Archive storage facilities present some of the most challenging fire safety environments in the UK. Whether housing corporate records, museum archives, legal documents, or heritage collections, these facilities are often filled with highly combustible materials arranged in dense, confined layouts.
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we provide specialist fire safety consultancy for archive storage across the UK. Our role is to protect both compliance and the irreplaceable value of stored assets.
Why archive storage is high-risk
Unlike general storage, archives often contain large volumes of paper, card, or textiles, all of which have a high fuel load and burn quickly. Shelving layouts can create narrow aisles and restricted access for firefighting, while basement or warehouse settings introduce additional evacuation and ventilation challenges.
Fires in archive facilities can cause catastrophic damage — not only to the building, but also to the records or collections that may hold legal, financial, or cultural importance. For this reason, archive fire safety strategies must go beyond the minimum standards.
Key fire safety risks in archive storage
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High fuel load – shelves of paper and card provide continuous fuel.
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Rapid fire spread – dense layouts enable flames and smoke to travel quickly.
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Restricted firefighting access – narrow aisles and compact spaces limit response.
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Smoke and heat damage – even where flames don’t reach, smoke can ruin records.
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Evacuation challenges – staff and visitors may have limited routes out of basements or large warehouses.
Fire safety measures for archive environments
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we provide tailored fire safety solutions for archives, including:
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Fire risk assessments specific to archive environments, in line with the Fire Safety Order 2005
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Compartmentation surveys to confirm walls, ceilings, and floors will restrict fire spread
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Fire door surveys to protect escape routes and storage zones
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Fire detection and alarm reviews (BS 5839) to ensure early warning
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Emergency lighting checks (BS 5266) to support evacuation
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Suppression system design advice, including sprinklers and gas suppression systems
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Storage recommendations, including spacing, shelving materials, and housekeeping
Standards and compliance
We align our work with:
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Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
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BS 5839-1: fire detection and alarm systems
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BS 5266-1: emergency lighting
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BS EN 12845: sprinkler systems
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PD 7974 series: performance-based fire engineering
The benefits of archive fire safety consultancy
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Protect irreplaceable assets from fire damage
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Demonstrate compliance with UK fire safety regulations
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Provide reassurance for insurers and stakeholders
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Reduce the likelihood of enforcement or costly remedials
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Safeguard staff, visitors, and contractors who work in archive environments
Conclusion
Fire safety in archive storage is about protecting the irreplaceable. J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants deliver specialist strategies that balance compliance, practicality, and asset preservation. From compartmentation surveys to fire suppression system design, we help ensure that archives remain safe, secure, and compliant.
