Audit and inspection of premises
We operate a risk-based system of audit and inspection of premises. This system utilises data and guidance from communities and local government together with local intelligence and knowledge. It incorporates local risk priorities identified from:
- trends in location
- types of fire
- assessment of the vulnerability of groups in local areas within Lincolnshire
From time to time, particularly if any significant changes are proposed, we will consult regulated entities on its methodology. This will be done through consultation on our Integrated Risk Management Plan or by other means.
Audits and inspections will be undertaken by officers based on our risk-based system. Priority is given to individual premises and generic premises types or uses assessed as being of relatively higher risk.
The greatest audit and inspection effort will be allocated to premises where:
- a compliance breach would pose a serious risk to the safety of relevant persons
- we have reason to believe there is a high likelihood of non-compliance with the law
We continually test the methodology used in the enforcement programme. To do this, we sample a small number of premises in relatively lower-risk categories. We will respond to allegations of fire risk in any premises for which we are the enforcing authority. This is regardless of the relative risk level of the premises.
Enforcement regimes may overlap with other enforcing authorities. We have entered into several agreements with these authorities to clarify which will take the lead for particular premises types.
To minimise audit and inspection burdens for regulated entities, we will continue to seek to develop, engage in, and foster partnerships working with other enforcers and other stakeholder groups. Often this is through local partnerships, which will encourage joint working relationships.