Who is responsible for fire safety in a UK business?

Who counts as the responsible person

In England and Wales the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 uses the term "responsible person". In a workplace that is normally the employer. If you are not the employer, it is the person who has control of the premises, such as the owner, landlord or managing agent, to the extent of that control.

What the responsible person must do

• Carry out a fire risk assessment and keep it under review.
• Tell staff and their representatives about the risks and the measures in place.
• Put in place, and maintain, sensible fire safety measures such as alarms, signs, escape routes and extinguishers.
• Plan for emergencies and make sure people can get out.
• Give staff information, instruction and training.

Shared buildings and tenants

More than one person can be a responsible person for the same building, for example a landlord for the common areas and each tenant for their own unit. If that is you, you must cooperate and share information, so your fire risk assessments fit together. Check your lease to see who maintains alarms, doors and escape routes in shared areas.

Scotland and Northern Ireland

Scotland uses the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and Northern Ireland uses the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010. The duties are similar in outline, but the wording and enforcement bodies differ, so check your local fire and rescue service guidance.

What happens if you do not comply

Fire and rescue authorities can inspect premises and take enforcement action. GOV.UK says you could be fined, or in serious cases go to prison, if you do not follow fire safety regulations. Dated records of checks, training and drills are the easiest way to show what you did.