Don’t stop the inspector

Recently two bed and breakfast owners have been fined for stopping a Fire Safety Inspector from entering their property. After many repeated attempts to gain access, the fire service had to take a more serious course of action, and prosecuted the owners of the bed and breakfast, a married couple, for obstructing inspectors in their duty.

Both appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates Court, where the husband was fined £350 and ordered to pay costs of £1,650. The wife was also fined £250 and ordered to pay further costs of £1,650. They were also ordered to each pay a £15 victim surcharge.

The head of fire safety enforcement and risk at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: “It is very unusual for us to be forced into this course of action as the vast majority of owners of commercial premises understand how important it is that their properties are inspected to ensure they comply with fire safety laws.

“Our priority is always to ensure that people are kept as safe as possible and our fire safety inspections focus on premises where there is the greatest risk of fire. These include bed and breakfasts and hotels, where guests are likely to be unfamiliar with the layout of the building and range in age and mobility. Our inspectors’ advice and guidance save lives and it’s vital they are allowed to do their job.”

Remember, Inspector’s have a right of access at any reasonable time, that could be any time that you are doing business. If you need more advice call us on 01509 550023, or email us at enquiries@lrbconsulting.co.uk

Source: Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service