The safety commission plays a crucial role in risk prevention for public and private buildings. It ensures that fire safety standards and other protective measures are properly followed to guarantee the safety of occupants. But what exactly is its role, and how does it intervene in Establishments Open to the Public ?
The importance of fire safety in EOPs
Fire safety in Establishments Open to the Public is a major concern in France. In 2020, more than 200,000 fire-related incidents were recorded, a significant portion of which involved EOPs. These establishments accommodate large numbers of people and must comply with strict safety standards to reduce risks and protect occupants.
The safety commission’s inspection of EOPs
EoPs must meet specific fire safety standards, and this is where the safety commission comes in. The commission conducts regular inspections to ensure that buildings comply with fire safety regulations and requirements.
Frequency of safety commission inspections
The safety commission carries out inspections at key moments to verify EOP compliance with fire safety regulations. Generally, an inspection takes place during the initial approval of an EOP, before its opening to the public, and every five years for establishments already in operation. However, the commission may conduct inspections more frequently—every one, two, or three years—if significant modifications are made to the premises or depending on the EOP type (certain high-risk establishments may require more frequent inspections). The inspection frequency also varies according to the specific risks associated with the building and its activities.
What does the safety commission check in EOPs?
During an EOP inspection, the safety commission evaluates several key elements to ensure occupant protection. Here are the main points :
- Space organization : The insulation and interior layout must prevent the spread of fire.
- Access and evacuation : At least one facade must be accessible from an open space or a designated emergency route for evacuation and emergency intervention.
- Fire-resistant materials : Construction and interior elements must meet strict fire resistance criteria.
- Emergency exits and clearances : The number and width of emergency exits, interior passageways, and secure waiting areas must be appropriate for the building’s occupancy capacity.
- Smoke extraction : Specific systems must be in place to evacuate smoke and keep evacuation routes clear.
- Fire detection and suppression systems : Alarm systems, emergency lighting, and firefighting equipment must be installed and operational.
- Restricted materials : The storage and use of explosive, toxic, or highly flammable materials are strictly regulated.
- Equipment safety : Technical installations (elevators, electrical systems, gas, heating, ventilation) must be safe and fully operational.
These measures are part of a comprehensive risk prevention and management strategy to ensure the safety of people and property in EOPs.
Fire safety obligations based on EOP category
EOPs are divided into two groups :
Obligations for Group 1 EOPs (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th category)
Fire safety service
EOPs must have a fire safety service adapted to their size and visitor capacity. This may include :
- Staff trained in evacuation procedures and emergency response.
- Qualified fire safety officers.
- Public emergency service firefighters.
- A combination of these measures based on EOP requirements.
A security post connected to emergency services must be permanently staffed by at least one officer when a fire safety service is in place.
Safety instructions and signage
Safety instructions must be clearly displayed, including :
- Emergency contact numbers.
- Evacuation procedures, including accessibility for people with disabilities.
- Instructions for using emergency equipment.
- Guidelines for assisting emergency responders.
Alarm and evacuation drills
The alarm system must comply with EOP category requirements. Manual triggers must be strategically placed, and the alarm signal must be distinct and easily recognizable. Regular evacuation drills are mandatory.
A permanent intervention plan must be displayed at the entrance, showing :
- Access points, clearances, and circulation areas.
- Technical rooms and high-risk zones.
- Safety equipment locations (alarms, fire extinguishers, control panels).
- Cut-off points for utilities and energy sources.
EOPs with underground levels must ensure uninterrupted radio communication for emergency services.
Obligations for Group 2 EOPs (5th category)
Firefighting equipment, training, and staff presence
- Fire extinguishers: At least one per 300 m² and one per level.
- Dry riser system : Required if the highest accessible floor exceeds 18 meters from an emergency access point.
- Staff must be trained in fire procedures and equipment use.
- At least one staff member must be present at all times (except for EOPs with fewer than 20 occupants, excluding sleeping areas).
Safety instructions and alarm systems
- Emergency contact numbers and the nearest emergency center address must be clearly displayed.
- An alarm system must be installed with a distinct signal.
- Staff must receive fire safety training, and regular evacuation drills are required.
- If an EOP consists of multiple buildings, each must have an independent alarm system.
- The operator is responsible for maintaining all fire safety equipment.
Communication with emergency services and intervention plans
All EOPs must have a landline phone (DSL or fiber optic) for emergency calls unless they are only occasionally occupied. An intervention plan must be displayed and include :
- The building’s main levels.
- Access points and clearances.
- Technical rooms and high-risk zones.
- Firefighting equipment locations.
- Cut-off points for utilities and energy sources.
EOPs with basements must provide uninterrupted radio communication for emergency responders.
The safety register
EOP operators must maintain a safety register to track fire prevention measures and facilitate inspections by authorities. This document must include :
- The list of personnel responsible for fire safety.
- General and specific fire response instructions.
- Evacuation plans, including accommodations for people with disabilities.
- Records of inspections and verifications (dates, results, observations).
- Work history (nature, date, involved companies, architects, or technicians).
The register can be kept in physical or digital form and must be updated immediately after any changes. It must be presented during safety commission inspections to confirm compliance with fire regulations.
How to prepare for a safety commission inspection ?
To ensure a successful safety commission inspection, follow these key steps :
- Verify fire safety installations :
Ensure all fire safety equipment is in good condition and functional. Regularly test alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems. Fire-resistant materials should also be checked.
- Train staff :
Employees must be trained in fire safety procedures and evacuation management. Ongoing training is crucial for maintaining readiness in case of an emergency.
- Update documents :
Prepare all necessary documents, including evacuation plans, fire safety equipment maintenance records, M1 certificates for fireproof materials, and staff training logs.
Trust Alfaflor to prepare for your safety commission inspection
At Alfaflor, we understand the importance of being fully prepared for a safety commission inspection. With our expertise in fireproofing, we help ensure your premises comply with fire safety regulations and protect occupants.
Our certified fireproofing products are recognized by safety commissions, allowing you to meet regulatory requirements with confidence.
Our services to support your compliance
- Fire-retardant products for sale : We offer a range of fire-retardant solutions to easily treat your artificial flowers and plants, wood, natural and synthetic fabrics, and cardboard. Whether for a small-scale project or regular application, we provide everything you need to treat your materials yourself.
- Customized fireproofing services : For complex projects, we provide many fireproof services :
- Deep impregnation for absorbent materials.
- Brushing application for uniform fabric protection.
- Autoclave treatment for long-lasting wood fireproofing.
- Spraying for quick and uniform coverage on smaller surfaces.
