Fire Risk Assessments

A fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of premises, activities, and processes to identify potential fire hazards, assess risks, and determine necessary precautions to ensure safety and compliance. It is a legal requirement for workplaces and communal areas of residential buildings in the UK, with responsibilities lying on the "responsible person" such as the employer, owner, or landlord.

Five Key Steps of Fire Risk Assessment

• Identify Fire Hazards: Locate sources of ignition (e.g., electrical equipment, open flames), fuel (e.g., paper, chemicals), and oxygen supply.
• Identify People at Risk: Consider employees, visitors, residents, and particularly vulnerable groups such as disabled or elderly individuals.
• Evaluate, Remove or Reduce Risks: Assess how likely a fire could start and what harm it could cause, then implement measures like improved storage, fire detection systems, or safer procedures.
• Record Findings, Plan, and Train: Document hazards, actions taken, and training provided. Create or update emergency plans and communicate them to all relevant people.
• Review and Revise Regularly: Reassess the risk whenever there are significant changes to building layout, occupancy, or activities, or after incidents and drills.