How to Approach Fire Safety in Historic Buildings
Like most buildings, historic or heritage sites require fire safety measures, but their age, materials, and design are what make them more vulnerable than modern structures. In the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) journal, fire was named the greatest single risk to cultural heritage sites in England.
For owners, managers, or custodians, understanding how to approach fire safety in historic buildings is essential.
In this blog post, we explore why fire protection for listed properties is different, what legal obligations exist, and practical strategies like upgrading fire doors of listed buildings.
What Makes Historic Buildings More Vulnerable to Fire Damage?
Features like timber beams, open voids, old plaster, thatched roofs, ornate wooden panelling, and original windows make historic sites more susceptible to fire damage because they often consist of combustible materials and lack the fire-resistant features found in contemporary buildings.
Additionally, older structures may not have modern fire-stopping measures, such as fire-retardant treatments, compartmentalisation, or updated electrical systems, which increases the speed at which fire can spread and the extent of the damage.
A report on the fire that ripped through Glasgow School of Art’s Mackintosh Building, a Grade A listed structure completed in 1909, identified the timber-lined walls and voids, along with the original ventilation ducts running both vertically and horizontally throughout the building, as key factors that contributed significantly to the rapid spread of the fire.
So what can be done to protect our historic sites?
Fire Protection for Heritage Sites
Many historic buildings are listed properties, meaning they are legally protected for their architectural or historic interest. Any intervention from major renovation down to replacing a door must balance safety improvements with preservation of character.
Following the Hampton Court fire, a detailed survey of electrical services and fire precautions was carried out at Windsor Castle, including Chester Tower. Amongst the fire prevention measures introduced were:
- Rewiring of the main castle buildings’ automatic fire detection system
- Installation of new fire-resistant doors in staircases and in corridors
- Upgrades of existing doors to provide fire resistance
While historic buildings have special legal protection, they must still comply with relevant legislation, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, if they are used for non-domestic purposes. This is where we can help.
Fire Risk Assessment
Begin with a fire risk assessment conducted by fire safety specialists who have experience in looking after historic buildings.
At FireCare, we look after what is said to be England’s oldest charitable institution, the Hospital of St Cross in Winchester, founded between 1132 and 1136.
Fire Safety Training
Fire safety training is essential for old buildings because of the unique risks and fragile materials that make fires harder to control and more damaging.
We offer two types of onsite fire safety training at FireCare: Basic fire awareness and fire warden and fire marshal training, tailored to meet the specific needs of buildings, including historic sites.
Fire Safety Equipment and Maintenance
We assess, supply, install and test several fire safety equipment, including fire alarms and extinguishers, all of which are necessities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order. We also specialise in emergency lighting, with a comprehensive range of systems for all building types.
Passive and Active Fire Protection Measures
Passive fire protection (PFP) is an essential part of ensuring the stability and integrity of a building in the event of a fire. PFP provides various systems to effectively reduce fire damage by limiting the passage of flames and smoke and reinforcing structural elements so they can withstand fire for extended periods of time.
Balancing Heritage and Safety
Approaching fire safety in historic buildings requires a tailored strategy that respects heritage while meeting legal obligations to protect life, property, and artefacts.
If you manage a historic site or own a listed property and want expert help with your fire safety needs, we can assist. When done well, fire protection need not compromise character; it can safeguard history. Contact us to discuss how to protect your piece of heritage today.