Fire Risk Assessments – Why They’re More Than Just a Compliance Exercise

Many businesses and property owners view Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) as just another legal requirement, something to tick off the list to avoid fines. However, an FRA is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of employees, residents, and visitors. A well-conducted assessment can prevent fires before they happen, protecting lives and assets.

What is a Fire Risk Assessment?

• A structured review of fire hazards, risk levels, and control measures.

• Required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

• Identifies fire hazards, people at risk, and necessary actions to improve safety.

Why Fire Risk Assessments Are More Than Just Paperwork

• They highlight hidden risks often overlooked, such as faulty electrics, combustible materials, and escape route obstructions.

• Regular assessments save lives by ensuring all fire safety measures are up to standard.

• Can prevent costly legal action and insurance issues if a fire occurs.

Who is Responsible for Ensuring that an FRA is Conducted?

• The “Responsible Person” (business owner, landlord, or property manager) is legally required to ensure a valid, ‘suitable and sufficient’ FRA is in place.

• The Responsible Person must ensure that competent persons carry out a review of the FRA regularly.

What Happens if You Ignore Fire Risk Assessments?

• Non-compliance can lead to heavy fines or prosecution, such as the issuance of legal notices from the enforcing authority.

• Fire incidents in non-compliant buildings can often result in business closure, insurance issues, reputational damage and prosecution.

• Real-world examples of how poorly conducted FRAs have led to disaster, such as fires occurring in buildings that have fire risk assessments that have been deemed as not ‘Suitable and Sufficient’.

A Fire Risk Assessment isn’t just a box-ticking exercise, it’s an essential part of a building’s fire safety strategy. Investing in a professional FRA can prevent disasters, protect lives, and ensure compliance with fire safety laws.

At PyroActive, our fire consultants provide comprehensive FRAs, validated under the BAFE SP205 accreditation scheme, helping businesses and landlords stay ahead of fire risks. Contact us today for an expert fire risk assessment.