Fire Safety
What is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005?
The Government is committed to regulating only where necessary and in a way that is more suited to the needs of mondern business. That is why the order was made, under the Regulatory Reform Act 2001. It replaces most fire safety legislation with one simple order. It means that any person who has some level of control in premises must take reasonable steps to reduce the risk from fire and make sure people can safely escape if there is a fire.
What are the main rules under the order?
- 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 explosive materials are used or stored.
- Create a plan to deal with any emergency and in most cases, keep a record of your findings
- Review your findings when necessary
Who is responsible for meeting the order?
Under the order, anyone who has control of premises or anyone who has a degree of control over certain areas or systems may be a 'responsible person'. E.g. :
- The employer for those parts of premises staff may go to
- The managing agent or owner for shared parts of premises or shared fire safety equipment such as fire-warning systems or sprinklers
- The occupier, such as self employed people or voluntary organisations if they have any control
- Any other person who has some control over a part of the premises
For more information About Fire Safety at work then visit the LFB (London Fire Brigade) website for more information - www.london-fire.gov.uk.
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