Care homes face some of the highest fire safety risks of any building type. With vulnerable residents, 24-hour occupancy, and complex layouts, the stakes are exceptionally high.
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we provide tailored fire safety solutions for care homes across the UK. Our role is to ensure residents, staff, and visitors are protected while operators remain fully compliant with fire safety legislation.
Fire risks in care homes
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Mobility limitations – many residents require assistance to evacuate.
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Cognitive impairments – dementia and similar conditions affect response to alarms.
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Sleeping risk – with round-the-clock occupancy, many residents are asleep during the night.
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Complex layouts – compartmentation, communal spaces, and bedrooms require detailed fire strategy planning.
Fire safety requirements in care homes
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places duties on the Responsible Person, usually the care home operator, to ensure fire safety risks are managed. In addition, HTM 05-03 Part B provides specific fire safety guidance for healthcare premises, including care homes.
Our services for care homes
J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants provide:
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Fire risk assessments tailored to care environments
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Fire strategy plans for new builds, refurbishments, or conversions
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Compartmentation and fire door surveys to confirm escape routes remain protected
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Fire alarm and emergency lighting compliance checks (BS 5839, BS 5266)
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Evacuation strategy development, including progressive horizontal evacuation (PHE)
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Staff fire safety training and drills tailored to vulnerable occupants
Best practice fire safety measures in care homes
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Progressive horizontal evacuation – moving residents in stages to adjacent compartments.
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Automatic fire detection – early warning systems to give staff maximum response time.
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Compartmentation – fire-resisting walls and doors to contain fire and smoke.
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Emergency lighting – ensuring residents and staff can move safely even during power loss.
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Clear documentation – logbooks, staff training records, and risk assessment evidence.
Benefits of fire safety consultancy for care homes
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Enhanced safety for vulnerable residents and staff
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Full compliance with the Fire Safety Order and HTM guidance
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Reassurance for regulators, families, and insurers
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Reduced likelihood of enforcement action or costly remedials
Conclusion
Fire safety in care homes requires expertise, sensitivity, and proportionate planning. J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants provide comprehensive support, from fire risk assessments to staff training, ensuring operators meet their duties while keeping residents safe.
