Controlling fire is an important part of managing a building and ensuring the safety of the people who use it. Fire risk assessments are legally required, if you manage or own the type of premises that is required to be assessed.
Here is everything you need to know about fire risk assessments.
What is a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a legal inspection conducted by a qualified and experienced individual to assess your premises from a fire risk perspective.
Fire safety risk assessments are a legal requirement in the UK to ensure the safety of buildings for the general public, and so landowners and businesses can make the right fire safety improvements.
Who is responsible for completing a fire risk assessment?
According to the law, in a working environment, the person responsible for a fire risk assessment is the landlord, business manager or employer.
A fire risk assessment is conducted by a qualified and experienced assessor. The responsibility to arrange a fire risk assessment lies with the landlord or building manager.
How often should fire risk assessments be reviewed?
As per the law, a fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly by a competent person. This is essential as a fire safety precaution to prevent a fire and ensure the safety of people.
What are the legal requirements for fire risk assessments?
Compliance is mandatory if you fit in any of the below categories:
- An employer or self-employed with business premises
- A landlord responsible for business premises
- A landlord of a house of multiple occupancy (HMO)
- Premises providing accommodation for paying guests
- Premises open to the public and consumers
- Charities, places of worship, and voluntary organisations
- Educational building, nurseries, schools, colleges
- Medical facilities and care homes
- Residential property with communal or shared areas
The law aims to reduce death, injury and damage to property so employees, residents and the general public can use a building or premises without the risk of fire.
The risk assessment aims to identify fire hazards, people at risk and reflect on risks so they can be removed or reduced.
The law requires you to record any findings and create an emergency plan for evacuations. You must also review and update your assessment regularly, as mentioned above.
Failure to comply with the legal requirements can result in a fine and in some cases up to 2 years in prison, so it is essential to conduct a fire risk assessment.
How much does a fire risk assessment cost?
The cost of conducting a fire risk assessment can vary depending on the size of your premises. We offer competitive rates, starting from £375+VAT for buildings up to 2,000 sq ft.
Buildings up to 2,000-5,000 sq ft are £425 and buildings up to 10,000 sq ft are £480. Buildings over 10,000 sq ft require an individual quote.
If you require a fire risk assessment on your premises, get your free quote today. Our experienced team of customer service advisors will be happy to help.