Fire safety

Fire safety is often overlooked. As fire is a rare event, most organisations view the risk as low, particularly in new buildings built to modern standards. However, it is important to consider the following points:

• Although the likelihood of fire is lower than more common daily hazards such as slips, trips or falls, the consequences of fire can be catastrophic. Therefore, the risk should not be undervalued.

• Smoke is often more dangerous than the fire itself. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to precautions to limit the transmission of smoke, such as fire doors. This is often overlooked.

• The owners and managers of premises have a duty to ensure that a suitable, up-to-date fire risk assessment has been completed. Without the necessary documentation of this process, the enforcement authority has the power to shut the premises down with immediate effect.

• Most insurance companies require a suitable fire risk assessment to be completed and evidence that fire safety and fire-fighting equipment is maintained in good working order. Without this, your insurance may be invalid.

To be compliant with the law, to protect your property and most importantly to ensure the safety of those working, living or visiting your premises, it is important a fire risk assessment is completed by a competent individual. This does not require specific training, but the following advice may help to guide you through the process.

If you would like any further advice about fire risk assessments specific to your business, we would be happy to help.

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Over and above fire consultancy we also provide a service producing Property Information Boxes.