Friday Guest Blog: Fire Safety and Your Role

By Julie Richards, on behalf of Stanley Security Solutions

Under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, employers of virtually all non-domestic and licensed, multi-occupancy premises in England and Wales are responsible for undertaking, or identifying a person / company to undertake, a fire risk assessment of the premises upon which the fire protection measures are based.  

It is very clear that the safety of all the individuals that person is directly or indirectly responsible for, including any members of the general public that may be on the premises, lies here.  The Enforcing Authority - normally the fire brigade, but it may be the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) or the local authority - has the power to ensure that this responsibility is met and, if not, to penalise the offender, either financially or by imprisonment.  This brings into question who is competent to make such a risk assessment as well as focusing on the importance of the quality of fire protection products and services. 

Even though the legislation has officially been in force since October 2006, we are conscious there are still many businesses that are unaware of their responsibilities.  However, ignorance is no defence in a court of law and it is vital that business owners appreciate the importance of their own role in the fire safety equation. 

Stanley Security Solutions are approved by the NSI which enables us to be a third-party, certified supplier.  Our ability to identify, install and maintain the most advanced and reliable fire detection, fixed extinguishing and fire alarm signalling technologies brings our customers peace-of-mind, ensuring that everything possible has been done to protect both life and property.

Executive Briefing the facts you need to know:

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order applies to virtually all non-domestic premises & licensed, multi-occupancy premises in England and Wales
• Fire Certificates have been abolished - if you have one it no longer has any value 
• Employers and persons who control buildings are responsible for the safety of employees or staff and are required to undertake fire risk assessments to prevent fire and actions that limit the effects of fire
• The “responsible person” needs to appoint a competent third-party, certified company to look after life safety systems
• You must constantly review your fire risk assessment and mitigating measures, updating if required
• Premises covered under the legislation may be inspected by enforcement officers to ensure compliance with the law

For more information please contact Stanley Security Solutions at 0844 2540032 or via www.stanleysecuritysolutions.co.uk.