City of Redmond, WA’s Post

It's now October and the new Fire Safety Laws have come into effect. Is your business prepared?! Here are 5 of the crucial amendments that you NEED to know: 1️⃣Comprehensive Recording of Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs): A cornerstone of the new legislation is the mandatory requirement for responsible persons (RPs) of high-rise blocks of flats to maintain comprehensive records of their Fire Risk Assessments. In contrast to previous regulations, which applied solely to premises with five or more employees, these laws now extend to all premises, regardless of workforce size. This inclusivity ensures that no property is exempt from meticulous fire safety documentation. 2️⃣Appointment of Competent Individuals: While the enforcement of this requirement won't commence on October 1st, 2023, responsible persons must begin preparations to ensure that individuals conducting or reviewing fire risk assessments are indeed competent. This precautionary measure is paramount to the safety of occupants. 3️⃣Sharing Information with Fire and Rescue Services: The regulations now mandate that responsible persons must share critical information with Fire and Rescue Services. This facilitates better planning and ensures an effective operational response in the event of an emergency. 4️⃣Enhanced Resident Communication: RPs must provide clear and relevant fire safety information to residents of buildings with two or more sets of domestic premises. This includes detailing identified risks, preventive measures, responsible persons' contact information, and data on nominated individuals responsible for firefighting equipment. 5️⃣Maintenance of Records: Ensuring transparency and accountability, the new laws require responsible persons to maintain records of their fire safety arrangements. If you need additional information, or services to enable your company to comply with the new law, please contact us on 0333 939 0161, or email lee.f@ecosafegroup.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help. #ecosafegroup #firesafety #fireprotection #socialhousing #landlords #homeowners #fire

🚨 The Burning Truth: Why Construction Fire Safety Needs an Overhaul 🏗️🔥 It's time to confront a critical issue that affects the entire construction industry: fire safety on construction sites. 🔥👷♂️ Recent findings from a certified fire investigator have shed light on the alarming state of fire prevention and preparedness in the construction sector. 😱 The hard truth is that many sites are woefully under-prepared to detect and respond to fire emergencies, putting lives and assets at risk. 🚧❌ Consider these sobering statistics: 📊 From 2017 to 2021, local fire departments in North America responded to an average of 4,440 fires in structures under construction per year. 💸 Fire-related incidents can cost millions in damages and lead to significant project delays and reputational harm. The root of the problem? 🤔 1️⃣ Pressure to deliver projects on time and under budget, leading to corners being cut. 2️⃣ A dangerous "it won't happen to me" mentality among contractors and workers. 3️⃣ Lack of standardized fire detection methods and emergency evacuation plans. But there's hope on the horizon! 🌅 Experts believe that a three-pronged approach can help us turn the tide: 1️⃣ Enforcement - Ensuring compliance with the latest fire safety regulations and codes. 2️⃣ Education - Training all stakeholders on best practices and fire prevention management. 3️⃣ Partnership - Collaborating across the industry to implement effective fire safety measures. And let's not forget the power of technology! 💻 Wireless fire safety systems are emerging as a game-changer for construction sites. These portable, long-lasting solutions can provide 24/7 smoke and heat detection, sending real-time alerts to fire program managers. 📡🚨 It's time for the industry to treat the temporary phase of construction with the same level of fire safety importance as the finished product. 🏗️=🏢 We can't afford to wait for tragedy to strike before taking action. 🕰️ Let's work together to futureproof fire safety on construction sites and protect the lives of the hardworking men and women. 💪🔧 It's not just about compliance – it's about creating a culture of safety that permeates every aspect of our work. 🌍🤝 Together, we can build a safer future for the construction industry. 🏗️💪 #ConstructionFireSafety #SafetyFirst #FirePrevention #WirelessSafetySystems #BuildingSafely

Are You Sure You Know Your Legal Responsibilities Under the Fire Safety Order 2005? Who is a Responsible Person? Under the RRO, a 'responsible person' is defined as anyone who has control over the premises. This includes: ▶ Employers ▶ Building owners ▶ Landlords ▶ Facilities managers Essentially, if you have any degree of control over the premises, you are likely to be considered a responsible person. Regulation 17: Maintenance Regulation 17 mandates that the responsible person must ensure that: Fire safety equipment, including fire doors and firestopping, is maintained in efficient working order and good repair. And, regular inspections and maintenance checks are conducted to prevent equipment failure. Neglecting these duties can result in non-compliance, which can lead to severe legal repercussions and endanger lives. Regulation 18: Appointment of Competent Persons Regulation 18 requires the responsible person to appoint one or more competent persons to assist in undertaking preventive and protective measures. This includes: ▶ Conducting fire risk assessments ▶ Implementing fire safety measures ▶ Providing staff training on fire safety Choosing competent persons ensures that fire safety measures are properly managed and maintained, reducing risks and enhancing safety for all building occupants. Consequences of Non-Compliance Failing to comply with the RRO can lead to: ▶ Legal action, fines, or imprisonment ▶ Increased risk of fire-related incidents ▶ Potential harm or loss of life ▶ Damage to property and reputation At Vanguard Fire Protection, we specialise in helping you meet these critical requirements. Our expert team conducts thorough inspections, provides detailed reports, and offers maintenance and installation services to ensure your compliance and safety. Stay Compliant and Safe Protect your building and its occupants by ensuring you meet your fire safety obligations. Contact Vanguard Fire Protection for professional guidance and support. 📧 info@vanguardfireprotection.co.uk 📞 0333 339 7225 🌐 https://lnkd.in/guznHtNg #firedoors #propertymanagement #buildingsafety #facilitiesmanagement #passivefireprotection #activefireprotection #firestopping #healthandsafety

Solutions in Fire Compliance takes care of the preparation and submission of your annual occupier statement to the Queensland Fire authorities. This document serves as a declaration confirming the completion of all scheduled maintenance for your site. Point 61 in the Building Fire Safety Management Tool & Advisory Notes examines whether an annual occupier statement can be furnished upon request. Here are the key details: It is a requirement to maintain an occupier statement for the maintenance of all fire safety installations, and a copy must be sent annually to the Commissioner. You have the option to email this statement to occupier.statements@qfes.qld.gov.au. A duplicate copy of the occupier statement should be retained alongside the evacuation plan and can be stored electronically. While there is an example of the occupier statement provided in the Queensland Development Code Mandatory Part 6.1, you are permitted to use a modified version (e.g., incorporating your company logo or heading), as long as all the pertinent information is included. Any Critical Defect Notices received throughout the year must be appended to the occupier statement. Critical Defects are defined in items 39 and 40 of the Advisory Notes. This item aligns with MP 6.1 of the Queensland Development Code (with links to online resources available in the 'Maintenance of Fire Safety Installations' section of these Advisory Notes), Sections 55A and 55B of the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008, and Section 104D of the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990. For further information, you can refer to the provided links to relevant information sheets or templates at https://lnkd.in/gnTXMkVR under 'Record Security.’ Should you require support with your emergency planning, feel free to reach out to us via direct message or by sending an email to info@solutionsinfirecompliance.com.au https://lnkd.in/gVic68je #firesafety #evacuationplan #onlinetraining #compliance #emergencyplanning

🔥 Ensuring Fire Safety: The Dangers of Unlicensed Contractors 🔥 In the fire protection industry, the safety of lives and property hinges on meticulous compliance with industry standards. 🚒 Queensland's compliance codes play a pivotal role in maintaining the highest levels of fire safety, making it imperative for businesses to engage licensed contractors. 🚫 The Risk of Unlicensed Contractors: ⚖️ Legal Consequences: Queensland's regulatory framework mandates that all fire protection work must be carried out by licensed professionals. Unlicensed contractors not only jeopardise the safety of occupants but also expose businesses to legal repercussions, fines, and potential litigation. 🛑 Substandard Workmanship: Fire protection is a specialised field that demands precision and expertise. Unlicensed contractors may lack the necessary skills and knowledge, leading to substandard installations and maintenance. This compromises the effectiveness of fire safety systems. 🌐 Compliance Breaches: Queensland's compliance codes outline specific requirements for fire protection measures. Engaging unlicensed contractors increases the risk of non-compliance, leaving businesses vulnerable to penalties and, more critically, compromising the safety of occupants. 👷♂️ Protecting Lives and Property: ✅ Engage Licensed Professionals: Collaborate with licensed contractors who adhere to Queensland's compliance codes. Certified professionals bring expertise, ensuring that fire protection systems are installed, inspected, and maintained in accordance with the highest safety standards. 📚 Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge of compliance codes to guarantee that your fire safety measures align with the latest industry standards. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks and enhances the overall resilience of your fire protection systems. 🤝 Partnership for Safety: By choosing licensed contractors, you contribute to a culture of safety and accountability. Together, we can build a safer environment for all, ensuring that fire protection measures stand as robust guardians against potential risks. 🔗 Let's Connect: Share your thoughts on fire safety and compliance in the comments below. How do you prioritise safety in your business, and what measures do you take to ensure fire protection compliance? Call SAFE for a unbiased & reliable advice on 1300 50 7233 🔥 🔥 #FireSafety #ComplianceMatters #SafetyFirst #QueenslandCodes

New fire safety guidance comes into force in 2 months time... Eight weeks today, on 1st October 2023, new fire safety guidance will come into force for all buildings regulated by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO). This guidance introduces the commencement of regulations for new fire safety legal provisions within Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022. These improvements form Phase 3 of the Home Office's Fire Safety Reform Programme which will further strengthen fire safety in all FSO regulated premises by: • Improving cooperation and coordination between Responsible Persons (RPs) • Increasing requirements in relation to the recording and sharing of fire safety information thus creating a continual record throughout a building’s lifespan • Making it easier for enforcement authorities to take action against non-compliance • Ensuring residents have access to comprehensive information about fire safety in their building These new regulations are an important further step in improving fire safety in the built environment. FireDNA encourages all RPs to review the guidance to ensure that they are fully compliant by 1st October. FireDNA empowers RPs and duty-holders to improve competencies, raise safety standards and achieve compliance by delivering and enabling access their buildings 'real-time' fire safety information at the point of need, inline with the Phase 3 requirements. You can read the full Home Office article here: https://lnkd.in/e4_Z-Pr7 #FireDNA #PassiveFireProtection #FireProtection #FireDoors #BuildingFireSafety #FireDoorsets #FireDoorCompliance #FireDoorMaintenance #FireDoorLegislation #GoldenThread #RegulatoryReformOrder #ResponsiblePersons #DutyHolders

🔥🏢 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 🔍📝   📰 The 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 (Northern Ireland) 2012's Part E (Fire Safety) is up for revision.📝 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟:   🔹 The UK government has launched a consultation seeking views on the proposed changes to fire safety regulations. This indicates a commitment to further strengthen fire safety measures and enhance building safety standards.   🔹 The consultation includes the extension of the Fire Safety Order (FSO) to apply to additional types of buildings. This move aims to ensure that a broader range of premises meet the required fire safety standards, promoting a safer built environment.   🔹 The proposal also introduces the concept of a "Responsible Person" for multi-occupied residential buildings. This individual will have a crucial role in ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations and safeguarding the well-being of occupants.   🔹 Fire safety information sharing between building owners and emergency services is another aspect addressed in the consultation. This collaboration is vital for effective emergency response and better risk management.   🔹 The consultation is a fantastic opportunity for all fire safety professionals to contribute their insights and expertise to shape the future of fire safety regulations in the UK.   As fire safety advocates, this is beneficial to all. Together, we can drive positive change and create a safer and more secure built environment for all.   To read the full article and participate in the consultation, click below: https://lnkd.in/eUYRkYPf   #FireSafetyConsultation #BuildingSafety #IndustryInsights #FireSafetyRegulations #Collaboration 🚀🔥💼🏢📝🔍

Fire and rescue services have made government aware of rising numbers of incidents involving the lithium batteries used in e-cycles and e-scooters. Premises managers need to be able to assess and manage these risks. There are tools, resources and lots of information available to do this while safeguarding the utility of these modes of transport for users. FIRE SAFETY LAW The law is there to help provide guidance too. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) is the main piece of legislation governing fire safety in buildings in England and Wales. The FSO applies to all workplaces and the common parts of buildings containing 2 or more domestic premises. It places legal duties on anyone in control of these premises (the Responsible Person - usually the owner or landlord) to undertake and record a fire risk assessment and put in place and maintain general fire precautions. The Fire Safety Act 2021 clarified that the external walls, flat entrance doors and structure of buildings are all covered by the FSO and must be accounted for in fire risk assessments. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations – Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022 brought in additional duties for Responsible Persons under the Fire Safety Order. RISK ASSESSMENT A fire risk assessment and subsequent fire mitigation measures is a legal duty under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The potential introduction of a new fire hazard would require a review of the fire risk assessment. Fire risk assessments should be carried out by a competent person or by a professional fire risk assessor with relevant technical expertise. It will involve a holistic assessment of the premises for fire risk, fire safety systems and control measures, and potential consequences should a fire occur. #lithiumbattery #fire #firesafety #healthandsafety

🔥 Ensuring Fire Safety: The Dangers of Unlicensed Contractors 🔥 In the fire protection industry, the safety of lives and property hinges on meticulous compliance with industry standards. 🚒 Queensland's compliance codes play a pivotal role in maintaining the highest levels of fire safety, making it imperative for businesses to engage licensed contractors. 🚫 The Risk of Unlicensed Contractors: ⚖️ Legal Consequences: Queensland's regulatory framework mandates that all fire protection work must be carried out by licensed professionals. Unlicensed contractors not only jeopardise the safety of occupants but also expose businesses to legal repercussions, fines, and potential litigation. 🛑 Substandard Workmanship: Fire protection is a specialised field that demands precision and expertise. Unlicensed contractors may lack the necessary skills and knowledge, leading to substandard installations and maintenance. This compromises the effectiveness of fire safety systems. 🌐 Compliance Breaches: Queensland's compliance codes outline specific requirements for fire protection measures. Engaging unlicensed contractors increases the risk of non-compliance, leaving businesses vulnerable to penalties and, more critically, compromising the safety of occupants. 👷♂️ Protecting Lives and Property: ✅ Engage Licensed Professionals: Collaborate with licensed contractors who adhere to Queensland's compliance codes. Certified professionals bring expertise, ensuring that fire protection systems are installed, inspected, and maintained in accordance with the highest safety standards. 📚 Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge of compliance codes to guarantee that your fire safety measures align with the latest industry standards. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks and enhances the overall resilience of your fire protection systems. 🤝 Partnership for Safety: By choosing licensed contractors, you contribute to a culture of safety and accountability. Together, we can build a safer environment for all, ensuring that fire protection measures stand as robust guardians against potential risks. 🔗 Let's Connect: Share your thoughts on fire safety and compliance in the comments below. How do you prioritise safety in your business, and what measures do you take to ensure fire protection compliance? Call SAFE for a unbiased & reliable advice on 1300 50 7233 🔥 🔥 #FireSafety #ComplianceMatters #SafetyFirst #QueenslandCodes