In yet another example of how large companies tend to ignore workplace safety regulations, Shell International Ltd. was recently prosecuted for severe breaches of fire regulations under Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (the RRO). Due to the gravity of the charges, to which it pleaded guilty, Shell has been fined to the tune of £345,000 including costs, which is the highest fine that has ever been imposed under the Order.
In an inspection conducted by the London Fire Brigade, it was found that Shell had not reviewed its fire risk assessment since 2003, which should have been done in 2004 itself. Further, there were a number of lapses reported in the assessment which had not been rectified even after three years.
The Inspecting Officers were alerted when within a month, there were two small fires in 2007 due to such safety lapses. Also with the excessive amount of fire loading on account of the renovation of the upper floors, the risk had increased manifold. The Inspecting Officers found that the escape ways and fire exits were blocked and the fire doors were also not suitably maintained. Companies need to be sure that they are giving the correct instructions to employees with regard to health and safety issues to ensure the risk of fire is minimised; click for more info on fire warden training from Workplace Law.
The breaches were found to be so grave that the London Fire Brigade prohibited employees and members of the public from accessing areas in Shell tower as well as the basement levels till the fire safety measures were in place. The only people allowed access were those working on the rectification of the system. However, in another inspection conducted a few days later, when it was discovered that the safety measures were in place, the prohibition was removed.