New Fire Safety Regulations came into force in Scotland this month, providing further guidance on compliance with the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005.
The Act introduces a new fire safety regime in Scotland based on risk assessment and applies to most premises with the exception of private homes. Criminal penalties may be imposed on those to whom the duties apply for non-compliance and where there is a risk of death or serious injury.
Employers and the self-employed have duties under the Act, as do those who occupy or have control of premises.
The principle duties imposed by the new regulations include:
- to plan, organise, monitor, control and review fire safety measures and to record the arrangements in writing if the employer has 5 or more employees,
- to provide appropriate means of fighting fire,
- to provide adequate means of escape and to hold drills
- to maintain facilities and equipment in good repair
- to provide employees with relevant information and training
The requirement for a fire certificate for certain premises has been abolished with the coming into force of the new legislation.
The regulations specify further requirements for those employing young persons (ie under 18) and impose duties on employees themselves.
The regime will be enforced by the Health and Safety Executive and local authorities.
