it made recommendations for fire alarm system and there was no emergency lighting at all (both now all done). There were no inspections on the electrical installation. Recommendations to improve the gaps between the doors in the communal areas or replace them. But now this has been discussed about removing one set of doors. I can get it sometime but not at this moment.
I think in light of a fire alarm being installed there are too many issues here without having more detailed information. What I think you need to determine is what was the benchmark in respect of fire resistance, lobbies and the internal layout of the flats at the time of construction?
How far removed are the current fire resistance levels from that benchmark and have the conditions made it worse and increased the risk i.e. the installation of a common fire alarm indicating full evacuation.
Where the blocks designed to support a stay put policy and is that still achievable?
What is the maximum travel distance from the furthest flat to a protected lobby or the stair? Is this in line with the existing standard or current standards (7.5m) depending on if the stair is ventilated?
It would not be appropriate to try to bring the premises up to current building regs standards but any recommendations should be proportionate to the risks presented.
It is likely that the premises would have been constructed to CP3 chapter IV part 1 and this standard would have advocated a stay put policy. It would also have required flats to have an internal entrance lobby with doors to the lounge, kitchen and bedrooms being fire doors.
Once you have formed an assessment of the above you should be able to determine if the removal of the doors in question is acceptable.
