A fire risk assessment is a thorough evaluation of a property which includes the identification of potential fire hazards, the risk to people and determination of necessary precautions to reduce or eliminate those risks. It is a legal requirement under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 that all premises (other than single private dwellings) have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment undertaken by a competent person.
Fire risk assessment includes:
Obtaining information and all necessary data about the building.
Identification of fire hazards and their means for control / elimination.
Assessing the likelihood of fire.
Determination of any present fire protection measures (all previously practicable fire detection/prevention / warning measures and systems).
Obtaining info relating to fire safety management – steps taken or which need to be implemented to guarantee that the fire risk in the building is responsibly managed.
Assessing the most likely repercussions if a fire occurs: (considering all Relevant Persons).
Assessing the overall risk from fire.
Recording findings and creation of an action plan for improvements.
Review and update. Regular reassessment at periodic intervals or after significant changes.
Who needs a fire risk assessment (not exhaustive):
Businesses and non-domestic premises such as shops, offices, salons, factories, warehouses etc.
Landlords and managing agents responsible for the common areas of flats, apartment blocks and HMOs.
Charities and community groups (if they occupy and have day to day control of a premises).
Schools, colleges, universities, hospitals and care homes.
Constructions sites and temporary structures. Although the requirements may vary, even marquees require an FRA!
Essentially, every building has a ‘Responsible Person’- this can be an individual or an organisation and is usually the employer, building owner / landlord or person with significant day-to-day control. The Responsible Person has a duty to ensure a suitable and sufficient FRA has been undertaken and that this is kept up to date.
