Fire safety and risk assessments are paramount considerations, requiring utmost seriousness and responsibility. In this guide, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need to navigate fire safety with confidence.
What is the Fire Safety Order 2005?
As defined by the Chief Fire Officers’ Association, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is as follows:
“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” (Source: Chief Fire Officers’ Association)
What are the main rules?
Under the Fire Safety Order 2005, you must ensure the following:
- Conduct a thorough fire risk assessment to identify potential hazards.
- Consider individuals who may be at risk.
- Mitigate risks and provide general fire precautions.
- Implement measures to protect against flammable or explosive materials.
- Develop emergency response plans and maintain records, regularly reviewing findings.
The Fire Safety Order 2005 applies broadly, encompassing most premises except for private residences such as individual flats and houses.
What are the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022?
Introduced in response to recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report, these regulations impose additional obligations on responsible parties, particularly in high-rise and multi-occupied residential buildings. Key requirements include providing fire safety information to residents and enhancing safety measures.
What do fire risk assessments consist of?
A comprehensive fire risk assessment involves five critical steps:
- Identify fire hazards
- Identify people at risk
- Evaluate, remove or reduce, and protect from risk
- Record, plan, inform, instruct, and train
- Review
Who is the responsible person?
This is where our role is most prevalent, and most helpful. When it comes to conducting a fire risk assessment, we can provide competent advice and consultation to the responsible person in order to help them carry out their duties, as defined in the Fire Safety Order 2005.
In workplaces, the employer assumes responsibility for fire safety. For other premises, the responsible person is either the individual in control of the premises in connection with their trade or business, or the owner if the person in control is not associated with a trade or business.
Why choose us?
Given the complexity and importance of fire safety, selecting the right professional is crucial. With our expertise and commitment, we offer reliable fire risk assessment services tailored to your needs. Contact us today for peace of mind and comprehensive fire safety solutions.