Fire risk assessment FAQs – Your burning questions answered
When you book a fire risk assessment, there may be some aspects you’re unsure about, from completion times to the elements assessed. To remove the mystery from the process, here’s what you can expect from your fire risk survey.
What is a fire risk assessment?
Fire risk assessments involve an in-depth check of your building and those who occupy the property, looking at all aspects of fire prevention. It’s about identifying potential fire risks, ensuring compliance with the latest legislation and recommending improvements where necessary.
Why are fire risk surveys needed?
Fire risk surveys are a necessary health and safety check for sites like commercial buildings, bed and breakfasts and residential HMOs. They’re a legal requirement in many cases, helping to protect occupants, staff and visitors from the risks of smoke and fire. They also ensure you comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and The Fire Safety Act 2021.
Does every property need a fire safety check by law?
Fire risk assessments are required for several different buildings. This includes workplaces and commercial premises, sites with public access and communal areas of houses in multiple occupation.
Who is responsible for fire safety checks?
The law places legal duties on the ‘Responsible Person’ in charge of fire safety practices at your building. This is often the owner, landlord or facilities manager, and they’ll need to maintain fire safety precautions and arrange the relevant checks at regular intervals. They’ll also need to inform staff or occupants about any risks identified and have emergency plans in place.
How often do I need a fire risk assessment?
While there’s no specific timeframe stated in legislation for fire risk checks, they will need to be conducted regularly. Many clients like to book an annual fire safety check at their building to identify issues early and keep on top of any maintenance required.
Why hire a professional fire risk assessor?
If you don’t have the time or expertise to perform the necessary checks, you’ll need to hire a professional fire risk assessor. This expert should be BAFE registered and experienced in conducting fire safety surveys.
What are the main components of fire hazard checks?
Fire risk checks cover elements such as identifying fire hazards and who’s at risk, recording all significant findings. At MD Fire, we can also help you to prepare emergency plans, upgrade your fire alarms, check fire doors and extinguishers and perform emergency lighting testing.
Do you need to keep a record of fire risk assessments?
You must keep a written record of any fire safety assessments completed at your building if your business has five or more people, you have paying guests, or you own an HMO.
How much does a fire risk assessment cost?
Fire safety assessment costs vary greatly due to the different factors involved. Differences in building size, the number of elements to check, occupancy levels and the hazards involved can affect the rate. To easiest way to find out more about fire risk assessment prices is to request a free quote.
How do I book a new fire safety assessment?
Arranging a fire risk assessment in London or Surrey is easy. Simply call MD Fire on 0208 355 8820 or email info@mdfire.co.uk.
