Fire safety

Fire Safety

BSR is aware that fire safety is a key concern for communities when battery storage facilities are proposed. BSR takes its responsibility for the health and safety of its sites incredibly seriously and is exploring the mitigations necessary to ensure the site’s long-term safety.

In light of the new guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), BSR has taken proactive steps to update its initial designs to reflect the changes.

The overall changes from the NFCC which BSR is now implementing across its proposals are:

  • A comprehensive risk management process undertaken by BESS operators, identifying specific hazards and risks, and developing, implementing, maintaining, and reviewing risk controls.
  • A robust Emergency Response Plan.
  • A minimum of 6 meters between units to act as a fire barrier.
  • Sufficient water supply to deal with a potential fire safely and effectively, with mitigations to the environmental impact of any run-off. Local fire and rescue services would be consulted regarding water volumes and flow rates.
  • A combination of fire suppression systems will be implemented, drawing from lessons learned in the wider industry.

BSR has engaged Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to discuss the proposal and we will continue to work with them to ensure the design is suitable and safe. We are confident that our designs are in line with National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) guidance.