Building a Robust Fire Safety Strategy for Hotels

Building a Robust Fire Safety Strategy

Fire Risk Assessment

Every hotel must conduct a thorough fire risk assessment that:

• Identifies ignition sources, fuels, and oxygen supplies.
• Evaluates risks to guests, particularly those sleeping or with reduced mobility.
• Reviews existing safety measures like sprinklers and emergency exits.
• Outlines specific steps to reduce or eliminate risks.

The assessment must be documented and updated annually, or whenever significant changes occur.

 Did you know? A 2023 Fire Safety Audit found that 1 in 5 hotels in England had deficiencies in their fire risk assessments, especially regarding emergency lighting and staff training.

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

UK hotels are expected to install L1 fire alarm systems, which include detectors in every room, hallway, and communal space.

Essential features include:

• Smoke and heat detectors in each guest room.
• Addressable fire panels to pinpoint exact alarm locations.
• Audible alarms over 65 dB in bedrooms.
• Visual alarms for guests with disabilities.
• Regular weekly testing and annual servicing by qualified companies are mandatory. Increasingly, hotels integrate their fire systems with Building Management Systems (BMS) for real-time monitoring and faster response.

Emergency Lighting and Signage

In an emergency, smoke and power outages can leave guests disoriented. Effective emergency lighting must:

• Illuminate all escape routes adequately.
• Be installed above exits, stairs, changes of direction, over important equipment and corridors.
• Include a 3-hour battery backup.
• Signage must comply with BS 5499-4:2013, using clear pictograms and photoluminescent materials to guide all guests—regardless of language—safely out of the building.

Evacuation Plans and Procedures

Well-designed evacuation plans save lives. Each hotel must include:

• Floor plans with “You are here” indicators in guest rooms.
• Clearly designated assembly and refuge points.
• Staff roles (such as fire wardens) with high-visibility vests and communication tools.
• Fire drills should take place twice a year, with larger hotels or complex buildings conducting scenario-based drills to evaluate timing and coordination.

Staff Training

Every employee—from reception to housekeeping—must receive comprehensive fire safety training, which covers:

• Fire prevention and hazard identification.
• Alarm-raising procedures.
• Safe extinguisher usage.
• Directing guests to emergency exits.
• Personal safety protocols.
• Recommended practices include:
• Appointing fire marshals with advanced training and duties.

 Fact: A 2022 Fire Door Inspection Scheme survey revealed that 61% of hotel staff couldn’t identify compromised fire doors—underlining the urgent need for better training.

Guest Awareness: Educating Without Alarm

While it’s crucial to inform guests, it’s equally important to avoid panic. Hotels can enhance fire awareness by:

• Posting fire exit maps on the back of every room door.
• Including safety info in welcome packs or digital keycards.
• Reminding guests not to smoke indoors or block vents.
• Encouraging reports of unusual smells or faulty appliances.
• Additionally, hotels should urge guests to keep corridors clear of obstructions like luggage.