Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is actively backing Business Safety Week, which runs from 11th to 17th September, in a collective effort to support businesses in understanding their fire safety responsibilities.
This initiative, orchestrated by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), is designed to equip businesses with the knowledge required to maintain safety, legality, and compliance.
In workplaces, many fires are preventable, and the repercussions of such incidents can be devastating, with some businesses never fully recovering. The imperative lies in assisting businesses in effectively managing fire risks and hazards, which in turn can potentially save lives and shield against both financial and commercial losses.
Implementing straightforward measures to curtail the risk of fire outbreaks and ensuring that staff are well-versed in appropriate response protocols not only fosters safety but also constitutes sound business practice.
At this time of year, many businesses will be preparing for the Christmas period and may also be impacted by the cost of living crisis. It’s important that businesses consider the risk of fire in any changes they make to their premises and/or ways of working, as well as making sure that all staff are aware of fire safety in the workplace.
From 1st October, significant alterations in fire safety legislation will come into effect, prompting many businesses and building owners to reevaluate their compliance with these regulations. The key changes include:
- All businesses will need to record a fire risk assessment and fire safety arrangements in full – regardless of the number of employees, and size or type of business.
- There are increased requirements for cooperation and coordination between Responsible Persons in multi-occupied buildings, or those where the occupier and owner are not the same person.
- In residential buildings with two or more domestic premises, residents must be provided with information on the risks from fire and the fire safety measures provided to keep them safe.
Group Manager Graham Kewley, from the DWFRS fire safety team, said: “It’s essential that businesses take the time to look at the new fire safety regulations and ensure that their fire risk assessment is properly recorded. The Service can give advice and support to anyone unsure about what is required, and there is a wealth of information on our website, including guidance on how to complete a fire risk assessment – just visit www.dwfire.org.uk/business-fire-safety”
Gavin Tomlinson, the NFCC’s Protection & Business Safety Committee Chair, added: “Fire and rescue services are committed to helping all types of businesses reduce the risk of fire in the workplace and be compliant with fire safety law. We don’t expect businesses to be experts, which is why we are here to provide help and advice. We encourage any business to work with their fire service to help prevent fires and remain productive, safe and legal.”
