Fire risk assessments matter because they are essential for protecting people, property and business continuity.
This blog explains why they matter, what a good assessment involves, and how to carry one out effectively. From identifying hazards to reviewing controls, we’ll guide you through the steps needed to get fire safety right and stay compliant.
What is a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment helps organisations understand how likely a fire is to occur and what measures are needed to keep people safe.
For someone working in HSE, it’s both a legal requirement and a practical tool for preventing harm. The process looks at potential ignition sources, the materials or activities that could fuel a fire, and the people who may be at risk, including vulnerable groups.
It also evaluates how effectively a fire could be detected, contained, and controlled, as well as how safely people could evacuate.
Why should a fire risk assessment be performed?
Fire risk assessments matter because they form the foundation of effective fire safety management and are a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
A clear assessment supports safer building layouts, better evacuation planning, and appropriate training for staff. It also provides evidence of compliance, reducing the likelihood of enforcement action.
Most importantly, fire risk assessments are carried out to protect lives by ensuring workplaces are continually monitored, adapted, and made resilient against preventable fire hazards.
Who should perform a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment in the UK should be carried out by someone with the necessary training, experience, and understanding of fire safety principles. This may be an internal HSE professional or an external specialist, depending on the complexity of the site.
Ultimately, the responsible person must ensure the assessment is suitable, sufficient, and kept up to date.
How often should you carry out a fire risk assessment?
Fire risk assessments should be carried out regularly, but there is no fixed legal timeframe. Instead, the requirement is that they are kept up to date and reviewed whenever circumstances change. Best-practice guidance suggests:
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At least once a year for most workplaces, to ensure controls remain effective.
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After any significant change, such as building alterations, new equipment, staffing changes, or changes to how the space is used.
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After a fire or near-miss, to identify what went wrong and prevent recurrence.
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When new information emerges, including updated legislation or industry standards.
Regular reviews help maintain compliance and ensure risks are continually managed.
A simple step-by-step guide to a standard fire risk assessment
If you’re responsible for fire safety in your workplace, even without specialist training, you can still carry out a basic fire risk assessment by following these five simple steps:
1. Identify fire hazards
Take a walk through the premises and look out for anything that could start a fire or make it worse:
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Sources of ignition: heaters, cooking appliances, faulty wiring, open flames.
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Fuel sources: paper, cardboard, rubbish, soft furnishings, flammable liquids.
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Oxygen sources: ventilation systems, air conditioning, oxygen canisters (in medical settings).
2. Identify people at risk
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Think about who is in the building and who might be especially vulnerable in a fire:
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Staff, visitors, customers, contractors.
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People with disabilities, young workers, lone workers, or those unfamiliar with the building layout.
3. Evaluate the risks and take precautions
Assess how likely it is that a fire could start and spread. Then, take practical steps to reduce the risk:
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Keep escape routes clear.
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Store flammable materials safely.
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Ensure appliances are maintained and not overloaded.
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Remove unnecessary clutter and waste.
4. Record your findings and plan actions
If you have five or more employees, you are legally required to write down your findings. Even if you don’t, it’s still good practice:
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Note the hazards, who’s at risk, and what you've done to reduce the risk.
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List any further actions needed, such as fitting smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, or updating signage.
5. Review regularly
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Don’t treat it as a one-off. Review your fire risk assessment, at least annually.
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After any significant changes (new layout, staff, equipment, or after a fire/near miss).
By keeping your fire risk assessment simple, focused, and regularly updated, you’ll be making a meaningful contribution to fire safety in your workplace. For anything more complex, you should always consult a qualified fire risk assessor.
Ready to gain a British Safety Council Certificate in fire risk assessment?
If you’re looking for training before you carry out your fire risk assessment, why not register for our Certificate in Fire Risk Assessment short course?
This course is ideal for those who contribute to fire risk assessment activities, as well as for responsible persons who require a refresher to keep their knowledge current.
Learners will be able to:
- Explain why fire risk assessments are essential
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Identify common causes of fire and how fire spreads
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Understand the key principles of controlling fire-related risks
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Contribute effectively to basic fire risk assessment processes
Once completed, it will provide you with a strong foundation for improving fire safety awareness and supporting a safer workplace for everyone, whilst complying with the law.
We also offer a comprehensive suite of training and qualifications in health, safety, wellbeing and environmental management. With over 65 years’ experience and outstanding pass rates, we provide a trusted, engaging learning experience that sets you up for success.
Find out more about our course offering today.
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