FORGET TO TEST AT YOUR PERIL

Health and Safety and Employment Law specialist mhl support is currently running a campaign highlighting the importance of up to date electrical testing in business premises. The move has been prompted by new legislation which focuses on employees’ capabilities to carry out a fire risk assessment. The issue was highlighted recently when a 500 year old building was engulfed in flames because of abnormal electrical activity. Staff and guests were forced to flee from Naughty Nell’s hotel and restaurant in Shifnal, after a blaze broke out in its cellar at about 10.30pm on Tuesday. The fire, which ripped through the basement of the 500-year-old hotel, was caused by an electrical fault, fire investigators said. mhl support feels that the incident underlines two areas of major concern, the importance of fire risk assessments and the need for electrical testing on a regular basis, particularly in light of the recent The Fire Safety (Employees’ Capabilities) Regulations 2010. “This new piece of legislation places an emphasis upon the employer to ensure that the person they appoint to carry out the fire risk assessment is capable of doing so,” said Michael Slade, Managing Director of mhl support. “Up until a few years ago the local Fire Authority would issue certificates. This is no longer the case. It’s not enough just to have a fire risk assessment in place. If the assessment is found to be insufficient, because the person who carried it out wasn’t competent, then there is a danger that the fire authority would prosecute. Such an action would invalidate any insurance.” The incident in Shropshire also underlines the need for regular electrical testing at workplace premises. mhl support is keen that employers understand that this area is a potential hotspot and again if due care and attention is not taken then insurance may be invalidated. “Health and Safety legislation can be a minefield for business owners,” explained Michael Slade. “mhl have the experience and knowledge to support employers who find themselves struggling to understand this complex area of law. Anyone who feels that they need help or support in this area please feel free to give mhl support a call on 08453 100600.” - ENDS -

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