The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, No. 1541 (as amended)

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 aims to ensure the safety of people in non-domestic premises by reducing the risk of fire. It consolidates various fire safety laws into a single framework, emphasizing risk assessment and prevention.

Requirements:

1. Risk Assessment:
   • Conduct regular fire risk assessments to identify hazards and implement necessary measures to mitigate them.
2. Fire Safety Measures:
   • Implement appropriate fire safety measures based on the risk assessment, including fire detection and warning systems, firefighting equipment, and safe escape routes.
3. Maintenance:
   • Ensure that fire safety equipment and systems are maintained in good working order.
4. Emergency Plans:
   • Develop and maintain an emergency plan, including evacuation procedures and training for staff.
5. Information and Training:
   • Provide fire safety information, instruction, and training to employees and anyone else who might be affected by a fire on the premises.
6. Documentation:
   • Maintain records of fire risk assessments, safety measures, maintenance, training, and emergency plans.

Applicability:

• Employers: Responsible for fire safety in the workplace.
• Owners and Occupiers: Those in control of non-domestic premises.
• Managers: Including property managers and landlords responsible for fire safety in buildings they manage.
• Self-Employed Individuals: Those who operate a business from non-domestic premises.
• Voluntary Organizations: Applicable to premises used by voluntary organizations.

This order applies to almost all non-domestic premises, including workplaces, commercial establishments, public buildings, and the common areas of multi-occupied residential buildings.

To demonstrate compliance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, responsible persons must maintain specific evidence. The key evidence requirements include:

1. Fire Risk Assessments:
   • Documentation: Maintain written records of fire risk assessments, including identified hazards, risk levels, and implemented safety measures.
   • Updates: Keep records updated regularly, especially after any significant changes to the premises or processes.
2. Fire Safety Measures:
   • Installations: Document the installation of fire safety systems such as alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers.
   • Maintenance Logs: Keep logs of regular maintenance, testing, and servicing of fire safety equipment and systems to ensure they are in good working order.
3. Emergency Plans:
   • Evacuation Procedures: Document detailed emergency plans, including evacuation routes, assembly points, and responsibilities of staff.
   • Drill Records: Maintain records of fire drills, including dates, times, and outcomes to demonstrate preparedness.
4. Training Records:
   • Staff Training: Keep records of fire safety training provided to employees, including dates, content covered, and attendee lists.
   • Information Sessions: Document any additional fire safety information sessions or briefings given to staff and other relevant individuals.
5. Maintenance and Testing:
   • Equipment Checks: Record the results of regular checks and tests of fire detection and firefighting equipment.
   • System Inspections: Maintain records of inspections for fire doors, emergency lighting, and other safety features.
6. Audit and Review:
   • Compliance Audits: Document periodic audits and reviews of fire safety procedures and compliance with the Order.
   • Action Plans: Keep records of any action plans developed to address identified issues or improve fire safety measures.
7. Incidents and Actions:
   • Incident Reports: Record details of any fire-related incidents, including causes, responses, and lessons learned.
   • Corrective Actions: Document any corrective actions taken in response to incidents or audit findings.

Maintaining this evidence ensures that responsible persons can demonstrate their compliance with the fire safety requirements, providing a clear and traceable record of all fire safety activities and measures.