Changes to Fire Safety Legislation

From October 2006, ownership of the fire safety solution in premises will pass to the occupier and their workforce, so it is essential that employers are aware of their duties under the new Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

This new Order shifts the emphasis from an 'enforcers tell you' regime, to a 'you decide the appropriate measures and manage them' system.  It places duties on the 'responsible person' who is defined as the employer in a workplace or the owner if the person actually using the workplace does not have control of them.

Risk reduction is stressed, and it is incumbent upon the 'responsible person' to ensure that the risk or fire is reduced as far as reasonably practicable.

Those who previously had the 'security' of a Fire Certificate will no longer have that safety net and will have to take full responsibility for managing the risk. Employers who were previously exempt from having a Fire Certificate will also have to do a formal fire risk assessment and draw up a fire risk management plan.

This new legislation present every employer with an opportunity to not only ensure a safer working environment, but to reduce the risks to their business as well.

AP Fire Consultancy can assist you in adequately assessing your fire risks and putting suitable fire management plans in place, thereby ensuring that you comply with the law and protect your business from fire. Link to AP Fire Consultancy's Fire Services.

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