The cost of a fire can be devastating and, sadly, over 80% of businesses do not re-open afterwards. Equipment and stock can be damaged beyond repair and documentation destroyed. More importantly, lives can be lost.  Over recent years, fire safety laws have undergone dramatic changes and on 1st October 2006 the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) came into force.

It applies to all places of work and states that there must be a "responsible person" for fire safety matters in your workplace. You're also require to undertake a comprehensive and unique fire risk assessment, provide adequate staff and fire marshal training, plus have in place sound fire emergency plans and fire safety precautions.
The added risk. Your insurers are unlikely to pay out in the event of a fire if you cannot prove your compliance with the FSO.

Who enforces the legislation? If that isn't enough, your local fire and rescue authority have the power to inspect your premises to check that you are complying with your duties under the FSO. If they are dissatisfied with your approach, they can issue an "Enforcement Notice" that requires you to make certain improvements in a specified period of time or, in extreme cases, a "Prohibition Notice" that restricts the use of all or part of your premises until it is safe.  Plus, fines for breaches of fire safety laws are increasing and there have been some eye-watering penalties issued by the courts.