What is a fire risk assessment?

• A fire risk assessment is an organised and methodical look at your premises, the activities carried out there and the likelihood of a fire starting and causing harm to those on or in the vicinity of the premises. The aims of the fire risk assessment are:
  
  • Identify fire hazards
  • Reduce the risks of fire hazards and potential harm to as low as is reasonably practicable
  • To determine what fire precautions and management arrangements are necessary to ensure the safety of relevant persons, staff, and/or visitors

Where can I find more guidance about this?

• The Department for Communities and Local Government has produced a number of guidance notes. These can be viewed by visiting the DCLG website.

I work in a multi tenanted building and my landlord has carried out a Fire Risk Assessment. Do I have to do one too?

• A landlord in a multi tenanted site should have carried out a fire risk assessment in all of the common areas. He / She may also provide fire alarm systems, extinguishers and arrangements for calling the Fire Service. Your fire risk assessment will still need to record these arrangements and any other arrangements you consider necessary.

When I have finished my Fire Risk Assessment, what do I have to do?

• You fire risk assessment will highlight the actions needed to be taken to upgrade protective and preventive measures and it is likely it will identify significant findings.

  The significant findings must be circulated amongst all relevant persons.

  You need to retain a copy of the fire risk assessment and make it available to an official on request.
  

What is a “Responsible person”?

• A responsible person could be an employer, an owner or a person with control of the premises. For further advice contact your local fire safety officer.
  

We carry out fire drills and have fire extinguishers checked every year. Do I have to do a fire risk assessment?

• Yes. You will have to carry out a fire risk assessment.

How often do I have to carry out a fire risk assessment?

• You should carry out a fire risk assessment after any significant changes.
• You should also review your assessment at regular intervals.