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The legalities of fire safety are mainly covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO), and subsequent amendments. Fire safety is also covered by the Building Regulations and numerous codes of practice and guides. As a person who may be responsible for their workplace or building, it is essential that you are up to date with the principles as set out in the RRFSO and that you maintain the effectiveness of any fire fighting equipment, fire detection and alarm systems.

What are the duties of the Responsible Person

What is a Responsible Person?

Under the RRFSO the Responsible Person is deemed to be the person having control of the building, or a degree of control, and they are required to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk from fire and make sure people can safely escape in the event of a fire. This also includes all people that may visit the premises.

Fire Safety Services

Regular maintenance of your fire safety systems is paramount in ensuring the safety of your buildings occupants and remaining compliant. We can provide fire safety services nationally to ensure you meet your regulatory requirements.

General principles

The general principles as laid out in the RRFSO, include the following measures:

To reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the risk of the spread of fire on the premises.
In relation to the means of escape from the premises.
For securing that, at all material times, the means of escape can be safely and effectively used.
In relation to the means of fighting fires on the premises.
In relation to the means for detecting fire on the premises and giving warning in case of fire on the premises.
In relation to the arrangements for action to be taken in the event of fire on the premises, including measures:
- in relation to the instruction and training of employees; and
- measures to mitigate the effects of the fire.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

We provide national fire extinguisher maintenance services to all industries through our team of qualified, mobile engineers.

Emergency Light Maintenance

Emergency lighting are a must-have for non-domestic properties to provide a safe environment for premise users. It is a legal requirement for all commercial properties to be a safe environment at all times.

Fire safety system maintenance

With regard to maintaining fire safety systems, there is a general requirement to maintain fire safety systems to an efficient state, effective working order and good repair. There are several clauses that require the Responsible Person to maintain the effectiveness of any:

Fire fighting equipment
Fire detection systems
Alarm systems
Fire suppression systems
Fire compartments

The Responsible Person must also maintain the effectiveness of systems in place to aid the means of escape, which include:

Fire doors
Emergency lighting
Signage
Staircases
Corridors

In addition to the general principles as detailed above, the RRFSO also has more specific duties around dangerous substances such as flammable, explosives, oxidising substances etc.

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