What powers do the fire brigade have?

The fire and rescue authority have a statutory duty to audit your premises. it is the duty of the employer or in the case of multi occupied premises the owner for the common areas to ensure that the level of fire safety is compliant with the regulatory (fire safety) order 2005.

You must carry out a suitable fire risk assessment having regard to all of the fire safety matters.

You will normally be notified 21 days in advance. Any fire in your premises will prompt an audit, which normally happens within 24 hours.

They have enforcement and prosecution powers. 

Following the audit they will inform you in writing regarding the outcome. 

Depending on the outcome of the audit you may receive either a letter stating that the outcome of the audit shows that the result was broadly compliant.

There are other levels of correspondence you may receive which vary from a letter of non-compliance to an enforcement notice, or in the worst scenario a prohibition notice. Notwithstanding the enforcement notice the officer will allow a reasonable time period to enable you to rectify the issues.

You will have 21 days from the receipt of and enforcement notice to launch an appeal to a magistrates court

We can offer a rapid response to any brigade stipulations, often we can suggest alternatives or other less expensive ways of achieving the same purpose. Call for advice.