Expert Safety Audit
THE AUDIT PROCESS
What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a structured and documented evaluation of a building's fire hazards and the risks they pose to occupants. It is a legal requirement for almost all non-domestic premises and involves identifying potential ignition sources, combustible materials, and establishing appropriate safety measures.
Why are they important?
The primary purpose of an assessment is life safety. They are critical for ensuring that, in the event of a fire, all persons on the premises can be alerted and evacuated safely. Furthermore, it ensures legal compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, helping businesses avoid penalties and protect their property from total loss.
What does an assessor look for?
During an assessment, our assessors look for potential fire hazards, the condition of fire doors, the adequacy of fire alarm systems, emergency lighting functionality, escape route accessibility, and the existence of a proper fire safety management plan and staff training records.
How often is it required?
Assessments should be reviewed regularly to keep them valid. While there is no fixed timeline in legislation, it is best practice to perform an annual review. A complete new assessment is mandatory if there are significant changes to the building layout, occupancy type, or fire safety equipment.