Comprehensive Fire Safety Audits
Our systematic examination of your premises evaluates all aspects of fire safety management against current legislation and best practice standards.
- Inspection of fire detection & alarm systems
- Assessment of emergency lighting provision
- Review of fire extinguisher suitability & maintenance
- Evaluation of compartmentation & fire stopping
- Examination of means of escape adequacy
- Verification of maintenance records & compliance documentation
Detailed Fire Risk Assessments
Legally required for all non-domestic premises and the common parts of residential buildings under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
- Identification of fire hazards and ignition sources
- Evaluation of people at risk (employees, visitors, vulnerable persons)
- Assessment of existing control measures
- Recommendation of additional controls where necessary
- Creation of a clear, actionable action plan
- Regular review and update service
Emergency Evacuation Planning
Developing robust, practical plans to ensure safe and efficient evacuation of all building occupants in the event of a fire or other emergency.
- Development of site-specific evacuation strategies
- Designation and training of fire wardens/marshals
- Planning for persons with reduced mobility
- Assembly point management and roll call procedures
- Integration with business continuity planning
- Practical evacuation drills and debriefings
Legal Duties
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England & Wales) and equivalent legislation in Scotland and Northern Ireland, the Responsible Person (employer, building owner, or managing agent) must:
- Carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment
- Implement appropriate fire safety measures
- Develop an emergency plan and provide staff training
- Maintain fire safety systems and equipment
- Review the assessment regularly or after significant changes
- Keep a record of the assessment where there are 5+ employees
Financial Consequences
Inadequate fire safety management exposes your business to significant financial risks:
- Insurance invalidation: Most policies require compliance with fire safety legislation
- Business interruption: Fire damage can halt operations for months
- Asset destruction: Loss of premises, equipment, stock, and data
- Increased premiums: Poor fire safety records lead to higher insurance costs
- Legal costs: Defence against prosecution or civil claims
Enforcement Actions & Penalties
Fire and Rescue Authorities can issue:
- Alterations Notices requiring improvements
- Enforcement Notices for serious deficiencies
- Prohibition Notices restricting use of premises
- Unlimited fines for serious breaches
- Imprisonment of up to 2 years for gross negligence
Duty of Care
Beyond legal compliance, you have a moral and ethical responsibility to ensure the safety of:
- Employees: Your duty under health and safety law and employment contracts
- Visitors & Customers: Your duty under the Occupiers' Liability Acts
- Contractors: Your duty under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations
- Neighbours: Your duty to prevent fire spread to adjacent properties
- Emergency Responders: Your duty to provide safe access and information
- Corporate Manslaughter: In cases of gross failure resulting in death, organisations and senior management can face prosecution under the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007