The Fire Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 placed a duty on any person who has control in a premises to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk from fire and make sure that people can safely escape if there is a fire.

The "responsible person" could be:

• The employer for those parts of the premises
• The managing agent/owner for shared parts of the premises
• The occupier
• Any other person who has some control of the premises

The Fire Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person at a premises to carry out a risk assessment at that premises to ensure that as far as is reasonably practical make sure that everyone on the premises, or nearby, can escape safely if there is a fire. You should pay particular attention to people who may have a disability or anyone who may need special help (e.g. young children or the elderly).

For further information about how to carry out a suitable risk assessment for your premises see The Health & Safety Executive Website guidance on Fire Safety

Additional guidance and fire checklists can be found on the Communities and Local Government website.