Julie Saunders, Head of Fire Safety at The FirstPort Group
Fire safety is one of the most important responsibilities we have as Property Managers. Our goal is simple yet vital: to ensure the ongoing safety of residents by proactively and collaboratively managing fire risks across all developments in our care.
As Head of Fire Safety at FirstPort, my team’s role is to ensure that our approach is always aligned with the latest legislation, guidance, and best practices. We provide our Property Managers with the right tools, information, and support to identify and mitigate fire risks effectively helping them to maintain safe communities for all residents.
Navigating a complex legal landscape
The legal and regulatory framework around fire safety is extensive and continually evolving. We operate within the parameters of several key pieces of legislation, including The Fire Safety Act, The Building Safety Act, The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.
In addition, we work in line with numerous codes of practice and industry standards. Compliance with these laws isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it informs every aspect of our fire safety strategy.
Collaboration with external experts is key. We work closely with key stakeholders such as local Fire and Rescue Services and relevant local authorities to ensure our fire safety practices reflect both national requirements and local conditions. These partnerships help us stay informed, adaptable, and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve.
Regulation shaping our response in action
One example where regulations have shaped our operational response is fire doors. Often referred to as the ‘weakest link’ in fire safety, fire doors play a critical role in containing the spread of fire and smoke. Ensuring that these doors are suitable, properly maintained, and regularly checked is essential.
Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, there is now a legal requirement to carry out and document fire door checks in all buildings over 11 metres in height. This includes quarterly inspections of all communal fire doors, and annual inspections of all individual flat entrance doors using best endeavours
These checks can represent a significant logistical challenge—especially in larger developments—but it is one that our fire safety teams expertly manage. We oversee the process from start to finish, ensuring that inspections are timely, records are meticulous, and any necessary follow-up actions are swiftly implemented through comprehensive action plans.
Supporting Resident Management Companies (RMCs)
Another important element of our work is supporting the Resident Management Company (RMC) Directors. These individuals carry significant responsibilities, particularly in developments that are classed as high-rise or high-risk where they are considered the ‘Responsible Person’
To support them effectively, we have distinct expertise across the business in fire safety, building safety and health & safety compliance. All working collaboratively with our customer facing colleagues who work hand in hand with RMC Directors, to create a consistent culture of vigilance, accountability, and proactive risk management—ensuring that a ‘safety first’ mindset is embedded into the daily operations of a development, and reassurance to RMC Directors that they are operating within the legislative boundaries and be prepared for any formal audits or inspections.
Prioritising fire safety
Ultimately, our mission is to always ensure fire safety remains at the top of the agenda. By staying at the forefront of legislative changes, investing in training, and ensuring strong communication between all stakeholders, we are driving forward a proactive and robust approach to fire safety.
Looking for a property management partner you can rely on? Get in touch today to find out how FirstPort can support you.
firstport.co.uk | 01582 393756
