If you are the Responsible Person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, Article 17 requires that all facilities, equipment and devices provided for fire safety are properly maintained and kept in good working order. In practice, organisations often rely on a single contractor supplying a fire alarm system, while key areas are overlooked. This can be anything from compartmentation, smoke control, emergency lighting, structural fire protection, to building management arrangements.
To be legally defensible, you need:
– A suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment under Article 9 that locates and assesses every fire safety provision, passive and active, in relation to the building’s use and occupancy.
– A documented, building-wide system for inspection, testing, remedial work and review.
– A clear link from your risk assessment to your maintenance plan, so an enforcing authority can see that general fire precautions under Article 8 are being carried out and kept effective.
Engaging a contractor does not discharge your duties under Articles 8 to 24 – it shows that money was spent, not that you are compliant.
If you would like to discuss your obligations, we would be happy to discuss.
Shared for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances.