Understanding your legal obligations under Scottish fire safety legislation and how our comprehensive assessments ensure full compliance.
The Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 introduced significant changes to fire
safety law in Scotland, placing clear responsibilities on duty
holders to ensure the safety of all persons in their premises.
The Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 require all non-domestic
premises to carry out a fire risk assessment, implement fire
precautions (prevention, detection, escape, training), and keep it
reviewed — enforced by SFRS. Applies to employers and duty holders,
with mandatory recording for 5+ staff or under enforcement notice,
ensuring safety for all occupants including vulnerable persons.
Business owners, employers, and those in control of premises must ensure fire safety measures are in place and maintained.
All non-domestic premises must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment carried out by a competent person.
Adequate fire safety measures must be implemented, including fire detection, warning systems, escape routes, and emergency procedures.
Employees and relevant persons must be provided with appropriate fire safety information, instruction, and training.
Access the complete Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 legislation and Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 directly from the UK Government's official legislation website. This is the authoritative source for all fire safety legal requirements in Scotland.
View Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 View Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006Under the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, all businesses must meet specific fire safety requirements. Here's what you need to know to stay compliant.
Must be carried out by a competent person
Must be suitable and sufficient for the premises
Must be reviewed regularly or when changes occur
Must be recorded if employing 5 or more people
Adequate means of escape and emergency routes
Fire detection and warning systems
Fire fighting equipment and facilities
Emergency lighting where required
Fire safety information for all employees
Training on fire safety procedures
Regular fire drills and evacuation practice
Emergency action plan and procedures
Regular maintenance of fire safety equipment
Keep records of maintenance and testing
Document training and fire drills
Regular review of fire safety arrangements
Ultimately responsible for fire safety compliance in their premises
Must ensure employee safety and provide adequate fire safety measures
Anyone with control over premises has fire safety responsibilities
The consequences of not complying with fire safety legislation can be severe, affecting both businesses and individuals personally.
Fire safety legislation is enforced by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who have extensive powers to ensure compliance. The penalties for non-compliance are designed to reflect the serious nature of fire safety obligations.
Failure to comply with fire safety duties is a criminal offence under Scottish law.
Courts can impose unlimited fines for serious fire safety offences.
Serious breaches can result in imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Prohibition notices can force immediate closure of non-compliant premises.
Power to enter and inspect any premises at reasonable times
Require specific actions to be taken within set timeframes
Prohibit or restrict use of premises where there is serious risk
Initiate criminal proceedings for failure to comply
The penalties for non-compliance are severe and can destroy businesses and lives. Ensure your fire safety compliance today.