On 1 October 2023, new fire safety guidance will come into force for all buildings regulated by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO). This guidance is part of Phase 3 of the Home Office’s fire safety reform programme and forms an important step in strengthening fire safety in all FSO regulated premises.

The new regulations will improve cooperation and coordination between Responsible Persons (RPs), increase requirements in relation to the recording and sharing of fire safety information, make it easier for enforcement authorities to take action against non-compliance, and ensure residents have access to comprehensive information about fire safety in their building.

In addition, three new fire safety guides on small non-domestic premises, small blocks of flats, and small sleeping accommodation have been published to replace the old short guide to making your premises safe from fire. An updated fire risk assessment checklist has also been published to support Responsible Persons in understanding and meeting the new requirements.

Although there is currently no requirement for RPs to ensure that anyone they appoint to do a fire risk assessment is competent, the government is working closely with the fire safety industry to develop a robust roll-out plan. The aim is to provide more information on this in the coming months.

We encourage all Responsible Persons to review the new guidance and ensure that they are fully compliant by 1 October 2023.

Read the Home Office article news SOURE here.