CHANGE OF RULES IN WAKE OF GRENFELL TRAGEDY

Following on from the Grenfell Tower tragedy last year that left 71 people dead, The Housing (Scotland) Act has had its 30 year old law amended. The changes were announced following a consultation of Fire and Smoke Alarms.

Currently in Scotland the rigorous fire standards are only applied to new build houses and to properties that are privately rented to tenants. The new law will see the rule being applied to existing properties, giving them the same level of protection as other properties.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said that; “Fires and fatalities from fires are decreasing but even one death is one too many. Scotland already has rigorous standards for smoke and fire alarms developed over time, with the highest standard currently applied to new-build and private rented housing.”

The amendments will also see rules about the maximum age of a smoke alarm, with them having to be replaced every 10 years, as well as all smoke alarms should be interlinked within a property.

After the laws have come into force, what does this mean for privately owned properties?

• They must have alarms fitted in the most frequently used rooms.
• Have at least 1 detector in communal areas such as hallways, landings, vestibules.
• Every kitchen must have a smoke and heat alarm
• All properties must be fitted with a carbon monoxide alarm.
• Alarms must be interlinked.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue (SFRS) service have welcomed the changes. Assistant Chief Officer David McGown said “The presence of working smoke and heat detectors have been proven to significantly reduce casualties and fatalities occurring as a result of fires within the home. The SFRS therefore welcome and support the next steps from this consultation which will undoubtedly improve home safety for all residents, regardless of tenure.”

If you are in any doubt about the standard that your smoke detection system, Electro-Tek are here to help. With years of experience in fitting and maintain Fire, Smoke and Heat alarms we can have your property up to standard in no time at all.
 

Read more here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-43443725