HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED A FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT?
Pete Thompson – Technical Director
INTRODUCTION
Whatever industry you are in, fire safety is a matter of paramount importance for businesses in the UK. It is vital that you prioritise the safety of your employees, customers, or any other building occupants and put fire safety measures in place.
Fire risk assessments are an essential aspect of fire safety — but once in a blue moon isn’t enough. Let’s take a look at how often you should be conducting fire risk assessments and how you can ensure your business is adhering to legal requirements.
What is the legal requirement for fire risk assessments?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is a legal requirement for businesses in the UK to conduct a fire risk assessment. By fire risk assessment, we mean a systematic evaluation of a property or premises to identify potential fire hazards, assess the associated risks, and recommend measures to mitigate those risks and enhance overall fire safety.
The requirement applies to all commercial premises, including offices, factories, shops, restaurants, and more. A member of staff — usually the business owner or manager — will be designated as the “responsible person,” and they will be in charge of ensuring that the fire risk assessment takes place.
How to arrange a Fire Risk Assessment
So, what do regulations say about fire risk assessment frequency? There’s no single answer to this, as it depends on the building’s individual circumstances. However, as a general rule, you should expect to:
- Undertake a fire risk assessment review annually after your initial assessment.
- Conduct a new fire risk assessment every 5 years.
You’ll also need to arrange a new fire risk assessment if:
- The building’s purpose has changed significantly (for example, if a building has been converted into offices).
- The building’s layout or structure has changed.
- There has been a considerable change in the occupants of the building.
Choosing the right type of fire risk assessment
As well as ensuring you arrange regular fire risk assessments and annual reviews, it’s also important to choose the right type of assessment to make sure your business is fully compliant with regulations.
There are four main assessment types. They range from a basing Type 1 (which covers a building’s communal areas, including entry and exit points, as well as false ceilings and a fire escape route review) to a comprehensive Type 4. Type 4 assessments are only necessary if a serious risk to residents is suspected.
Learn more about different fire risk assessment types and contact the team at Gunfire to discuss which is best for you.
What happens if you don’t have an up-to-date fire risk assessment?
In the UK, failing to have an up-to-date fire risk assessment can lead to legal consequences, including fines and potential imprisonment. Moreover, it puts your building’s occupants at risk — if your fire safety measures aren’t up to scratch, your property will be more vulnerable to fire incidents and damage. As well as jeopardising the safety and wellbeing of individuals, this could put your business’s legal standing and reputation at risk, too.
Can I do my own Fire Risk Assessment in the UK?
While it is possible to carry out a fire risk assessment yourself, it’s generally not recommended, especially for larger or more complex premises. Fire risk assessments require a deep understanding of fire safety regulations, potential hazards, and risk management. A DIY approach may not provide the expertise needed to ensure comprehensive safety.
Professional fire safety experts are trained to identify potential risks that might not be apparent to the untrained eye. They can also offer valuable guidance on how to address these risks effectively. Hiring qualified assessors ensures that your assessment is accurate and complies with legal requirements.
What’s more, the initial risk assessment itself is just the tip of the iceberg. A thorough fire safety assessment will also cover:
Documentation
It’s vital to document every part of the fire risk assessment and record any significant findings or recommendations. This documentation serves as proof of compliance with legal requirements and a valuable reference for future safety improvements.
Implementation
After the assessment, it’s crucial to implement the recommended fire safety measures right away. This may involve working with passive fire protection contractors to ensure your fire doors and compartments are working correctly.
Do Residential Landlords have to provide a Fire Risk Assessment?
Yes, residential landlords in the UK also have legal obligations regarding fire safety. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the type of property and its use, landlords are generally responsible for conducting fire risk assessments in common areas of multiple-occupancy buildings, such as apartment blocks.
These should also be conducted regularly.
Protect your business with fire risk assessments from Gunfire
If you are seeking expert assistance with fire risk assessments and passive fire protection services, look no further than Gunfire. Our team of experienced professionals are dedicated to helping you achieve the highest level of fire safety for your property.
Get in touch today to schedule your assessment and secure peace of mind for your business or residential property.
