A survey of 580 small businesses highlighted a ‘staggering lack of awareness’ among the owners about their responsibility for fire safety.  FireUK said, “Most of the companies were very honest and admitted they were unaware that they needed to undertake proper fire risk assessments.  Commercial buildings, non-domestic and multi-occupancy premises in England and Wales are required to undertake a ‘suitable and sufficient’ fire risk assessment of their premises.  If the fire risk assessment is deemed to have been carried out to an insufficient extent, the Appropriate Person can face an unlimited fine or a prison sentence of up to two years.

http://www.fia.uk.com/en/information/details/index.cfm/new-survey-highlights-lack-of-fire-safety-awareness-among-small-business-owners