Fire Safety Adviser

My client is seeking an experienced Fire Safety Adviser to join their Fire Safety Services team, reporting directly to the Director. This role involves conducting detailed fire safety assessments and providing expert guidance to ensure the safety and compliance of various building types, including high-risk and complex structures.

• Fire Risk Assessments:
  Conduct comprehensive fire risk assessments using both intrusive and non-intrusive methods to evaluate fire hazards, fire alarms, suppression systems, fire doors, extinguishers, and escape routes. Assess potential risks to building structures, occupants, and hazardous materials.

• Regulatory Compliance:
  Identify areas of non-compliance with relevant regulations, including active and passive fire protection measures, and recommend suitable remedial actions to ensure adherence to standards.

• High-Risk Environments:
  Prioritise fire safety measures for high-risk settings such as industrial plants, high-occupancy buildings, and facilities with vulnerable occupants, such as care homes.

• Fire Load & Smoke Control:
  Assess fire load, smoke control systems, and risks associated with flammable materials or complex evacuation routes, particularly in high-rise or storage-intensive buildings.

• Design Review & Strategy:
  Evaluate and review designs for new and existing buildings, ensuring compliance with fire safety standards for both commercial and residential projects. Produce Fire Safety Strategy reports for planning and building control approval.

• Compartmentation & Escape Routes:
  Analyse fire compartmentation and escape routes to confirm adequate fire containment and safe evacuation provisions.

• Legislative Adherence:
  Ensure compliance with key legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, as well as relevant building regulations and codes.

• Evacuation Planning:
  Assist in developing evacuation strategies, collaborating with property managers, residents, and boards to ensure thorough understanding and effective implementation.

• Training & Drills:
  Conduct fire safety training sessions and coordinate fire drills, working with emergency services to enhance response strategies.

• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Liaise with local authorities, building control bodies, and fire services to ensure compliance and address fire safety enforcement actions.

• Material Evaluation:
  Assess construction materials for fire resistance, particularly cladding, insulation, and other exterior finishes, and recommend alternative solutions when necessary.

• Reporting & Monitoring:
  Produce comprehensive reports, including fire risk assessments, compartmentation surveys, compliance audits, and FRAEW reports, while maintaining clear records of site visits and actions.

• Site Inspections:
  Conduct inspections during construction, monitor remedial works, and advise site teams on maintaining fire safety compliance.

• Legislative Awareness:
  Stay informed about evolving fire safety standards and legislation, particularly for high-risk and complex buildings.

• Qualifications:
  CFPA European Diploma in Fire Prevention (or equivalent).

• Experience:
  Minimum 5 years of practical fire consultancy or audit services, with at least 18 months focused on complex buildings.

• Knowledge:
  Expertise in UK fire safety legislation, standards, and guidance, including:

  • Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
  • Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
  • Building Regulations (Approved Document B)
  • PAS9980, BS9999, BS9991, and BS5839 standards
  • HM Government and LACORS fire safety guidance
  • The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999

• Skills:
  Strong written and verbal communication, effective time management, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

• Technical Competence:
  Proficient in IT and software relevant to fire safety assessments and reporting.

• CPD Commitment:
  Evidence of ongoing professional development and awareness of emerging fire safety technology and legislation.

• Memberships:
  Membership with the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is desirable.

• Travel:
  Prepared to travel regularly across the South and South East and hold a full UK driving licence.

• Competitive salary tailored to experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and CPD.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Chance to work on a diverse portfolio of projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated fire safety professional to join a team that values expertise, collaboration, and the safety of clients and their properties.