The Fire Safety Order - Legal Requirements

Fire safety law changed in October 2006 with the introduction of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) which replaced over 70 pieces of fire safety law. The requirement for businesses to have fire certificates has been abolished and any previously held are no longer valid.

The FSO applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including the common parts of blocks of flats and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).

The law applies to you if you are:

• Responsible for business premises
• An employer or self-employed with business premises
• Responsible for a part of a dwelling where the part is solely used for business purposes
• A charity or voluntary organisation
• A contractor with a degree of control over any premises
• Providing accommodation for paying guests
• A small day nursery

Under the Order, the 'responsible person' (being the employer, occupier or owner) must carry out a 'suitable and sufficient' fire safety risk assessment and implement and maintain a fire management plan. Further information on what you need to do when carrying out a risk assessment is available in the 'Risk Assessment Process' section.

If, having completed a fire safety risk assessment, you need more practical advice or information please contact the Business Education Team.

You may feel more comfortable employing a fire safety specialist to help you. Individuals and companies providing fire safety services are listed in local directories. For more information refer to the 'Choosing a Risk Assessor' section.

Fire safety responsibilities under Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022: guidance