17-09-2006
Employers warned to ensure they are covered
Delays in the implementation of new fire safety legislation mean that small businesses could find themselves without valid insurance, industry experts have warned.
Under the new legislation, which has been delayed from its original start date in April and is now due to come into force on October 1st, there will be a shift in responsibility to owners and employers, who will be expected to assess any fire risks on their premises and take action to minimise them.
According to caterersearch.com, some councils have already stopped carrying out fire-checks on new buildings and extensions, claiming it is no longer their responsibility even though the new self-assessment accreditation system is not yet in place.
A spokesman for the British Hospitality Association told the website that businesses will find their building insurance to be invalid unless they have up-to-date fire certificates.
Employers are therefore advised to ensure that the correct procedures have been carried out to ensure they are covered by their insurance policy.
