Barbican Estate fire safety
The safety of residents is of paramount importance to the City of London Corporation.
As the Accountable Person under the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA2022), we have a legal duty to identify, assess and manage building safety risks – with fire safety as a priority.
Fire and Electrical Safety Systems
We operate an ongoing electrical safety programme, which includes routine testing of communal electrical systems, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Our dedicated fire safety contractor, Sureserve, routinely inspects and tests fire safety systems across the estate to ensure they remain compliant and fully operational.
Firefighting and evacuation lifts are subject to statutory monthly checks.
Fire risk assessments
Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) are carried out for every block and updated regularly. You can find these on the Barbican Estate Fire Risk Assessment webpage.
We are reviewing and updating Premises-Specific Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRAs) to ensure block-level risks are fully identified and addressed.
We are also updating our approach to Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) to provide better support for vulnerable residents.
Fire signage and safety notices
An estate-wide fire signage project is underway to ensure all safety signs are consistent and clear.
We are also carrying out a full review and replacement of SIBS/PIBS notices (Stay in Building / Partial in Building Stay) to make sure instructions are up to date and easy to understand.
Review and improvements
- A new Head of Resident Services will take up post in October 2025. Together with the team, we will review resident fire safety information and strengthen how we communicate and engage on these issues.
- Many of the notices and advice currently in place were written before BSA 2022. We recognise the need for clearer, more consistent information and will be rolling out improvements over the coming months.
- The following information and resources (available below) will be reviewed and renewed:
- Barbican Fire Safety Leaflet
- Fire Safety Protocol
- Barbican Emergency Services Points and Procedures
- Fire Safety FAQs
Fire escape routes
- Escape routes are clearly signposted and emergency lighting is tested regularly.
- We encourage all residents to familiarise themselves with escape routes from their block. If you are unsure, please contact the Barbican Estate Office and a member of staff will be happy to show you.
What to do in the event of fire
The London Fire Brigade advises that in high-rise buildings residents are usually safer staying in their home unless smoke or fire directly affects them. If your property is affected and it is safe to do so, you should leave immediately.
If a fire breaks out in your home:
- Alert everyone inside.
- Leave immediately, shutting all doors behind you (do not lock them).
- If possible, alert your neighbours.
- Call 999 once safely outside.
- If safe, wait at the building entrance for the fire service and stop others from entering.
The London Fire Brigade has specific advice for tenants in flats and fire safety at home guidance. Contact them directly for details.