Part 3 of the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 and the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 came into effect on 15 November 2010.

What has changed?

The new legislation seeks to replace and simplify existing fire safety legislation in non-domestic premises using a modern risk based approach to fire prevention. It means that any person who has some level of control in premises must take reasonable steps to reduce the risk from fire and make sure people can safely escape if there is a fire.

Where does the legislation apply?

The fire safety legislation applies to virtually all premises and covers nearly every type of building, structure and installation. 

Examples include:

• Offices and shops.
• Premises that provide care, including care homes and hospitals.
• Pubs, clubs and restaurants.
• Places of worship.
• Educational establishments including schools.
• Theatres and cinemas.
• Sports centres and other community premises.
• Hotels and hostels.
• Guest house and B&B accomodation.
• Shared areas of properties common to several households.
• Houses in multiple occupation.
• Factories and warehouses.
• Tents and marquees.
• Transport premises and facilities.
• Animal premises and stables.
• Open air events and venues.

It does not apply to people's private homes, including individual flats in a block or house.