How A Workplace Fire Risk Assessment Can Save Your Business
In any workplace, ensuring the right fire safety measures are in place is a top priority, and a workplace fire risk assessment can help with this. Helping to identify potential fire hazards within your property, a workplace fire risk assessment can help save your organisation from potential disasters and financial losses.
In this blog, we look at how conducting a fire risk assessment in the workplace can be a lifesaver for your business. We’ll explore why they’re important, and your legal obligations as a business owner and an employer in keeping your property and the people inside safe from fire.
What is a workplace fire risk assessment?
A workplace fire risk assessment is a thorough evaluation of your premises to identify potential fire hazards and those who might be at risk. The assessment looks at every aspect of a workplace, including the building layout and the type of work carried out. It also takes into account things like the presence of any flammable materials, sources of ignition, and the effectiveness of current fire safety measures.
The aim of a workplace fire risk assessment is to determine the likelihood of a fire starting and the potential damage that could be caused. Taking a proactive approach to workplace fire safety allows businesses to strengthen their overall strategy and create a safer environment for their employees.
Who is responsible for conducting a workplace fire risk assessment?
As stated in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the ‘responsible person’ has a legal obligation to ensure a fire risk assessment is conducted by a competent person. The responsible person is usually an employer or anyone who has control over the premises, such as the building owner or site manager.
A competent person is a certified professional with in-depth knowledge of current fire safety legislation and building regulations, which enables them to conduct a thorough and accurate assessment.
At Pyrotec, our team of highly-experienced and qualified specialists are fully competent in identifying potential fire hazards, understanding the different types of fire, and recommending appropriate measures in line with UK fire safety legislation. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about our accreditations and our skills and experience.
Is it a legal requirement to conduct a workplace fire risk assessment?
Yes, having a fire risk assessment in the workplace is a legal requirement as per UK regulations. Your assessment should be comprehensive, looking at potential fire hazards, individuals who are most at risk, sources of ignition, flammable materials, escape routes, and current fire safety equipment.
It should also take into account implementing and maintaining appropriate fire safety measures, such as fire safety training for employees, ensuring the functionality of fire alarms and fire extinguishers, and clearly marking escape routes.
As well as that, you must also ensure you keep a record of the assessment and document the findings, including the actions taken to mitigate risks, and the individuals responsible for implementing them.
It is recommended that your fire risk assessment is reviewed every year or when something changes in the building, such as the layout or structure, or the purpose, or a new process or new equipment is added.
If you fail to comply with your legal responsibilities in any way, it can lead to severe consequences. Not only does your local Fire and Rescue Service have the ability to take action against your business, but you could also receive an enforcement notice and even possible prosecution in cases of serious neglect.
Let us conduct your workplace fire risk assessment
When you conduct a thorough and comprehensive workplace fire risk assessment, you’re taking a proactive approach to safeguarding your business, employees, and assets. This could save your organisation from the potential disruption, damage, and financial losses a fire could bring.
At Pyrotec, our team has a wealth of experience and is fully-qualified to conduct a fire risk assessment in the workplace. We’ll ensure all potential fire hazards are identified, appropriate measures and action are implemented, and your business remains compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
If you have any questions about workplace fire risk assessments, or to schedule your assessment, get in touch with us today and take those all important steps towards safeguarding your business.
Workplace fire risk assessments FAQs
What does a workplace fire risk assessment include?
A workplace fire risk assessment typically involves:
- Identifying fire hazards (such as flammable materials and heat sources)
- Assessing the risk to employees and visitors
- Evaluating existing fire safety measures (such as alarms, extinguishers, and exits)
- Identifying people at higher risk (such as disabled workers and lone workers)
- Recommending actions to reduce risks
- Ensuring emergency procedures are in place and well-communicated
How often should a workplace fire risk assessment be reviewed?
A workplace fire risk assessment should be reviewed at least annually or sooner if significant changes occur within your workplace. These changes may include updates to the building layout, new equipment, or a change in the type of work activities carried out. It’s a legal requirement to ensure the assessment remains current and valid, and that a competent person conducts the review.
What are some common fire hazards found during a workplace fire risk assessment?
Some of the most common fire hazards found may include overloaded electrical outlets, faulty electrical equipment, improper storage of flammable materials, obstacles blocking fire exits, inadequate fire extinguisher provision, malfunctioning fire alarms, and a lack of fire safety training and precautions for employees for example.
