Fire

Since the introduction of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it has been a requirement for employers to carry out their own Fire risk assessments of both fire prevention and fire precautions within their premises. This has replaced the issuing of a Fire Certificate by the Fire sevice.

Carrying out a fire risk assessment will also deliver real benefits to business. By takink a few simple steps to reduce fire risks, employers can prevent fires breaking out. When you consider that 70% of businesses who suffer a fire never re-open, or close within 3 years of the fire, it is a very sensible investment of time and effort.

Full documentary evidence of the Fire Risk Assessment needs to be kept to allow inspection at any time. The Fire Brigade can conduct adhoc ispections of business premises and would need to see evidence of an assessment, with full documentation if your business employs five or more people.

If you do not have a Fire Risk Assessment in place, one option is to get on of EPI's Health and Safety Consultants to carry out your assessment for you. This is probably suitable if;

• You do not have a Health and Safety Office, Fire Safety Manager or a responsible member of staff who is competent to carry out a fire risk assessment, or
• If you have a site considered to be 'high risk'

If you would like help and advice on Fire Risk Assessments please contact us