Essential Safety Measures (ESMs) are safety features required in a building or place of public entertainment to protect occupants in the event of a fire. The term “essential safety measure” is defined in Part 15 of the Building Regulations 2018.

Yes. ESMs are essential because they keep occupants safe in emergencies such as fires, giving people time to exit safely and reducing potential harm. They are also a legal requirement for most buildings, ensuring that critical safety systems work when needed.

Building owners are legally obligated to maintain ESMs. Failure to do so can lead to fines, legal action, or even voided insurance coverage.

The frequency of inspections and servicing depends on the type of Essential Safety Measure. Requirements range from:

• Monthly
• 3-Monthly
• 6-Monthly
• Annually
• Every 5 years
• Every 10 years
• Every 25 years

Regular servicing is vital to remain compliant and to ensure all safety systems function properly in an emergency.

Yes. Common examples of ESMs include:

• Air handling systems (used for smoke hazard management)

• Exit doors

• Emergency lighting

• Emergency power supply

• Emergency warning systems

• Exit signs

• Fire control centres

• Fire doors

• Fire extinguishers

• Fire detection and alarm systems

• Fire hydrants

• Fire-isolated stairs

• Fire-rated materials

• Fire windows

• Mechanical ventilation (including cooling towers or hot/warm water systems)

• Fire-isolated passageways and ramps

• Paths of travel to exits

• Smoke alarms

• Smoke control systems

• Sprinkler systems