Fire safety measures for a building

Fire-safe use of a building 

Do you own or use a commercial building? If so, you must, for example: 

• prevent and limit fire by banning smoking and open fires. And by using fireproof and fire-resistant furnishings. For example, curtains and cabinets that do not pose a fire risk 
• install heat and smoke detectors to quickly detect and notify if there is a fire 
• draw up an escape plan and escape routes in case of fire 
• ensure that extinguishing tools are present, such as fire extinguishers and fire hose reels 
• allow emergency workers easy access to the building with, for example, a separate entrance for the fire department 

What do you need to do for fire safety? 

Which fire safety rules apply to you depend on your situation. For example: 

• what function and use your building has. For example, a healthcare institution, office, daycare centre, catering establishment, or hotel 
• how many people will enter your building and whether your building is open to the public
• whether you work with flammable substances, and if so which ones 

The Decree on construction works in the living environment (Bbl, in Dutch) states which rules apply in which situation. Look up how you use your building in the information table. The column with the header (gebruiksfunctie) lists the user functions. The remaining columns show which rules apply to each user function. 

Notification of occupancy for fire-safe use 

If the building is classified as a high risk due to its user function, you must also submit a notification of occupancy for fire-safe use (in Dutch). You must include a floorplan showing all the fire prevention measures present and escape routes. The municipality may impose additional requirements in situation-specific regulations (in Dutch). 

You must file the notification at least 4 weeks before first occupation. You may not use the building if you have not filed the notification.