The Importance of Waking Watch: Ensuring Safety in Residential Buildings

As someone who has worked in the property management industry for several years, I understand the importance of ensuring the safety of residential buildings. One of the most critical measures to take in this regard is the implementation of a waking watch. In this article, I will discuss what a waking watch is, why it is essential for residential buildings, the regulatory landscape for waking watch, waking watch costs and potential alternatives, how to assess and plan for waking watch, waking watch vs. fire alarm systems, case studies of successful waking watch implementation, and how to find and hire a reputable waking watch service.

Introduction to Waking Watch

A waking watch is a measure taken to ensure the safety of residents in a building in case of fire. It involves deploying trained personnel to patrol the building and watch out for any signs of fire, such as smoke or flames. The personnel are typically stationed at strategic points within the building, such as stairwells or corridors, and are equipped with appropriate firefighting equipment. They are also responsible for alerting residents in case of a fire emergency.

What is a Waking Watch and How Does It Work?

A waking watch is a temporary measure that is usually implemented in residential buildings that have been identified as having insufficient fire safety measures. It involves deploying trained personnel who are tasked with monitoring the building and alerting residents in case of fire. The personnel are typically stationed at strategic points within the building and are equipped with firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets.

In addition to monitoring the building, waking watch personnel also perform regular checks to ensure that fire doors are kept closed, escape routes are clear, and other fire safety measures are in place. They also work closely with the building management team to ensure that the building is adhering to fire safety regulations.

Successful Waking Watch Implementation

One such building is the Northpoint Tower in Bromley, which implemented a waking watch in 2018. The building had been identified as having insufficient fire safety measures, and the waking watch was deployed as a temporary measure while the building underwent refurbishment.

The waking watch was successful in detecting a small fire in the building, which was quickly extinguished. The personnel were also praised for their professionalism and their ability to manage the evacuation of the building.

How to Find and Hire a Reputable Waking Watch Service

Finding and hiring a reputable waking watch service requires careful consideration. It is essential to work with a provider who has experience in deploying personnel in residential buildings and who has a thorough understanding of fire safety regulations.

When selecting a waking watch provider, it is important to ask for references and to check their credentials. It is also important to ensure that the provider has appropriate insurance in place, as well as a robust health and safety policy.

Next Steps for Ensuring Safety in Residential Buildings

In conclusion, waking watch is an important measure for ensuring the safety of residential buildings. However, it is essential to ensure that it is implemented correctly and in conjunction with appropriate fire safety measures.

To ensure the safety of residents in residential buildings, it is essential to carry out regular fire risk assessments, stay up-to-date with fire safety regulations, and work with reputable waking watch providers. By taking these steps, we can help to prevent fires and protect the lives of those who reside in these buildings.

Strangford Management have experience working with large residential and mixed (commercial and residential) buildings across London and the South East of England, where a waking watch has been used effectively whilst new fire alarm systems or whilst a building has been refurbished. We would be happy to speak to any Landlord that believes this is required in their building, to provide you with some free advice and perhaps some confidence in your decisions surrounding a waking watch implementation.