Arson reduction
Barnet Council does not provide specific services to reduce arson. For more information about reducing the possibility of arson visit the arson prevention bureau website, or ‘fire kills’.
Deliberately started fires are a serious threat to premises of all kinds. It is a problem that effects all sections of the population and is not confined only to urban areas.
By far the biggest threat comes from vandalism. Those involved are generally children or adolescents who set fire to combustible material for no reason other than that it is easily accessible to them.
Employers may be required by health and safety law to take steps to minimise the risk of fire, including fire started deliberately. Our health and safety team may ask about fire precautions during routine inspections or following an incident, and may take enforcement action if appropriate.
Assessing the Risk
By carrying out a risk assessment, addressing the vulnerable areas and adopting some simple measures, it is possible to substantially reduce the risk. Many risk reduction procedures involve little or no cost but are simply part of good management practice and will, of course, be welcomed by insurers. Set out below are some of the precautions that can be taken to protect your business.
Reducing the Risk
The majority of deliberate fires in commercial and industrial premises are started in waste material left easily accessible to the arsonist.
- waste material should not be allowed to accumulate anywhere on the premises, in yards or loading areas or at perimeter fences.
- any waste should be stored in metal containers with lockable lids and should be located in areas inaccessible to vandals or arsonists ideally in a secure area.
- skips should be emptied regularly and should be sited at a safe distance, ideally 8 metres from any building or at least far enough away so that any fire that is started in the skip can not spread to that building.
- never leave pallets, plastic crates or trays in open yards adjacent to the premises, vandals and arsonists frequently use them to start fires.
At closedown it is essential for a responsible person to check:
- external doors are locked
- internal doors closed
- windows closed and locked
- no unauthorised persons left on the premises
- no accumulation of waste or rubbish
- alarms switched on
- lights switched on as required
It is essential that when considering security and locking of doors and windows that any fire legislation applicable to the premises in respect to means of escape is not compromised. If you are in any doubt, contact your local fire safety officer who will be pleased to advise you or find out about community fire safety from the London Fire Brigade.
