What is the implication on our business of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order?

Fire safety law throughout the UK applies to practically all premises with the exception of private dwellings. In England and Wales the law also applies to the common areas of blocks of flats. Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and other complexes such as sheltered housing schemes are also included within the various legislation. The fire safety legislation requires that:
• a fire risk assessment is carried out on the premises
• due consideration is given to those who may be especially at risk
• the risk from fire is eliminated or reduced as far as reasonably possible, providing
general fire precautions to deal with any remaining risk.
• where 5 or more people are employed, or a licence or registration is required, any significant findings following the fire risk assessment must be recorded and the results of the assessment must be documented and regularly reviewed. The Responsible Person/Duty Holder could be the employer, or in cases of multiple occupancy, multiple employers. It could be the owner, the landlord, the occupier(s) or anyone else with control and or oversight of the premises. In most instances it is considered the responsibility of each employer to safeguard their employees and visitors. The Responsible Person or Duty Holder has to work together with other parties to ensure the requirements are met. This is more complex in multi-tenanted buildings.

Legislation requires any life safety systems or services (e.g. fire detection systems, emergency lighting etc.) must be provided by competent people or organisations relevant to the fire safety products and services being provided. They should have proof of this so that it can be produced at an inspection, pre or post incident. A contractor’s competency can be demonstrated by holding approval to the relevant NSI Gold or Silver fire safety scheme.