What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of your premises to identify fire hazards, assess the risk of fire, and determine the control measures needed to keep people safe. It is required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO).
Who Is Responsible?
Under the RRO 2005, the responsible person (employer, building owner, or person in control of the premises) must:
- Conduct and maintain a fire risk assessment
- Implement appropriate fire safety measures
- Appoint trained Fire Marshals
- Provide fire safety information to employees
- Review and update the assessment regularly
The 5 Steps of a Fire Risk Assessment
- Identify fire hazards — Sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen
- Identify people at risk — Employees, visitors, vulnerable persons, people working alone or in remote areas
- Evaluate and act — Assess existing fire safety measures, identify gaps, and implement improvements
- Record, plan and train — Document findings, create an emergency plan, and train staff
- Review — Regularly review and update the assessment, especially after changes to premises or personnel
Fire Risk Assessment Checklist
- Ignition sources: Electrical equipment, cooking, heating, smoking areas, hot work
- Fuel sources: Paper, cardboard, textiles, flammable liquids, furniture
- Oxygen sources: Natural ventilation, oxidising materials, compressed air systems
- Detection: Smoke detectors, heat detectors, fire alarms
- Warning: Fire alarm systems, visual alerts for hearing-impaired
- Means of escape: Clear escape routes, fire doors, emergency lighting, exit signs
- Firefighting: Fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, fire blankets
- Evacuation: Evacuation plans, PEEPs, assembly points, fire marshals
How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?
The RRO 2005 requires regular reviews. Your assessment should be updated:
- At least annually
- After any change to premises layout or use
- After changes to personnel or work activities
- After a fire incident or near-miss
- After any significant change to fire safety equipment
Book Fire Safety Training in Yorkshire
Livius Training provides Fire Marshal and Fire Safety Awareness courses. Our trainers can also advise on fire risk assessment. View fire safety courses or call 01423 396780.
