A recent government lead evaluation of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order has concluded that generally businesses and enforcers are embracing the new risk-based approach to Fire Safety and see it as an improvement on the previous arrangements. However this seems to be at odds with comments from the Fire Rescue Authorities (FRAa) that estimates that 40% of organisations are still unaware of the Fire Safety Order (FSO).
The FSO is a complete change to the previous arrangements of fire certificates and places the responsibility on assessing the risk from fire and the implementation of procedures, fire precautions and training on those that are in control of the risk. In practical terms that means that managers and owners of businesses, other organisations, charities and others who operate premises are responsible for assessing the risk from fire, and ensuring that there is appropriate fire safety equipment, fire evacuation procedures, maintenance of fire safety equipment, control of fire safety hazards and appropriate training in fire safety for staff and fire marshals is in place.
The FSO is wide ranging and applies to just about every premises except domestic premises. The cost of failure to undertake a Fire Risk Assessment and the actions such as training can be great, either in losses (monetary and loss of life) as a result of a fire, or as Shell recently found out when they got a fine of £300,000 for failing to have an up to date Fire Risk Assessment for one of their buildings. Don’t get caught out, if you don’t understand your responsibilities speak to someone who can help you.
So where can you get help?
Sirius Business Services Ltd is able to help you with cost effective training and consultancy solutions. At this time of recession they have come up with some price beating offers on forthcoming training courses so you don’t get caught out. For more information call 01305 769969 or e-mail info@sirius-business-services.co.uk Delegates can book on their public courses or they can offer bespoke courses on your premises to meet your requirements (call for details).
