Important New Advice on Fire Safety
South West Tourism have recently held several meetings with fire authorities and other experts to try and provide clear answers to many questions on the subject of fire safety for the tourism industry.
Some issues have been clarified but other important issues are currently being pursued with fire authories, VisitBritain and other partners.
Key clarifications that are likely to affect all accommodation providers are:
The Fire Reform Order requirements (duty of care) apply to all UK organisations and businesses, and at all times. Only private domestic households are exempt.
The 'short guide to making your premises safe from fire', which has been widely circulated to accommodation providers across the country is inadequate for businesses offering accommodation. Any business offering accommodation, whether serviced or self catering, should refer to the full 'Fire Safety Risk Assessment - Sleeping Accommodation', which can be downloaded free of charge from www.communities.gov.uk/fire, or bought for £12.
In completing a Fire Risk Assessment for accommodation, it is very likely that you will need either expert training or specialist advice. For a small B&B, you may be able to acquire the necessary knowledge after a full day's course. For a larger business you will almost certainly need to consult a specialist.
Take care when selecting expert advice. South West Tourism are working with partners to develop a guide on how to select a consultant, but in the meantime we recommend that you ask other businesses for their recommendations and ask consultants for evidence of their recent work and independence.
We will update this area with any further news and developments.
