Public safety minister Michael McGimpsey this month launched a three month consultation on proposals to reform fire safety regulations in Northern Ireland. The regulations will give effect to various EU health and safety directives, and will bring Northern Ireland in line with England, Scotland and Wales.
The minister said, "The new regulations will replace the current requirement to have fire certificates for non-domestic premises with risk assessments. 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 regulations will be accompanied by guidance documents, aimed at providing information and advice for those with duties under the proposed legislation.
Encouraging a broad response on the public consultation, Mr McGimpsey added, "These regulations and guidance notes will support the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service in promoting fire prevention and fire safety awareness in businesses, schools and homes across Northern Ireland. Given the risk that fire poses, I shall welcome all responses in relation to these proposals."
The consultation will end on 8 May 2009.
