By Liam PlumbEnforcing fire safety is a large responsibility and can be the difference between life and death. Making the wrong decision, poor planning or inadequate preparation can lead to great loss in both property and person. The responsibility of fire safety can fall on the shoulders of different personnel and is a legal responsibility.
In England and Wales, the local fire and rescue authorities are responsible for enforcing fire safety regulations, while the designated Responsible Person must ensure that fire safety measures, risk assessments and procedures are in place.
Who Enforces Fire Safety Legislation in the UK?
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the legislation that governs fire safety within non-domestic properties, including offices, hotels, warehouses, schools, shops, care homes and more.
Fire safety enforcement officers have legal authority and responsibility to inspect, assess, review fire safety arrangements and take action if property owners fail to meet legal obligations.
Although these authorities are able to check and enforce regulations, they are not responsible for everyday fire safety arrangements.
Who is the Responsible Person for Fire Safety in a Building?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the term ‘Responsible Person’ means::
- in relation to a workplace, the employer, if the workplace is to any extent under his control
- the person who has control of the premises (as occupier or otherwise) in connection with the carrying on by him of a trade, business or other undertaking (for profit or not)
- the owner, where the person in control of the premises does not have control in connection with the carrying on by that person of a trade, business or other undertaking
In layman’s terms, depending on the type or premises, this may include:
- Employers responsible for the workplace
- Landlords or building owners responsible for shared spaces of residential properties
- Property managers with control over the property
The Responsible Person must take adequate measures and precautions to protect people and property from fire risks. This includes arranging a regular and sufficient fire risk assessment, implementing fire safety measures and ensuring these procedures are maintained.
What are the Duties of the Responsible Person for Fire Risk Assessments
Fire risk assessments are one of the most important organisational responsibilities for the Responsible Person. A sufficient assessment from an accredited surveyor identifies potential hazards, considers the risks and evaluates whether the existing measures are appropriate.
For instance, a fire risk assessment from T2 Fire will include a review and check of:
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Sources of ignition
- Escape routes and emergency lighting
- Fire safety signage
- Visual inspection of fire doors
- Fire safety policy and procedures
Our assessors provide a clear report of any potential issues, allowing you to know exactly what needs to be addressed. This is only a proportion of what is included in a fire risk assessment, for a full breakdown, give our team of experts a call.
Once the FRA is completed, the Responsible Person must make sure that the findings are recorded and that notes are addressed. As assessment must be kept up to date and reviewed at regular intervals to ensure standards are adhered to.
What Happens if the Responsible Persons Fails to Comply with Fire Safety Regulations?
If the appropriate regulations are not met, the relevant authorities can enforce and take action against the Responsible Person. This could include:
- Providing advice
- Enforcement notices
- Prohibition notices
- Prosecution
- Imprisonment
Failing to comply with regulations goes beyond legal penalties. It can have severe consequences for occupants and business operations. Taking a proactive approach to fire safety can reduce these risks and demonstrate that the roles of the Responsible Person should be taken seriously.
How Can T2 Fire Support With Fire Safety?
As accredited fire risk assessors across London and the South East, our experts are on hand to complete fire risk assessments that go beyond a standard tick box exercise. We understand the importance of fire safety and know that these measures should not be taken lightly.
Our assessments help to identify hazards, review existing safety measures and provide clear, practical and actionable recommendations.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.