A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is an organised review of potential fire hazards in a workplace, building or premises. The purpose of the assessment is to identify any potential risks and take necessary steps to reduce or eliminate them. It also involves evaluating the existing fire safety measures in place to ensure they are adequate. Fire Risk Assessments are often carried out by professional assessors or trained fire wardens who understand the laws and regulations relating to fire safety. The assessment should consider all aspects of fire safety, including the environment, procedures, equipment and personnel.
Below are some frequently asked questions to provide you with further information about this service
The risk assessment typically includes a physical inspection of the premises and any associated documents or other information sources, such as reports or safety records. During the physical inspection, an assessor will look for things such as potential ignition sources (like electrical wiring, heating elements, or gas pipes), combustible materials, and fire escape routes. They will also check that the correct fire safety equipment and systems are in place, such as fire alarms, extinguishers, smoke detectors, emergency lighting, and fire doors.
In addition to inspecting the physical environment, the assessor will also evaluate the occupants’ behaviour, including evacuation procedures and training, to ensure that they can safely exit the premises in case of a fire. They may also review existing fire safety policies and procedures to ensure that they are up-to-date and adequate for the particular environment.
Once the assessment is complete, the assessor will provide an action plan to reduce any identified risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards. This may involve implementing new procedures, changing existing systems or processes, purchasing additional fire safety equipment, or carrying out essential maintenance. In some cases, more regular assessments may be recommended.
Fire Risk Assessments are important because they can help to identify any potential fire hazards that may not be immediately visible and take steps to reduce the likelihood of them causing harm. By carrying out a thorough assessment, businesses can identify any hazards that could cause injury or damage in the event of a fire and develop an effective plan to minimise the risks. Fire safety procedures can also be put in place to help ensure that everyone is aware of what to do in the event of an emergency.
When it comes to Fire Risk Assessments, the responsibility lies with the person who is responsible for the safety of the premises. This could be the employer, the business owner, the landlord, or the person in charge of the premises. They are responsible for ensuring that all necessary fire safety measures are in place and regularly reviewed to maintain the highest level of safety possible.
The assessment should be carried out by a competent person who has fire safety training experience in the field. The assessment should also involve consultation with employees or any other relevant persons who may be affected by the fire safety measures that are being taken.
The Fire Risk Assessment should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed. If changes are made to the premises, a new assessment should be carried out as soon as possible. It is also important to keep a record of all assessments, which can be used to demonstrate that they have been carried out in accordance with legal requirements.
Fire Risk Assessments are an ongoing process and should be regularly reviewed to ensure that risks are constantly identified and managed. The frequency of assessment reviews will depend on the type of premises and any changes that have taken place, such as changes in occupancy or alterations to the building. Generally speaking, an assessment should be carried out at least once every 12 months, or whenever a significant change occurs.
The review process may involve revising existing documents, conducting physical inspections of premises and speaking to people who work there to identify any new or changed risks. Fire Risk Assessment reviews should also take into account any new fire safety legislation and guidance issued by the government or other relevant authorities.
If a fire incident occurs, then a written record of your fire should be made and a full review should take place as soon as possible to identify the root cause of the incident and develop appropriate measures to mitigate similar risks in the future.
If you require a Fire Risk Assessment review, or would just like to speak to an expert, contact us on 0344 499 7574 or email us at info@greenzonesurveys.com for more information.
