§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what information he has on the number of fires, requiring the calling of the fire service or otherwise
Hospitals 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 Number of fires 2,416 2,296 2,223 2,308 2,146 Confined to items first ignited 1,653 1,572 1,563 1,634 1,544 Spread beyond item first ignited but confined to room, compartment or area of origin 714 699 633 655 580 Spread beyond room, etc 43 23 27 19 22 Number of deaths 7 2 2 3 3 Number of casualties 80 97 76 102 55
§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received over fire safety arrangements in hospitals, including doctors and nurses accommodation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellMy right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State has received one letter about fire safety arrangements in hospital premises. The National Health Service management executive is in routine contact with staff of health authorities on specific issues of fire safety in health care premises. Health authorities are required to observe fire safety legislation and the provisions of the building regulations which also set standards for structural fire precautions and means of escape.
Home Office guidance established the criteria for fire precautions in existing hospitals and "Firecode" published by the Department established specific criteria for new health buildings. Most hostel-type accommodation occupied by doctors and nurses is treated as "houses in multiple occupation" under the Housing Act 1985 as amended by the Local Govermnment and Housing Act 1989. Following loss of Crown immunity enforcement will be the responsibility of the local housing authority.