Fire Safety Regulations and Legal Requirements for UK Businesses
A detailed review of fire legislation and how it relates to fire risk assessments.
As far as business’ in the UK are concerned, fire safety is not just good practice, it’s the law. From a single office block or shop, to a warehouse or hotel, provisions for fire safety and the ongoing safety of occupants is a concern for all to be aware of. Underpinning all regulations is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, a framework to which all companies are compelled to subscribe and adhere to.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the legal responsibilities UK businesses have regarding fire safety. We’ll unpack the key components of the Fire Safety Order, explain the importance of fire risk assessments, and highlight steps your business needs to take to stay compliant, and keep people safe.
What Is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005?
Laid before Parliament in June 2005 but not implemented until October 2006, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) amalgamated over 70 separate pieces of previous fire safety legislation. Why? To streamline the law and place responsibility firmly where it will do most good, on those best placed to reduce fire hazards, businesses, employers, landlords, and building managers. The RRFSO applies to all non-domestic premises throughout England and Wales.
In essence, the order shifts responsibility away from fire services and to a nominated “responsible person.” This individual, usually the employer, business owner, or person in control of the premises, is themselves lawfully required to take every precaution to reduce the risk of fire and to provide safe means of escape.
Failure to perform these duties is not just dangerous, it can lead to prosecution, heavy fines, and even imprisonment.
Who Is the “Responsible Person”?
The responsible person in the Fire Safety Order is any person who is in control of a building or business premises. This could be:
- Employers
- Commercial property owners
- Landlords
- Building or facility managers
There may be more than one responsible person at times. If there are, all of them should work together in order to comply. They are responsible for ensuring the fire safety of building occupants and making sure a suitable fire risk assessment is carried out and adhered to.
What Are the Legal Duties of the Responsible Person?
The responsible person is required:
- Carry out a fire risk assessment of the premises and review it on a regular basis
- Identify individuals at risk from fire and fire hazards
- Eliminate or reduce fire risks where possible
- Provide fire safety measures such as alarms, fire doors, and extinguishers
- Ensure adequate fire detection and warning measures are in place and functioning
- Provide training and information to staff on fire safety
- Ensure there are emergency plans and evacuation proceduresMaintain fire safety equipment and ensure there is a means of escape that is kept clear
Fire Risk Assessments: The Fire Safety Compliance Pillar
Central to the Fire Safety Order is the fire risk assessment. This’s not just a box-ticking exercise, this is the law and the most critical element of your fire safety responsibilities.
A fire risk assessment is a systematic inspection of your premises to determine fire hazards, determine the extent of the risk, and identify ways to minimize or eliminate the risks. It should take into account:
- Sources of ignition (e.g., electrical equipment, cooking equipment)Flammable materials (e.g., paper, chemicals, furniture)
- The building layout and use
- Flammable materials (e.g., paper, chemicals, furniture)
- The users of the building, particularly vulnerable people
- Escape routes, emergency lighting, signs, and alarm systems
Even though you are not required by law to have a professional carry out your fire risk assessment, it must be “suitable and sufficient.” For large or complex premises, the best thing is generally to pay a competent fire safety consultant. TJC Fire & Electrical are qualified fire safety consultants who carry out all types of fire risk assessments and fire safety training. Speak with our team to discuss your requirements.
And most important, if you have five or more staff, you must keep a written record of your risk assessment and any results that may be noteworthy.
Fire Safety Equipment and Electrical Considerations
As electricians, we at TJC Electrical are aware that the majority of fire hazards result from electrical systems that are faulty or overloaded. That is why part of your fire risk assessment must be to check your electrical system.
Fire safety measures are high priority and involve:
- Regularly PAT testing portable appliances
- Regular inspection and testing of fixed wiring
- Fitting of fire alarms and emergency lighting
- Ensuring all fire exits and escape routes are clear of obstructions
- The use of fire-rated electrical enclosures in risk areas
Remember, electrical faults are one of the leading contributors to fires in UK workplaces. Preventative maintenance and regular testing (EICR’s) can prevent disaster before it even occurs.
Enforcement and Penalties
It is the job of the Fire and Rescue Authority to enforce the Fire Safety Order. They carry out audits and inspections of business premises and can serve alteration, prohibition, or enforcement notices where necessary.
If they identify serious breaches, they can also authorize criminal prosecution. Imprisonment for the most severe offenses and fines of thousands of pounds are punishments.
It is clear from recent high-profile prosecutions that courts seriously take these responsibilities, and ignorance is never bliss.
Recent Updates: The Fire Safety Act 2021 and Building Safety Act 2022
Fire safety law continues to evolve, especially in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. While the RRFSO remains the foundation, two new acts extend from it:
- Fire Safety Act 2021 – it makes clear that fire risk assessments must have regard to a building’s structure, external walls, and flat entrance doors in multi-occupied residential premises.
- Building Safety Act 2022 – establishes a more robust framework for high-rise building safety and introduces the role of the Building Safety Regulator.
If your business involves property management or shared residential buildings, you’ll need to take these changes into account.
In Summary
Fire safety isn’t optional. It’s a legal, moral, and practical necessity for every UK business.
From being aware of your responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to carrying out regular fire risk assessments and maintaining electrical systems, every job has a vital role to play in keeping your workplace safe.
At TJC Electrical, we help businesses across the UK meet their fire safety needs, from electrical inspections to installing life-saving alarm systems. If you’re unsure whether your premises meet today’s fire safety standards, we can help.
Don’t leave fire safety to chance. Put it first.
Need help with your fire safety compliance?
Reach out to TJC Electrical today for expert advice, electrical testing, and fire safety specifically for your business.