Fire safety design and implementation in low-risk workplaces not subject to fire department authorization.
Just as the Fire Prevention Code regulates the design, implementation, and operation of fire safety systems in medium- and high-risk workplaces, those subject to authorization by the National Fire and Rescue Service (Corpo Nazionale dei Vigili del Fuoco), the so-called “Mini-Code” Decree governs, using the same language but in a simplified format, fire safety in low-risk workplaces.
The Mini-Code Decree builds upon and completes what was already outlined in the Ministerial Decree of March 10, 1998, specifically regarding low fire risk workplaces, aligning with the performance-based (no longer prescriptive) criteria introduced by the Fire Prevention Code.
Below is the link to download the full text of the document:
When does it come into effect?
The Mini-Code Decree enters into force one year after its publication in the Official Gazette of the Italian Republic, therefore on October 29, 2022.
Mini-Code Decree: a simplified regulation
With a simplification mindset, the legislator aims to offer a streamlined and user-friendly tool, even for those without extensive experience in fire safety design. It maintains the same terminology and risk-based, performance-oriented approach as the Fire Prevention Code.
The Mini-Code Decree does not radically change the existing DM of March 10, 1998, but rather reorganizes it, partly following the same structure used in the Fire Prevention Code. Specifically, it defines the fire prevention measures to be implemented, including:
- Compartmentation
- Evacuation
- Fire safety management
- Fire control
- Detection and alarm
- Smoke and heat control
- Firefighting operations
- Safety of service and technological systems
- People with special needs
One of the main innovations of the Mini-Code Decree, compared to the DM of March 10, 1998, is its greater emphasis on the employer’s duty to identify and address the specific needs of people with special requirements, and to incorporate them into the fire safety design and implementation process.