Management In Use Plans – Ensure your compliance with building codes, safety regulations and standards

Indeed, a Management in Use Plan is instrumental in enhancing occupant safety and ensuring the proper maintenance of emergency prevention equipment. It serves as a critical tool for building managers and operational staff when complying with building and safety regulations and standards. In this post, we delve into the key inclusions and requirements of a Management In Use Plan, as well as the significant benefits it offers.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Management In Use Plan?
2. What are the benefits of creating a Management In Use Plan?
3. When is a Management In Use Plan required?

What is a Management in use plan?

A Management in Use Plan serves as a comprehensive document that outlines specific maintenance recommendations for emergency prevention equipment in a building. The plan addresses various critical elements, including:

• Implementation of Suitable Policies and Procedures: It documents the policies and procedures related to emergency prevention equipment, ensuring they align with safety regulations and standards.
• Regular Maintenance and Servicing: The plan establishes a schedule for routine maintenance and servicing of appliances, alarm systems, plant, and equipment to ensure their continued functionality.
• Training in Safe Equipment Use: Training programs are included to educate building occupants and staff on the safe and proper use of the installed equipment, enhancing overall safety.
• Correct Storage Practices: Guidelines are provided for the proper storage of equipment and materials to prevent hazards and ensure quick access in emergency situations.
• Good Housekeeping Measures: The plan promotes practices such as reducing or removing excessive fuel loads, maintaining a clean and organised environment to minimise fire risks and hazards.

What ARE THE BENEFITS OF A CREATING A MANAGEMENT IN USE PLAN?

• Enhanced Safety: By promoting proper maintenance and training, the plan significantly enhances the safety of building occupants, reducing risks associated with fire and other emergencies.
• Compliance: It ensures compliance with building codes, regulations, and safety standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance and potential legal issues.
• Efficient Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing procedures specified in the plan help keep emergency prevention equipment in optimal working condition.
• Cost Savings: Proactive maintenance and safety measures can lead to cost savings by preventing costly emergency repairs and minimising damage in case of a fire.
• Peace of Mind: Building owners and managers can have peace of mind knowing that they have a structured plan in place to address safety and compliance issues effectively.

When is a MANAGEMENT IN USE PLAN required?

Performance Solutions are crucial in cases where a building’s design deviates from the prescribed provisions of the building code or Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions. These may relate to the structure, amenity, waterproofing, or fire safety. When compliance with the DTS Provisions is not feasible, not cost effective or competes with the design intent, a Performance Solution can provide an alternative methodology to achieve compliance.

A fire engineer report describes the design principles and Performance Solutions for a building regarding fire safety. The report typically contains an engineering assessment to address nominated departures from the Deemed-To-Satisfy (DTS) Provisions. Performance Solutions can relate to facilitating the evacuation of occupants from within a building; facilitating fire brigade intervention; or limiting the spread of fire from one building to another.

The Management in Use Plan complements the fire engineering report by providing a structured approach to maintain the integrity of the Performance Solutions, to ensure the alternative methodologies remain effective and in compliance with safety standards. This may include provisions for general occupant or emergency control organisation (ECO) training; or weekly management in use procedures to review alarm systems or paths to egress.

A well-structured Management in Use Plan is a fundamental component in ensuring the safety and compliance of a building. It provides clear guidance on maintenance and safety measures, reducing risks, and contributing to the overall well-being of occupants. With our inhouse specialists, First 5 Minutes can assist building owners, managers and occupiers in developing their Management In Use Plans to help ensure compliance with building fire and safety regulations and standards.

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