Fire Safety: Your Responsibilities as an Employer

In England and Wales, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 puts the legal duty for fire safety on the responsible person, usually the employer or the person in control of the premises.

What the responsible person must do

• Carry out a fire risk assessment and keep it under review, especially after changes to the building, layout or number of people.
• Put sensible precautions in place: detection and alarms, emergency routes and exits, signage, and suitable firefighting equipment.
• Plan for an emergency, including how everyone will be evacuated, with extra thought for people who may need help.
• Give staff information and training so they know what to do if the alarm sounds.

Why training matters

Equipment and procedures only work if people know how to use them. Fire safety awareness training helps everyone understand how fires start and spread, how to raise the alarm, and how to evacuate safely. Nominated fire marshals can then go further by helping to manage an evacuation and checking areas are clear.

Good habits to build in

• Run evacuation drills and learn from each one.
• Check alarms, extinguishers and emergency lighting regularly.
• Keep escape routes clear at all times.
• Refresh training so new starters are covered and everyone stays confident.