Lorely Burt MP calls for sprinkler systems to protect against fire damage in schools
June 12, 2006 12:00 AM
Following the recent severe fire damage to Light Hall School, Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt is backing the call of the West Midlands Fire Service for a mandatory requirement for the installation of sprinklers in all new schools and major refreshments.
"When I visited Light Hall School and saw the extent of the fire damage and the disruption to school activities, it made me realise just how important it is for schools and children to be protected against fire.
"Sprinklers could be installed for less than 1% of the school build cost, and even cost neutral in some cases. Bearing in mind that more than 2000 schools are damaged by fire each year at an estimated cost of £100 million to local education authorities, it is simply common sense to install sprinklers. The reduction in insurance premiums would very quickly cover installation costs and then free up extra money to be spent on our children's education.
"I have signed up to the campaign of the National Governors' Association and the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority for new guidelines on School Design to include a mandatory requirement for sprinklers in new build. The matter is under active consideration by the Minister, and I am hopeful of a favourable outcome when new School Design guidelines are published in the autumn.
" This could save millions of pounds and untold disruption to schools and pupils in Solihull over future years," added Lorely.
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