Businessman admits fire safety breaches

A Nottinghamshire businessman has today (30th September) pleaded guilty to breaching fire safety regulations at Nottingham Crown Court.

David Chapelhow (48) of Wellow, pleaded guilty to six charges relating to deficiencies in the fire risk assessment, means of escape and fire alarms, as well as a failure to comply with enforcement notices relating to two properties at which he provided holiday accommodation.

Sentencing was postponed until 15 October.

Fire Protection Officers from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service first visited the premises in Newark Road, Wellow in 2010.

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Improvements to the fire safety provisions were requested, a fire service spokesman said.

But following a re-inspection in 2012 fire safety measures were still found to be inadequate. The service then issued enforcement notices relating to each of the premises, requiring work to be carried out to safeguard guests.

At subsequent inspections these were found not to have been complied with.

Head of fire protection John Mills said: “The fire and rescue service has a statutory duty to ensure that businesses throughout the county provide the correct levels of fire safety. Wherever possible we will work with business owners to assist them to comply with current legislation and ensure the safety of their employees and customers.

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“Sadly, on this occasion, Mr Chapelhow chose not to comply with the enforcement notices, leaving the fire authority with no choice but to proceed with a prosecution.

“The service takes its role for ensuring fire safety standards seriously, and will take the appropriate necessary action wherever it identifies that lives are being put at risk.”