Facing up to Fire Safety Responsibilities

The Regulatory Reform(Fire Safety) Order came into effect on 1st October 2006.

The legislation covers nearly every type of building, structure and open space except for private homes and individual flats in a block or house, although communal areas will be affected.

From 1st October 2006, the responsibility for fire safety has been with employers, self-employed with premises, voluntary organisations, those responsible for buldings with public access and any contractor who exercises a degree fo control over any premises. This was delayed from April to allow businesses more time to prepare.

These"responsible persons" will have a duty to ensure the safety of everyone who uses their premises and those in the immediate vicinity who may be at risk if there is a fire.

The department for Communities and Local Government is working with stakeholders to raise awareness of the new laws among those affected. They have already targeted 1.6million premises to receive a leaflet explaining the main changes and waht needs to be done to compy with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

There are also a series of guides to assist those preparing fire risk assessments including an entry level "A short guide to making your premises safe from fire" and more detailed guidance targeted specific areas of business.

The main effect of the changes will be a move towards greater emphasis on fire prevention in all non-domestic premises. Fire certificates will be abolished and will cease to have legal status.