Cumbria County Council Trading Standards Officers are warning businesses to be aware of the latest attempts to get them to part with their money.
A circular headed ‘Warning!!! Your Business Needs A Fire Risk Assessment’, warns of imminent court action resulting in a fine or imprisonment if the business fails to provide a Fire Risk Assessment by 1st October 2006. It also says that the business insurance policy will not be valid and invites the recipient to apply for a Fire Risk Assessment at a cost of £79.99 plus £5 p&p.
Phil Ashcroft, Head of Cumbria Trading Standards, said: “This particular letter in my opinion adopts a bullying tone in the hope that businesses will be frightened into paying over £85.
"I suggest that anyone receiving it or concerned about the requirement to have a Fire Risk Assessment should contact their local fire safety office for free and independent advice."
Gary Middleton, of A and B Stores, Rawlinson Street, Barrow said: “I received this letter and it looks very official. I was concerned about paying £85. I have every intention of complying with the law but I realise that I can do this easily and for free by contacting the Fire and Rescue Service."
Steve Brain from Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service explained more about the new fire regulations which are due to come into force in the autumn: “The new legislation will apply to virtually all premises, other than dwellings occupied by a single family group.
"The owner or occupier will need to carry out a fire risk assessment identifying the hazards and the risks. Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service provides free guidance on our web site www.cumbriafire.gov.uk or you can ask to speak to a Fire Safety Manager for further details."
Notes for Editors
The new legislation entitled Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 will come into effect on 1st October 2006.