Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order (RRFSO), came into force in 2006 and replaced 70 pieces of legislation, including the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 as amended 1999.
Does this Fire Safety Order apply to me?
Yes, with the exception of self employed people with no employees who work from their own home. All sectors of business, including the self employed and the voluntary sector, are covered by the new regime.
A Fire Risk Assessment must be carried out if you employ more than one person. The RRFSO states that where 5 or more persons are employed, or where a licence is in force - such as a members’ club for example, businesses are required to complete a written Fire Risk Assessment of their premises.
The RRFSO places the responsibility for fire safety on the Responsible Person; at the same time it requires your Local Fire & Rescue Service, to make sure it is acted upon.
What am I required to do?
The Fire Safety Order requires that the Responsible Person (employers, owners and occupiers) carries out a Fire Risk Assessment, or appoints a Competent Person with sufficient training, experience and knowledge to do so.
The Competent Person is required to carry out and document a Fire Risk Assessment of the workplace. Part of this Fire Risk Assessment includes ensuring that workers can escape safely in the event of a fire. The Responsible Person must also implement appropriate fire safety measures to minimise the risk to life and ensure the Fire Risk Assessment is kept up to date.
The Fire Risk Assessment should be under constant review to ensure your fire precautions remain suitable.
Definition of competent
1. Properly or sufficiently qualified;
2. Adequate for the purpose
3. Law: Legally qualified or fit to perform an act
If you require help with understanding or complying with this legislation, please
e-mail our helpline on services@firecoltd.com
