Challenges and perspectives in the implementation of the Fire Protection System in Federal institutions of higher education in Brazil

Abstract

Federal higher education institutions in Brazil have particularities in terms of construction, geographical location, use of buildings, organizational structures and allocation of budgetary resources. These characteristics make managing the Fire Protection System a significant challenge, requiring an even higher level of attention and commitment. This article aims to present data describing the current context of Fire Protection and Fire Fighting System management at Federal higher education institutions in Brazil (Federal universities and institutes). The data collection was a survey, in which 87 employees, representing 69 institutions, occupying the positions of Occupational Safety Engineer or Technician took part. Among the results, the following stand out: 51% of the institutions do not have a Fire Protection System Management Plan and 32% are in the process of creating one. All institutions inspect and maintain fire extinguishers; only a minority monitor other equipment. Operational routines are weakened by a lack of management (35%), financial resources (31%) and technical staff to carry out the service (24%). Only 9% of the institutions have a Fire Department Inspection Certificate for all their buildings and 5% have an active fire department in all their buildings. Only 9% of institutions have a Fire Department Inspection Certificate for all buildings and 5% have an active fire department in all buildings. The management of the Fire Protection System in Federal higher education institutions in Brazil faces significant challenges, including a lack of management plans, insufficient control of devices and limited resources, resulting in low compliance with fire safety regulations.

Keywords:
fire; safety; prevention; protection; security system