Role of automatic fire suppression systems recognised in new Govt report
The House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee has called for greater attention to fire safety in prisons, recognising the important role automatic water-based fire suppression systems can play in protecting vulnerable prisoners and prison staff.
Its report, Fire Safety in Prisons, published this week, highlights concerns about the current approach to fire protection across the prison estate, including the limitations of relying on manually deployed suppression systems.
The findings have been welcomed by the BAFSA - British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association following evidence presented to the Committee in June by representatives from the fire protection sector.
The evidence was provided by BAFSA Chief Executive, Ali Perry, alongside Richard Cebreiro, Chair of BAFSA's Technical Committee, and Derek Killaspy, Managing Director of Fireworks Fire Protection Ltd.
Their contribution highlighted how automatic water-based fire suppression systems can provide vital protection, particularly for people who may be unable to evacuate independently in the event of a fire. The systems can also help protect prison staff responsible for the safety and welfare of those in their care.
A key concern raised in the Committee's report is the lack of automatic water mist systems across the prison estate, with the vast majority of prisons reportedly not benefiting from this technology. The Committee's recognition of the limitations of manually operated suppression systems represents an important step forward in the wider discussion around fire safety in custodial settings.
Ali Perry says the findings were a significant recognition of the evidence presented and the contribution automatic fire suppression can make as part of a comprehensive, risk-based approach to fire safety.
"I am proud of the contribution we have made through BAFSA, working alongside others in the sector, to bring greater attention to this important issue. The challenge now is to turn the Committee's findings into action, ensuring that automatic water-based fire suppression is properly considered and, where appropriate, implemented to provide greater protection for vulnerable people in custody and the staff who care for them."
The report is expected to provide an important reference point for future discussions about improving fire protection standards across the prison estate. BAFSA has thanked Lord Foster and members of the House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee for considering the evidence, as well as Richard Cebreiro and Derek Killaspy for their contributions.