The Childcare Register for childcare in both domestic and non-domestic premises is issued and controlled by Ofsted. They state “The registered person must ensure that the children receiving childcare are kept safe from harm” and this naturally includes fire safety. It requests that a fire risk assessment of the premises is completed which should identify and address and hazards and risks in the property.
Broadly speaking, childcare facilities can be divided into two main types (although a whole range of premises could be used). These are:
- Day-care providers, eg, full day care, sessional day care, out-of-school care, crèches etc - this is in non-domestic premises.
- Child minding that takes place in domestic premises.
Fire safety wise it is a bit of a grey area - some say both subject to the The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) when used for child minding activities, but this is not crystal clear. For non-domestic premises which are subject to the above legislation, the fire risk assessment should be considered acceptable by the Ofsted inspectors.
It is in the domestic premises where problems may arise because the responsible person (childminder) may not have the necessary skills to carry out a fire risk assessment.
Guidance previously issued by the Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers Association [CACFOA] can assist them fulfill their duties with regards to fire safety.
Domestic Dwellings (which will be used for Childminding)
The guidance uses a common sense basic standard of fire precautions for domestic properties to be used for child minding activities.
In a nutshell, it is vital that child minders know what to do in the event of a fire and establish an escape plan. This should include ensuring that the escape routes are kept clear and a means of raising the alarm is in place (smoke alarms), where the assembly point is and who will call the fire brigade.
Fire safety measures to consider include:
Ensuring there are no inner rooms situations
Providing fire-fighting equipment (fire extinguisher, fire blanket)
Correct heating installations
Not smoking
Safe cooking arrangements
Safe furniture (Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations)
Safe and tested electrics
Provisions for overnight care
For all fire risk assessment enquiries please visit:
