Since October 2006 new fire safety regulations have come into force which affect all non-domestic premises. These new regulations require those with management responsibility for a property to carry out a fire risk assessment, record their findings and make changes to reduce/remove risks and ensure there is a plan to deal with emergencies.
The paperwork need not be overly complicated however each farm or other business premises should have the following:

• A list of the risks
• A plan showing the location of the risks
• An action plan of measures to minimise the risks
• A written procedure covering how to deal with an emergency
• A plan showing fire fighting equipment and escape routes
• A written record of equipment tests, staff training and review of the assessment

The responsibility lies with those who deemed to have a degree of control over areas of the building. This could mean owners, tenants, trustees, licencees, agents or a combination of some or all of the above. Other than the straightforward owner-occupier situation, it is probably best if all parties are involved in the process.

The Department for Communities and Local Government have produced a series of guides to help with the preparation of the assessments and plans. These are available from the Department’s website www.communities.gov.uk/fire. The guide which is likely to be of use to most clients is ‘A short guide to making your premises safe from fire, however there are also more detailed guides relating to warehouses, offices, places of assembly such as churches and village hills which may be of use in particular situations.

For further information please contact Christopher Graham on 01285 648106

For clear, objective and professional advice on these or any other agricultural and rural estate issues please contact one of our Agricultural Team:

Robert Young ~ Mark Hill ~ Christopher Graham ~ Paul Oughton ~ Brian Smith
Peter Kirby ~ Stuart Milsom ~ Margaret Bush

Tel. 01285 648 113                                                             Fax. 01285 640 494    

This newsletter is produced for guidance only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly no liability or responsibility for any loss or damage can be accepted by Moore Allen & Innocent or other contributors as a result of any person, company or other organisation acting or refraining from acting upon comment on this newsletter.

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