Risk Assessments

Risk Assessments

There are five actions every business owner must take to comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

The Order applies to the majority of premises and workplaces in the UK and consolidates the existing fire safety legislation into one set of regulations. 

The Order places a responsibility on the designated 'Responsible Person' and outlines all the measures that must be taken to ensure the safety of all the people they are responsible for.  Enforcing authorities will ensure that it is followed and set penalties if it is not.

A Responsible Person is defined as the person who owns the premises or business or the person with control over the premises, business or activity.  Where two or more responsible persons share responsibility, the responsible persons must co-operate to effectively adhere to the Order.

As a business owner/manager you need to ensure that the following points are met:

Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment:  Every business owner and employer must:

  • Provide and maintain fire fighting equipment.  If you employ five or more people, the risk assessment must be formally recorded.
  • Ascertain the fire risk in their workplace.
  • Check that fires can be detected and people can be warned in enough time to leave the building safely.
  • Check that there is a safe exit route from the building.
  • Instruct your employees so that they know what to do in the event of a fire.
Provide Fire Fighting Equipment
  • The risk assessment may highlight a requirement to provide portable fire extinguishers.  If so you are advised to ensure that they are manufactured to British Standards.
  • An appropriate fire detection and alarm system must be in place.  Decide on what type of fire detector is suitable for your premises.  Before installing a fire detection system, it is advisable to discuss your requirements with a reputable Fire Security Company.
  • You must take measures to reduce the spread of fire - use of fire resistant walls, fire doors with closing devices and ensure that they are in good working order.
Maintain fire equipment: All fire protection equipment must be regularly checked and maintained.
  • Check that all alarm systems are working and report and record any failures.  The person performing the maintenance must be competent and you may need to provide evidence that they are.
  • All escape routes must be kept clear and fire exit signs are correctly positioned.
  • All fire escapes can be opened immediately.
  • Ensure that all emergency lighting is working.
Train staff:
  • You must train all employees so that they know what to do in the event of a fire.
  • You should carry out a fire drill at least once a year.
Keep good records:
  • Maintain a record of risk assessments for fire hazards.
  • Maintain records of the fire fighting arrangements in place to control the fire risk.
  • Keep details of the contact at your local fire authority.
  • Maintain a fire log book with details of service and maintenance.

For a more detailed explanation of your fire safety requirements, follow the link to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in our links section.

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