It serves to record all activities related to fire safety : inspections, maintenance, training sessions, evacuation drills, safety instructions, and fire protection works.
It applies to all premises open to the public, workplaces, high-rise buildings, and certain residential buildings. The logbook ensures both legal traceability and operational documentation of all fire protection measures.
What should be included in a fire safety logbook ?
In line with French Building Regulations (CCH, article R.143‑44), the minimum content must include :
- Site identification : building type, public-access building category, manager’s name, and fire safety plans.
- Emergency contacts : local fire services, certified fire safety contractors.
- Equipment inventory : fire extinguishers, alarms, emergency lighting, smoke control systems, hose reels (with precise location).
- Fire safety personnel : names, qualifications, training dates, and refresher courses.
- Fire instructions : general and specific procedures for fire response and safe evacuation (including for persons with reduced mobility).
- Routine checks : logs of regular testing and servicing (e.g., fire alarm systems, extinguishers), results, and contractors involved.
- Refurbishment or alterations : nature of the works, contractors, dates, and overseeing professionals.
- Evacuation drills and staff training : summary reports, improvement areas, and training attendance records.
Is a fire safety logbook mandatory for public buildings ?
Yes. All premises open to the public must keep and maintain a fire safety logbook, in compliance with the French Construction Code (articles R123‑51 and R143‑44).
Failure to maintain a logbook can result in financial penalties, ranging from €1,500 to €3,000 for repeat offences. It must be kept up to date and made available during inspections.
What are the mandatory registers for public buildings ?
In France, public buildings are legally required to maintain :
- A fire safety logbook – covering all aspects of fire safety compliance.
- An accessibility register – detailing arrangements for welcoming individuals with disabilities (as required since March 2017).
Depending on your sector, other mandatory registers may include the risk assessment document, accident record, imminent danger log, or health & safety register.
Who is responsible for maintaining the logbook ?
- The legal or operational manager of the premises (site owner, head of facility, or designated Fire Safety Officer) is accountable for ensuring the log book is accurately completed and kept current.
- Entries can be made by any qualified personnel : in-house or third-party technicians, certified inspection bodies, maintenance providers, or the fire brigade (SDIS) during interventions.
- If a fire safety coordinator is appointed, they bear full responsibility during regulatory audits.
How can you get a fire safety logbook ?
- It is often provided by specialized publishers (in paper or digital format), sometimes through SaaS fire safety management solutions. These tools guide you through the process, clearly displaying each section.
- Fire Safety Log Books are available from specialist publishers, either as printed A4 books (~80 pages) or digital solutions. Some SaaS platforms provide guided completion tools with legally compliant templates.
- You may also create an internal version, as long as it complies with legal formatting and is ready for presentation to safety commissions, labour inspectors, or insurance representatives.
For specific public-access building types (e.g., types M, J, U, R…), dedicated log books with tailored sections are available from some suppliers. This document is a legally required fire safety tool, vital for protecting people and property, and serves as evidence of compliance in case of an inspection or incident.
What documentation should I add to my fire safety logbook after fire retardant treatment with Alfaflor products ?
After applying Alfaflor fire retardant products or intumescent varnishes, you will receive an M1 fire classification certificate. It is crucial to record this certificate in your Fire Safety Log Book at the time of treatment and retain it securely. These certificates are recognised by French fire safety authorities and serve as formal proof of compliance with fire protection regulations.
