Fire safety is an essential aspect of workplace health and safety, focusing on the prevention, detection, and response to fire hazards. In the UK, fire safety regulations, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, mandate that employers take proactive measures to minimize fire risks. This includes conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing fire prevention strategies, installing and maintaining fire detection and suppression systems, and ensuring all staff are trained in emergency procedures. Effective fire safety management not only protects lives and property but also ensures business continuity and compliance with legal requirements. By prioritising fire safety, organisations create a secure environment for employees and visitors alike.
Take a look at the information below for things you might want to include in your own H&S policy…
Feel free to copy / paste this list, and you can find out more about our full H&S policy here.
The [Proprietor / Directors] of [My Company] will ensure that;
- On premises controlled by the company:
- A fire risk assessment is carried out for the company premises. This includes:
• Identify fire hazards (Fuel, Oxygen, Ignition)
• Identify people at risk in and around the premises and those with special considerations.
• Evaluate the risk of a fire starting and the risks to people. Remove or reduce the fire hazards and risks to people. Protect people from risk through appropriate fire precautions.
• Record significant findings and actions taken. Work with other responsible people. Prepare an emergency plan. Inform and instruct relevant people. Provide training.
• Review the fire risk assessment on a quarterly basis and make changes where required. - The findings of the risk assessment are communicated to all relevant staff.
- Adequate and appropriate fire safety controls are put in place and maintained.
- Emergencies are planned for. Evacuation procedures are created, communicated and tested. Warning / safety systems are put in place and tested.
- Staff & visitors are provided with relevant information, fire safety instruction and training.
- On premises controlled by others:
- All employees will adhere to individual site fire procedures as laid down in individual site induction training, if applicable. This will include:
• Means of raising the alarm and contacting emergency services
• Location of fire points throughout the site
• Location, type and authorised users of fire fighting equipment
• Location of emergency exits
• Location of the assembly point - All employees are aware of the general procedure in case of a fire or emergency:
• Stop work, raise the alarm, contact the emergency services
• Proceed immediately to the designated assembly point
• Do not try to fight the fire unless trained to do so
• Wait at the assembly point until authorised to leave - Any equipment and/or materials that could create a fire risk will be dealt with in accordance with data sheets and COSHH assessments.
Our minimum health and safety performance standards will be obtained from; but not restricted to;
• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
• HSG168 – Fire safety in Construction Work – Guidance
• The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
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