Fire Risk Assessments (FRA)

Fire Risk Assessments (FRA) are a crucial legal requirement for all non-domestic properties, as well as the common areas of residential flats and Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

This mandate is outlined under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, commonly referred to as the ‘Fire Safety Order’.

If you are the responsible person for a building—such as an employer, owner, or occupier of premises that are not a single private dwelling (a private home)—you are legally obligated to ensure a competent assessor completes a Fire Risk Assessment.

This process helps identify risks and hazards in your premises and ensures that appropriate actions are taken to mitigate them.

Legal Obligations Under the Fire Safety Order

The Fire Safety Order outlines specific responsibilities for responsible persons. To comply with this legislation, you must:

• Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment : Identify any possible dangers and risks within the premises.

• Recognize Individuals at Higher Risk : Identify individuals, such as the elderly, disabled, or those with limited mobility, who may require additional protection.

• Evaluate, Remove, or Reduce Risks : Take steps to eliminate or minimize fire risks as far as reasonably practicable.

• Implement Additional Protective Measures : Ensure enhanced safety measures are in place if flammable or explosive materials are used or stored on-site.

• Develop an Emergency Plan : Prepare a comprehensive plan to manage emergencies and, in most cases, document the findings of your FRA.

• Review and Update Regularly : Fire Risk Assessments should be reviewed and updated periodically, especially after significant changes to the building or its use.

Fire Risk Assessment : Key Elements

A thorough Fire Risk Assessment evaluates the existing fire precautions and ensures they remain adequate. Some critical areas assessed include:

• Fire Detection Systems : Assess the functionality and coverage of alarms and smoke detectors.

• Emergency Lighting : Ensure proper illumination is available in case of power failure.

• Fire Stopping Measures : Verify that fire-resistant barriers are intact and effective.

• Fire Doors : Inspect the condition, installation, and functionality of fire doors.

These measures collectively ensure the safety of occupants and reduce the likelihood of fire-related incidents.

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Fire Risk Assessment for New Build Developments

While the Fire Safety Order applies to occupied buildings, fire safety considerations for new developments begin during the design phase. For proposed new buildings, a Fire Strategy must be developed. This strategy essentially acts as an assumed Fire Risk Assessment, tailored to the projected number and type of occupants.

The Fire Strategy identifies the fire precautions required to comply with Building Regulations, including:

• Emergency exit routes

• Fire detection systems

• Passive fire protection measures (e.g., fire-resistant walls and doors)

Why Regular Reviews Are Essential

A Fire Risk Assessment is not a one-time task. Regular reviews are critical to account for:

• Changes in building layout or use

• Introduction of new materials or equipment

• Updates to fire safety legislation

Failure to maintain and update your FRA can lead to non-compliance with the Fire Safety Order, posing risks to occupants and legal penalties for the responsible person.

Choosing a Competent Fire Risk Assessor

To ensure compliance and thoroughness, it’s essential to engage a qualified fire risk assessor.

Look for assessors with recognized qualifications, relevant experience, and membership in professional bodies such as the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

Fire Risk Assessment : Conclusion

Fire Risk Assessments are a vital component of building safety and legal compliance in the UK. By understanding your obligations under the Fire Safety Order, implementing necessary precautions, and regularly updating your FRA, you can protect occupants and ensure peace of mind.
If you need assistance with Fire Risk Assessments, please call 020 4534 3130.

Read more about how the former London Mayor issued a demand that building owners and managers draw up personal emergency evacuation plans for disabled residents of all buildings.

Fire & Building Safety Services

Fire Risk Assessment : Contact

To commission a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) or a Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls survey (FRAEW) please call 020 4534 3130.

Follow the link for the latest RICS guidance note ‘Cladding for Surveyors, 1 Edition, March 2021‘.

For further information on FRA, FRAEW Surveys, PAS9980 or EWS1 forms please call one of our assessors for expert advice.

If you need more advice in respect of your obligations as a building owner, developer or manager, please contact us.

If you want one of our team to call you please fill in our Contact form. We will call you back.