Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) is currently taking steps to provide further support for business fire safety in Herefordshire and Worcestershire by upskilling operational staff (Watch Commanders) to carry out fire safety inspections. This is in addition to its current fire safety inspection programme.
Group Commander George Marshall said: “The aim is to build on the Business Fire Safety Checks that we already do and ultimately further support local businesses with their fire safety responsibilities.
“All of our 32 full–time operational Watch Commanders based across Herefordshire and Worcestershire will be trained to a Fire Safety Level 3 Certificate, which means they will then carry out fire safety inspections at premises such as small shops and businesses.
“This will mean more inspections can be carried out and evenmore businesses will receive direct support, which will help make the two counties safer.”
With shops and businesses opening next week, businesses arealso reminded to ensure that their fire risk assessments are up-to-date and take into consideration any Covid-secure measures. Businesses have a legal responsibility to carry out a fire risk assessment, which should identify the measures needed to keep their premises safe from fire and keep the people working in, and using, the premises safe from fire.
Further information on business fire safety, including advice relating to Covid-19, can be found at http://www.hwfire.org.uk/safety-and-advice/business-safety
