What are the most vital fire safety standards to adhere to?

Fire safety is essential for any commercial premises, ensuring property, staff and customers are sufficiently protected. The UK has strict fire safety standards in place that companies must adhere to in order to comply with the law and fulfil their duty of care.

Here at City Fire, we understand that it can be tricky for business owners to navigate through these different standards and know which ones are the most important. In this article, we will discuss the most vital fire safety standards that commercial properties must follow to prevent fires, as well as keeping people safe should a fire break out.

 

British Standards

British Standards (BS) are a set of guidelines and regulations that ensure the safety and quality of products and services in the UK. The BS 5839-1:2017 standard is designed to ensure that fire alarms are properly installed and maintained, and that they can be relied upon in the event of a fire. Additionally, BS 5306-3:2017 outlines the requirements for the commissioning, installation and maintenance of fire extinguishers. Following both of these standards ensures that companies are providing adequate fire protection for their premises.

 

International Fire Safety Standards

ISO 14520 is a set of standards which outline the requirements for fire suppression systems in buildings. This ensures that they are designed and installed correctly, and that they are tested and maintained regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

These systems are used to extinguish fires in enclosed areas where fires can spread at a rapid rate, such as kitchens. In the event of a fire breaking out, they automatically release the correct extinguishant to control the fire and prevent re-ignition.

 

BSI Group

The British Standards Institution (BSI) is a leading global organisation that develops standards for a range of industries, including fire safety. Some are designed to complement ISO standards, so businesses can rest assured knowing that they are complying with the correct technical standards and are following best practice.

BSI provides guidance on a range of fire safety topics, including:

• the design, installation and maintenance of fire alarm systems
• the commissioning and maintenance of fire extinguishers
• the management of fire safety in buildings

 

Fire Safety Legislation

Fire safety legislation is a set of laws and regulations that companies must comply with to ensure the safety of their premises and staff. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to all non-domestic properties in England and Wales and sets out the legal requirements for fire safety.

The legislation requires companies to carry out a fire risk assessment and put in place measures to reduce the risk of fire based on the findings of the assessment. It also stipulates that staff must receive adequate fire safety training so they know what to do in the event of a fire, with dedicated fire wardens trained in using the appropriate fire equipment for the building. Failure to comply with the legislation can result in fines or even imprisonment.

 

At City Fire, our BAFE-accredited team helps you stay compliant with fire safety standards at your business premises by providing you with the most suitable fire systems and equipment for your setting so you have round-the-clock protection. From fire risk assessments and fire alarms to fire extinguishers and fire safety training, we offer a wide range of services to customers across London, Birmingham and throughout the UK.

Don’t delay – give us a call today to find out how we can help you.