Workplace fire risk assessments – A useful guide
Most of us go off to work every day and set about dealing with our own list of responsibilities and tasks. The majority of us do so in the belief that our workplace is an environment safe from fire risk – it’s not an issue we consider daily but, obviously, it’s somebody’s responsibility to ensure that safety! So, just what ARE the requirements for a safe working environment?
Who needs to have a fire risk assessment?
- Any business with 5 or more employees
- Any business that is visited by members of the general public
- Any landlord with control over business premesis
- Any self-employed person operating from a business premises
Who can do a fire risk assessment?
Actually, anyone whom is deemed competent to do so can carry out the assessment. Typically, in a workplace, it may be the person responsible for general Health and Safety for the business who would fulfil this role.
However, we highly recommend that you use a BAFE registered company to do this on your behalf. They will cover all aspects of Fire Safety and, crucially, ensure that all your arrangements adhere to the legal requirements.
What does a fire risk assessment consist of?
- The condition, layout and age of the building
- The contents (in regard to identifying potential fire hazards and combustible materials)
- The current occupants of the building
- The current fire safety equipment (fire doors, extinguishers, signage)
- The existing fire safety training arrangements and fire drill procedures (clear access to fire escape doors, meeting points)
How often do I need to get one?
Once you’ve had a Fire Safety Assessment performed there is no definitive expiry date BUT we would highly recommend that your business ensures that the arrangements are maintained. You should have a reassessment in the event of:
- Any change to the building materially or structurally (changes to layout, fire doors and such)
- Any significant change in the content stored in the building
- Any significant change in the established Fire Risk Procedures
Enfield Doors
Our team of experts is always on hand to guide you and give you sound and pragmatic advice based on years of experience and successful installations.
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