Fire safety for small business owners

Why is it important to know fire safety regulations?

Fires can happen in any business, big or small.

We get that fire safety might not be at the top of your daily to-do list. But being prepared helps protect your staff, customers, and your livelihood.

Plus, complying with fire safety laws ensures your business remains on the right side of the law.

The legal side

Fire safety laws vary across the UK. There are specific regulations for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England & Wales.

Key legislation by region:

• The Fire (Scotland) Act 2005
• The Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006; and the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010
• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for England and Wales
  
  

Your responsibilities

Everyone has a part to play in fire safety at work. However, the law assigns certain responsibilities to the ‘Responsible Person’. This is usually the person in charge of the premises. That could be the owner, leaseholder or landlord. Or someone else with control of the building.

These responsibilities include:

• doing regular fire risk assessments
• creating clear safety procedures
• making sure fire safety equipment is accessible and well-maintained
• keeping escape routes clear
• training staff on fire safety procedures
• making guests or customers aware of what to do if there’s a fire
• keeping records of safety measures and drills
• regularly reviewing and updating fire safety plans.
   

How to do a fire safety risk assessment

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Look for dangers

Look for potential fire risks. Like electrical faults, flammable materials, or sources of ignition.

2. Identify people at risk

Be aware of staff, visitors, and anyone who may need extra help during an emergency.

3. Provide and maintain safety measures

Check that alarms, extinguishers, and escape routes are in place. And, most importantly, that they're in good working order.

4. Assess the risk level

How likely is it that a fire could happen? How serious could the potential danger be?

5. Make necessary changes

Changes could be installing fire doors or improving ventilation. Or updating safety procedures as needed.

6. Keep records

Document your assessments and any safety measures you put in place.

7. Keep checking

Revisit your safety plan on a regular basis. You should also re-check it if there’s been a change in your business that might affect it.

This plan helps you spot possible risks and keep everyone safe.

What happens if you don't follow fire safety rules?

Commercial buildings are often inspected to make sure that they meet with fire safety standards. If they're not met, business owners could receive fines, or the worst cases, jail time.

Keep in mind that fire authorities regularly inspect businesses to ensure safety standards are met. Complying isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s about protecting lives and ensuring your business remains a safe environment.

Protect what matters

You’ve put your heart and soul into your small business. It’s worth protecting. Having the right kind of business insurance can help.

• Commercial property insurance

It helps protect your building, equipment, stock, and assets if they’re damaged due to fire damage. This could give you peace of mind. And help you recover quickly in the event of a fire.

• Business interruption insurance

It supports your business if a fire forces you to close temporarily. It helps cover lost income and ongoing expenses like bills and wages. So you can stay afloat while you rebuild.

Our trusted business partner AXA can give you a quote.

Either online or by calling AXA on 0800 068 8734. AXA isn’t part of the Santander group.

Proper safety measures are a must for any business. But having the right cover gives you that extra peace of mind that your business is protected. So you can continue doing what you love no matter what challenges come your way.

To learn more about how to protect your business if the worst happens, check out AXA’s full fire safety guide.