A fire strategy plan is a document that explains how fire safety is achieved in a building. It sets out the construction, fire compartments, escape routes, detection systems, suppression measures, and the management procedures needed to keep the premises safe.
A fire safety strategy ensures the building is fit for its intended use and complies with UK Building Regulations. Approved Documents provide guidance on how to achieve this, but they are not legally enforceable. In some cases, other approaches may be used, such as BS 9999: Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings or a performance-based fire engineered solution.
Is a fire strategy plan a legal requirement?
Yes, in many cases it is. When a building is built, extended, or changes use, Regulation 38 of the Building Regulations requires building owners to prepare fire safety information for the Responsible Person. A fire strategy dcoument is the best way to provide this information.
Unfortunately, this information is not always supplied. After Grenfell, the Hackitt Review: Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety highlighted the need for better fire safety documentation. Many building owners now commission retrospective fire strategy plans to fill the gap and keep their buildings compliant.
How does a fire safety strategy support resilience?
A building fire plan not only helps demonstrate compliance but also strengthens business continuity. By assessing how fire may spread and identifying the right protections, it reduces risk and limits disruption.
In addition, a clear strategy helps companies recover faster after fire, flood, or other emergencies. As a result, it protects staff, operations, and assets while giving reassurance to insurers and stakeholders.
What does a fire strategy cover?
A comprehensive fire safety strategy will include:
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Warning and detection – fire alarm systems (BS 5839) and whether they link to an alarm receiving centre.
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Automatic actions – systems that ensure fire doors release correctly, security doors fail safe, and ventilation prevents smoke spread.
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Escape provisions – travel distances, protected routes, exit capacity, and whether routes lead to ultimate safety.
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Lighting and signage – compliance with BS 5266, evacuation plans, and wayfinding signs.
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Passive fire protection – compartmentation (fire-resisting walls and doors), fire doors, service penetrations, and surface finishes.
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External fire spread – risks from cladding, roofing, or heat transfer to neighbouring buildings.
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Fire and rescue facilities – hydrants, vehicle access, rising mains, firefighting lifts, and entrances.
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Suppression systems – sprinklers, gas suppression, and smoke control systems.
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Management – evacuation strategy, staff training, and maintenance schedules.
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Policies – fire door checks, hot works permits, and contractor management.
For example, in a school, the strategy might highlight protected stairwells for safe evacuation. On the other hand, in a warehouse, it may focus more on compartment sizes and suppression systems.
Who should prepare a fire strategy document?
A fire strategy should always be created by competent professionals.
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For straightforward premises, a fire consultant or fire risk assessor can prepare the plan.
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For complex buildings using BS 9999 or BS 9991, a fire engineer should take the lead.
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For fully engineered performance-based solutions, a chartered fire engineer is recommended.
Therefore, the key is ensuring that the consultant or engineer has the right experience to deliver regulator-ready documents.
Conclusion
A fire strategy plan is vital for compliance, safety, and resilience. It ensures building owners meet their legal duties, provides the Responsible Person with clear guidance, and safeguards staff and occupants.
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we prepare fire strategy plans for residential, commercial, healthcare, education, and industrial buildings across the UK. Our fire engineers deliver clear, proportionate solutions that are regulator-ready and cost-effective.
In conclusion, a fire safety strategy is not just paperwork. It is a practical tool that protects lives, reduces risk, and keeps organisations compliant.
Contact us today to discuss how a fire strategy plan can protect your building and give you peace of mind.
