The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
'The largest shift in fire safety legislation for 30 years'
The order firmly places the responsibility on the Responsible Person and outlines all the measures that must be taken to ensure the safety of all the people that he or she is directly or indirectly responsible for.
At the same time it allows the Enforcing Authority to make sure it is enacted and sets penalties if it is not.
It requires the Responsible Person to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment, produce a policy, develop procedures, provide staff with training and carry out fire drills.
The Responsible Person must also provide clear means of escape, signs, notices, emergency lighting,
fire detection and extinguishing means.
The Responsible Person must appoint one or more Competent Person to assist him/her in their role. The Responsible Person must consult Employees on fire safety matters and provide information for them.
Business properties will be inspected by their Local Authority Fire Brigade and penalties for non-compliance can rise up to 4 years in jail and an unlimited fine, to be met by the Responsible Person.