The Regulatory Reform Order (Fire Safety) 2005 (RRFSO) came into force on 1 October 2006, and replaced over 70 separate pieces of fire safety legislation. The order applies to all non-domestic premises in England, Wales and Scotland, including the common parts of blocks of flats and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).
The RRFSO is dependent on self-regulation and introduced a number of changes, principally that companies have now to nominate a responsible person who ultimately may have to demonstrate his or her knowledge and compliance with the Order.
Other changes introduced include;
- Compliance when a company employs five or more persons, including volunteers.
- Compliance when the company performs its work under the control of any licence e.g. an off licence shop may not employ five people but the business involves compliance with the Licencing Act therefore they are required to provide a fire risk assessment.
- For the first time Fire and Rescue Services have an enforcement role for the common areas within residential accommodation and within places of religious worship.
The law applies to you if you are:
- Responsible for business premises
- An employer or self-employed with business premises
- Responsible for a part of a dwelling where that part is solely used for business purposes
- A charity or voluntary organisation contractor with a degree of control over any premises
- Provide accommodation for paying guests
- Manage residential accommodation
- Have a licence to operate your business
