A fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of a premises — its layout, activities, occupants and fire safety measures — to identify the risk of fire occurring and the risk of harm to people if fire does occur, and to determine what measures need to be in place to reduce those risks to an acceptable level.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person for any non-domestic premises to carry out and implement a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment. This is the cornerstone of fire safety law in England and Wales, and it applies to virtually all workplaces, commercial premises, houses in multiple occupation, blocks of flats, and any other non-domestic building to which members of the public have access.

A fire risk assessment works through five key steps: identifying fire hazards — sources of ignition, sources of fuel and sources of oxygen; identifying people at risk — who is in or around the premises and who might be especially at risk; evaluating the risks and deciding on fire safety measures; recording the findings, preparing a fire safety plan and training staff; and reviewing and updating the assessment regularly.

The assessment covers not just the likelihood of a fire starting, but the consequences if one does. A building with excellent fire detection, well-maintained escape routes, properly installed fire doors and a well-rehearsed evacuation procedure can achieve a much better outcome in the event of a fire than one where ignition sources are poorly managed but means of escape are also inadequate. Both sides of the equation matter.

At LESH, our fire risk assessments are carried out by experienced fire safety consultants who understand both the technical requirements and the practical realities of fire safety management. Our reports are clear, comprehensive and prioritised — giving you a precise understanding of what needs to be done and in what order.

We are proud members of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers, to ensure our knowledge is up to date and reports are to a high standard.

Also see our H&S support packages which can include your annual fire risk assessment.