In anticipation of the upcoming changes in fire safety requirements, brought about by changes enacted by Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is taking proactive steps to ensure those responsible for fire safety in our built environment, namely employers, those with any control over fire safety matters within a building and building owners, are well-informed and prepared.
As of 1st October 2023 this legislation will introduce new requirements of what ‘Responsible Persons’ need to do as a result of changes made to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (‘the Fire Safety Order’) through the Building Safety Act 2022.
To help the above Responsible Persons navigate these changes, a series of Q&A events are being held, to address concerns and questions relating to the impending legislation. These events will provide invaluable insights into the implications of the new regulations, offering people and organisations an opportunity to clarify their responsibilities and understand the necessary actions to ensure compliance.
These requirements apply to all non-domestic premises, such as where people work, visit or stay, including workplaces, and the non-domestic parts of multi-occupied residential buildings (e.g. communal corridors, stairways, plant rooms). Responsible persons within these areas are encouraged to attend these informative sessions.
The Q&A events will feature Fire Safety teams from across the Service and attendees will have the chance to engage in interactive discussions, pose questions, and receive accurate information directly.
Group Manager Protection George O’Reilly said:
"We recognise the importance of ensuring that those who are responsible for fire safety in our area are well-prepared for the changes brought about by the Building Safety Act 2022. By hosting these Q&A events, we aim to provide a platform for businesses to address their concerns, clarify doubts, and ultimately contribute to safety and compliance across the County."
For more information about the Q&A events including dates, times and to register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/qas-responsible-persons-fire-safety-compliance-2495579
Participation is free of charge.
We will be adding more dates so if you can’t make a date or location then please keep an eye on the event link or contact your local Fire Safety Office: Fire Safety Offices | East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (esfrs.org)
By actively engaging with the community and offering valuable insights, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is demonstrating its commitment to provide guidance to make sure local businesses and other responsible persons comply with the requirements of the Fire Safety Regulations.
Useful links:
Fire safety responsibilities under Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)