In July 2025, an Altrincham‑based construction firm was fined £165,000 after repeatedly failing to implement critical fire safety measures during the redevelopment of a former warehouse in Preston. This redevelopment involved building 35 apartments over six floors.
During a visit on 16 May 2023, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service identified severe fire safety defects. This included the absence of a fire detection system, no means to raise the alarm, inadequate escape plans, and poor phasing of work, which compromised fire compartmentation across floors. Residents were evacuated, and prohibition and improvement notices were issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Despite this, the company continued to work without compliance.
The Company, now liquidated, was convicted on four offences under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
• Install fire detection systems
• Provide alarm-raising mechanisms
• Design and implement evacuation plans
• Maintain fire compartmentation through phased construction
• Develop and follow a fire management plan
• Comply promptly with HSE notices
Construction/Development Sites: Governed by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. Duty holders must plan, manage, monitor, and coordinate health and safety throughout the project, including fire safety.
Normal Businesses: Governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Responsible persons must carry out fire risk assessments, install detection and alarm systems, maintain escape routes and emergency lighting, train staff, and conduct regular drills and maintenance.
• Carry out fire risk assessments
• Collaborate with fire authorities
• Install and maintain detection and alarm systems
• Maintain clear evacuation routes
• Train staff and workers in fire safety
• Comply promptly with enforcement notices
• Document assessments, plans, and training records
Safety Risks: Elevated risk of fire outbreaks, spread, and risk to life.
Legal & Financial Consequences: Heavy fines, possible liquidation, reputational damage, civil claims, and higher insurance premiums.
Regulatory Fallout: Enforcement by HSE and fire services, prosecution, and tougher penalties post-Grenfell.
At HPC, our team of experts can support you with
• Conducting fire risk assessments
• Designing fire management and evacuation plans
• Advising on phased construction planning
• Auditing fire detection and alarm systems
• Delivering training and evacuation drills
• Supporting compliance with enforcement actions
• Guiding appeals and compliance with new regulations
This case highlights that fire safety failures carry severe human and financial consequences. Whether in construction or operations, fire safety must be central from the start. Proactive assessment, planning, training, and compliance are essential to protect life, reputation, and business continuity.
To find out more information or to discuss fire safety measures within your business, please get in contact with our team of experts.
T: 0330 107 1037
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