Who is legally responsible for fire safety in my workplace?

Under the Fire Safety Order, the “Responsible Person” is anyone with control of non-domestic premises—this includes employers, building owners, landlords, occupiers, facilities managers or managing agents. If more than one Responsible Person applies, you must cooperate to discharge your duties together.

What is a fire risk assessment and who must do it?

A fire risk assessment (FRA) is a systematic review of your premises to identify fire hazards, people at risk, and the measures needed to reduce those risks. The Responsible Person must carry out and record the FRA in writing, and use it to plan fire precautions.

How often should I review and update my fire risk assessment?

You must review your FRA regularly and whenever there are significant changes (e.g. building layout, work processes, occupancy or after a fire/near miss). It’s good practice to do a formal review at least annually, with additional reviews as needed by any change.

What general fire precautions do I need to put in place?

Article 4 of the Order requires you to provide and maintain:

• Reliable means of warning occupants (e.g. alarms)

• Safe escape routes, emergency doors and signage

• Sufficient fire-fighting equipment (e.g. extinguishers)

• Functional emergency lighting where needed

• Regular maintenance and testing of these measures by a competent person

How often must I test fire alarms and emergency lighting?

• Fire alarms should be tested weekly, with all results logged.

• Emergency lighting should receive a monthly functional test and a full discharge test at least annually.

Keeping clear test records is a legal requirement.

What records am I required to keep?

You must keep:

• A written copy of your FRA and any reviews.

• Logs of all fire alarm tests, emergency lighting tests, extinguisher inspections and fire drills.

• Records of any maintenance or servicing carried out by competent providers.

These demonstrate compliance and form part of your fire safety management plan.

Do I need to provide fire safety training to staff?

Yes. You must give adequate information, instruction and training on fire risks and procedures when staff are first employed, when their role changes, and “repeated as necessary.” Training should cover evacuation routes, use of equipment and what to do if a fire occurs.

Complete our enquiry form to request a quote for Fire Safety Training.

What should be included in my fire evacuation layout drawing?

Your plan must clearly show:

• The shortest, unobstructed escape routes and emergency exits

• Location of fire-fighting equipment and alarm call-points

• A designated assembly point well away from danger

• Procedures for assisting those with mobility needs

• Roles and responsibilities of fire wardens and staff actions

And it must be communicated to all employees.