What do I need to do?

As of October 1st 2006, all employers/owners/occupiers, (the Responsible Person) have a legal obligation under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO), to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment for their premises.

Is a fire risk assessment necessary in my premise?

All premises other than private domestic dwellings should undertake a risk assessment and this should be recorded if you have over 5 employees or is licensed in any way.

Examples include:

• Offices and shops
• Premises that provide care, including care homes and hospitals
• Community halls, places of worship and other community premises
• The shared areas of Houses in Multiple Occupation
• Pubs, clubs and restaurants
• Schools and sports centres
• Tents and marquees
• Hotels and hostels
• Rented Holiday Accommodation
• Factories and warehouses
• Industrial units

Why should I do all this?

Think of it as an insurance policy, you should undertake a review of your fire safety precautions and when you think you have got it right you really should write it down.  If the worst was to happen and you are summoned to court your fire risk assessment is your evidence that you have done everything reasonable practicable to prevent the fire, without it you have little or no defence.

The fire service will undertake an audit of your risk assessment periodically (depending on your risk), following a fire risk allegation (complaint) and after a fire or multiple false alarms – BE PREPARED!

I use part of a building which already has a risk assessment completed by another organisation, am I covered?

In short; No!  As a responsible person for your part of the building or for your activities whilst using that part of the building you to should undertake a risk assessment, for example:

• After school clubs
• Village halls and each group using the facilities
• Pre-school and nursery groups
• Luncheon Clubs