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In this blog we will consider why fire risk assessments are essential for certain types of buildings. In essence, fire risk assessments need to be carried out on all non-domestic properties and on communal areas of rented properties.
The identified risks and subsequent safety measures that you put in place must be passed onto employees and anyone else that maybe affected. There must also be emergency plans in place in case of a fire and fire safety instruction and training for staff.
Local fire and rescue authorities carry out inspections of premises to ensure that they are compliant and that you are fully undertaking your duties. The officers can issue notices that inform you of the changes required to improve the standards of the building; failing to comply with these can result in fines or even prison.
What constitutes a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a subjective process. When it is undertaken, no assurances can be guaranteed that subsequent inspections, undertaken by a member of an enforcing authority with statutory powers, will not result in a different evaluation of the level of fire risk.
The purpose of the assessment is to address all applicable statutory requirements as imposed by current fire safety legislation.
The assessments are intended to be suitable and sufficient in identifying the risks to employees and other persons who may be affected by the activities undertaken at the property.
How often should a fire risk assessment be carried out?
Assessments should not be seen as a once-and-for-all activity. The nature of the works undertaken at the property, the personnel involved the nature of hazards and their associated risks must be regularly reviewed.
The Recommended Timescale for Review – Article 11 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) requires the Responsible Person to review and if necessary, modify their risk assessments.
In line with Article 11 of the RRFSO, the Responsible Person has a duty to review the risk assessment if there are any reasons to suggest that it may no longer be valid or can be improved, in the event of a recent occurrence.
It should be seen as being prudent to plan to review risk assessments at regular intervals. The time between reviews being dependent on the nature of the risks and the degree of change likely in the work activity.
Acorn Safety Services Ltd recommends a review be undertaken on an annual basis.
How can Acorn Safety Services help?
Acorn Safety Services Ltd’s standard service allows for the provision of guidance to enable the employer or the responsible person the opportunities to control or eliminate the defects within an appropriate timescale and achieve legal compliance.
Our fully-trained, skilled professionals have all the knowledge and ability to handle all aspects of effective fire risk assessments.
Our specialists will visit your site to perform a comprehensive inspection and then make suitable recommendations to enable you to comply with the right fire management standards.
If you do not have drawings of your site we will also provide expert drawing services to create an effort report. After we have prepared our report we will utilise our network for trusted UK contractors to help arrange any required works that may be necessary to ensure your premises are compliant.
To discuss any aspects of your fire risk assessment needs, or to obtain a quotation, call us on 01604 930380, email us at info@acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or click here for more information.
