Alessandro Della Valle / EPA
Tributes to the victims of the fire that broke out in the Le Constellation bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort, Switzerland
After the deaths in Switzerland, bars face pressure from authorities with more controls, closures and demands for standards.
Since the tragic fire in a bar in (Switzerland), which resulted in the deaths of dozens of people and injured many others at the beginning of the year, bars and clubs in France are under intense surveillance by authorities.
The French government intensified inspections security, closed temporarily illegal establishments and demanded the strict compliance fire safety standards, especially in underground spaces such as basements and night clubs.
The reinforcement of controls takes place in a context of great concern about the safety of visitors, following the fire in Crans-Montana that shocked Europe.
The circumstances of the tragedy — in which flaws in security systems and the absence of regular inspections at the Swiss bar were identified — motivated authorities from several countries to review practices and to demand greater rigor in establishments that welcome the public.
In France, the pressure on bars is not limited to spot checks. In several cities, security forces carry out joint operations with police and firefighters to check emergency exits, alarm systems and firefighting equipment.
Establishments that do not comply with the standards are banned temporarily or receive notifications for immediate regularization.
Bar owners and managers report an atmosphere of apprehension. In Bourg-en-Bresse, there is fear of not reopeningafter a surprise control at the La Place Rouge bar – which was immediately closed during an operation in late January.
Many admit that more frequent inspections and strict documentation requirements have led to operational disruptions and additional costsbut recognize a need to guarantee the security of customers.
Some point to the need for training and information campaigns that clearly explain legal requirements and best practices to prevent serious accidents.
The authorities’ focus is mainly on establishments in caves e closed environments, considered to be at greater risk in the event of fire due to reduced emergency exits or complicated access.
In many cases, after inspections, gaps were discovered in emergency exits, electrical systems and escape route signs — points that are now the target of mandatory interventions.
