Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 has been heralded as the most important piece of fire safety legislation in the last 30 years. On 1st October 2006, the Fire Safety Order brought new fire safety rules into all non-domestic premises. The new rules were intended to simplify the existing fire legislation and make it easier to comply with. Fire Authorities no longer issue fire certificates and existing certificates will no longer have any legal status.
The new Fire Safety Order affects those who are responsible for business premises: employers or those who are self-employed with business premises; those who are responsible for a part of a dwelling used exclusively for business purposes; charities and voluntary organisations; and contractors with a degree of control over any premises. The Order applies to nearly every type of building, structure and open space, including hospitals, shops, schools, factories, village halls and sports pavilions.
Under the Order, responsible persons must organise fire-risk assessments to pinpoint risks and hazards; reduce the risk of fire and provide precautions and protection if flammable or explosive materials are stored on site; create a plan and, in most cases, record their findings. Findings should be reviewed regularly to ensure that safety risk assessments are up to date.
To help businesses come to terms with the new legislation, there is an online compliance self-assessment form under “new fire safety regulations for businesses” at:
The responsible person in a premises has a duty, at law, to comply with the Order.
