Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order .
The end of October sees the new fire regulations coming into force. The new law puts the emphasis on preventing fires and reducing the risk. The new law also makes it your responsibility to ensure the safety of everybody in your company as well as those in the immediate vicinity.
The new law requires all commercial premises to appoint a 'Responsible Person'. The Responsible Person needs to carry out a risk assessment. Once the risks have been identified, the Responsible Person should then consider what precautions are necessary to reduce these risks to an acceptable level.
The new law will be enforced by the local fire authority. Fines for non compliance issued by the Magistrate Court are up to £20,000. The Crown Court can issue an unlimited fine or 2 years imprisonment.
A high proportion of fires in the workplace are caused by faulty appliances. The risk assessment must cover all electrical equipment.
For more information go to the Communities & Local Government's Website
