The FIA and West Yorkshire FRS work to educate businesses in fire safety

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) is pleased to announce that they will run a Fire Safety Seminar on Thursday 20th September, with support from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The seminar which takes place at the Holiday Inn Leeds- Garforth will be opened by Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Craig McIntosh and will help educate those responsible for fire safety in all types of commercial premises.

Unwanted Fire Signals is an important issue for both fire brigades and the public, especially with changes to response policies to automatic fire alarms by brigades in England in the last 18 months.

Earlier this year the government brought forward the commencement of general power of competence within the Localism Act 2011; this means that fire services can go to consultation on whether to start charging for attendance at false alarms. Therefore, new to the agenda this year is a presentation on ‘Tackling Unwanted Fire Signals’ which will be given by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

In a survey conducted by the FIA in 2011, 35% of bosses in Leeds said there has been a fire in their workplace. Major fires often result in businesses being unable to recover and closing down, and the economic cost of fire in the UK is on the increase. However there are simple, cost effective ways to protect residents, staff and businesses from fire and the FIA aims to help the public make commercial properties more fire safe.

In the same survey nearly a quarter of respondents admitted that they were unaware of the fire exit locations in their workplace and wouldn’t know what to do in the event of a fire. This event will provide clarity about fire safety duties of the Responsible Person, in accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, in all commercial premises including office and retail buildings; care homes; sleeping accommodation; educational and healthcare premises.

The seminar is relevant to owners of commercial premises; facilities managers; health & safety managers; building designers and consultants who wish to learn about the importance and benefits of incorporating fire safety management protection measures.

The FIA seminars cover various fire safety topics from fire legislation, means of escape and fire fighting by staff to fixed fire protection measures. No matter what size the business, this seminar will help them provide a safe environment for occupants and staff alike.

Delegates learn key fire safety points related to their working environment as well as having the chance to talk to the local Fire and Rescue Service; manufacturers; installers; suppliers and maintainers of fire protection equipment; and fire risk assessors.

It’s just £10 + VAT to attend this event. Places are limited so visit http://www.fia.uk.com/en/Events/index.cfm to confirm your place.