Meet the team working to make Staffordshire businesses safer

Our dedicated team within the Protection department work to make Staffordshire businesses safer by offering tailored support and fire safety advice.

The team work proactively to ensure businesses and public buildings comply with fire safety laws, carry our fire safety inspections and offer guidance to reduce fire risks.

The team also have the power to enforce fire safety legislation where necessary and can impose written notices or pursue prosecutions.

Protection Lead, Matt White, said: “We work alongside local businesses to ensure they are aware of their fire safety responsibilities and help them put measures in place to limit the chances of fire.

“Fires in business premises can damage the livelihoods of the owners and put the public at risk of serious harm, so providing and maintaining a safe working environment for staff is paramount for any business.

“Waste and clutter should be cleared frequently, as combustible materials like paper, cardboard and wood can easily accumulate and provide ample fuel for fires to spread.

“Businesses should also regularly inspect fire doors and ensure escape routes are accessible to everyone in the premises.

“A suitable fire risk assessment should be carried out and includes procedures needed to keep people and assets safe. This includes identification of hazards, evaluating, removing or reducing any risk factors identified, preparing an emergency plan and providing adequate training to members of staff.

“We are keen to support local businesses and make sure employees and residents in our communities are protected from the risks of fire, however where the safety of individuals is put at risk, we will not hesitate to use our full suite of powers and take the relevant enforcement action”.