Do I need a fire risk assessment?

Do I need a fire risk assessment?

It is the duty of the responsible person to carry out and regularly review a fire risk assessment of the premises. This will identify what you need to do to prevent fire and keep people safe. You must keep a written record of your Fire Risk Assessment if your business has 5 or more people.

 

Carrying out the Assessment

Follow our easy five step process:

  1. Identify the fire hazards.
  2. Identify people at risk.
  3. Evaluate, remove or reduce the risks.
  4. Record your findings, prepare an emergency plan and provide training.
  5. Review and update the Fire Risk Assessment regularly.

The Fire Safety Risk Assessment chart gives more detailed information about these steps.

You’ll need to consider:

  • Emergency routes and exits
  • Fire detection and warning systems
  • Fire fighting equipment
  • The removal or safe storage of dangerous substances
  • An emergency fire evacuation plan
  • The needs of vulnerable people, for example the elderly, young children or those with disabilities
  • Providing information to employees and other people on the premises
  • Staff fire safety training

Help with the Assessment

You can complete the Fire Risk Assessment yourself with the help of standard fire safety risk assessment guides. The Fire Risk Assessment booklet can be used as a template for recording your Fire Risk Assessment.

If you don’t have the expertise or time to complete the Fire Risk Assessment yourself you need to appoint a ‘competent’ fire risk assessor to help. For guidance choosing a competent fire risk assessor please refer to the guide below.

 

Further Advice

You can download the following guides from our advice, documents and downloads section.

You can also find guidance on: