Fire and safety
Fire safety standards
The Scottish Government voted to change fire safety laws from 2022 to raise the standard of fire detection in homes following the Grenfell tragedy in 2017. These laws mean that heat, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be installed where they are required in specified rooms.
The fire detection systems in our homes can be categorised into LD1 and LD2 under the British Standard BS 5839-6. Grade LD1 systems offer the maximum level of protection, with detection in all areas of a property where a fire could start and is often specified in high risk residential properties such as care homes. Grade LD2 specification provides detection within escape routes and high risk areas including hallways, landings, kitchens and living rooms. All alarms fitted will be interlinked.
Communal areas
A range of fire systems are installed within communal areas including fire detection, emergency lighting and on some occasions, smoke vents. These systems ensure the early detection of heat or smoke as well as assisting safe evacuation in the event of a fire.
Free fire safety check
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website provides information on the home fire safety visits carried out by them. During a visit, they will identify potential fire risks in your home, provide information about escape plans and offer advice on testing of smoke alarms.
To request a visit, you can complete their online Home Fire Safety Questionnaire which helps to assess the level of risk within your home. At the end of the questionnaire, and if you are eligible, you will be offered an in-person visit.
Best practice in your home
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service offers practical advice and guidance on fire safety measures within your home and how you can reduce the changes of fire. The guidance can be found here.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also offer practical advice and guidance on the specific risks pertaining to lithium-ion batteries. Further guidance on how to buy, charge, dispose and recycle these batteries can be found here.
Who do I contact if I have any queries?
If your query relates to a fault, you can log these by emailing repairs@albynhousing.org.uk or by calling us on 0300 323 0990 and select option 1 for repairs.
For any enquiries not relating to repairs, you can email us at compliance@albynhousing.org.uk and a member of the team will get back to you within 3 working days.