Building and Fire Safety

Building Safety in Queen Mary Halls

The Building Safety Act 2022 is a piece of legislation enacted in England and Wales to address systematic issues identified in building safety following the Grenfell Tower Fire in 2017. It aims to ensure greater accountability and responsibility for fire and structural safety issues throughout the lifecycle of a building. Key provisions include mandatory safety checks, clearer accountability for building owners and developers, and enhanced resident engagement in the safety process.

At Queen Mary we have robust protocols to safeguard residents underpinned by this legislation which mandates regular inspections, prompt resolution of safety concerns, and transparent communications with residents. This underscores our commitment to your well-being and peace of mind. If you have any concerns about fire or structural safety in our halls, you should send them to the Residential Feedback email.

Resident Engagement Strategy

We have a Resident Engagement Strategy, which has been developed to deliver three key aims:

·         To engage with our residents on matters around building and fire safety

·         To give our residents relevant information on staying safe

·         To empower our residents to be proactive and help us keep everyone safe

You will be given a digital copy of this document at the beginning of your licence agreement. A copy of the Resident Engagement Strategy for Queen Mary owned halls, can also be downloaded using the link below:

Resident Engagement Strategy [PDF 135KB]

If you live in Aspire Point or Sherren House, you can download the Resident Engagement Strategy for your building below:

Aspire Point Resident Engagement Strategy [PDF 843KB]

Sherren House Resident Engagement Strategy.pdf [PDF 195KB]

Fire Safety Guidance for Residents

Fire safety awareness in halls is very important, The Queen Mary Fire Safety Video 'Get Out, Stay Out, Stay Safe' provides an overview of basic fire awareness and information on how to minimise the risks and dangers of fire.

You can find more information and guidance on Fire Safety in the Fire Safety Guidance for Residents leaflet and the Residents' Handbook. You should familiarise yourself with this information, and note your responsibilities as a member of the halls community in ensuring fire safety.

Fire Safety Guidance for Residents [PDF 152KB] 

Useful documents and links

• Fire Safety Guidance for Residents [PDF 121KB]
• Fire Safety in Shared Accommodation
• London Fire Brigade: Fire safety tips for home, work, and community
• Resident Engagement Strategy [PDF 136KB]

Evacuation Procedure

The evacuation procedure in Queen Mary Halls is different depending on where you live, all residents should familiarise themselves with the evacuation procedure shown on the rear of their bedroom door, in the Residents' Handbook, and in the video above. Residents of Aspire Point should, in particular, familiarise themselves with the arrangements for the building, as you may not be required to evacuate even if you see other people doing so. If you live in Sherren House, please speak with your Reception to confirm the arrangements for your hall, an annual fire drill will be conducted.

Where is my assembly point?

The assembly points for Queen Mary Halls located at Mile End, Charterhouse Square, and Whitechapel are provided below.