In England and Wales, fire risk assessments are governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation requires that all non-domestic premises (apart from HMOs, self-catering homes, serviced accommodation and common areas in flats) assess the fire risks. This ensures the safety of occupants.
Here are the key points regarding fire risk assessments:
1. **Responsibility**: The “responsible person” (usually the employer or owner of the premises) must carry out a fire risk assessment.
2. **Assessment Requirements**: The assessment must identify potential fire hazards. It should also evaluate the risks to people and implement measures to eliminate or reduce those risks.
3. **Documentation**: A formal written record of the assessment is now mandatory.
4. **Review and Update**: The fire risk assessment must be reviewed regularly. It must be updated whenever there are changes to the premises and when there is an incident that necessitates a review.
5. **Training and Information**: Employers must ensure that staff are told about the risks and trained in fire safety measures.
6. **Compliance and Enforcement**: Local fire authorities enforce these regulations. Failure to comply will result in legal action, alternatively including fines or imprisonment. Therefore, it’s important for businesses and organisations to take fire safety seriously. They must ensure they meet these legal requirements to protect lives and property.
If you need a fire risk assessment for your property, please fill in the contact form at the start of this page or call 07885982771. Our team of fire safety engineers are always happy to provide assistance if and when required.
We operate U.K wide and have fire risk assessors throughout the U.K.