Fire Risk Assessment
hassle free
Compliance
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO), which came into force on 1 October 2006, brought together and simplified previous fire safety legislation. One of the key changes was the removal of fire certificates, placing the responsibility for fire safety firmly with the “Responsible Person” rather than the Fire Authority.
Under this legislation, Responsible Persons—such as employers, building owners, landlords, and managing agents—are required to ensure that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed.
The Building Safety Act 2022 has further strengthened fire safety requirements. Since October 2023, Responsible Persons are required to formally record their fire risk assessments in full, regardless of the size or nature of the premises. This reflects a greater emphasis on accountability, transparency, and ongoing fire risk management.
Regular fire risk assessments are essential to identify potential fire hazards, evaluate the level of risk, and implement appropriate preventive and protective measures to safeguard both people and property.
When is a Fire Risk Assessment Required?
Fire risk assessments are a legal requirement for all non-domestic premises. This includes workplaces, commercial buildings, and the common areas of residential properties such as blocks of flats and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).
If you are responsible for a premises, you have a legal duty to ensure that your fire risk assessment is not only in place, but also up to date and reflective of any changes to the building, its use, or occupation.
Competence You Can Trust
At Safewell, we understand that a fire risk assessment is only as good as the person carrying it out. That’s why our Fire Risk Assessments are completed by suitably qualified and demonstrably competent professionals, in line with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Our assessors combine technical knowledge with real-world experience, ensuring every assessment is tailored to the specific type and complexity of your premises. This means you can have confidence that any risks are properly identified, and that the preventive and protective measures we recommend are practical, proportionate, and effective.
We’re committed to maintaining the highest standards of competence across our team. Through ongoing professional development and by working in line with recognised industry guidance and best practice, we ensure our advice remains current, reliable, and aligned with evolving fire safety expectations.
Book Your Fire Risk Assessment
Whether you need a new fire risk assessment or a review of an existing one, Safewell can help you meet your legal obligations with confidence.
Fire Safety Services
Other fire safety services we offer:
Fire Risk Assessments and Audits
Staff Fire Evacuation Training
Fire Marshal Training
Fire Extinguisher Training
Monitored Evacuation Drills
Fire Safety Signs Surveys
Fire Emergency Plans / Procedures
Fire Safety Advice
Fire Safety Management
Call us now on 01793 852951 to arrange a fire risk assessment or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fire risk assessment for my business?
Yes – most businesses in the UK are legally required to have a fire risk assessment.
If you own, manage, or control business premises, you must identify fire hazards, assess who is at risk, and put measures in place to reduce the risk of fire and ensure safe evacuation.
This applies to businesses of all sizes, including small workplaces. Your fire risk assessment must also be kept up to date and reviewed regularly.
In simple, low-risk premises, the responsible person may carry out the assessment. However, many businesses use a competent fire risk assessor to ensure nothing important is missed and that the assessment meets legal requirements.
How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?
A fire risk assessment must be reviewed regularly and whenever anything changes that could affect fire safety.
This includes changes to:
- The building layout
- Work processes or equipment
- The number or type of people on site
- Materials stored or used
There is no fixed legal timeframe for reviews. However, many businesses carry out a review at least once a year as good practice.
The key requirement is simple: your fire risk assessment must always be up to date and reflect the current risks in your workplace.
What does a fire risk assessment involve?
A fire risk assessment is a structured review of your premises to identify fire hazards, assess risk, and put safety measures in place.
It typically includes checking:
- Sources of ignition and combustible materials
- Who may be at risk
- Escape routes and evacuation procedures
- Fire alarms and warning systems
- Firefighting equipment (e.g. extinguishers)
- Emergency lighting and signage
- Overall fire safety management
The outcome is a clear action plan to reduce risks and improve safety. The assessment should be recorded (where required), kept up to date, and reviewed regularly to remain legally compliant.
Who is responsible for carrying out a fire risk assessment?
The responsibility for a fire risk assessment lies with the “Responsible Person.”
This is usually the employer, business owner, landlord, managing agent, or anyone in control of the premises.
The Responsible Person can:
- Carry out the fire risk assessment themselves (if competent), or
- Appoint a qualified fire risk assessor to do it for them
However, even if the work is outsourced, the Responsible Person is still legally responsible for ensuring:
- The assessment is suitable and sufficient
- Any required actions are completed
What is a fire risk assessment and why is it important?
It helps prevent fires, protect people, and ensure safe evacuation if an emergency occurs.
Fire risk assessments are important because they:
- Protect employees, visitors, and property
- Reduce the likelihood and impact of fire
- Ensure the right fire safety measures and procedures are in place
- Help businesses comply with UK fire safety law
In most cases, a fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for non-domestic premises and forms the foundation of effective fire safety management.
