As part of the support services we provide to our clients we often complete their fire risk assessment whilst we are at site. This is an area which is otherwise often neglected by clients both large and small and one which does deserve some attention.
The main issue which most clients will miss is perhaps the most important, arson – something worth checking on your own assessment today as it causes around two-thirds of commercial fires – any questions should be addressed directly to your retained consultant on 01453 800100.
However, the crux of this post is to update you on what may have changed or be about to change in terms of fire risk assessment. The update stems from a speech made recently by the Employment Minister, Mark Hoban, which was followed by a specific question on what the government plans for fire risk assessment requirements as part of its push to reduce the burden of health and safety on business.
Mr Hoban was speaking at the British Safety Council Annual Conference when he was asked questions about the impact of fire risk assessment (FRA) on businesses. His response was quite revealing.
He said that the current system of FRAs is in need of review. He didn’t say much but the word “overbearing” was used in the context of the current requirements. He also described how the need for FRAs was a “burden” on businesses and in some cases unnecessary.
Given that the current requirement involves businesses completing all fire risk assessments in-house whilst referring to a 100 page guidance document its likely that there would be a great deal of support within industry for any measures which might simplify this task.
Be aware though that this revision to requirements is not yet in place and is very likely to only affect the very smallest and lowest risk businesses. So unless you are an office with less than 5 employees you shouldn’t expect any changes to affect you.
If you do have questions then please call us and speak directly to your retained consultant on 01453 800100 for some specific advice relevant to your business.