No one ever expects a fire to break out at work – but if it does, having clear, well-practised fire procedures can save lives. In 2023/24 alone, there were over 7,000 workplace fires in the UK, highlighting just how important it is to be prepared.
It’s not just about ticking a compliance box; it’s about protecting your occupants, your premises, and your peace of mind.
From carrying out fire risk assessments to planning fire evacuation procedures and running regular fire drills, every step matters.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create and implement fire safety procedures that are tailored to your specific workplace.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or reviewing existing plans, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant, prepared and safe.
1. Understanding the importance of fire safety procedures
Before anything else, it’s vital to recognise why fire safety procedures matter.
Between 2023 and 2024, emergency services attended 1,889 accidental fire incidents in offices and industrial buildings across the UK. This highlights just how often workplace fires occur – and why having a clear plan in place is essential.
They help ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire – reducing panic, protecting lives and minimising damage.
Without clear fire procedures, even a small incident can quickly become dangerous.
2. Carry out a thorough fire risk assessment
A professional fire risk assessment is the foundation of any fire safety procedure. This helps identify potential hazards, who’s at risk, and what needs to be done to reduce those risks.
A professional fire risk assessment will also highlight the best evacuation routes and procedures for your premises.
If you haven’t had one recently – or ever – contact us to get a free quote and arrange a fire risk assessment for your premises.
3. Create a tailored fire emergency procedure
Every workplace is different, which means every fire evacuation procedure should be too.
Make sure you consider:
- The size and layout of your premises
- The number of employees or visitors
- Any vulnerable persons who may need assistance
- Your fire alarm and detection systems
- The nearest safe exit routes
Once you’ve mapped everything out, document your fire evacuation procedures clearly. Include step-by-step instructions on what to do when the alarm sounds, where to exit, and where to assemble.
Be specific – your procedures should reflect the layout and needs of your workplace. And importantly, make sure they’re easy for all staff, visitors and contractors to access.
This might include:
- Posting clear evacuation maps and instructions in key areas (e.g. near exits, in communal spaces, by lifts)
- Including fire evacuation procedures in staff handbooks or onboarding materials
- Storing digital copies on your internal systems or health and safety portals
The more visible and straightforward your fire evacuation procedures are, the easier it is for everyone to respond quickly and safely in an emergency.
4. Appoint and train fire wardens
Designated fire wardens play a key role in managing a safe and efficient evacuation.
With an average of 22,000 workplace fires in the UK every year, having trained staff who know how to respond quickly can make all the difference in protecting lives and minimising damage.
Make sure they’re properly trained to:
- Raise the alarm
- Guide people to exits
- Check designated areas are clear
- Communicate with emergency services
Training should be refreshed regularly to keep your fire procedures effective, and to make sure everyone stays confident in their role.
Every fire risk assessment from us here at FireRiskAssessments.com includes essential fire safety training as standard, so you and your team understand the basics.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth course, we also offer expert fire warden training as an additional service, tailored to help wardens manage responsibilities with confidence during an emergency.
5. Develop a fire drill procedure
Regular fire drills help make sure your fire safety procedures will actually work in practice.
Your fire drill procedure should outline clear timings and expectations, and be scheduled at regular intervals – typically every six months.
It’s also important to have a way to monitor and review how the drill goes, so you can identify any gaps and update the procedure if needed.
Remember, a good fire drill isn’t just a box-ticking exercise, it’s a vital test of your evacuation procedures in the workplace.
6. Communicate and display fire procedures clearly
Everyone in your building should know what to do in the event of a fire.
This includes:
- Displaying fire evacuation procedures clearly in key areas
- Sharing procedures with all new staff during onboarding
- Using fire safety signs to guide people to exits, assembly points, and safety equipment
- Running regular refresher sessions or briefings
The more familiar your team is with the fire safety procedure, the safer your workplace will be!
7. Review and update your fire safety regularly
Workplaces change – teams grow, office layouts are rearranged, and new equipment or processes are introduced.
Even small changes can impact how effective your fire procedures are. That’s why it’s essential to review your fire evacuation procedures and fire drill procedure regularly.
Schedule formal reviews at least once a year, or sooner if there’s been a significant change to your building, staffing, or operations. Look at what’s working, what isn’t, and where improvements can be made.
Keeping your fire safety procedures up to date ensures they remain relevant, compliant, and ready to protect everyone on site.
Protect your workplace with a fire risk assessment
Whether you’re putting fire procedures in place for the first time or reviewing your existing setup, we’re here to help.
At FireRiskAssessments.com, we offer professional fire risk assessments with clear, practical advice tailored to your business.
You’ll also receive essential fire safety training as standard – with the option to add expert fire warden training if you need it.
Get your free fire risk assessment quote and make sure your fire safety procedures are fully up to scratch today!