Opening a new shop? Congratulations! It’s an exciting venture, and there’s lots to do. As always, we’re here to highlight your fire safety responsibilities. Yes, it’s another thing on the very long to do list, but it’s a really crucial one. As a shop owner in England, you’ll need to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation is designed to protect you, your employees, and your customers. We’ve put together a short guide to help you navigate your fire safety duties.
Understanding Your Role as the “Responsible Person” in Your New Shop
In the context of fire safety, the “responsible person” is typically the business owner or the person in control of the premises. As the responsible person, you must ensure fire safety measures are in place and maintained. It’s quite a daunting task, but there is lots of government guidance to help you manage this responsibility.
Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment
One of your primary duties is to carry out a fire risk assessment. This involves identifying potential fire hazards, determining the people at risk, and evaluating the adequacy of existing fire safety measures. There are guides available online to help you carry out your own fire risk assessment. However you should also consider hiring a certified professional to conduct this assessment. It’s a worthwhile investment to ensure a thorough and compliant risk assessment.
Implementing and Maintaining Fire Safety Measures
Based on your risk assessment, you’ll need to implement necessary fire safety measures. This will include a range of things, such as making sure that emergency exits are clearly marked and unobstructed so that everyone can get out safely in an emergency. It will also usually include installing appropriate fire alarms and extinguishers in your new shop, although a fire alarm system may already be in place. And of course regular maintenance of these systems is vital. Schedule maintenance checks from BAFE approved professionals to keep everything in working order. If your new shop is in a rented premises, it’s important to know that the RRO mandates that both landlords and tenants coordinate to ensure the fire alarm system is functional and compliant.
Training and Information
You’ll understand the importance of training your team on products and processes in your shop. It’s important everyone is on board with fire safety procedures too. Dedicate some time to training your staff on how to use fire extinguishers, testing the fire alarm and how to report a problem with these key fire safety tools. Carry out regular evacuation practices to ensure everyone knows how to respond in an emergency. Clear communication can significantly enhance safety and preparedness, and help to protect your team and your new shop.
Documenting and Reviewing
As with everything else in business, keep a detailed record of all of the above. Record your fire risk assessments and fire safety training, as well as recording any system maintenance and regular testing. This will apply to any fire safety system that you’re responsible for. This documentation is not only a legal requirement but also a useful tool for regular reviews. There should be a fire documents box located close to the fire alarm panel to safely store all these documents.
Updating your fire safety measures in response to changes in your business operations or premises is essential for ongoing compliance. This includes updating key documents. For example, if you’re making any structural or layout changes in your new shop then you (or your landlord) will need to arrange to have the fire zone plans updated. These are displayed next to the fire alarm panel.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you feel overwhelmed, and lets be honest opening a new shop can be pretty overwhelming, remember that help is available. You can consult with fire safety professionals to support you through the process, providing tailored advice and support to ensure your new shop meets all fire safety regulations. Ensure professional carry the appropriate certificates (eg BAFE) for the discipline you’re seeking help with.
Need a Fire Alarm in Your New Shop?
Keybury Fire an Security design, install, commission and maintain fire alarm systems in non domestic premises. Our 44 years in the industry has taught us a lot about fire safety law and, in particular, fire alarm systems. We use this experience together with our extensive training to help other businesses navigate their fire safety requirements. We’re NSI GOLD certified and BAFE approved. Our FIA trained team work with businesses across Yorkshire and Lancashire (and beyond!). Get in touch for all your fire alarm needs.
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