A recent fire risk assessment at Lenzie Academy uncovered deeply disturbing safety lapses. With more than 1,300 students enrolled, these dangers have become a deadly menace. Fast forward to October 2025, the council’s fire risk assessor performed an extensive assessment. The full report shined a light on 25 key recommendations to begin mending the gaps uncovered.
The results of the inspection report pointed out numerous dangerous lapses in the school’s fire code protections. It noted that many fire doors at Lenzie Academy fail to provide the minimum requirement of 30 minutes of fire resistance. Plus, fire extinguishers are sometimes tucked behind doors, which will prove challenging when you need them in an emergency.
Improperly stored combustible materials play a large role in the fire hazard. Improper use of extension cords and reels around the academy adds to this risk. The assessment identified that severely damaged or missing ceiling tiles should be considered for immediate replacement. In addition, it stressed that self-closers on fire doors need immediate repair or replacement.
Bora Oktas, the Area Officer assigned to lead the assessment, underscored how dire the situation is. He stated, “What we are seeing at Lenzie Academy is not just unacceptable – it is dangerous.” Oktas further explained that “the current situation leaves pupils and staff vulnerable to a range of risks.”
Local staff at Lenzie Academy had been complaining about fire safety for months. Their concerns were enough to trigger a review. Yet the report’s findings have proved these fears right. We need to act now so that students and personnel are not endangered by doing the wrong thing.
In a response to these findings, Ann Davie, Chief Executive of East Dunbartonshire Council, showed real leadership. She reiterated the new council’s strong commitment to safety. She remarked, “The health, safety and wellbeing of all of our staff and pupils is a priority for the council.”
The report therefore recommends retrofitting or replacing all fire doors with fire doors that do not meet your basic fire resistance requirements. It underscores the need to make fire extinguishers visible and accessible. These measures are intended to reduce risks and improve safety in general across the academy.
