West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service

Responsibility for fire safety

In most workplaces, the employer is the responsible person. This could be a company or a sole trader. If the premises has a licence, the licence holder or the designated premises supervisor also shares responsibility for public safety. You must clearly set out who is responsible and make sure they have the right training to do the job.

The fire risk assessment (FRA)

The responsible person must carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment. This means identifying fire hazards, who could be at risk and what you need to do to keep people safe.

Your fire risk assessment must cover:

• the level of risk and how likely a fire is to happen
• fire detection and warning systems
• firefighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers
• emergency lighting and evacuation procedures
• staff training and how you maintain safety systems

You must review the fire risk assessment at least once a year, or sooner if you change the building layout, how you use the space, or the internal décor. You must record the full fire risk assessment, including all findings and the fire safety arrangements for the premises in all cases, no matter how many staff you employ.

Reducing the risk of fire

Most fires in hospitality settings start because of electrical faults or cooking.

Test electrical appliances regularly and clean commercial cooking equipment as part of routine maintenance.

Common ignition hazards include:

• indoor fireworks and ice fountains, which contain small amounts of explosives and must be stored safely, and if you store more than 5kg of Net Explosive Content (NEC), you may need a specific explosives licence
• ignited drinks, where giving naked flames or sparklers to customers who may be intoxicated puts people at risk, so customers should not drink while flames are burning and staff should light drinks at the table rather than carrying them through busy areas
• blow torches, which can put both staff and customers at risk, so only use them in a controlled area and keep the flame as small as possible
• decorations and wall linings, as decorative materials on walls and ceilings can greatly increase how quickly fire and smoke spread
• floral decorations, fabric wall coverings and drapes, whether real or artificial, where you should always check the manufacturer’s fire resistance certification before installation

Review your fire risk assessment if you add temporary decorations for events such as Christmas, Halloween, or major sporting tournaments.

Fire detection and alarms

The fire alarm system must be right for the size of the building. If you host amplified music or live performances, link the fire alarm to the sound system so it automatically cuts the sound when the alarm goes off.

You must maintain the system by carrying out:

• weekly tests and daily checks
• a 6‑monthly and annual service by a competent person
• a record of all testing and maintenance

Emergency routes and fire doors

All escape routes must lead to an exit and should open outwards where possible. Do not lock or fasten exits while the premises are open. Keep all escape routes clear at all times.

Fire doors slow the spread of smoke and fire. Do not wedge them open and check them regularly to make sure they close fully.

Make sure fire exit signs are visible from anywhere in the building.

Staff training and emergency plans

Employers must give staff fire safety training when they start work and refresh it regularly.

Training must cover:

• how to use firefighting equipment
• evacuation arrangements
• who is responsible for calling 999

Run regular fire drills to check that your emergency procedures work.