A strengthening regulatory framework
2026 marks a major turning point for fire safety in France, with several significant regulatory changes reinforcing companies' obligations around prevention, maintenance and internal organization. For industrial and storage companies, this transition must be anticipated without delay.
Main changes for 2026
Mandatory intervention plans
The order of 1 December 2025 requires all fifth-category public-access buildings to have a compliant intervention plan from 1 January 2026, clearly visible at each access point in addition to evacuation instructions. Some industrial and logistics sites are also concerned.
Reinforced requirements for covered warehouses
Storage companies subject to ICPE rules, including section 1510 for covered warehouses, must comply with strengthened fire prevention measures depending on the type of storage.
For wood and combustible materials, the applicable requirements become particularly strict once the storage area exceeds defined thresholds.
Equivalent-effect solutions
Decree no. 2025-1100 of 19 November 2025 defines the conditions for implementing equivalent-effect fire safety solutions, allowing companies to meet safety objectives through alternative technical means.
Practical obligations to implement
Audit and maintenance
Annual audits help reduce fire-related incidents. Audit planning should include verification of safety instructions, staff knowledge checks, extinguisher inspection and evacuation drills.
Staff training
Since 16 March 2026, the Prevention Passport is open to employers, allowing them to consult employees' health and safety certifications in real time, including fire training. First intervention team members must be regularly trained in extinguisher use and evacuation procedures.
Responsibilities and sanctions
The business owner or site operator is responsible for fire safety in their premises. Regulatory ignorance cannot be used as a defense in the event of an accident or unfavorable inspection.
Sanctions are becoming stricter, with fines that may reach EUR 10,000 per breach for general safety failures.
Toward a sustainable prevention culture
Effective fire prevention protects people, assets and business continuity. Industrial companies and warehouse operators should treat compliance not as an administrative formality, but as a strategic investment in the resilience of their activity.