Will's Inns fire protection case study

Comprehensive services for a large hospitality firm

Customer background

Will's Inns manages a number of unique hospitality locations based in the Market Square of Uppingham: The Falcon, Don Paddy's and The Vaults. Over the course of over 20 years, these venues have built up an impressive range of services in this busy town set in the Rutland countryside:

• Hotel
• Self-catering rooms
• Restaurant
• Pub
• Cafe
• Event hosting

Fire protection requirements

The properties held by Will's Inns are set across five separate sites and have a number of basic requirements related to the fact they include commercial kitchens, overnight stays, and that there is a steady stream of customers using the facilities. We were tasked with fulfilling responsibilities for fire extinguishers, fire alarms, emergency lighting and signage; as well as providing a fire risk assessment and fire warden training.

Coordinating these responsibilities over numerous properties which operate independently, while maintaining a consistently first-class service is a key requirement in this relationship.

Legal and technical aspects

Our working practices reference the British Standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems (BS5306-3:2017) which ensures that all the properties reach a high standard which is both safe for all users and compliant with latest regulations. Working with fire alarms is also considered similarly and must meet the standard set in BS5839-1:2017.

In carrying out our Fire Risk Assessment we follow a process which has been made to fulfil the requirements set out with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Working relationship

We have enjoyed a working relationship with James Torbell (Managing Director at Will's Inns) for over 14 years now. This commitment means that nothing is forgotten and there is a real attention to detail in the fire protection strategy at each of these three venues.

All of our visits are planned ahead so that they can fit in with the busy schedule at each business, and we understand that keeping things organised helps operations run smooth in the hospitality industry. We also understand that being flexible and being able to attend urgent fire alarm callouts quickly is a vital part of any fire protection plan which works with so many customers and tight schedules.

Our Fire Risk Assessment specialist has often been available to advise regarding changes to the facilities also, meaning that management can quickly make decisions without waiting for outside input.