Barbecues and Bonfires

The approach to be taken to ensure the safety in the use of barbecues, including the areas where they may be used, depends on the type of barbecue.

A barbecue should be a safe and enjoyable experience but it's all too easy to be distracted when there are people around you whilst cooking. To avoid injuries or damage to property, follow these simple precautions

Moveable barbecues used at events organised by Colleges, Departments or LUSU including LUSU affiliated groups must gain approval from the Safety Office.

The advice for the safe use of barbecues, which is given below, must be followed.

General safety applicable to all barbecues

  • Barbecues may only be used in the areas permitted in the University's Barbecue policy.
  • Make sure your barbecue is in good working order.
  • Ensure the barbecue is on a flat site with at least 2 metres between the barbecue and any building or structure.
  • Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area.
  • If there is a large number of people present place a table or something similar between the people and the barbecue.
  • Never leave the barbecue unattended.
  • Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies. Alternatively a fire extinguisher canbe borrowed from Security
    • .
  • Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it.
  • Avoid excessive noise, particularly close to residential areas.
  • Remove all rubbish afterwards.

Charcoal Barbecues

The fixed charcoal barbecues are located in County and Grizedale Colleges and may be used subject to University rules regarding noise.

The used charcoal should be disposed of into the metal barbecue disposal bins provided adjacent to the barbecues.

  • Use only enough charcoal to cover the base to a depth of about 50mm (2 inches).
  • Only use recognised fire lighters or starter fuel and only on cold coals - use the minimum necessary and never use petrol.
  • Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin - they could melt the plastic and cause a fire.
  • Use the designated barbecue disposal bins

Disposable Barbecues

Disposable barbecues operated by members of the University may only be used in designated areas on campus.

  • Disposable barbecues should only be placed on surfaces that will not be damaged by the heat produced, such as stone or brick surfaces.
  • Before you dispose of a used barbecue you must ensure that it has been totally extinguished. Either let it burn out and go cold or pour water onto the fire. The used barbecue should be disposed of into the barbecue disposal bins provided at the designated barbecue areas.

Gas Barbecues

Where Gas barbecues are used as part of a college, department or LUSU event the following safety guidance should be used:

  • Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder.
  • Change cylinders outdoors if possible or in a well ventilated area.
  • If you suspect a leak to the cylinder or pipe work, brush soapy water around the joints and watch for bubbles - tighten to fix but do not over tighten.
  • After cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before turning off at the controls to ensure any residual gas in the pipe work is used up.

Electric Barbecues

  • There are 2 barbecue stations, each housing 4 electric barbecues. They are key operated and may be used by any member of the University.
  • Keys are held by College Porters (Lonsdale for Alex Park Station & Bowland for Lake Carter Station)
  • Keys will be issued to students and members of staff between the hours of 08.00am - 9.00pm and must be returned on the day of issue
  • A 10.00 refundable deposit or library card will be required for the key.
  • Individuals signing out keys will be responsible for the unit, keys should be returned after use.
  • Users will be issued with operating instructions for safe use
  • Any problems experienced with the units this shouldbe reported to the College Porter and logged to the helpdesk (keys will not be issued if a unitis reported as faulty)
  • The facility will be checked on a weekly basis and cleaned particularly during the summer term

Bonfires

Bonfires for BBQ purposes are not permitted on campus. Bonfires may be permitted occasionally as part of wider managed events where permission will be dependent upon Facilities agreeing the location and a suitable and sufficient risk assessment being agreed with the Safety Office.

Permission must be sought at least 2 weeks in advance of the proposed event

Lancaster University
Bailrigg
LancasterLA1 4YW United Kingdom
+44 (0) 1524 65201