Expert Opinion: Fire safety in the workplace and the role of the Responsible Person

Stockport health and safety consultancy, Vita Safety, explains the important duties of the person responsible for fire safety in a business.

There were 7,649 workplace fires between 2022 and 2023 (Morgan Clark). Despite the figure decreasing in recent years, accidents still happen. 

However, in most cases fires and their consequences can be avoided if the Responsible Person has carried out the correct procedures.  

With a Responsible Person managing workplace fire safety, you can drastically lower the likelihood of fires. This means fewer workplace disruptions and potential legal liabilities, safeguarding your business against costly fines and lawsuits. 

Who is a Responsible Person? 

According to the Fire Safety Act 2021, the Responsible Person oversees fire safety within the workplace. It is a legal requirement to appoint one. They play a crucial part in ensuring a safe and secure work environment. If there’s more than one Responsible Person, they work together to meet responsibilities. 

Typically, this role is assumed by the employer. It can also be the building owner or occupier. Sometimes fire safety duties are shared among several individuals or groups within a premises. 

How does a Responsible Person manage fire safety in the workplace? 

To manage fire safety in the workplace, the Responsible Person must adhere to the following duties as mandated by the updated Fire Safety Act of 2021:

• Carry out fire risk assessments
• Implement necessary fire safety measures
• Create a fire safety plan
• Provide fire safety information and training
• Collaborate with fire safety officials
• Ensure compliance for High-Risk Buildings

Read more about each of these duties in detail on the Vita Safety website here.

The benefits of being an effective Responsible Person 

Being an effective Responsible Person for fire safety in the workplace means you’re looking after the safety of everyone in your building. This is not only the right thing to do but also keeps you on the right side of the law.  

Following the fire safety rules helps avoid fines and the trouble of being told you can’t use your building until it’s safe. If you get notices from fire safety authorities, like Alterations or Enforcement Notices, responding in a timely manner is imperative. If evidence of acting upon the notices is provided promptly, a Prohibition Notice may not be issued, which can shut down parts of your business until you fix the safety issues. 

Looking after fire safety properly can also mean you pay less for insurance, since companies like to know you’re keeping risks low. Plus, it can stop you from losing money or having to stop work if there’s a fire, keeping your business running smoothly