Agenda item - Fire Safety

Officers from the council’s Health & Safety team and the local housing office are due to attend

18.1   Brett Wells gave a brief update on Fire Safety measures and the effect they have had on high rise estates. He outlined that high rises are prioritised as they are at highest risk. He stressed that there were no issues that were similar to Grenfell so as to allay resident’s concerns. He also stated that low and medium rises are currently being tested and gave a general overview of various other aspects of safety that residents should pay attention to such as keeping hallways clear and scooter’s taking up room.

18.2   Residents made the following enquiries along with the following statements and concerns:

·         Residents highlighted their concern around Mears Groups’ lack of response to calls in regards to repairs

·         A resident enquired if signage could be either screwed on to walls or if a stronger adhesive could be applied as current signs are not able to withstand the effects of rain and wind

·         Residents gave examples of incidents reported at other high rises and were grateful for the fire and safety team’s help in dealing with issues

·          A resident enquired if BHCC has helped to promote awareness to fellow residents and provided any advice in regards to fire safety and if they have considered employing an inspection campaign

18.3    Councillors had the following enquiries for officers:   

·         Councillors Moonan and Barnett enquired if officers have contacted care agencies such as BESCO or any other agencies.

18.4   Officers responded to resident’s enquiries and concerns with the following: 

·         Mears expressed concern regarding response times as they operate a 24 hour phone service

·         An officer confirmed they will look in to possible alternative methods of applying signage in public spaces

·         Officers reminded residents that the Fire Authority carries out free home safety tests for people and will happily give a talk to further inform residents on issues pertaining to safety such as escape routes, fire safety, fuel poverty etc. The officer stressed that fire safety visits are provided with the sole intention to educate people and to provide information

·         In response to Councillor’s enquiries, an officer stated that they have been in communication with Carelink and expect the social care commissioner to be in talks with the relevant agencies.

18.5    RESOLVED –  that the report is satisfactory.