Introduction to Fire Safety

Fire Legislation

Stage1: Identify Fire Hazards

Stage 2: Identify Location and Persons

Stage 3: Reduce the Risks

Stage 4: The Findings

Stage 5: Monitor and Review

Further Reading

Fire, and especially the smoke that accompanies it, is a recognised killer.

There is a very real potential for fire in any workplace, and any general assessment for hazard and risk should cover this possibility. Your written risk assessment should be written down to record any significant findings.

The assessment should consider:

* Means of escape.
* Adequacy of fire fighting equipment including checks and tests by a competent person.
* Means of raising the alarm.
* Staff training.
* Plan of action for any improvements identified.

You will also need to consider within the risk assessment those people who may have special needs - children, young person, the elderly, those with disabilities etc.

Staff training should include:

* What to do if a fire is discovered;
* How to raise the alarm and warn others;
* Location of fire escapes;
* How to call the fire brigade;
* Where to assemble away from the building.

A simple and effective routine in the event of a fire should be displayed on a notice in the premises as a reminder.

A major change to existing fire legislation is likely in 2006 will mean that all existing fire legislation will be revoked.

The first important aspect of the proposed changes is that Fire Certification will become a thing of the past. But, until that day comes, the current requirements set down by the Fire Precautions Act of 1971, and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997/9 still stand.

Buildings should be maintained in accordance with existing fire certificates, managers should continue to liaise with fire offices and everyone should maintain an up-to-date set of plans for each relevant building

The new regulations will pay particular attention to the duties and responsibilities for the 'Responsible Person' i.e. the person that has a degree of control over some or all of the building.

This 'Responsible Person' will be accountable in law for compliance with the regulations, will be required to appoint one or more 'Competent Persons' to undertake a 'Fire Risk Assessment' and implement measures in the workplace.

They will also need to liaise with others (inc non employees) such as contractors, residents or neighbours) who may be affected by the risk arising from the workplace.

Employers will also need to undertake specific fire risk assessments in certain circumstances, ie 'Dangerous Substances' present in the workplace. Another exceptional circumstance is 'Serious and Imminent Danger' arising through fire or a similar event in the workplace.

In this case, the 'Responsible Person' must establish enhanced procedures to pre-warn staff, increase safety training and fire drills, implement measures to minimise risk, install extra means of escape if necessary and take steps to ensure immediate evacuation.