Fire Risk Assessment

Fire safety in most non-domestic premises in England and Wales is primarily governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, commonly referred to as the Fire Safety Order. The legislation came into force in October 2006 and applies to virtually all non-domestic premises, as well as the common parts of buildings containing two or more domestic premises. The legislation places duties on the Responsible Person, which may include an employer, building owner, landlord, occupier or another person with control of the premises.

Under Article 9 of the Fire Safety Order, the Responsible Person must ensure that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out. The assessment identifies potential fire hazards, considers who may be at risk and reviews whether the existing fire precautions are appropriate for the building, its use and the people who may be present.

A fire risk assessment considers areas such as means of escape, fire doors and compartmentation, fire detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting, firefighting equipment, ignition sources, combustible materials, dangerous substances, housekeeping, emergency procedures, staff training and fire safety management arrangements. The scope of the assessment will reflect the type, size, use and complexity of the premises.

Where deficiencies or areas for improvement are identified, these are clearly detailed within the report, together with proportionate recommendations and an action plan to help the Responsible Person understand what action is required.

Fire safety compliance does not end once the assessment has been completed. The Responsible Person must ensure that appropriate fire precautions are maintained, staff are provided with suitable information and training, testing and maintenance are undertaken, and identified deficiencies are addressed. The fire risk assessment should also be kept under review and updated where necessary, particularly following significant changes to the premises, its use or occupancy, or where there is reason to believe that the existing assessment is no longer valid.

For your free fire risk assessment, to protect your property and people, please contact Carmen Powell via her email carmen@decibelfireandsecurity.com