Security requirements of a facility receiving public (ERP)

The establishments receiving public (ERP) are subject to safety and fire-fighting obligations.

LES shall consist of all buildings, premises and enclosures in which external persons are admitted, in addition to the staff. It doesn't matter whether the access is paid or free, whether it is free, restricted or by invitation. LES are classified into types and categories that define the applicable regulatory requirements (e.g., type of work authorization or safety rules) based on risk.

The safety design principles of LES must be such as to minimize the risk of fire, alert occupants when a disaster occurs, facilitate evacuation while avoiding panic, alert emergency services and facilitate their response.

LES are subject to rules regarding the design and construction of premises that must:

• be constructed in such a way as to enable the occupants to be evacuated quickly and safely;
• have one or more façades on the edge of lanes or open spaces enabling the evacuation of the public, access to and the putting into service of emergency and fire-fighting equipment;
• have exits (at least 2), and any secure waiting areas and interior clearances leading to them, arranged and distributed to allow for the rapid and safe evacuation or advance shelter of persons;
• be composed of materials and construction elements having, in the face of the fire, reaction and resistance qualities appropriate to the risks;
• be arranged, in particular with regard to the distribution of the various parts and their isolation, so as to ensure adequate protection.

The lighting of the establishment shall be electric.

The storage, distribution and use of explosive or toxic products, of any flammable liquids subject to authorization or registration shall be prohibited in premises and releases accessible to the public.

Elevators and lifts, electricity, gas, heating and ventilation installations and technical equipment specific to certain types of establishments must provide guarantees of safety and proper functioning.

Fire alarm, surveillance and emergency equipment shall be provided in all LES in a manner appropriate to their size and risk: fire extinguishers (1 for 200 to 300 m²), security lighting, anti-theft, etc.

The plan for the evacuation of the premises, accompanied by safety instructions, shall be displayed:

• at each level served by a stairwell;
• in each room that can accommodate at least 5 persons;
• in the changing rooms and the rest rooms of the staff.

It shall indicate:

• outward evacuation routes;
• Dams (or cut-off valves) for gas, water and electricity;
• the location of fire extinguishers and smoke traps.

LES are required to maintain a security log that includes:

• technical checks;
• training of staff;
• the work carried out.

As of October 22, 2017, new LES located in an existing built environment have been required to maintain a public accessibility register that includes provisions to enable all, including persons with disabilities, to benefit from ERP services.

The content of the Public Accessibility Registry will vary depending on the category and type of LES, and whether or not the LES meets accessibility standards.

During the operation of the LES, the operator must request inspection visits to the town hall (security and accessibility commissions), at different times depending on the type of establishment.

Stores, for example, must be controlled at a different frequency depending on their category ::

• every 3 years for one 1st and 2nd Category ERP Type M,
• every 5 years for one ERP Type M 3rd and 4th Category..

Commissions can also carry out checks at any time at the request of the mayor (or prefect).