The Communities and Local Government has assumed responsibility, in terms of general fire safety in non-domestic premises in England. This obligation also includes policies and fire regulations in all workplaces, including flats and residences in multi-occupancy buildings. Similar policies are also being implemented in Wales and Scotland, as imposed by the Welsh Assembly government and Scottish government.
Fire safety in Wales and England is imposed through the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. On the other hand, fire safety duties in Scotland are being implemented by means of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, as well as the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006. These legislations give prior importance to fire safety in communities, industrial and business premises, with approaches gearing on the importance of fire risks and assessments. The legislation also requires the appointment of a ‘responsible person’, through employers, occupants, managers and owners of facilities. The legislation further emphasizes the significance of having a fire safety risk assessment as well as implementation of appropriate fire measures. In addition, the standards also require a ‘responsible person’ to maintain an effective management plan.
The duty to enforce fire safety requirements, initially belong to fire and rescue authorities. They also act as the principal bodies in handling these requirements, making sure that each facility complies with regulations properly. They also assist facility managers in implementing safety measures, making sure that fire regulations are being followed appropriately. On the contrary, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) considers ‘process fire precautions’ as its main concern. These precautions are special requirements meant for any workplace, whose operations refer to work processes such as storage of articles, materials and substances. The main purpose is to really prevent if not lessen fire-related emergencies, also to lessen relative dangers and damages.
Process fire precautions include the appropriation of ventilation systems, and removal of combustible materials within facility areas and premises. It also includes storage of flammable liquids in process areas such as workrooms and laboratories. These fire precautions are enforced by the HSE or the local authority, in relation to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 as well as the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002.
Generally, the idea behind fire safety requirements and regulations is protection against fires and potential dangers. We have the fire risk assessment as a basic approach in identifying risk factors within businesses. We also have the special restrictions for other types of workplaces. Truly, the causes of fires vary and it is for same reason that fire authorities feel the need for proper procedures and policies. In turn, these policies affect production and business’ operations greatly, making owners and managers extra cautious and wary. The impositions likewise encourage facility managers to make decisive yet effective policies regarding fire prevention and safety. Not only are these requirements crucial in determining the risks, but it also lessens the possibility of experiencing fire-related dangers. More so, regulations also appear as contingency plans for businesses, ensuring that all business operations and processes are safe for both owners and employees.