What is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005?

If you’re responsible for a building, whether it’s a commercial space, shared residential property or public venue, you’ve probably heard of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. But what does it actually mean in practice?

Here is a quick fire summary of what you need to know.

The Order replaced a patchwork of previous fire safety laws with one clear piece of legislation. Most importantly, it made the ‘responsible person’, usually the employer, landlord or occupier, legally accountable for fire safety in non domestic premises.

To stay compliant, the responsible person must:

• Carry out a fire risk assessment - Regular and thorough, this forms the backbone of the Order. It should identify hazards, evaluate risks and highlight who’s at risk.

• Put in place fire safety measures - This includes alarms, extinguishers, lighting, signage, escape routes and any other relevant equipment or planning. 

• Maintain those measures - Fire doors, alarms, extinguishers - if it’s there for fire safety, it needs to work. Ongoing checks and maintenance are essential. 

• Train and inform staff - People need to know what to do if the worst happens. That means regular fire drills and clear evacuation procedures. 

Applies to:

• Schools and public buildings 

• Factories and warehouses

• Communal areas in flats

• Offices and shops

• And more…

If it isn’t purely a private home, the Order applies. 

What happens if you ignore it?

Non compliance isn’t just risky, it’s punishable. Fines, closure notices or even prison sentences can follow if fire safety is neglected. 

In Summary

The Regulatory Reform Order 2005 puts fire safety responsibility where it belongs, with the people in charge of buildings. It’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about protecting lives. Regular risk assessments, proper training and maintaining equipment aren’t optional, they are legal obligations. 

Need help getting your fire safety sorted? We can carry out your risk assessments, advise on compliance and make sure your fire protection measures are up to scratch. Contact us at enquiries@pyroactive.co.uk