According to the Regulatory Reform Order (RRO), the emphasis for preventing fire and planning for fire are now laid firmly at the door of the person responsible for the building.
Under the RRO, the responsible person has a duty to ensure the safety of any person that may be in the premises, not just employees but also visitors and members of the public. Consideration must be given to making sure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that everyone on the premises or nearby can escape safely if there is a fire. Particular attention should be paid to those who may require additional help, for example, those with a disability, elderly people or children.
The main duties that the responsible person must manage are as follows:
Carrying out or arranging a fire risk assessment to determine potential hazards and risks
Putting in place an effective fire safety procedure and emergency plan in the event of a fire
Ensure that there are accessible escape routes with the proper fire signs and emergency lights
Implement fire fighting measures,such as fire extinguishers, and ensure that staff have adequate training in the use of the equipment
Make certain that there is an appropriate fire detection system installed that conforms to British Standards and ensure that there is a regular maintenance programme in place