Consequences of Complacency - January TWBM article

In my Tunbridge Wells Business magazine column this month, I discuss why regular fire risk assessments are so important, following the devastating New Year’s Eve incident at a Swiss bar that tragically claimed 40 lives.

It has recently been revealed that the Swiss bar where a New Year’s Eve fire tragically claimed 40 lives had not undergone fire risk inspections for five years. This devastating

incident has shocked communities across Europe and serves as a powerful reminder of the potentially fatal consequences of complacency when it comes to health and safety. Fires can spread rapidly, and without regular inspections, faults in electrical systems, blocked escape routes or inadequate alarms can go unnoticed until it is

too late.

Regular fire risk assessments and routine health and safety checks are essential for identifying hazards early, ensuring emergency procedures are effective and confirming that staff are properly trained to respond in a crisis. These measures are not simply a box-ticking exercise; they play a critical role in safeguarding lives, protecting property and maintaining public trust.

At Forrest Group, we support organisations with practical, hands-on Health & Safety services tailored to their specific environments. Our expertise includes comprehensive fire risk assessments, general health and safety audits, detailed risk assessments and ongoing consultancy. By working closely with our clients, we help them understand

their responsibilities, meet their legal obligations and implement systems that genuinely reduce risk.

Proactive health and safety management isn’t just about compliance with regulations. It is about creating a culture where safety is embedded into everyday operations, people feel protected at work and avoidable tragedies are prevented before

they happen.

If you’re unsure whether your fire risk assessments or health and safety procedures are up to date, now is the time to act. Contact Forrest Group today to ensure your workplace is fully protected. Call us on 01892 726060 Email sophie@theforrestgroup.co.uk