Why Does Your Business Need A Fire Risk Assessment?

In businesses across the United Kingdom, from shopping centres and hotels to care homes and student accommodation, there is a legal duty to comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This Order is in place to ensure that appropriate actions to prevent fire are put in place and maintained appropriately.

A fire risk assessment is mandatory by law and outlines the fire risks and safety levels of a business premises. It must be keep under review and adjusted where necessary.

Why is a fire risk assessment important?

Aside from the fact that fire risk assessments are a legal requirement, there is a moral obligation of ensuring that fire safety measures are put in place to minimise the likelihood of a fire.

The mandatory assessment must be carried out in all areas of a building and in those areas where access is granted to members of the general public. This detailed assessment aims to identify any potential hazards and risks before addressing the issues found and making any required amendments.

With a full and thorough fire risk assessment in place, usually carried out by the Responsible Person who has been deemed competent, or a reputable fire safety company such as Churches Fire, you can rest assured that you have taken all possible measures to ensure the safety of your colleagues and business.

Watch our in-depth guide video to learn more about what a fire risk assessment is, and what your responsibilities are relating to it.

Protecting people, assets and property

We have highlighted a few key points that must be included as part of your fire risk assessment.

• Actions taken to eliminate fire risk must be well documented and available as required
• All members of staff, including contractors and temporary workers, must be made aware of the results of the findings of the assessment
• Measures taken to prevent risks should be communicated – this will ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency
• Several employees will need to be chosen to act as fire wardens. This role will be to assist with fire safety protocols such as housekeeping, evacuation procedures and weekly alarm testing
• Visitors and contractors to the site must be made aware of the evacuation procedure and any planned fire drills
• Fire safety measures, such as extinguishers and emergency escape routes must be kept in good working order

This list is not exhaustive and you are advised to consult qualified fire safety professionals for further advice.

Churches Fire can provide you with a fully qualified and highly experienced fire risk assessor. All of our risk assessors are members of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers or the Institution of Fire Engineers. This means you can have peace of mind that your organisation is in safe hands, the risk of fire will be correctly identified, minimised and a plan put in place.

Please note that this is not legally binding advice, and you should always refer to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.