Use of candles in a spa

[Chris Allis]

Thought I would throw this out to the forum - This concerns a spa ( beauty treatment place not the corner shop) located in a basement of a four storey building, single MOE to a fire exit minimum travel distance and protected with a 1 hour fire door separating the spa from the stairs to the exit with additional FD30s doors on each treatment room.
In order to create a relaxed and calming oasis to free the mind (not my words -the owners) candles are used prior to the treatment comencing.

Now, I'm a bit jittery when candles are mentioned especially in a workplace. However on interigating the staff they were very savvy on the procedure for lighting,using and snuffing out the tealight candles which were all enclosed in metal holders which were placed on a saucer away from any combustibles. Each room (there are two in total) is protected by a heat detector

I have suggested the removal of the candles in favour of the battery tea lights to reduce the risk with an alternative but was informed that its the aromatherapy heated wax that creates the calming atmosphere.

So, if the staff are vigilant concerning the use of the tealights which amounts to about three lit at a time would this be deemed acceptable?

Or, the best course of action would be to remove the candles totally to remove the risk.

Your thoughts would be apreciated... 

[Golden]

Assess the risk - the candles would be a source of ignition so what else is there to ignite and subsequently burn? If there is little additional fuel and the risk is well managed, with additional fire safety measures like AFD, then is it a problem?

If you inspect buildings like Victorian school buildings you'll often note the presence of candle holders, gas lamps and open fireplaces - they were not burning down that regularly!

[lancsfirepro]

You should see my local boozer; candles on every table and tea lights on every window and mantle in the place.  And one of the partners running the place used to work for the fire service.   

Anyway, my tuppence worth.... if the risk is managed and deemed important to the business then let them have their candles.

[Chris Allis]

Thanks for your comments guys,
I guess that it is down to the management of the premises to keep a check on staff using candles and as you say, if the area is free of combustible material then the candles can be used. Its great to have other opinions to stop the paranoia creeping in.
Incidently I was hoping that the candle total would be increased to four as i would love to use the two ronnies fork andles in a FRA document
Maybe next time!

[kurnal]

I would ensure a review is carried out if decorations are used at Christmas

[wee brian]

I think you register the hazard and say that safe use of candles should be part of the regular staff training and induction process.

[Chris Allis]

I totally agree wee brian, this is the route I have taken. The staff although very vigilant did not have any procedure to follow regarding the candles but are now addressing this including no christmas decorations in the treatment rooms (thanks Kurnal)