Categorisation of fire safety management: Results of a Delphi Panel

Abstract

This paper exploits the concept of the Delphi Method where a panel of experts is drawn together to deliberate and decide on the subjective issue of ‘fire safety management’. The paper describes the process of setting up the Panel, presenting their credentials, results and conclusions. As their starting point, the Panel were presented with an existing model of fire safety management containing ten categories of fire safety management. They were asked to consider these categories to confirm or repudiate their relevance and their definition. The Panel's conclusions represent the collective subjective perception of individuals with relevant experience in the field of fire safety management.The research carries the potential to reduce the cost of fire by addressing the root cause of most structural fires; inadequate fire safety management. Linking statistical evidence gathered from fire incidents to each category regarding the characteristics of ignition and the type of property, would enable the creation of property profiles. Analysis of the profiles would enable predicting, forecasting and targeting of the most damaging profiles. This could result in efficiency savings, benefits to the community and the environment and allow the fire and rescue service to re-balance its reactive and proactive resources.