New Fire Safety Legislation
New fire safety legislation came into force in October 2006 with an emphasis on fire prevention.
The new Fire Safety (Regulatory Reform Order) Order has been designed to simplify the existing 120 pieces of legislation by providing a risk-based system which will be easier to understand and follow.
Who does this apply to?
The new order applies to most non-domestic premises and brings in many businesses such as small day nurseries, guesthouses, self-employed people and parts of the voluntary sector currently not covered by fire safety legislation.
No more fire safety certificates
The new legislation fundamentally changes the way in which fire safety for businesses is carried out and enforced.
Fire Safety certificates will no longer be issued and instead the 'responsible person' at the premises will be responsible for carrying out a risk assessment to identify the risks and hazards, with fire safety officers enforcing the legislation through audits.
The responsible person will also be responsible for:
- Reducing the risk from fire as far as reasonably practicable
- Providing general fire precautions
- Taking additional measures where flammable or explosive materials are involved
- Creating a plan to deal with emergencies
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is building up details of all 32,000 premises in Cheshire, Halton and Warrington affected by the new legislation and will then target its visits at those premises that present the highest risk.
How can you find out more?
A major local and national promotional campaign will be launched to raise awareness of the new legislation and a series of guidance notes and leaflets are being drawn up and should be available nearer the time.
Guides available to making your premises safe from fire
Main features of the new Fire Safety Order (PDF 85 kb)
Further help for businesses will be made available through contacting your local Fire Safety Centre or by calling Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service on 01606 868700.
More Information
More information on the new fire safety order is available from the Local Government website.
Local Government website (Opens in new window)
