Understanding the classification of Essential Safety Measures (ESM) defects is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance in any building. Our technicians adhere to rigorous maintenance and testing procedures and any issues identified post-service. By clarifying these categories, we underscore the importance of addressing defects promptly to ensure the effectiveness of your safety systems and to mitigate risks associated with delays or neglect. For any queries regarding your building’s ESM status, the team at Linkfire is ready to assist.
Critical Defect: This means that the system is inoperative, it will not work and won’t perform as it is intended to do. In the event of a fire, the system will not retard the growth or spread of the fire. Action must be taken as soon as possible to ensure safety of occupants and legislative compliance. These are often penetrations in fire rated material, excessive gaps around fire doors, no water present, no power to Panels etc.
Non Critical Defect: The system is affected, and while it will operate in some capacity, it will not operate to it’s fullest ability. Not only does this mean ineffective coverage and safety, these sorts of defects can become critical very quickly. Timely action should be taken to ensure the system does not further degrade. An example of this status could be one or 2 emergency lights not working out of a larger group, a small leak in a sprinkler or pump (reduced pressure).
Non Conformance: The system or assets will work as they are intended, designed and installed, however there are parts of the system that don’t meet the testing / maintenance regimes 100%. While this is no threat to the technical operation of an asset, it includes things like no relevant signage on a fire door.
It cannot be understated, the importance of acting on any critical and non-critical defects in your building. Delay or ignoring these defects significantly increases the risk of injury, death, property damage and can impact insurance claims due to the lack of reasonable action and maintenance.
Talk to the team at Linkfire if you have any questions or concerns about the status of the Essential Safety Measures in place at your building.
