Pubs warned over fire safety laws

Pubs are being urged to check they are complying with new safety laws to avoid a fine up to £10,000 or even jail.

Since last October, the responsibility for fire safety has been shifted to owners and employers - who are now required to assess fire risks on their premises.

Small business insurer More Th>n Business is urging all pubs to comply not only to guard against the potential fines, but also to protect themselves and their staff from possible fires.

Mike Bowman, head of insurance at More Th>n Business, said: "The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order is the biggest shake-up in fire legislation for 30 years, yet many small businesses aren't even aware the new law exists.

"We know that for a third of small businesses health and safety is their biggest burden, but we are calling for those who haven't yet taken action on the law to set aside some time to make sure they are protected. It could save their livelihood, and even their lives."

But the legislation does appear to be having an impact on small business fires - since it was introduced.

More Th>n Business has seen a 36 per cent drop in the number of fire claims compared with the same time period the year before.

Tony Payne, chief executive of the Federation of Licensed Victuallers' Associations, said he feared there were still "quite a few" licensees who were not complying with the new laws. He added: "Time is always an issue, but it's important that you get round to checking your premises."