Fire safety in schools is a critical responsibility for headteachers, business managers, and estates teams. With strict regulations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the safety of pupils and staff at stake, schools across the UK are investing heavily in fire safety upgrades. But what many schools don’t realise is that a lack of strategic planning often leads to unnecessary costs — especially when it comes to fire doors.
Why Schools Are Overspending on Fire Doors
Fire doors play a vital role in protecting escape routes and containing smoke and fire during an emergency. However, not every door in a school building needs to be a fire door. Without a clear fire strategy plan, schools often replace or upgrade doors unnecessarily, spending thousands of pounds on works that may not be required for compliance or safety.
This overspend typically happens because decisions about fire safety works are made reactively — often after a fire risk assessment raises concerns — without the full context of the building’s compartmentation strategy.
The Role of a Fire Strategy Plan
A fire strategy plan is a detailed document that sets out how fire safety measures within a building work together to protect occupants. For schools, it identifies:
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Which walls and doors form part of fire-resistant compartments
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Where fire doors are genuinely needed
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How escape routes and fire safety systems work together
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Where schools can focus spending for maximum impact
By having this information upfront, schools can plan works efficiently, avoid unnecessary upgrades, and remain fully compliant with the law.
Key Benefits for Schools
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Significant cost savings – A fire strategy plan ensures schools only invest in essential fire safety works, avoiding wasteful spending on unnecessary fire doors or compartmentation upgrades.
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Regulatory compliance – Aligns with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and other fire safety guidance.
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Improved safety – Gives headteachers and estates teams confidence that pupils, staff, and visitors are protected in line with best practice.
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Long-term planning – Helps schools budget more effectively for future fire safety projects.
How J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants Can Help
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we work with schools and educational providers across the UK to deliver:
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Fire strategy plans for new builds, refurbishments, and legacy school buildings
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Compartmentation assessments and fire door surveys
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Fire risk assessments tailored to the unique needs of educational settings
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Ongoing fire safety consultancy and compliance reviews
Our approach has already saved schools thousands of pounds while ensuring full compliance and peace of mind.
Take the First Step Towards Cost-Effective Fire Safety
If your school is considering fire safety upgrades, a fire strategy plan could save you money and ensure every pound spent goes towards essential improvements.
Contact J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants today to learn how we can support your school with a cost-effective fire safety strategy that protects both your budget and your building.