Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has successfully concluded a prosecution against the Person in Control of a care home, following serious breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The failures identified placed the lives and safety of elderly residents and staff at significant risk.
In December 2020, fire safety officers carried out an inspection at Morvern Care Centre on South Promenade, Thornton-Cleveleys. The inspection uncovered multiple serious fire safety failings, prompting the issue of a Prohibition Notice to prevent further occupation of the premises. At the time, 45 elderly and vulnerable residents were living at the care home, supported by on-site staff.
Given the severity of the risks, a multi-agency response was coordinated over the following weeks to safely relocate all residents to alternative care facilities.
Following investigation, Rajest Kumar Chechani was found to have failed to comply with key requirements of the Fire Safety Order.
The court imposed the following penalties:
• A three-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months
• A £10,000 fine, with an additional victim surcharge to be determined
• £33,000 in costs payable to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service
This case underscores the critical importance of ensuring fire safety compliance, particularly in premises housing vulnerable occupants. The FIA continues to support the work of Fire and Rescue Services across the UK in promoting awareness, compliance, and the highest standards of fire safety management across all sectors.
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