MAJOR FIRE SAFETY REFORM TO COME INTO FORCE IN OCTOBER

New fire safety rules affecting all non-domestic premises in England and Wales will come into force on 1st October 2006. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, made in June 2005, is the largest overhaul of fire safety legislation in decades.

Originally, it was due to come into force next month (April) but in January the department announced it was deferring to give business and stakeholders more time to prepare.

Announcing the new date in a written statement, the DCLG Minister responsible for fire safety, Jim Fitzpatrick said:

"The Government's over-riding aim is to save more people from death and injury by reducing risk and preventing fires.

"Over the coming months, we will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that all those affected by the new rules have the support that they need."

Further details of the press notice may be seen at:

http://www.communities.gov.uk/index.asp?id=1002882&PressNoticeID=2089