Lesson 1 – Fire-Safety Responsibilities

1.1 The responsible person

Responsibility for fire safety in a business or other non-domestic premises may fall upon:

• The employer;
• The owner;
• The landlord;
• The occupier;
• A facilities manager;
• A building manager;
• A managing agent; or
• Another person with control of the premises.

This person is generally referred to as the responsible person. Where more than one person has responsibility, they must cooperate and coordinate their arrangements.

1.2 The fire-risk assessment

The responsible person must ensure that a suitable fire-risk assessment is completed and regularly reviewed.

The assessment should identify:

• Sources of ignition;
• Sources of fuel;
• People who may be at risk;
• Fire-prevention measures;
• Detection and warning systems;
• Escape routes;
• Emergency lighting;
• Fire-fighting equipment;
• Training requirements;
• Evacuation arrangements; and
• Additional assistance required by particular people.

The fire-risk assessment must be recorded and reviewed when circumstances change, such as after alterations, a fire, a serious near miss or a significant change in occupancy or working practices.

1.3 Employee responsibilities

Employees must:

• Follow MyEstate’s fire-safety procedures;
• Know how to raise the alarm;
• Know the nearest available escape routes;
• Know the assembly point;
• Participate in fire drills;
• Keep escape routes clear;
• Avoid creating fire hazards;
• Report defects promptly;
• Follow the instructions of trained fire marshals;
• Assist visitors where it is safe to do so;
• Evacuate immediately when required; and
• Never interfere with fire-safety equipment.

1.4 Property-visit responsibilities

Before or during a property visit, employees should remain alert to:

• Blocked exits;
• Locked escape doors;
• Damaged fire doors;
• Missing or defective alarms;
• Severe electrical hazards;
• Combustible materials near heat sources;
• Unsafe charging equipment;
• Signs of arson;
• Excessive hoarding;
• Unsafe sleeping arrangements; and
• Occupants who may require assistance.

Staff should record and report serious concerns. They should not attempt technical repairs unless authorised and competent.

1.5 Shared premises

Where MyEstate shares a building with other occupiers, employees should understand:

• Who manages the common areas;
• How the alarm is raised;
• The evacuation signal;
• Which routes may be used;
• The assembly point;
• Any alternative escape route;
• Who contacts emergency services; and
• How information is shared between occupiers.

The Health and Safety Executive recommends coordinating emergency plans where workplaces are shared.

Lesson 1 key point

Fire safety is managed through a proper risk assessment and site-specific procedures, but every employee has a responsibility to prevent hazards and follow emergency instructions.