The Fire Safety Act, which was passed by the UK Parliament in April 2021, aims to prevent tragic incidents like the Grenfell Tower fire by implementing new regulations for England and Wales.
The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 will take effect on January 23, 2023, and this set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) addresses the implications of both the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the new measures for England.
The Fire Safety Order serves as the fire safety legislation governing buildings in England and Wales, outlining the responsibilities of individuals subject to its provisions.
Introduced in October 2006, the Fire Safety Order covers the ongoing fire safety management of occupied buildings. It applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including workplaces and commercial buildings. Additionally, it includes the non-domestic sections of multi-occupied residential buildings, such as the internal areas of blocks of flats, as well as houses converted into two flats or houses in multiple occupation.
Under the Fire Safety Order, a responsible person must conduct and regularly review a fire risk assessment of the building. They are also required to maintain precautions that effectively manage the risk of fire.