Fire Safety Policy
Fire Safety Policy of Holt Energy Advisors Ltd
1. Introduction
Holt Energy Advisors Ltd ("the Business") is committed to providing a safe working environment for its staff and visitors/customers. For this reason the Business has formulated this policy to facilitate compliance with the Business' legal obligations under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 ("Fire Safety Order").
2. Policy objectives
2.1 To provide a safe and healthy working environment for all staff and visitors/customers.
2.2 To minimise the risks to the Business premises from fire.
2.3 To manage fire risks in accordance with the requirements of the Fire Safety Order.
2.4 To comply with the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act etc 1974, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Fire Safety Order.
2.5 To address obligations under the Fire Safety Order that require the Business to:
2.5.1 Develop a policy to minimise the risks associated with fire.
2.5.2 Reduce the risk of an outbreak and subsequent spread of fire.
2.5.3 Provide means of escape.
2.5.4 Demonstrate preventative action.
2.5.5 Maintain documentation and records in respect of fire safety management.
3. The Responsible Persons
The Business has appointed the Managing Director as the 'responsible person'. The responsible person's duties are to ensure the safety of staff and visitors/customers by:
3.1 Carrying out (or ensuring that a competent person carries out) a Fire Risk Assessment. The Fire Safety Risk Assessments will take into consideration everyone who may come onto the premises, whether they are employees or visitors. Particular attention will be paid to people who may have a disability or anyone with special needs.
3.2 Making sure, as far as is reasonably practical, that everyone on the premises, or nearby, can escape safely if there is a fire.
3.3 Preparing a written Emergency Action/Evacuation Plan for the building to be displayed at various locations about the premises.
3.4 Preparing Personal Evacuation Plans for disabled persons (if relevant).
4. Fire Marshals
The Business will appoint competent persons to act as Fire Marshals. The Fire Marshals' duties will include:
4.1 Making contact with the emergency services.
4.2 Assisting in evacuations/fire drills.
4.3 Carrying out regular checks on all fire safety equipment including emergency lights and alarms.
4.4 Ensuring that emergency escape routes are kept clear at all times and that doors designated as Fire Escapes are operable.
4.5 The names and duties of all competent persons will be displayed on the safety notice board.
5. Communication
The Business will ensure that all persons employed either as direct employees or contractors are provided with all relevant information related to fire safety. The Directors of the Business will consult with the employees on all relevant matters of fire safety policy and arrangements, and we will ensure staff are kept informed of any changes that are made to fire safety procedures.
6. Training
6.1 Upon commencement of employment all employees will be given training on fire safety and will receive refresher training as appropriate.
6.2 All employees will be instructed to report any defective or missing equipment to their line manager.
6.3 All employees will receive instruction on their role in the case of an emergency.
6.4 Further training may be required if there are any changes that may affect fire safety. All training will be provided during normal working hours.
7. Equipment/Testing
7.1 The fire evacuation procedures will be practiced every six months.
7.2 Fire fighting equipment will be provided. In general this means fire extinguishers but additional provision of fire blankets, hoses or sprinklers may be made where deemed appropriate by the findings of the risk assessment.
7.3 All fire safety equipment will be serviced by a competent person and the service periods will be scheduled in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
7.4 An appropriate fire detection and alarm system will be provided. The type and extent of the alarm system provided will be based on the findings of the risk assessment. Alarm systems will be tested regularly. Staff will be told when tests are scheduled.
7.5 Emergency lighting will be provided for escape routes where applicable. The location and type will be determined by the findings of the risk assessment.
7.6 Operation of fire exit doors including any automatic closers will be tested and recorded in the fire log on a weekly basis.
7.7 Any other safety systems provided, such as emergency lighting and fire doors, will be checked regularly to ensure correct operation.
8. Procedures
8.1 The Business has introduced the following procedures in order to maintain high standards of fire safety:
8.2 Emergency escape routes will be established and kept free from obstruction at all times, and fire exit doors kept in good working order and unlocked at the times when the premises are occupied.
8.3 The risk of fire spreading through the building will be controlled by the provision of fire/smoke resisting doors.
8.4 Appropriate signs and notices will be displayed, giving appropriate instructions to employees and others in the event of a fire. In addition signs will be provided to indicate the position of fire extinguishers, fire alarm call points and, to indicate the emergency exit routes.
This Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary. The Directors endorse this policy and is fully committed to its implementation.
Signed by: Chris Starling
Position: Managing Director
Date: 25th July 2023
Review date: 1st July 2024
