54% increase in Fire related fatalities in 2014

In the last 4 years (2011-2014) there has been 127 fire related fatalities in Ireland.

The most recent fire location and causes statistics noted that 1,522 fire brigades were called to workplace fires in 2013. This represents a 10% increase in the number of workplace fires from the 12 months previous.

What are your legal requirements as an employer?

Every employer must identify the hazards in their workplace. This is stated under Section 19 of Ireland’s Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, This includes fire risks.

How can you ensure Your corporate compliance?

To comply with Section 19, employers are required to conduct fire safety risk assessments and to record these in the Safety Statement

This fire safety risk assessment should include

• Fire Prevention
• Fire Detection and Warning
• Emergency Escape and Fire Fighting

All companies must comply with various Codes of Practice and legislation specific to fire such as the Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003.

Under the Building Regulations and Associated Codes of Practice (Building Control Act, Building Regulations and Fire Safety Legislation, Part B [Fire]), a detailed Fire Certificate  must also be submitted for all buildings.

For more fire service statistics please visit http://www.environ.ie/