CROSS-UK focuses attention on fire episodes in nightclubs

On 16 March this year, a fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in North Macedonia. Leaving 61 people dead, the fire was reportedly started by indoor fireworks igniting materials inside the club.

In the last 25 years, similar fires have occurred in nightclubs in the Netherlands, Romania, Russia, Argentina, the USA, Ecuador, China and Brazil. Around 1,000 people have died in such incidents.

Nightclubs present unique risks due to crowded conditions, impaired judgement from alcohol consumption and features like subdued lighting, loud music and obstructed or unfamiliar exits. These factors can severely hinder evacuation during emergencies and increase the likelihood of fatal outcomes.

UK scenario

In the UK, nightclub fire safety is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which places the responsibility on venue operators to assess and mitigate fire risks. However, many venues are located in repurposed buildings with non-ideal layouts for emergency evacuation.

Effective fire safety management requires clear guidance, regular inspections, appropriate training and the restriction of indoor pyrotechnics.

Public awareness campaigns, particularly those targeting young people, and better accessibility planning for people with disabilities are also crucial.

Interested parties

This article should be read by nightclub owners, managers and event organisers, notably so those responsible for fire safety planning and risk assessments. It’s also important for fire engineers, regulatory authorities, Fire and Rescue Services, building inspectors and policymakers involved in public safety, building safety and licensing to scan this text.

Additionally, members of the general public (particularly young people who frequently attend nightclubs) should read it to become more aware of fire risks and how to stay safe in crowded venues.

*Read the article in full on the CROSS-UK website

Safety reporting system

CROSS-UK is the safety reporting system supported by the Institution of Structural Engineers, the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Institution of Fire Engineers.

CROSS-UK allows professionals to report precursor events, near misses and safety issues on a confidential basis and welcome reports about structural safety and fire safety. These may relate to concerns at any stage of a given structure’s life: from design through to construction and occupation and on again until end of life.

*Further information is available online at www.cross-safety.org