1. Introduction

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to the vast majority of premises. The aim of the new regime is to create a simple fire safety regime applying to all workplaces and other non-domestic premises. The regime is based on risk assessment, a duty to maintain fire precautions. 

2. Aim

This document sets the policy on how the regulations are interpreted at ABC to read.

3. Execution

The ABC to read fire safety policy is part of ABC to read’s health and safety policy.

4. Allocation of Responsibilities

Responsibilities are as follows: Tasks Comments
Trustees Responsible in law for what happens on the premises, to staff and volunteers off ABC to read premises
Responsible Person Responsible for implementation of this policy Marcia Rowlinson CODO
Responsible Person Day to Day basis, H&S matters Marcia Rowlinson CODO
Responsible Person Fire Officer – Ensuring Fire RA are regularly carried out along with maintaining safety of personnel and buildings Marcia Rowlinson CODO
Visitors Should be briefed on any H&S issues that will effect them, as required, when they are on site

5. Risk Assessment

The Responsible Person  produces the risk assessment for the purpose of identifying the general fire precautions that needs to be taken.  A copy appears as Appendix 1.

6. Fire Precautions Maintenance

The following arrangements have been made for maintenance: Item By whom
Ongoing Check signage, ensuring that fire doors are not wedged open, fire doors are not blocked, visual check on electrical apparatus prior to use.  CODO and Office manager
Weekly Test operation of Fire Alarm systems CODO /Office manager
Annually Service and maintenance of all Fire Extinguishers  Service and maintenance of all Fire Alarm Systems with certification. PAT to be carried out CODO to arrange
5 Years Fixed Wiring Installations inspected, tested, and certified CODO to arrange

6. Practice Evacuations

The aim of the practices is to familiarise staff and other users of the building with evacuations procedures. The CODO will set off fire panels as required and arrange to monitor the time it takes to evacuate the buildings and this information is to be recorded. This should be done at least once a month.

7. Action on discovering a fire or signs of fire.

The following actions should occur when anyone discovers a fire or signs of fire:

  1. Immediately operate the nearest fire alarm – break glass point
  2. Call the Fire Brigade by using nearest telephone
  3. Dial 999 and ask for Fire Dept
  4. Give clear precise information, address and location of fire
  5. Attack fire, if possible, with appliances provided but without taking personal risks

8. Action on Hearing a Fire Evacuation Bell

The following actions should occur when anyone hears a fire evacuation bell:

  1. Close windows and doors and turn off electrical /gas points
  2. Leave building by the nearest safe exit
  3. Report to designated assembly point for that area
  4. Do not re-enter building until authorised Fire Brigade Officer

9. Review

This document will be reviewed every three years as part of the H&S Policy documents.