Houses in Multiple Occupation fire safety guidance

Hostel type accommodation may vary greatly in its size and complexity, ranging from small 'Supported Lodgings' schemes to large direct access hostels having over 50 bedrooms.

It is therefore difficult to specify standard fire protection schemes and as such each case must be assessed individually in consultation with Cleveland Fire Brigade

For this reason, the guidance provided is for illustration purposes only

In general, hostels of 3 or more storeys having up to 10 occupants will require an automatic fire detection and warning system in accordance with the latest edition of British Standard 5839: part 1 and part 6.

Larger Hostels will, in most cases require a more sophisticated system.

In all cases the communal escape routes must be made a protected escape route by fitting 30 minute fire resisting self closing doors to all adjoining risk rooms in accordance with the latest edition of British Standard 476 Part 22.

Communal kitchens must be provided with fire blankets. Additional fire extinguishers may also be required at appropriate locations throughout the building.

Under the Fire Safety Order 2005, the owner/occupier/employer (responsible person) is required to carry out a suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessment of their premises for the safety of all persons legally allowed into, or on their premises.

A Fire Risk Assessment must be carried out if:

• you are responsible for managing the common-access areas of a HMO

A Fire Risk Assessment assesses the fire risks, the protective and preventative measures and processes/procedures in force in premises against established standards. The assessment identifies necessary controlling measures to remove or reduce risk to an acceptable level and produces an action plan for compliance and it should assess the following:

• fire detection systems
• fire exits, escape route and evacuation strategies
• travel distances and occupancy factors
• emergency lighting systems
• fire signage
• sprinkler systems
• smoke control and ventilation systems
• fire safety training provision
• testing and maintenance schedules

More detailed information can be found in the government's fire safety risk assessment: sleeping accommodation.

The specific advice of Cleveland Fire Brigade and The Private Sector Housing team should always be sought before carrying out fire protection work to any hostel type accommodation.