Small businesses are being reminded of their obligations concerning fire safety after research from Norwich Union suggested that 40% of companies are unaware of new laws that came into effect in October 2006.

According to Firex the real figure is much higher, suggesting that 78% of people with responsibility for fire safety were unaware of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order.

The main effect of the law was to shift responsibility for fire safety from landlords onto tenants, meaning individual small business owners can now be held liable for any damage to persons or property as a result of failing to ensure the correct equipment is in place and procedures followed.

Company owners found guilty could face heavy fines and even imprisonment if they found guilty of negligence.

The regulation requires business owners to ensure that all aspects of the law are implemented, including a fire risk assessment taking place for their office premises.

Every organisation must also appoint and train a responsible person - normally the owner themselves - to take responsibility for fire safety.

Fire Protection Online cites a number of cases where companies have been fined for failing to adequately comply with the new law, including a factory in East London that was fined £31,000.

The law also requires individuals to ensure all fire safety equipment is maintaining in proper working order, with compulsory annual service visit every 12 months for fire extinguishers and discharge test every five years.

Business owners must also ensure there is a safe means of escape from buildings and fire extinguishers, signs and notices, emergency lighting, a fire alarm and fire doors are all installed.