Lakanal House Inquest

The end of March saw the conclusion of the inquest into the Lakanal House residential block fire in which six people died in July 2009. The findings have been awaited by the fire safety community and property professionals alike. They are particularly relevant if you manage residential properties or larger blocks.

Evidence was given showing that the loss of life could have been avoided had the residents been evacuated rather than "staying put".

The Coroner referred to a "catalogue of failings" that contributed to the tragedy, and has written four letters of recommendation to the relevant organisations, calling for several guidance documents to either be produced or updated for clarity.

In the letter, the Coroner acknowledged that several of these organisations have been working hard to address these failings. Formal responses are required by the end of May.

Metro Safety has assembled a factsheet to provide an insight into the inquest and determine how some of these failings will be addressed.

If you believe these may be relevant to you please download our Lakanal House Fire Inquest Factsheet

If you would find it helpful to speak to one of our Senior Fire Safety Advisors call Metro Safety:

0845 058 9999

For the verdicts and the Coroners recommendations please click here