5 Fire Safety Regulations Every Business in Oxfordshire Needs to Know

5 Fire Safety Regulations Every Business in Oxfordshire Needs to Know

When it comes to protecting your staff, premises, and customers, fire safety is not just a legal obligation — it’s essential for your business's continuity and reputation. Whether you're running a small shop in Banbury or managing a large commercial unit in Oxford, complying with fire safety regulations is non-negotiable.

Here are five key UK fire safety regulations that every business in Oxfordshire should know — and how Cherwell Technology can help you stay compliant and protected.

1. Fire Safety Regulations: Understanding the Regulatory Reform Order 2005

This is the core piece of legislation that applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales. It places legal responsibility on the “responsible person” — usually the employer, owner, or manager — to ensure fire safety is managed properly.

You must:

• Carry out a Fire Risk Assessment regularly

• Implement appropriate fire safety measures

• Maintain all fire detection and alarm systems

• Provide training and information to employees

2. Fire Risk Assessments Must Be Up to Date

By law, all workplaces must have a written fire risk assessment if they employ 5 or more people. It must be reviewed regularly — especially if there are structural or staffing changes.

Many businesses make the mistake of doing it once and forgetting about it — which puts them at legal and safety risk.

✅ Cherwell Technology offers professional fire risk assessments tailored to your building and operations.

3. Emergency Lighting is a Legal Requirement

Under BS 5266-1 and the Fire Safety Order, workplaces must have emergency lighting that activates when the main power fails — guiding people to safety.

This includes:

• Illuminating exit routes, stairs, and signage

• Providing battery-backed backup lighting

• Routine testing and maintenance

💡 Not sure if your system is compliant? We offer full inspections and upgrades.

4. Fire Alarms Must Be Properly Installed and Maintained

Every commercial property must have a suitable fire detection system. BS 5839-1:2017 outlines installation standards — including what type of alarm system is appropriate for your premises.

You must also:

• Test your alarm weekly

• Have it professionally serviced every 6 months

• Keep a logbook of all tests and maintenance

Cherwell installs, upgrades, and maintains all fire detection systems to British Standards.

5. Staff Training & Fire Drills are Mandatory

You are legally required to train employees on fire procedures — including how to evacuate, use extinguishers, and respond to alarms.

Key requirements:

• Run fire drills at least once a year

• Keep written records of training and drills

• Display clear fire signage and exit instructions

We can also assist with fire marshal training or help review your evacuation protocols.

✅ Stay Compliant. Stay Protected.

Fire safety regulations can be complex — but you don’t have to navigate them alone. At Cherwell Technology, we help businesses across Oxfordshire stay safe, compliant, and confident.

Our services include:

• Fire alarm installation & maintenance

• Emergency lighting systems

• Fire risk assessments

• Ongoing compliance support contracts

  
  

📞 Need help meeting fire safety standards?

👉 Contact us today to book a compliance check with our engineers.

👉 Request a free quote