Fire Safety in Masonic Halls & Buildings

1. Fire Safety in Masonic Halls & Buildings Presentation by Bob Wareham

2. Background The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into effect (England & Wales) in October 2006 and replaced over 70 pieces of fire safety law. • This removed the responsibility of the Fire Authorities to inspect premises and issue Fire Certificates and • Placed the burden of responsibility onto Owners/Occupiers of buildings to carry out suitable & sufficient Fire Risk Assessments

3. What is required • The responsibility for completing a Fire Risk Assessment lies with the Owner/Occupier of Buildings. • Implement and maintain a Fire Management Plan. • The Fire Risk Assessment should be completed by a competent person. • It should be reviewed whenever there are material changes to the building, following a fire incident or at least annually.

4. 5 Steps to Fire Risk Assessment • 1. Identify the hazards. • 2. Identify who may be affected. • 3. Evaluate the risks & decide precautions. • 4. Record the findings & implement them. • 5. Review the assessment & update.

5. Identify Potential Fire Sources • Heaters, lighting, naked lights, electrical equipment. • Rubbish, furniture, wood or paper. • Hardboard, chipboard or polystyrene on walls/ceilings. • Consider outside of the building.

6. Identify People at Risk • Employees • Members • Guests and visitors • Elderly • Disabled

7. Fire Emergency Planning • Detection System • Warning System • Escape plan • Emergency Equipment

8. Review the assessment and implement any changes Bob Wareham October 2011