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- Detecting and giving warning in the event of fire
- Means for firefighting
- Safe evacuation of persons, via emergency escape routes and exits from within the premises
- Adequate trained staff in the event of fire, identification and operation of fire equipment and basic fire safety awareness
- The production of an effective fire action plan
- A suitable maintenance program and adequate records are kept for installed fire equipment
- The size and layout of the workplace
- The work activities carried out, including any equipment and substances used
- The maximum number of persons (employees and non-employees) likely to be present at any one time
Detecting, warning of, and fighting fire
Appropriate measures for detecting, warning of and fighting fire, taking into account the hazards associated with the work activities and premises, must be provided to ensure the safety of employees in the event of fire.
Non-automatic firefighting equipment must be readily accessible, simple to operate and clearly labeled. Designated persons, who have been appropriately trained, must be nominated to implement these firefighting measures and, where necessary, employers should establish contacts with external emergency services with regard to firefighting and rescue procedures at their premises.
Means of escape (emergency escape routes)
The following requirements are specified for emergency routes and exits:
- They must be kept free of obstructions at all times, and allow employees to evacuate the premises quickly and safely. Where possible, they should lead directly to a place of safety.
- The number, location and size of emergency routes and exits must be adequate taking into account the use and size of the premises, the processes and equipment present, and the maximum number of people likely to be present at one time.
- They should be appropriately and clearly indicated.
- Emergency escape lighting should be provided where necessary.
- Emergency doors (fire exits) must open in the direction of escape, and in an easy and immediate action.
- Sliding or revolving doors should not be used as emergency exit
The workplace and any equipment provided to detect, warn of and fight fire and associated with emergency escape routes/exits, must be included in a suitable maintenance plan and be maintained in an efficient state, in good working order and in good repair and suitable records kept.
Enforcement
The 1997 Regulations, as amended, are enforced by local fire authority inspectors who are entitled to inspect work premises. Where contravention's to these Regulations are found, they may issue a written opinion on the contravention(s), or for more serious breaches an enforcement notice, to the relevant person, this is usually the employer, although employees with designated fire safety responsibilities may also be included.
Exemptions
Certain workplaces associated with construction sites, ships, mines, offshore installations, transport vehicles and outdoor agricultural undertakings are exempted from the provisions relating to the means of detecting, warning, fighting and escape from fire.