CUMBRIA Fire and Rescue Service is asking local businesses which are re-opening following the easing of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions to ensure their workplace is safe for employees and customers to return.

Since social distancing measures were put in place, it’s likely a number of changes have been introduced in workplaces to help staff work while adhering to restrictions.

To help businesses to remain fire compliant, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service has compiled a checklist of issues to consider before allowing anyone back into premises, including:

• Review your fire risk assessment

• Keep your escape routes clear and accessible

• Check your fire safety systems and equipment

• Arrange a staff training refresh

Stuart Hook, Protection manager at Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, said: “It’s really important for business to remain fire compliant after an extended time away from the workplace. "Employers should ensure all fire risk assessments and procedures are up to date and in place.

"Staff might be returning to a new layout, or you might have recruited new employees, so a training refresh is advised to make sure everyone knows the current and correct procedures of what to do in the event of a fire.”