Fire training

[Charles]

A friend of mine told me that he has received good info from this site and that someone out there may be able to help me.  So here goes.  I run a small business and employ 11 people.  During a recent H&S check the subject of Fire training came up.  I must admit it is something i had planned to sort out but something that was at the bottom of my list as it always seemed to be dead money.  I now realise that this is very naive and wish to sort out this issue.  My problem is i am finding it difficult to find out just who needs training?  Fire awareness or Warden and the all important cost!!  Will i lose my staff for days?  your help guys please

[AnthonyB]

What is the nature of the business? Office or Industrial?

[davio1960]

Charles
Try this site
http://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/training/commercial/

[Charles]

Thanks for the reply.  The nature of my business is generally office based.  Does this tend to make a big difference?  Whilst i am here, does anyone know what this new reform is all about and what it will mean to someone like me?  Thanks.

[AnthonyB]

Ideally all staff should receive the practical training, but this is not always possible - however as a minimum they should all undertake training in the emergency plan and basic fire prevention, which should ideally be recorded.
I only asked the type of business as certain occupations may involve higher fire risks making the practical training of all staff more vital.
Dont forget you can get to see how an extinguisher works for real, albeit not on fires when your own extinguishers require test discharging for extended servicing or overhaul.

There are links to the draft Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order on this site - however if you are already complying with the current law, having a fire risk assessment, suitable and sufficient precautions, etc, then you will be most of the way to complying with the new order as it will be centred around a risk based regieme

[Simon Morriss]

I use a company called Venture Fire www.venturefire.co.uk and they are excellent and good value for money.  I'm sure they will visit you for free to give advice with of course the possibality of picking up some work.

Simon

[Fishy]

Charles:

As a first step, have a look at the geovernment guidance - it's available free at www.archive.official-documents.co.uk/document/fire/index.htm - for a small office you should be able to deal with all or most of the issues yourself.

Fishy