A Retrospective Fire Strategy Report, or Retrospective Fire Strategies, are a detailed technical report assessing a building’s fire safety measures and infrastructure, conducted post construction or after major modifications. The purpose of the report is to to ensure compliance with current fire safety regulations and best practices. Unlike a proactive fire strategy, developed during the design/construction phase, a retrospective report evaluates existing conditions and identifies any gaps or necessary improvements.
Key Components of a Retrospective Fire Strategy Report:
-
Building Overview
-
Description of the building (age, construction type, occupancy, use etc.).
-
Review of original fire safety design (if available).
-
-
Compliance Assessment
-
Comparison against current fire safety standards (e.g., 2010 Part B Building Regs, BS 9999, local building codes).
-
Identification of non-compliant elements (e.g., inadequate escape routes, missing fire doors).
-
-
Fire Risk Evaluation
-
Analysis of fire hazards (electrical systems, flammable materials, occupancy risks).
-
Assessment of passive (compartmentation, fire-resistant materials) and active (sprinklers, alarms) fire protection.
-
-
Evacuation & Escape Routes
-
Review of emergency exits, signage, and lighting.
-
Evaluation of evacuation procedures and refuge areas (if applicable).
-
-
Fire Detection & Suppression Systems
-
Inspection of alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, and extinguishers.
-
Verification of maintenance records and functionality.
-
-
Management & Maintenance Practices
-
Review of fire safety training, drills, and record-keeping.
-
Assessment of maintenance schedules for fire safety systems.
-
-
Recommendations & Remedial Actions
-
Prioritised list of upgrades (e.g., additional fire doors, improved alarms).
-
Suggested timelines and cost estimates for improvements.
-
When Is It Needed?
-
After significant building modifications.
-
Following changes in occupancy or use.
-
If fire safety concerns arise (e.g., after an incident or inspection failure).
-
To meet updated legal requirements (e.g., post-Grenfell reforms).
Who Prepares It?
Only a suitably qualified fire safety consultant or fire engineer should carry out a Retrospective Fire Strategy Report.
Outcome:
The report helps building owners/managers ensure safety, avoid legal penalties, and protect occupants. In some instances it may be required for insurance compliance.
More information on fire strategy reports can be found here:
https://www.londonfireassocaites.co.uk
