The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service is carrying out additional fire safety inspections following last week’s devastating incident at Grenfell Tower in London.
Fire safety officers are focusing on buildings of five storeys or more in which people live or sleep overnight. These include hotels, boarding houses, blocks of flats and large houses in multiple occupation.
The purpose of the inspections is to check compliance with the Fire Precautions Act 1975, in particular the Fire Precautions (Houses in Multiple Occupation and Flats) Regulations 2016 and the Hotels and Boarding Houses Order 1997.
The proactive response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy has been put in place by the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service to support its existing inspection programme. Fire safety officers are also continuing to work with their partners at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and in Building Control.
In addition, any individuals who may be concerned about the standard of fire safety within their premises are urged to contact the Fire and Rescue Service on 647303.
Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK said: ‘The Fire and Rescue Service is an essential part of our efforts to ensure the Island remains a safe place to live and do business. The Manx public can have every confidence in the delivery of a first-rate service.'
He added: ‘The incident at Grenfell Tower is a reminder of the devastating impact a major fire can have. It has been felt by many people in the Isle of Man and our hearts go out to all those involved. The inspections announced by our Chief Fire Officer will provide an additional check that appropriate premises in the Island comply with current fire safety standards.’
Chief Fire Officer Kevin Groom commented: ‘My thoughts and prayers are with all the people affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy. I have put in place an additional and proportionate inspection programme to provide reassurance to people who live in certain types of property in the Island.
‘I am receiving regular updates about Grenfell Tower from the National Fire Chiefs Council. The incident is subject to a joint investigation, a criminal investigation and a full public enquiry. Consequently, it would be inappropriate to comment or engage in any speculation that may prejudice the outcomes of this work.’
