Fire Safety

The Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 changed all fire safety legislation for non-domestic premises. From the 10 October 2006 employers or owners of premises must manage fire risks and emergencies. All businesses including self-employed and the voluntary sector are affected.

There is a duty on every employer to complete the 5 actions below and establish who is responsible for fire safety:

1. Assess the fire risk in the workplace
2. Check that fires can be detected and people can be warned
3. Check that there is a safe means of escape
4. Provide and maintain fire fighting equipment
5. Instruct their employees on what to do in event of a fire

The Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 changed all fire safety legislation for non-domestic premise

The assessment is based on the following classification of premises:

• Offices and shops
• Factories and warehouses
• Sleeping accommodation
• Residential care premises
• Educational premises
• Small and medium places of assembly
• Large places of assembly
• Theatres and cinemas
• Outdoor events
• Healthcare premises
• Transport premises and facilities