Welsh Fire Chiefs Say Pubs Lack Proper Fire Risk Assessments

[james.wilson]

Fire officers in the north of Wales have expressed their concern about the state of fire risk assessments in the area.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has warned that too many pubs, social clubs and private clubs have conducted insufficient fire risk assessments, or have not conducted one at all.

All commercial properties in England and Wales must carry out a thorough fire risk assessment, or the Responsible Person risks being prosecuted under Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Mark Kassab, business education manager for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said that the state of preparation for fire in some establishments is "frightening".

"We have found … blocked or locked fire exits, inadequately serviced and tested fire alarms and emergency lights, poor standards of housekeeping and a lack of fire safety management," he said.

Mr Kassab warned: "We have the power under the legislation to … restrict or close the premises where the risk of injury or death from fire is unacceptable."

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