Firm fined £9000 for Fire Order breaches

Prosecutions and Claims |
12.06.2008

A recycling firm that was attacked by arsonists twice in 12 hours has been fined £9000 for breaching the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service prosecuted Enviro GY after an inspection of its premises in Grimsby revealed there was a build-up of combustible materials, and propane and oxygen cylinders lying near flammable materials.

In January 2006 the company, which recycles fish packaging, was attacked by arsonists in two separate incidents just 12 hours apart.

Company director Adrian Rowlands and his father, managing director Steven Rowlands, admitted three breaches of the Fire Safety Order: failing to take precautions to ensure employees' safety; failing to ensure firefighting equipment was easily accessible and fire alarm call points were kept clear; and failing to keep emergency exits clear.

Imposing a £9000 fine with costs of £1255, Grimsby magistrates acknowledged that the directors "did put right these offences quickly".

Graham Quickfall, of Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Once in place, measures should be taken to ensure that fire precautions provided are regularly inspected and maintained, and that emergency routes, emergency exits, firefighting equipment and fire alarm call points are kept clear at all times."