What is reviewed as part of a fire risk assessment?

Fire Risk Assessments should be comprehensive and numerous fire risk factors should be taken into account.

The amount of detail included in an individual review depends to a great extent on the building’s complexity. For example, a one compartment building, like a kiosk or small shop, is going to have a lot less that needs to be reviewed compared to a block of flats or large office block.

Although every fire risk assessment is unique, the following fire prevention and fire risk factors should be checked by the assessor as part of the assessment:

  • The building’s construction, layout, and use
  • The nature and number of occupants, including any potentially vulnerable occupants
  • Electrical equipment on the site that could be a potential source of ignition
  • Whether the building has a history of any fire loss
  • Defence against arson
  • Smoking areas as well as prevention measures that have been taken to prevent fires caused by smoking
  • Protection against fires that are caused by lighting
  • Installed and portable heating devices that can trigger fires
  • Any fire hazards that have been introduced by outside contractors or building works
  • General housekeeping and key areas being kept clear of any combustible materials
  • The configuration and maintenance of escape routes
  • Storage arrangements for any flammable and dangerous liquids
  • Emergency lighting has been properly installed and is in good working order
  • Measures are in placed for limiting fire spread
  • Adequate means are in place to raise the alarm in the event of a fire
  • Fire safety signs are in the proper locations and used correctly
  • Other devices, like sprinklers, are properly installed and maintained
  • The appropriate fire extinguishers are in the correct locations
  • Whether or not there is evacuation drills and fire safety training on a regular basis
  • Who manages the building’s fire safety and how well it is done
  • Proper records and documentation are being kept on fire safety measures
  • Correct testing procedures and maintenance are in place for fire safety systems