Risk news

A three-month consultation has been launched by the public safety minister Michael McGimpsey on proposals to reform Northern Ireland fire safety regulations.

The regulations will be accompanied with guidance documents to provide advice and information for individuals with responsibilities under legislation.

If the reform was to go ahead, Northern Ireland will be brought in line with Scotland, Wales and England and will give effect to European Union health and safety directives.

Mr McGimpsey said: "Employers, owners, managers and landlords will in future be responsible for ensuring that fire risk assessments are carried out and measures to protect lives are put in place."

The new legislation will also replace the current requirement of such individuals to have fire certificates for non-domestic premises with risk assessments.

HSE inspector Amanda Huff recently reminded people and organisations of the consequences that could come from inadequate risk assessments.

Norwich Union Risk Services offers a one-day risk assessment course, combined with fire risk assessment, for those who wish to further their knowledge. It alos offers a NEBOSH Fire Certificate course, more about which can be found here http://www.nurs.co.uk/training/fire-safe.htm.