includes fire collars wraps coated batts mortars mastics and fire rated boards. Each product must be suitable for the specific substrate service type and opening size.

3. Installation by trained techniciansWorks are carried out in line with manufacturers data sheets and third party certification schemes. Each penetration seal or barrier is tagged and logged in a digital register for traceability.

4. Certification and record keepingOn completion the building owner receives installation records certificates and a marked up compartmentation plan. This supports compliance with the Fire Safety Order and ongoing fire risk assessments.

5. Maintenance and re inspectionCompartmentation performance can degrade over time through wear alterations or new service runs. Periodic checks and prompt re sealing are essential especially after fit outs and refurbishments.

Responsibilities under UK fire safety law

Responsible persons must take general fire precautions and keep relevant premises safe. This includes maintaining the integrity of fire compartments and escape routes. The fire risk assessment should identify compartmentation and flag any deficiencies. For higher risk or complex buildings in Kent it is advisable to commission a detailed intrusive compartmentation survey to supplement the risk assessment.

Choosing a competent contractor in Kent

• Look for third party certification such as FIRAS or similar schemes

• Ask for product data and evidence of tested solutions for each seal type

• Ensure installers are trained and supervised

• Request a clear programme method statements and health and safety documentation

• Expect a comprehensive installation log with locations photos and tags

• Confirm coverage across Kent including rapid support for Maidstone Canterbury Ashford Dover and Medway

Integration with wider fire strategy

Compartmentation is part of a broader fire safety strategy that includes detection and alarm systems emergency lighting firefighting equipment means of escape evacuation plans and staff training. Fire doors must be checked regularly and any building changes must preserve the integrity of compartments.

Benefits for property managers and landlords in Kent

• Demonstrable compliance for audits and insurer reviews

• Reduced likelihood of enforcement action and costly remedial works later

• Improved safety for residents staff and visitors

• Less disruption and faster reinstatement after an incident

• Stronger asset protection for portfolios across Kent

Frequently asked questions

• How often should compartmentation be inspectedAt least annually and after any works that may affect walls floors ceilings or service penetrations.

• Do all gaps need to be sealedYes. Every penetration must be sealed using an appropriate tested system to the required fire rating.

• What if I do not know the fire rating of a wallA survey can determine the likely rating and recommend upgrades or reconstructions where necessary.

• Can general builders carry out fire stoppingOnly trained and competent personnel should install fire stopping using approved systems with full documentation.

Next steps for Kent businesses and property owners

If you operate or manage buildings in Kent now is the time to review your fire compartmentation. Arrange a survey update your fire risk assessment and plan any remedial works. Keep accurate records and schedule periodic re inspections. By taking a structured approach you will enhance safety meet your legal duties and protect your assets across Kent.

For guidance on fire compartmentation works or to arrange a survey in Kent get in touch with a competent local specialist.