Fire safety at a licensed premises in England and Wales is a critical responsibility that ensures the safety of patrons, staff, and the building itself. The requirements are governed by several regulations, with the primary legislation being the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (often referred to as the Fire Safety Order or FSO). Below, Licensing Professionals have created a detailed overview of what fire safety involves at a licensed premises:
1. Fire Risk Assessment
Legal Requirement: Every licensed premises must have a comprehensive fire risk assessment. This assessment identifies fire hazards, evaluates the risks, and determines the measures needed to mitigate them.
Responsible Person: The "responsible person," typically the business owner, manager, or employer, is legally obligated to ensure that the fire risk assessment is carried out and updated regularly. The assessment should consider factors like the size of the premises, the number of occupants, the nature of the activities, and any specific risks (e.g., kitchens or smoking areas).
Review and Update: The fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly, most especially if there are any significant changes to the premises, such as alterations to the building, changes in occupancy levels, or any changes in the nature of the activities conducted at the premises.
2. Fire Safety Measures
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems: Licensed premises must have appropriate working fire detection and alarm systems in place. The system should be capable of alerting all occupants in the event of a fire, and it should be regularly tested and maintained.
Emergency Lighting: In case of a fire, the premises should have sufficient emergency lighting to allow people to safely exit the building, especially if the normal lighting fails.
Fire Fighting Equipment: Suitable firefighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets (particularly in kitchens), and hose reels, should be strategically placed around the premises. Staff should be trained in their use.
Fire Doors and Escape Routes: All fire exits and escape routes must be kept clear, easily accessible, and well-marked. Fire doors should be self-closing and should not be obstructed or wedged open. They are designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, allowing safe evacuation.
3. Staff Training and Responsibilities
Fire Safety Training: All staff must receive regular fire safety training. This training should include understanding the fire risk assessment, knowing how to use firefighting equipment, understanding the emergency evacuation plan, and recognizing the importance of keeping fire exits and escape routes clear.
Fire Wardens/Marshals: Appointing fire wardens or marshals can be an effective way to ensure that fire safety procedures are followed. These individuals are responsible for coordinating evacuations, checking that their designated areas are clear, and assisting with firefighting efforts if safe to do so.
Regular Drills: Conducting regular fire drills is essential to ensure that staff and patrons know what to do in the event of a fire. These drills help to test the effectiveness of the fire safety measures and ensure that everyone is familiar with the evacuation procedures.
4. Emergency Evacuation Plan
Evacuation Procedures: A clear and practiced emergency evacuation plan is vital. This plan should outline the actions to be taken in the event of a fire, including how to raise the alarm, the roles and responsibilities of staff, and the designated assembly points outside the building.
Communication: The evacuation plan should be clearly communicated to all staff, and where possible, information should be available to patrons, such as signage indicating escape routes and instructions in case of an emergency.
Assistance for Vulnerable Persons: Consideration must be given to how vulnerable individuals, such as those with disabilities, will be assisted during an evacuation. This could involve staff training or the installation of additional safety features like refuge areas or evacuation chairs.
5. Record Keeping and Compliance
Documentation: It is essential to maintain detailed records of the fire risk assessment, staff training, fire drills, and the maintenance of fire safety equipment. These records demonstrate compliance with fire safety regulations and can be crucial in the event of an inspection or incident.
Inspections: Licensed premises are subject to inspections by fire authorities to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Non-compliance can result in penalties, enforcement notices, or even closure of the premises until safety standards are met.
6. Additional Considerations
Capacity Management: Overcrowding can significantly increase fire risks. Licensed premises must manage occupancy levels to ensure they do not exceed the maximum capacity (Or Occupancy) set out in the fire risk assessment and license conditions of the premises.
Control of Ignition Sources: Special attention should be given to areas where fires are more likely to start, such as kitchens or smoking areas. Procedures should be in place to safely manage these risks, including proper storage of flammable materials and regular checks of electrical equipment.
7. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Legal Consequences: Failure to comply with fire safety regulations can result in serious legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or both, for the responsible person. In extreme cases, if a fire results in fatalities due to negligence, the responsible person could face charges of corporate manslaughter.
Fire Safety iat a Licensed Premises- Summary
In summary, fire safety in licensed premises in England and Wales involves a combination of thorough risk assessments, implementation of safety measures, staff training, regular drills, and strict adherence to legal requirements. These actions are not just legal obligations but are critical to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone who uses the premises.
The Licensing Professionals provide fire risk assessments and fire safety training to ensure that all Licensed Premises adhere to the Fire Safety Order 2005- contact us today for further information.
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