Public Safety Minister Michael McGimpsey launched a three month consultation on proposals to reform fire safety regulations in Northern Ireland. The regulation will give effect to EU Health and Safety directives and will bring Northern Ireland into line with England, Scotland and Wales.

The Minister said “The new regulations will replace the current requirement to have fire certificates for non-domestic premises with risk assessments. Employers, owners, managers and landlords will in future be responsible for ensuring that fire risk assessments are carried out and measures to protect lives are put in place”.

The regulations will be accompanied by guidance documents, aimed at providing information and advice for those with duties under the proposed legislation. Encouraging a broad response on the public consultation, Mr McGimpsey added “These regulations and guidance notes will support the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service in promoting fire prevention and fire safety awareness in businesses, schools and homes across Northern Ireland”.

The consultation runs until 8 May 2009.