PSC Fire Safety

Do I Need Refuge Areas

2007-11-23T16:33:00.001Z

Do I Need Refuge Areas

Yes unless you have:

n Single storey building

n Flat or ramped exits from each floor to outside

n Fire fighting / evacuation rated lift

Building regulations state:

n To facilitate the effective evacuation of people from refuges an emergency voice communication (EVC) system should be provided.

n It is essential that the occupants of each refuge are able to alert other people that they are in need of assistance and for them to be reassured that this assistance will be forthcoming.

n Part B of building regulations state that systems should meet BS5839 part 9

n Outstation should be provided in each refuge location

n Master/Base station should be located in fire control room or by main fire alarm panel

What is Refuge Alerter

n Emergency voice communication system

n Photo luminescent outstation with Braille

n Induction loop built into outstation for hard of hearing users.

n Visual indication of call acknowledged

n Ringing tone whilst call waiting

n Option of only becoming active under fire alarm activation

n Radio based system

n Meets relevant parts of BS5839-8

Why Radio

n Ease of installation and saves disruption

n Usually cheaper than a hard wired approach

n Allows a hand held radio to communicate with the outstations and base station – even from outside.

n Multi building sites can communicate with one central location (Canterbury Christ Church University case study)

n Secure encrypted communication

n Only licensed frequencies used

Conclusion

n Wired systems are a flawed design

n Refuge Alerter is easy and cost effective to install

n Fully DDA compliant

n Proven technology from a proven company

n Reference sites available

For more information or if you would like to discuss this product please call Paul 01455 557877or email paul@pscfiresafety.com

Just how safe is your home?

2007-11-08T08:37:00.001Z

Fire Safety Week Fire-proof your home

Just how safe is your home?

Many Fire and Rescue Services offer a free home fire safety visit to people living within their fire station boundaries to help identify potential fire risks and provide advice on what to do to reduce or prevent them. They can also help you develop an escape plan in case the worst does ever happen.

The home fire safety visits are carried out by operational crews, they are completely free and you may be eligible for a free smoke alarm.

You can book a home fire risk check by phoning your local fire and rescue service - details in phone book (not 999), or online at: www.fire.gov.uk.

According to figures from the Association of British Insurers, 200 homes suffer a fire every day in the UK.

The average cost of a house fire claim last year was £8,452.00.

This year PSC is urging householders to conduct a home safety check during Fire Safety Week (November 14th – 21st) to reduce the risk of a fire in their homes.

Paul Coughlan of PSC said: "With 200 house fires happening every day, there's definitely more that could be being done to protect people's homes and families from the risks of fire. We are urging all householders to spend a bit of time during Fire Safety Week checking their homes and improving fire safety measures."

PSC recommends the following tips:

1. Consider how you and your family would escape from the home if a fire occurred and make sure this route is kept clear.

2. Keep internal doors closed, particularly at night, as this slows down the progression of a house fire.

3. Make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on each floor of your property and check the battery regularly, press the button not your luck.

4. Most house fires start in the kitchen. When cooking, ensure naked flames are not left unattended and if oil catches fire, smother the flames with a damp tea towel or lid, rather than pour water on it, which exacerbates the problem.

5. Ensure electrical wiring in the home is safe by using a qualified electrician for all work. Trying to tackle electrical work at home can be dangerous and could invalidate a home insurance claim if something went wrong as a result.

6. Avoid storing petrol or other flammable liquids in the home. Ideally they should be kept in a secure container in a shed or outbuilding.

7. Do not smoke in bed or when tired, as many house fires and injuries are caused by falling asleep while smoking.

8 . Check your phone is designed for making emergency calls when the power fails.

9 . Check elderly neighbours have a detector and it is working.

10 . Down load a free guide to home fire safety visit www.pscfiresafety.com scroll down the home page and fill in the details.

11. Business owners make sure you have the correct documents for when the fire brigade visit.

12 . Have a check on your electric blanket before using again.

PSC is also reminding people who have a real fireplace in their home to make sure their chimneys are swept safely by a professional chimney sweep before lighting fires again this winter. Throughout the summertime leaves, paper and even birds' nests build up inside chimney flues. If not cleared, this debris can release poisonous fumes and become a serious risk to health when the fire is lit. The National Association of Chimney Sweeps has a network of fully insured members throughout the UK. To find a qualified chimney sweep in your area, visit www.chimneyworks.co.uk

sprinkler and dry riser infomation

2007-11-07T15:12:00.001Z

PSC have branched out we can provide expert design and installation of wet and dry risers for businesses in the UK.

Wet and Dry Risers - Dry Riser Installation, Testing & Servicing

We can provide expert design and installation of wet and dry risers for businesses in the UK. Our wet and dry riser installation / testing / servicing also includes maintenance and testing services in accordance with BS 5306 Part 1.

We can advise you on your legal requirements, assess the fire risk, install equipment, and inspect and test existing installations such as dry risers or sprinkler systems.

We operate across the UK, providing a fast, efficient service. We are familiar with all types of fire protection equipment, past and present, and have experience of installations in every kind of building - from schools to shopping centres, factories to blocks of flats.

Our continuing growth owes much to our excellent reputation and to our competitive pricing. We are a company of integrity with a willingness to respond quickly to customer needs. People also appreciate our personal approach, giving them one point of contact at all times.

UK Specialists in Dry Risers and Dry Riser Installation, Testing & Servicing.

Fire Sprinkler Systems

Our professional fire sprinkler service includes both design and installation of domestic and commercial fire sprinkler systems anywhere in the UK. We also offer fire sprinkler system maintenance services for protecting your equipment.

PSC are working with Phoenix Fire Services who are experienced in the design and installation of fire sprinkler systems for commercial and domestic use throughout the UK. As part of the service we also carry out important fire sprinkler system maintenance every six months. This should be backed up by weekly testing which is normally carried out by the customer.

Domestic Fire Sprinkler Systems.

As more residential fire sprinkler systems are being installed in homes around the UK, Phoenix Fire Services have realised the need for installation and design. We provide comprehensive skills in the principle elements of residential fire sprinkler systems, through design, requirements and installation.

For more information please call 01455 557877 or email paul@pscfiresafety.com

And don’t forget visit our web site www.pscfiresafety.com to download a free guide to fire safety.

networking event planned

2007-11-05T10:37:00.001Z

20th November 2007 @ 7.00pm

Angel Hotel, High Street, Market Harborough

Networking starts from the moment you walk through the door! Why not join us to start to build on relationships.

Discover new business ....

Find new suppliers ....

Share business experiences ....

Catch up with friends ....

and just mix and mingle!

Open networking

Networking over dinner

Relax and listen to our speaker, this Month is Gillian Heggs from Inspiring Words:-

Once you’ve written your marketing material, how do you make sure your words are working as hard as possible? Gillian Heggs’ ‘top ten’ Check List is a powerful tool you can use again and again to help you create effective copy. And it’s one she’ll share with us.

and just to finish more open networking!

This event is open to FSB members and non-members. Cost £10 per person

You can book your place for this event by telephoning or emailing Elaine Vandelli, Branch Secretary, on 0116 240 2330 or elaine@hi2events.co.uk

Credit/Debit Card telephone booking:- Maxine Aldred 0116 259 7707

Please advise of advise of any dietary.access requirements:………………………………………

Date of Event being booked:…………………………………………

Meetings are held on the 3^rd Tuesday of the month, alternating between Market Harborough and Lutterworth.

child proof lighter

2007-10-29T16:55:00.001Z

At PSC we are always looking for the next product that will reduce the chance of a fire our colleges at Kid Rapt have recently sent us a sample of a child proof lighter and yes we think it is fantastic.

The sale of non child proof lighters is now set for March 08.

We are looking at adding this to our stock range.

If you would like more information or would like to purchase a lighter please give Paul a call 01455 557877 or email paul@pscfiresafety.com

Firework Top Ten Safety Code for Adults

2007-10-24T11:32:00.001+01:00

Firework Top Ten Safety Code for Adults

Young people should watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance and follow the safety rules for using sparklers. Only adults should deal with firework displays and the lighting of fireworks. They should also take care of the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used.

Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Bonfire Night

2007-10-24T11:15:00.001+01:00

With under two weeks to go until Bonfire Night, RoSPA recently launched a new website to help people enjoy fireworks safely.

The website has all the information people need to make sure their firework parties are fun rather than fraught with danger.

If you want to enjoy fireworks whether for Halloween, Bonfire Night, Diwali, Chinese New Year or New Year, www.saferfireworks.com is the place to start.

As well as the Firework Code, the site includes a guide on how to organise a display and how to deal with specific types of fireworks from rockets to Catherine Wheels.

You can always down load a free guide to home fire safety on our home page www.pscfiresafey.com scroll down type in your email detail and submit.

2007-10-24T10:16:00.001+01:00

Just a short note of thanks we received after another fire awareness training course we held, if you have not trained your staff why not give us a call 01455 557877 or email paul@pscfiresafety.com

Hello Paul,

Thanks very much for the training sessions, we have had some very positive feedback, and feel it was a well worthwhile exercise. If you have an electronic copy of the ‘Groovy UK Fire Policy’ document I would appreciate receiving a copy so I can email it to all concerned. Thanks again.

Best regards,

Simon

Simon Braisby
Financial Analyst & Assistant to Financial Controller

Groovy UK Ltd
13 St Johns Business Park,
Rugby Road, Lutterworth,
Leicestershire, LE17 4HB, UK

s.braisby@groovyuk.com
http://www.groovyuk.com

T: +44 (0) 1455 200 470 – Main Switch Board
T: +44 (0) 1455 200 471 – Finance Department

T: +44 (0) 1455 200 484 – Direct Dial
F: +44 (0) 1455 200 472 – Fax

PSC is issuing a fire safety warning

2007-10-10T17:37:00.001+01:00

Fire safety warning

PSC is issuing a fire safety warning to Muslim people as they prepare to celebrate Eid this Saturday, October 13.

"Eid is celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, and the preparation of special celebratory meals increases the risk of cooking fires during this time," said Paul Coughlan of PSC.

Nearly 57 percent of all fires in the home are caused by cooking accidents, and there are 20 fat pan fires every day in the UK.

If you scroll down our home page and type in your email details you can down load a free fire safety guide.

Visit www.pscfiresafety.com forward this on to a friend.

We hope we don’t have to read any articles about fire again this year.

Storage of flammable liquids in process areas, workrooms, laboratories and similar working areas

2007-10-08T14:55:00.001+01:00

The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) require risks from the indoor storage of Dangerous Substances to be controlled by elimination or by reducing the quantities of such substances in the workplace to a minimum and providing mitigation to protect against foreseeable incidents.

It is recognised that for practical purposes where flammable liquids are used, there is likely to be a need for a limited quantity to be stored in the workroom/working area. It is the responsibility of the employer / dutyholder when carrying out their risk assessment required under DSEAR Regulation 5, to justify the need to store any particular quantity of flammable liquid within a workroom/working area. However, the guiding principle is that only the minimum quantity needed for frequently occurring activities or that required for use during ½ day or one shift should be present in the workroom/working area (DSEAR ACoP L135, par.39 refers). Clearly actual quantities will depend on the work activity and also the organisational arrangements for controlling the fire risks in the workroom / working area.

When not in use, containers of flammable liquids needed for current work activities should be kept closed and stored in suitable cabinets or bins of fire-resisting construction and which are designed to retain spills (110% volume of the largest vessel normally stored in it). These should be located in designated areas that are where possible away from the immediate processing area and do not jeopardise the means of escape from the workroom/working area. The flammable liquids should be stored separately from other dangerous substances that may enhance the risk of fire or compromise the integrity of the container or cabinet/bin; for example energetic substances, oxidizers and corrosive materials. It is recognised that these other dangerous substances may be flammable liquids in their own right or held in a flammable liquid. However, it is still inappropriate to store these in the same cabinets or bins with other flammable liquids. [Further guidance on Energetic and spontaneously combustible substances is contained in HS(G)131 published by HSE]

It is recommended that the maximum quantities that may be stored in cabinets and bins are no more than 50 litres for extremely, highly flammable and those flammable liquids with a flashpoint below the maximum ambient temperature of the workroom/working area; and no more than 250 litres for other flammable liquids with a higher flashpoint of up to 55°C (DSEAR ACoP L135, par.40 refers).

These quantities are intended to be viewed as recommended maxima representing good industry safe practice, rather than be taken as absolute limits. There is intended to be some flexibility with these limits, where it is recognised that the design of modern day buildings and the pattern of work can sometimes make adherence to these quantities difficult to achieve; for example, in large or open-plan workrooms / working areas. However, where the employer/dutyholder does identify a need to store quantities in excess of the recommended maxima, a robust demonstration of this requirement would need to be made and in particular the risk assessment should take into account:

The properties of the materials to be stored or handled in the workroom / working area. For mixed storage the worst case situation should be applied, i.e. all materials in the storage cupboard or bin should be considered as being the same material as the one that has the lowest flashpoint;
The size of the workroom / working area and the number of people working in it;
The amount of flammable liquids being handled in the workroom / working area and the quantities of liquid that may be accidentally released or spilled;
Ignition sources in the workroom / working area and potential fire spread in the event of an ignition:
Exhaust ventilation provision to the workroom / working area and / or the storage cupboard or bin;
The fire performance of the storage cupboard or bin;
The arrangements for closing the cupboard or bin doors/lid in the event of a fire;
Means of escape from the workroom / working area.

The particular objective, in the event of an incident, is to ensure that people can safely escape from the workroom / working area. In this context, the purpose of storing Dangerous Substances in cupboards and bins of appropriate construction and design is to provide a physical barrier to delay the involvement of these materials in a fire and limit the passage of flame and hot gases should the Dangerous Substances subsequently become involved, for sufficient time for people's safe evacuation and the dutyholder's immediate emergency procedures supporting this to be implemented (DSEAR ACoP L136 par. 68 refers).

Paragraphs 94 96, along with Appendices A & B and paragraph 104 in the DSEAR ACoP L136 detail the performance requirements for fire resisting cupboards and bins. It is important to recognise that these do not specify an absolute test or standard for the cupboard or bin itself, rather they relate to nominal construction principles. Namely:

that the materials used to form the sides, top, bottom, door(s) and lid are capable of providing the required fire resistance (i.e. 30 minutes integrity) and reaction to fire (i.e. minimal risk);
that the joints between the sides, top and bottom of cupboards and bins should be free from openings or gaps;
that the lid / doors should be close fitting against the frame of the bin/cupboard, such that there is a nominal overlap between the frame and lid/doors in their closed position;
that the supports and fastenings should be of a material with a melting point greater than 750°C.

These criteria represent the minimum performance requirements for compliance with the current legislation. However, it is to be noted that there are a number of more demanding standards and design specifications, which refer to the fire performance of the complete cabinet structure, including: BS EN 14470-1:2004 'Fire safety storage cabinets Part 1: Safety storage cabinets for flammable liquids'; Factory Mutual, Underwriters Laboratories and ANSI/NFPA 30 standards. Where standards go beyond the minimum requirements of UK health and safety legislation, it is to be emphasized that their implementation in the UK is not a legal requirement. However, for quantities in excess of the recommended maxima employers/dutyholders may find cabinets with enhanced fire performance help in making their risk assessment demonstration.

It is of course the responsibility of the employer/dutyholder to ensure that cabinets to any particular standard or design specification do meet the minimum legal requirements. Equally, the use of cabinets with enhanced fire performance should not be seen as a substitute for the provision of dedicated store rooms and outdoor storage areas for the safe keeping of containers which are nominally empty or are not needed for current work.

PSC can supply a full range of cabinets and storage solutions for a free catalogue or free survey please contact paul@pscfiresafety.com

Network meeting 16th October

2007-10-02T11:09:00.000+01:00

16th October 2007 @ 7.00pm

Greyhound Coaching Inn Lutterworth

Networking starts from the moment you walk through the door! Why not join us to start to build on relationships.

Discover new business ....

Find new suppliers ....

Share business experiences ....

Catch up with friends ....

and just mix and mingle!

Open networking

Networking over dinner

Relax and listen to our speaker

Viv Lawson Head of Business studies Lutterworth College

and just to finish

more open networking!

This event is open to FSB members and non-members.

Cost £10 per person

You can book your place for this event by telephoning or emailing Paul Coughlan, Vice Chairman, on 01455 557877 or paul@pscfiresafety.com

do we have to have a death before action is taken?

2007-09-26T09:22:00.001+01:00

More than 1,000 pupils are off school for the foreseeable future after a suspected arson attack destroyed almost half a secondary school.

About 30 firefighters were still at the Sidney Stringer School in Cox Street, Coventry, on Wednesday morning. Which started at 1530 BST on Tuesday.

Around 40% of the school is thought to have been wrecked in the fire, could your school still operate if this happened to you?

Initial findings led firefighters to believe the blaze was suspicious, can you produce the evidence to say all has been done to reduce remove or replace potential hazards?

Nearby residents were asked to keep their windows and doors closed overnight because of the threat of asbestos dust from the fire, is your asbestos log up to date?.

Pupils were led out of the affected building as crews arrived it sounds as if the school fire policy worked would yours?

There were no reports of anyone being injured in the incident, what would happen if their was a casualty?

We know fires occur we can prevent them or at least reduce the risk, at PSC we see everyday silly mistakes being made it is no good after the event take action now.

We have our cd rom based fire risk assessment products from £69.99 this helps you train staff and complete an assessment yourself, or we can visit your site and write your policy train your staff and provide the evidence the fire brigade will want to see when they do a fire check.

This is not a threat recently 4 schools that PSC have helped have had dates confirmed they are going to be visited, we await the results.

If you would like any information on our products services or just want to reassure yourself that what you have done is acceptable you can visit the web site www.pscfiresafety.com or email paul@pscfiresafety.com or phone 01455 557877

Don't become the next headline I am sure the headteacher at the above school would prefer to be teaching today not meeting the council.

Fears over fire safety in hotels

2007-09-19T09:05:00.001+01:00

Fire safety consultant Alan Cox conducted an undercover inspectionA worrying number of hotels in one of the UK's top tourist regions are ignoring basic fire prevention safeguards, according to an investigation by the BBC's Inside Out South West programme.
The programme's findings come in the aftermath of a devastating fire at the Penhallow Hotel in Newquay last month, which claimed three lives.
Fire precautions at 13 out of the 14 hotels visited by an undercover team were judged unsatisfactory by independent fire-safety consultant Alan Cox.
Failings included wedged-open fire doors, obstructed fire exits and a potentially useless fire escape. Alerted by Mr Cox, the fire service has already acted on his findings, requiring one of the hotels to urgently upgrade its precautions.
The Inside Out team filmed undercover at 14 randomly-chosen three-star hotels in four resorts. The worst problems were identified by Mr Cox at the Livermead Cliff Hotel in Torquay.
Locked escape
Mr Cox found one fire escape corroded and another sited next to open kitchen and bedroom windows. Windows next to fire escapes should be sealed shut to protect escapees from fire.
Inside the hotel, he found one fire-escape route ran through a locked guest room.
Other escape routes were through bedrooms opened by keys in smash-glass boxes.
In one dead-end corridor, a mattress store had no fire-proof door at all.
Mr Cox also found fire doors with no seals, fire doors left open, and a fire-exit sign that was pointing the wrong way.
It's amazing when I look at some of the fire risk assessments that I do see how naïve some people are
Alan Cox
He was so concerned he sent his findings to the fire service, which has since inspected the hotel and agreed a programme of improvements with the owner, including the installation of an approved fire alarm system.
Hotel owner Timothy Rew told Inside Out the safety of guests was paramount and he would address any safety issues.
The fire service carries out spot checks on hotels and has the power to shut them down.
However last year, responsibility for assessing fire risks shifted.
'Very worried'
The fire service no longer issues fire certificates. Instead it is up to owners and managers to judge the risks - or get a consultant to do it for them - and take action.
But Mr Cox believes many hoteliers are not qualified to carry out or commission such an assessment.
He said: "I think the industry needs to be very worried indeed. I've been in this profession for more than 40 years, and I still learn things.
"It's amazing when I look at some of the fire-risk assessments that I do see how naive some people are."
The Penhallow Hotel fire broke out in the early hours of 18 August. Joan Harper, 80, died along with Peter Hughes, 43, and his elderly mother, Monica.
The hotel had a fire certificate, and a police investigation into the cause is continuing.
Alan Cox said Inside Out's investigation showed a tragedy like Penhallow could happen again.
"Certainly all the ingredients are there for a similar catastrophe," he said.

The Penhallow Hotel was destroyed by a fierce fire
But assistant fire officer Neil Gibbins, head of community safety with Devon and Somerset Fire Service, believes hotels are safer under the new system.
He said: "The responsibility for making a place safe from fire has always sat with the owner or the employer.
"The new law clarifies that by removing the fire certificate, which could have been seen as the MOT for the building.
"Leaving the responsibility firmly on the shoulders of the person who controls the building should be seen as an advantage."
A statement issued by the Livermead Cliff Hotel said any "outstanding issues" relating to fire protection were being addressed.
It said: "The Best Western Livermead Cliff Hotel considers the safety of its guests to be of paramount importance.
"The issues of fire protection was and is being considered as part of a much larger ongoing scheme of building development and refurbishment."
"We are in contact with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Services and will meet with them shortly with view to agreeing a programme and timetable of works which will address any outstanding issues and meet their ongoing requirements."

PSC believe passionately about fire safety well done BBC's Inside Out South West programme for highlighting this major problem, we believe many establishments are not completing a fire risk assessment because they feel they are are not qualified to carry out or commission such an assessment.

If you would like advice with fire risk assessment please email your details to paul@pscfiresafety.com or visit our web site http://www.pscfiresafety.com/

BUSINESS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

2007-09-17T12:15:00.001+01:00

PSC Fire Safety

BUSINESS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT BULLETIN

ATTENTION: Business Owner / Employer

SEPTEMBER 2007

BUSINESS FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

Fantastic News for UK Businesses. We have pleasure in introducing to you a spectacular legal compliance product, the Business Fire Risk Assessment CD-ROM, a UK Best Value quality product offering you the easiest way to stay compliant at minimum expense, saving you hundreds of pounds in consultancy fees.

The Requirement. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, effective 1^st October 2006, applicable to ALL UK Businesses, which are to be inspected by the fire Authorities for compliance. Non compliance may result in fines of up to £5,000 per offence and even imprisonment.

The Solution. The Fire Risk Assessment CD-ROM provides templates of statutory documentation, policies and procedures to assist you to carry out your own premises Fire Risk assessment to produce records which will be required by the Fire Brigade and even your insurance company. We can help you avoid fines and litigation claims at minimum expense, at the press of a button.

The Cost. Good news Only £49 + VAT Not only does it offer a UK Best value product and solution but saves you hundreds of pounds in costly consultancy fees as well as time and money to get on with what You know best, Running Your Business.

Order Now. Simply email us paul@pscfiresafety.com or post/fax it to us today or buy on-line at www.pscfiresafety.com Product name: Fire Risk Assessment.

BUSINESS STAFF FIRE TRAINING

The Requirement. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

The Solution. The Fire Safety Training CD-ROM. Carry out your Staff & Fire Warden Training at the press of a button and save huge costs in training fees.

The CD Covers:

Fire Legislation ● Training Records/Certificates
Triangle of Fire ● Sound & Video Supplements
7 Fire Training Sessions ● Manual & Automatic Operation
Operation & Type of Extinguishers ● Free CAD Drawing Programme
Fire Prevention Advice ● + much more

Suitable for small and medium size businesses. Can be used as a teaching aid for the deaf and persons with disabilities when in manual operation mode. Can be used on a stand alone P.C, or LAN Network

The Cost. Good news Only £69 + VAT offering a UK Best value product and solution.

Order Now. Simply send us a email or post/fax it to us today or buy on-line at www.pscfiresafety.com Product name: Fire Safety Training.

Don't waste your money, comply with the Law today at minimum expense… Order Your Product NOW

Fax to: 01455 557877 or post to: PSC 4 Valley Lane Bitteswell LE17 4SA Vat Reg. No: 798163576

HELP A BUSINESS FRIEND BY FORWARDING THIS FANTASTIC OFFER TO THEM

Please note: Software requires Windows (95,98,00,Nt,XP,Vista) PC, hi-colour display & sound card with speakers. Licence is for 12 months use only from date of registration. For use on a stand alone P.C, or LAN Network (please request our technical information leaflet via admin@protectorint.com). Certain documents may require M.S. Word. Product is designed for low risk SME's. All prices are subject to VAT. Due to the huge demand for this product please allow between 7 and 28 days for delivery. Further product information is available at www.pscfiresafety.com

Your email address forms part of the PSC mailing list, We DO NOT INTEND TO SEND "SPAM" MAIL. Should you not wish to receive further emails please email paul@pscfiresafety.com requesting your email address to be removed from our mailing list, we will remove your details and inform if necessary our supplier of the same. Please accept our apologies in advance for any inconvenience caused.

Without restricting the generality of the foregoing, this email does not make any representations or warranties, whether written or oral, statutory, express or implied with respect to the information, which may be provided hereunder, including without limitation, any warranty of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose furthermore we shall not be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages of any nature whatsoever resulting from receipt or use of the information. Terms & Conditions of Trading available on request.

North Wales fire chiefs slam business bosses in sprinkler row

2007-09-17T08:21:00.000+01:00

We think this could be an interesting move forward we would love to hear your thoughts on home sprinkler systems, why not reply to this email paul@pscfiresafety.com

Business leaders have called for a plan to install life-saving sprinklers in all new homes to be scrapped – because of the cost.

The Welsh CBI has been accused of putting profits above lives by furious fire chiefs.

Cardiff-based CBI Wales director David Rosser says the move could add thousands of pounds to the price of every new home in Wales and cost the construction industry millions.

But fire chiefs reacted angrily, saying each fire fatality costs £1.3m and nobody has ever died in a UK house fire where there were sprinklers.

Vale of Clwyd AM Ann Jones has introduced a Legislative Competence Order to the Welsh Assembly which, if backed by fellow AMs, would make it mandatory to install sprinklers in all new homes.

The organisation has written to Ms Jones telling her the proposal would be costly and unworkable and would make Wales a less attractive place for developers and new entrants to the housing market.

Mr Rosser claimed: “The aims behind the proposal are admirable but the proposal in its current form is unworkable. It would add significantly to the cost of new houses and have a damaging effect on the competitiveness of our development and construction sector.

“We think that the finite resources available in Wales would be better targeted at existing housing stock to ensure they have even the basic warning and protection systems for smoke, heat and carbon monoxide and to remove flammable materials and improve means of escape.”

But Chris Enness, North Wales’ deputy chief fire officer, hit back angrily last night.

He said: “I find it really disappointing the CBI is putting money above the value of a life, especially when research shows the cost of a life is £1.3m.

“Wales has lost, on average, 20 people a year through fire deaths in the home over the past five years. Sprinkler systems would have avoided all of those deaths – nobody has ever died in a UK house fire where there were sprinklers.

“That could save more than £20m, and there is the additional saving in hospital and burns unit treatment, damage to property and rehousing.

“The CBI has not taken that into account and their figures do not add up.”

Ms Jones has tabled proposals for automatic fire sprinkler systems to be installed in all newly-built homes in Wales.

Ms Jones said: “I believe this is a public safety issue and is the sort of thing the Assembly has been set up to address.”

The issue is to be debated by the Welsh Assembly government next month.

electrical goods that turned out to be faulty beware

2007-09-13T09:08:00.000+01:00

Halifax Home Insurance has advised Britons heading to car boot sales to be wary when it comes to buying electrical items.

According to the insurer, 65 per cent of the UK has attended a car boot sale in the last five years.

However, 30 per cent of bargain hunters revealed that they had bought electrical goods that turned out to be faulty.

Vicky Emmott, senior manager of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, said that the figures reveal that "all that glitters is not gold".

"Car booters should be particularly wary of second hand electrical items, especially since electrical fires are the root cause of 18 per cent of all house fires each year," she warned.

you can down load free advice on testing of electrical appliances email your details we will forward the link.

News Flash - £400,000 fine for poor health and safety practices

2007-09-05T12:37:00.000+01:00

A factory blast that killed nine people in 2004 would have been avoided if £405 had been spent on replacing a corroded gas pipe, Glasgow High Court heard.

Risk assessments, one of which was carried out by a student on a holiday job, did not specifically investigate the condition of underground pipe work. ICL Plastics and ICL Tech - the operators of Stockline Plastics in Glasgow - pleaded guilty to health and safety breaches and were fined a total of £400,000.

PSC can help you avoid potential fire risk and guide you through a fire safety plan we are a phone call away 01455 557877 don’t leave it until the flames are at your door, small shops, residential accomadation to large schools we have helped over 400 sites to date.

We not only point out your deficiencies we also source the supply of any equipment or solutions required to help you meet the required standard why not check out our web site www.pscfiresafety.com.

We would love to hear from anyone who has a question relating to fire safety please email your question to paul@pscfiresafety.com

Hotel fire safety initiative

2007-08-23T10:10:00.001+01:00

IN THE wake of last weekend's tragedy in Cornwall, PSC are launching a major campaign to raise awareness of safety in the county's hotels, if you know any local hotel please pass on our details or get them to contact us.

While details of the fatal fire at the Penhallow Hotel in Newquay are still under investigation, Paul from PSC say’s he wants to remind people of their responsibilities so everything possible is done to prevent similar fires locally.

Any hotel and guesthouses known to the service are often sent letters to highlight fire safety issues, while fire crews will probably begin making random visits to premises at night.

'The loss of life and the devastation in Cornwall over the weekend are a graphic reminder of the catastrophic potential of a night-time fire in a hotel,' said Paul Coughlan of PSC fire safety.

'While it is too early to know exactly what happened, PSC will be taking the opportunity to visit hotels and guesthouses in the area to offer help to make sure precautions are in place.'

New fire safety legislation which came in last October abolished fire certificates and now requires people who own or run businesses to risk assess their own premises and put appropriate fire precautions in place.

Fire officers then audit the premises to check precautions are adequate and offer help and advice but if not they can ultimately take the owners to court.

'We want to work with all business owners to improve the safety of their premises and there is a full range of information and advice available through our website - www.pscfiresafety.com

Remember it is not just hotels that are at risk if you own or run a business then you could be responsible take the easy option today give us a call 01455 557877. We can arrange to either go over your assessment or arrange to complete a full assessment at your premises, why not fill in our simple fire assessment fax back form email paul@pscfiresafety.com and we will email the form to you, just type send form in the subject line.

UK. Boat Safety Scheme update focuses on fires on board

2007-08-21T09:37:00.001+01:00

The Boat Safety Scheme is recommending installing smoke alarms in boats and are providing specific guidance for boat owners on alarm type, location, number and maintenance.

By way of illustration, so far, in 2007 there have been around 30 fires on inland waterway boats and two separate incidents resulted in the death of a 22 year-old woman and a 66 year-old man.

It is hoped that the smoke alarm initiative will help navigation authorities reduce the severity of the consequences of boat fires in future

A statement recommending smoke alarms in boats

The BSS has moved to make its strongest recommendation that boats with overnight accommodation are fitted with at least one suitable and effective smoke alarm. The hope is to persuade boaters to use smoke alarms as part of their fire action plan to aid detection and ultimately escape from fire.

Early detection of a fire can help boaters deal with a small fire before it gets out of control or give everyone aboard the chance to escape without being overcome by smoke or poisonous fumes, particularly whilst asleep and so unaware of the advancing and deadly danger.

Smoke alarm technology has advanced significantly over the past few years with more features being available in alarms, such as optical sensors, extremely long life lithium batteries and the facility to ‘hush’ the alarm when, for example, cooking food.

To enjoy the maximum protection an alarm can offer, there are three key points to consider, choosing the right type of alarm; fixing it in the best place; and, having a routine of pressing the test button to check the alarm’s ability to work.

The alarm of choice is an optical alarm with a long-life battery, a hush button and one that meets either BS 5446:2000 Part 1, or BS EN 14606:2005, preferably also carrying a certification mark.

The recommendations have been developed with the help of one the UK’s leading bodies on fire protections issues, the Fire Protection Association (FPA). A set of guidelines is available on the BSS website and these have been drawn from the FPA report and reviewed by all the major suppliers of battery-powered smoke alarms.

The guidelines cover the alarm choices in more detail; advice on positioning the units, and, guidance on the routine care, testing and maintenance.

The headline points from these BSS smoke alarm guidelines are as follows:

Owners of boats with overnight accommodation are advised to have at least one smoke alarm of the recommended type.

Although any type of proprietary smoke alarm may provide a degree of protection, the recommended type is an optical or photoelectric cell alarm because this type is particularly sensitive to dense smoke from a smouldering fire. The alternative ionisation type is best suited to flaming or fast developing fires.

A smoke alarm with an extra-long life battery, also known as a lithium battery or 10-year sealed-in battery, is recommended. Boaters will have more confidence in the continued protection over many years, without having to remember to replace the unit’s battery.

Choosing an alarm with a hush button is recommended because this will allow the alarm to be easily temporarily silenced, for example, if activated when making toast.

An alarm that has been independently certified that it meets either the BS 5446-1:2000 or BS EN 14604:2005 standards offers more assurance that it will work if and when it is needed to. The British Standards Institution ‘Kitemark’, or the mark of the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), are evidence of independent certification.

Mounting an alarm in the right position is vital. For maximum levels of protection, it must detect a fire in its earliest stages. Generally alarms should be mounted on the deckhead or ceiling, 30cm from the cabin sides and within five metres of each protected area of the vessel. On some boats this may mean installing more than one alarm, and it is recommended to choose units that can be linked together.

At the same time, an alarm must be able to wake anyone sleeping aboard, potentially from deepest sleep. The advice is to try out the alarm(s) in situ before fixing it in position. If the trial suggests that not everyone would be woken if fire started, a different spot should be tried, or more alarms installed – again with the recommendation about linking.

Making alarm testing second nature is essential in order to pick up any problems with the alarm before it is put to the test for real. Boaters are strongly recommended to press the test button on each alarm as part of their boarding routine. Boaters that live or stay aboard for longer than a week are urged to get into the habit of testing alarms once a week.

The BSS recommendations form part of its partnership activities with Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service to improve safety for boaters through advice and information. This partnership also hopes to influence many more boat builders to install the best types of smoke alarms from new. A proposed non-statutory code to be published in due course for operators of hireboats and similar vessels which will likely cover the subject of smoke alarms.

Nigel Grant, former Head of Community Fire Safety and Youth Development for Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, said,

“In the future I can see that smoke alarms will become the norm on boats and I’m keen for alarms, of the best type and well placed, to be used as another vital part of a boat owner’s fire action plan made with family members. But, it is crucial that boat owners understand that testing the alarm routinely by pushing the button is better than pushing their luck.”

The smoke alarm guidelines supporting this recommendation are available from the links on the home page of www.boatsafetyscheme.com as too is the advice on making a fire action plan.

'Put it out. Right out'

2007-08-17T16:43:00.000+01:00

If you drink and smoke at home you are at greater risk from suffering a fire. Smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire-related death in the home. Nearly a third of all households have a smoker living in them. There are an average of 120 deaths, 1,300 injuries and 3,750 fires per year in accidental home fires caused by smoking materials. Similar, recent research has found that about half of all adults killed in fires were under the influence of alcohol. The overwhelming majority of people who are killed in a house fire perish as a result of smoke and toxic fume inhalation as opposed to burn injuries. Evidence finds that alcohol not only impedes human detection of smoke, but also impedes peoples ability to respond to the danger a house fire poses to them and get out of their home safely.

By following a few key tips you can reduce the risk of fire happening in your home:

  Take extra care when you're tired, taking prescription drugs or have been drinking alcohol. It's very easy to fall asleep without realising that your cigarette is still burning.

  Don't leave lit cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended - they can easily overbalance as they burn down, land on a carpet or newspaper and start a fire. When you put it out, make sure it really is out.

  Ensure you have a working smoke alarm for every floor level in your home.

why not down load our free guide to fire safety at www.pscfiresafety.com scroll down and sign up, please pass this on to all your friends

FSB network meeting

2007-08-10T16:01:00.000+01:00

Due to popular demand the FSB South Leicestershire Branch has decided to re-start its monthly networking events. Because the branch covers such a wide geographical area we have decided that initially we will use three different venues spread throughout the area to make it easier for all members to attend. (Non-members are also welcome to attend). We will then assess your response and feedback to this.

The format of the events will be to arrive at 7.00pm for open networking, then to sit at tables of 8 to 10 whilst we eat, for more focussed discussion. A speaker will then talk to us for approximately 15 minutes on a business related issue, with time for questions, and more open networking will follow this. Price will be £10.00.

1^st Event 21^st August 2007 @ 7.00 pm

Greyhound Coaching Inn and Hotel, Market Street, Lutterworth, Leics.

Speaker Robert Egglestone will tell us all about the renovations he has done to this fantastic old Coaching Inn.

Our Future Events are as Follows (Put them in your dairy now):

18^th September: Angel Hotel, Market Harborough - . Speaker to be advised.

16^th October: Hinckley area. Venue and speaker to be advised.

If you have any queries, please contact Elaine Vandelli, Branch Secretary, Hi 2 Events, 7 Heycock Close, Fleckney, Leicester LE8 8UH. Tel: 0116 240 2330 email: Elaine@hi2events.co.uk

Please note places are limited so return your forms as quickly as possible. I look forward to seeing you there.

Be Prepared

2007-08-02T16:15:00.000+01:00

So what can you and your family do to be prepared for summer fire hazards at home and on the road? You can start by familiarizing yourselves with some important safety precautions for barbecues, campfires and summer storms. Applying these prevention tips to your indoor and outdoor activities can help decrease the likelihood of fire emergencies this summer.

Never leave children unattended near outdoor grills, fireworks or campfires. Be sure they know how to dial 999 in case of an emergency.
Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of water (or sand) nearby when using outdoor grills or campfires in case of emergency.
Avoid loose clothing around any kind of outdoor fire or flame.
Do not add lighter fluid to an already lit fire. The flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
Never use a grill in enclosed areas. Carbon monoxide can be produced, leading to the increased likelihood of fire.
Be sure the outdoor grill is fully extinguished before disposing of contents. Douse hot coals with water and stir them to be sure the fire is out. Store them in a metal container far away from your home or combustibles for at least 24 hours afterward.
Do not overfill the propane tank and check the connection between the tank and the fuel line to be sure it is not blocked.
After lighting a campfire, do not discard the match until it is cold. Break it apart so that you can feel the charred portion before you dispose of it.
Use long handled tongs and skewers when cooking over a grill or campfire to prevent injury to yourself and to prohibit the spread of flames to clothing.
Store fuel for outdoor equipment like lawn mowers in approved containers. Place containers away from the home and far from any heat source.
Never throw a lighted cigarette from the window of a vehicle or walk off and leave a burning cigarette.
Remove overhanging branches, tall grass, brush, dead leaves and shrubbery that touch or are too close to your home. It will quickly fuel a wildfire or lightening fire approaching your house.
Remember - the same elements that cause outdoor fires, like lightening or grilling, can quickly spread to your home. Make sure smoke alarms are working properly and make sure you practice two ways out of each room of your home.

over 60% of businesses do not have adequate fire protection.

2007-08-02T15:59:00.001+01:00

According to Fire Protection Trade Association figures, over 60% of businesses do not have adequate fire protection. To put this in context, every year there are more than 40,000 workplace fires, which unfortunately results in the loss of over 50 lives each year, causes almost 2000 injuries, with an average cost of £58,000 per fire and in 40% of cases businesses do not recover and fold as a consequence.

Legislation is there to encourage businesses to protect their staff and livelihoods, premises and assets and failing to comply can be extremely costly, even without the outbreak of a fire. Enforcement has lead to penalties being imposed of between £4000 and £85,000 where organisations have failed to adequately protect from the risk of fire.

To summarise, the main emphasis is on ensuring that a Fire Safety Risk assessment has been implemented. This should be reviewed regularly and after any change that might affect fire safety in the workplace. When undertaken properly this can help to protect your employees, visitors and your premises.

Is it time for you to take action?

Visit our web site www.pscfiresafety.com to find out about us or email paul@pscfiresafety.com and ask us to contact you about a free site survey.

to ensure that authorised guests are made aware of fire safety regulations

2007-08-01T08:37:00.001+01:00

Since radical reforms to UK fire safety legislation came into force in 2006 (The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order), responsibility for the safety of staff and visitors whilst on premises lies solely with the company. With the average cost of a fire in a commercial building in England and Wales alone, estimated to be £43,800 according to the Department for Communities & Local Government, it is imperative that guests are informed of company fire procedures and a clear record made of when, where and why they are visiting the building.

PSC is helping businesses to ensure that authorised guests are made aware of fire safety regulations. This is also helping companies avoid potential arson attacks by preventing unauthorised people from entering buildings.

Companies should also consider ways to protect themselves against deliberate fire damage. With Government figures now putting the annual cost of arson to the UK economy at well over £2billion, businesses need to take precautions against unauthorised people entering the premises.

Health and safety regulations state that every person within a building must be made aware of emergency exits and procedures. For employees, this generally constitutes part of an induction process, but for visitors, including contractors working within the building, this can sometimes be overlooked. Key information such as fire exits, evacuation meeting points and a layout of the building.

PSC can help write your fire policy and procedures and plans of your building, PSC have been involved for the last six months with the fire information box.

In the event of a fire, time is of the essence. It is vital that the Fire Brigade can reach the fire quickly and effectively to reduce the risk of harm and keep damage to a minimum.

This will aid the efficiency of the Fire Brigade in the event of an emergency. It should contain essential information on the building such as site and building plans, hazards, lift positions, contacts etc. and should be positioned at a prominent entry point within the building.

For more information or a demonstration please email our sales team paul@pscfiresafety.com or visit our web site look at details under our products.

House Fires-PLEASE READ

2007-07-26T15:12:00.001+01:00

Received from a friend who is in the property Insurance business. It is
well worth reading.

This is One of those emails that if you didn't send
it, rest assured someone on your list will suffer for not reading it.

The original message was written by a lady whose brother and his wife
learned a hard lesson this past week.

Their house burned down.. ..nothing left but ashes. They have good
insurance so the house will be replaced and most of the contents. That
is the good news. However, they were sick when they found out the cause
of the fire. The insurance investigator sifted through the ashes for
several hours. He had the cause of the fire traced to the master
bathroom. He asked her sister-in-law What she had plugged in the
bathroom. She listed the normal things....curling iron, blow dryer. He
kept saying to her, "No, this would be something that would disintegrate
at high temperatures". Then her sister-in-law remembered she had a Glade
Plug-In , in the bathroom.
The investigator had one of those "Aha" moments. He said that was the
cause of the fire. He said he has seen more house fires started with the
plug-in type room fresheners than anything else. He said the plastic
they are made from is THIN plastic. He also said that in every case
there was nothing left to prove that it even existed.
When the investigator looked in the wall plug, the two prongs left from
the plug-in were still in there. Her sister-in-law had one of the
plug-ins that had a small night light built in it. She said she had
noticed that the light would dim and then finally go out. She would walk
into the bathroom a few hours later, and the light would be back on
again. The investigator said that the unit was getting too hot, and
would dim and go out rather than just blow the light bulb. Once it
cooled down it would come back on.
That is a warning sign . The investigator said he personally wouldn't
have any type of plug in fragrance device anywhere in his house. He has
seen too many places that have been burned down due to them.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO ALL THE PEOPLE IN YOUR ADDRESS BOOK .
NOT ONLY COULD IT SAVE SOMEONE'S HOUSE, BUT IT COULD SAVE SOMEONE'S
LIFE