In England and Wales, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the "responsible person" for almost every non-domestic premises to carry out a fire risk assessment and put fire safety measures in place. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own, similar laws. Fire services enforce it and can prosecute.
Who is the responsible person?
Usually the employer, and also anyone with control of the premises, such as the landlord or managing agent for common areas. In shared buildings, responsible persons must co-operate and share information.
The five steps
- Identify fire hazards: sources of ignition (electrical equipment, heaters, hot work, smoking), sources of fuel (packaging, waste, chemicals, furniture) and sources of oxygen.
- Identify people at risk: employees, visitors, contractors, people working alone or at night, and anyone who may need help to escape.
- Evaluate, remove or reduce the risks, and protect people: detection and alarm, escape routes, fire doors, emergency lighting, signs and firefighting equipment.
- Record findings, prepare an emergency plan, and train staff.
- Review regularly and after changes.
Recording the assessment
Since 1 October 2023, every responsible person in England and Wales must record the full fire risk assessment, whatever the number of employees, along with the fire safety arrangements and the name of the person who carried it out. Responsible persons must also share fire safety information with the next responsible person, and with residents in buildings with flats.
Routine checks to keep records of
- Fire alarm: test a different call point weekly, with service by a competent person, usually every six months.
- Emergency lighting: a monthly brief function test and an annual full-duration test.
- Fire extinguishers: a monthly visual check and an annual service.
- Fire doors, escape routes and exits: checked regularly to make sure they close properly and are not blocked.
- Fire drills: at least once a year, with a record of evacuation time and lessons learned.
Fire wardens
You must appoint enough competent people to help with fire safety, often called fire wardens or marshals, taking account of shift patterns, holidays and the size of the premises. Train them and record it.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?
Regularly and whenever there is a significant change to the premises, the work or the people. Most businesses review it at least once a year.
Can I do my own fire risk assessment?
Yes, if you are competent for your premises. For larger, complex or higher-risk premises, a professional fire risk assessor is advisable.
Do I need a fire drill if we only have a few staff?
Yes. Everyone should know the evacuation procedure and have practised it, usually at least annually.
This guide is general information for UK businesses, not legal advice. Check the current regulations and HSE guidance at hse.gov.uk, and take professional advice for your situation.