§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the estimated cost is of damage caused by fires at schools for each of the last five years for which figures are available; and if she will make a statement. [64303]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisThe Department does not collect this information.
§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will estimate how many schools have been fitted with fire sprinkler systems; what percentage of schools this represents; and if she will make a statement. [64302]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisThe Department does not collect data on fire sprinkler systems.
14WIf a fire should happen in a school, the Department's primary concern is the safety of pupils, teachers and other users. Regulation 17 of the Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999 requires that every part of a school building, and of the land provided for a school, shall be such that the safe escape of the occupants in case of fire is reasonably assured. Schools are also covered by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, and subsequent regulations. These include aspects of fire safety.
To help schools manage fire safety, the Department published Managing School Facilities Guide 6, "Fire Safety", in 2000. This offers guidance on how to minimise the risk of fire, including identifying hazards and carrying out risk assessments. It also gives advice on training and on fire detection and alarm systems.