A warning has been issued to commercial enterprises regarding the fire hazards associated with synthetic vegetation and ornamental fittings following a safety assessment.

Inspectors from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service identified concerns after officers conducting a scheduled check in Worthing found a commercial premises featuring an extensive artificial plant installation across a significant portion of the ceiling structure.

The items were identified as presenting potential danger and referred to the dedicated fire safety division, whose personnel attended the location the subsequent day to address the hazards with the proprietor.

The business operator took immediate action to eliminate the synthetic plantings.

Dave Bray, who serves as Protection Lead at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, explained that while decorative elements can improve the visual appeal of commercial spaces, fire safety implications ought to be evaluated prior to their installation.

Overseas incidents have demonstrated that multiple fatalities have occurred in establishments where plastic-based substances, including imitation greenery, caught fire, causing swift fire propagation and generating substantial volumes of hazardous gases.

Those operating businesses should verify that any ornamental materials deployed within their facilities are appropriate and incorporated into a thorough and adequate fire risk evaluation.

Should uncertainty exist regarding a product’s safety profile, enterprises are urged to obtain guidance prior to fitting.

Statistics indicate that approximately one quarter of commercial operations fail to resume following a severe fire incident, underscoring the importance of proprietors comprehending and controlling hazards present in their establishments while fulfilling obligations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

The fire authority continues to stress that business proprietors bear statutory duties to control fire hazards, encompassing ensuring that decorative materials do not undermine safety standards.

Guidance recommends that fire risk assessments undergo periodic review, particularly when modifications to spatial arrangements or interior design are implemented.

Synthetic greenery, wall treatments and suspended foliage have experienced growing adoption within hotel, retail and entertainment environments, though these materials can accelerate fire progression and create substantial dangers for employees, patrons and emergency responders.