New Fire Safety Rules

1st October saw the introduction of new fire safety rules. More than 70 separate rules have been abolished and in their place a unified system which applies to all buildings used by the public (except homes) has been introduced.

The new legislation abolishes fire certificates and in their place requires the appointment of a “responsible person” to ensure compliance. The new rules lay much store on prevention and having procedures to assess risks and reduce them. The main rules are that you must:

• carry out a fire-risk assessment identifying any possible dangers and risks;

• consider who may be especially at risk;

• get rid of or reduce the risk from fire as far as is reasonably possible and provide general fire precautions to deal with any possible risk left;

• take other measures to make sure there is protection if flammable or explosivematerials are used or stored;

• create a plan to deal with any emergency and, in most cases, keep a record of your findings; and

• review your findings when necessary.

The responsibility lies with the person who has control over premises or some control over particular areas of them. Those who work from home may also be affected by the new rules. Contact us for advice if you are unsure as to how the new legislation affects you.

Call Ian Robinson on 02392 862424.