Health, Safety & Quality Consultancy

SPOT LIGHT ON FIRE SAFETY

It has been our experience in recent weeks that many organisations are falling short of their duties when it comes to fire safety.

The key legislation driving legislation implementation of life saving systems within workplaces and other non-domestic premises is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

These regulations require building owners/occupiers to ensure that their premises are risk assessed and all suitable controls are implemented to ensure the safety of employees, visitors, contractors and any others who may be affected.

In particular, the regulations include the following requirements:

A fire risk assessment must be produced by a competent person. This must be reviewed at least annually or where circumstances or situations require an earlier review. The fire risk assessment must address the following:

• Elimination or reduction of risks (ignition sources).
• Suitable means of detecting or raising the alarm in case of fire.
• Adequate emergency escape routes and exits.
• Adequate fire compartmentalisation (spread of fire and smoke and the protection of escape routes).
• The appropriate type and sufficient quantities of fire extinguishers.
• Correct type and sufficient quantities of fire safety signs and notices.
• Provisions for the correct maintenance of installed fire equipment.
• Suitable provisions for the protection of fire fighting personnel.
• To ensure that occupants receive the appropriate instructions and training.

Contact us for further advice or to arrange a fire risk assessment for your building.