Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

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The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is a pivotal piece of legislation in the United Kingdom, applying to all non-domestic premises and communal areas in residential buildings. Its main focus is on fire prevention and the safety of individuals should a fire occur. It is important that you understand your obligations under the Order.

Responsible Person:

• The Order appoints a ‘responsible person,’ typically the business owner or the individual in control of the premises, who is accountable for ensuring fire safety within the building.

Fire Risk Assessment:

• The responsible person is obliged to ensure that a thorough fire risk assessment happens which helps to identify potential fire hazards and individuals at risk and to implement measures to mitigate or remove those risks.
• This risk assessment should be regularly reviewed and updated, particularly when there are changes to the premises or the number of occupants.

Fire Safety Measures:

• Based on the risk assessment, appropriate fire safety measures, including fire detection and alarm systems, emergency routes and exits, and fire-fighting equipment, should be implemented and maintained.
• Adequate fire safety information, training, and drills should be provided to the employees.

Maintenance:

• Fire safety facilities, equipment, devices, and systems must be maintained in efficient working order and good repair.

Record Keeping:

• If the business employs five or more people, the responsible person must record the significant findings of the risk assessment and the fire safety measures implemented.

• Compliance: Business owners must adhere to the Order by conducting regular fire risk assessments, implementing suitable fire safety measures and maintaining all fire safety provisions.

• Training and Information: They must ensure that employees are adequately informed, trained, and drilled in fire safety procedures.

• Enforcement and Penalties: Non-adherence to the Order can lead to severe penalties, including substantial fines or imprisonment. Local fire and rescue authorities are responsible for enforcing the Order.

• Customised Solutions: The fire safety solutions should be tailored based on the individual requirements, structure and usage of the premises, as determined by the fire risk assessment.

For a business owner, understanding and complying with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is important. It involves conducting regular and meticulous fire risk assessments, implementing and maintaining suitable fire safety measures, and ensuring that all employees are well-informed and trained in fire safety procedures. Non-compliance can result in serious legal and financial repercussions.

At Fire Safe Kent our experts are here to help you with your fire safety needs and to ensure you remain compliant. 

Please contact us for a no obligation discussion.