What is involved in a Risk Assessment?

Fire Safety RRO 2005

• fire alarm systems within the building (the fire alarm, portable fire extinguishers and emergency lighting)
• Is Fire detection required and what type
• fire procedures
• the building fabric (how it may react in a fire)
• building occupancy
• fire training of staff personnel
• the contents and/or stock held within the building
• the possibility or arson
• the Disability Discrimination Act
• Fire Safety maintenance. Such as fire alarm maintenance, fire extinguisher maintenance, Emergency lighting, weekly fire alarm testing.

There are in all four possible options open to the “Responsible Person” when considering Risk Assessment:

1. Do nothing or do it yourself
2. Apply the local Fire & Rescue website checklist approach
3. Employ your own competent Fire Safety specialist
4. Engage a qualified and competent Fire Risk Assessor

Options 1 and 2 may well place the “Responsible Person” in a difficult and uncomfortable position, as well as possibly being outside the law.

Options 3 or 4 will ensure the “Responsible Person” is taking a proven route to complying with the law as well as protecting the building, its occupants and the business.

The Fire Risk Assessment is a living document and will need regular updating to maintain its effectiveness, at least annually but much more if you have a large or complex property.

A Fire risk assessment is a legal requirement, and will help you identify if a fire alarm is required. Installing the right type of fire alarm system is important and a competent fire alarm installer is important to ensure the fire alarm system installed complies with the relevant standards.