Fire Safety Policy
This policy is an extension of the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton Health and Safety Policy
accordingly responsibility for implementation of the fire safety policy will follow the arrangements
applicable to the implementation of the health and safety policy.
 
Policy Aims/Objectives:
1.     To ensure compliance with all relevant legislation.
2.     To ensure effective liaison with the local fire authority where appropriate.
3.     To undertake suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments of all Diocesan premises and activities within those premises.
4.     To identify and implement reasonably practicable control measures to control risks from fire.
5.     To where practicable, conduct regular fire evacuation drills and to ensure the regular testing of emergency equipment.
6.     To conduct regular fire safety inspections.
 
Policy Statement:
1.     The Bishop and Trustees will ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the risk from fire will be managed in compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and other appropriate regulations.
 
2.     Management of fire risks will be undertaken in such as way as to prevent injury or ill-health to clergy, employees, volunteers, visitors, contractors and others who may be affected by the activities of the organisation. Specifically, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Arundel and Brighton will:
 
2.1.   Ensure adequate means of escape in case of fire for all persons on Diocesan premises.
2.2.   All means of escape are correctly maintained, kept free from obstruction and available for safe and effective use when buildings are occupied.
2.3.   That the means of escape are adequately lit (in case of fire) and that lighting will be maintained in efficient working order.
2.4.   That adequate means of giving warning in case of fire exist and are maintained in efficient working order.
2.5.   That adequate means for fighting fire are present and are maintained in efficient working order.
2.6.   That appropriate instruction will be given to all persons on Diocesan premises on evacuation procedures.
2.7.   That effective procedures are in place to respond to and deal with the aftermath of a fire.
2.8.   That appropriate fire training is given to designated personnel who have an active role in the implementation of fire precautions.
2.9.   That all premises owned or occupied by the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton are subjected to a fire risk assessment and that where risks are identified action is taken to implement appropriate control measures.
2.10.That appropriate measures are taken to protect buildings, installations and equipment from fire that are commensurate with the risks.
 
 
Signature:                                                                               
 
 

 
 
Rev. Mgr. Canon John Hull.  Vicar General
For and on behalf of the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton
 
Date: October 2008
This date will be the annual review date of our Fire Safety policy.