Fire safety and businesses
Businesses have a legal duty to ensure their premises are safe for everyone who uses or visits them. If you own, run or are a responsible person for a business, Kent Fire and Rescue Service are here to offer you help and advice on understanding your responsibilities and how to take precautions, minimise the risk and meet the legal requirements.
Latest updates...
Business Safety Week
If you missed our recent Business Safety Week, there’s still time to take a look at our Business Safety Week page, full of helpful information and guidance to help make your business safer for everyone! Alternatively, contact our friendly team on 01622 212442 or email at buildingsafetyenquiry@kent.fire-uk.org.
Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC)
Some schools in Kent have been found to have RAAC used in their buildings. This lightweight concrete was used in building construction from the 1950s until the mid 1990s. Further information can be obtained from the Local Government Association and .Gov . Kent Fire and Rescue Service are working with local authorities to understand the extent of RAAC across Kent and Medway. As a fire service, our focus is on understanding the risks linked to the building material so we can respond effectively in an emergency.
If you are aware of any buildings or structures across the county that contain RAAC, please email the information to us at riskinformationteam@kent.fire-uk.org. This will help us to understand where RAAC is and to include the information in our response planning.
The Building Safety Act 2022
The new Building Safety Act 2022 became law on the 28 April, 2022 and amends the Fire Safety Order. These changes will come into effect this autumn and relate chiefly to the duties of Responsible Persons. They apply to all buildings including non-domestic buildings, businesses and most public buildings. Learn more on our Building Safety Act 2022 page
The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
These Regulations came into force on the 23 January 2023. Some of the actions Responsible Persons (RP) will now need to take will depend on the height and type of building. Learn about the new requirements - including how to submit your documents - on our High Rise page
Cost of Living and your business
Check out our new page on Businesses and the cost of living. Whether you're considering changing the type of heating you use, altering your premises, or any other change, you'll find advice and information to help you and your business Stay Fire Safe
If your business has a fire
After a fire, there will be a lot to think about and do. For business owners, responsible persons and building owners there are additional factors to consider. Take a look at our new 'If your business has a fire' page for further information
See below for more information ...
What do you want to know?
The Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act came into effect on 28 April 2022 and affects the duties of Responsible Persons.
High rise buildings
Important advice and information for owners or Responsible Persons for buildings that contain two or more sets of domestic premises, are over 11 metres in height, or are at least 18 metres or 7 storeys in height
Event Fire Safety
From music festivals to village fetes, there is a legal duty to ensure the safety of the public. Learn about event safety.
Fire alarms
The alarm system you use will depend on your type of premises. Learn about the type of alarm required and Automatic Fire Alarms.
Business safety advice
From farming to firework displays, take a look at our safety advice page.
Enforcement
KFRS have a duty to enforce safety standards and endeavour to help businesses comply with their legal duties.
The cost of living and your business
We are here to offer help and advice if you are looking to find ways of reducing costs.
If your business has a fire
Helpful guidance for business owners, responsible persons and building owners.
Using artificial or dried foliage
Artificial leaves, flowers, green wall displays, plants and your Fire Risk Assessment. Learn more on our dedicated page.
Business Safety Week 2023
If you missed Business Safety Week, there’s still time to take a look at our Business Safety Week page, full of helpful information...
Primary Authority Partnerships
A Primary Authority Partnership is a legally recognised partnership between a business and Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS). The partnership provides the business with assured tailored advice which is respected by other enforcing authorities.
Learn more on our Primary Authority Partnerships page.
Need help? Contact us
If you have questions or need advice or guidance, our Business Safety Team are here to help with free, friendly advice on making your business or regulated building compliant with fire safety regulations.
Business safety helpline
- Phone 01622 212 442
- Email buildingsafetyenquiry@kent.fire-uk.org
Public event safety enquiries - advice and information for public event organisers
- Phone 01622 212 464
- Email eventsafety@kent.fire-uk.org
Building regulations consultations
Enquiries for the general public and approved inspectors on planning matters and building design:
- Phone 01622 212 421
- Email fet@kent.fire-uk.org
Please note: Any electronic consultation submission to us via email is restricted to a maximum file size of 35 megabytes including attachments and should not contain Zip file attachments.