Many businesses know they need a fire risk assessment but are unsure what actually happens during the process. A professional fire risk assessment is a straightforward inspection designed to identify fire risks and ensure your premises meet legal fire safety requirements.
Understanding what to expect can help businesses prepare and ensure the visit runs smoothly.
Step 1 – Initial Walkthrough
The fire risk assessor will begin with a walkthrough of the premises to understand:
- The layout of the building
- Number of floors
- Occupancy levels
- Type of work carried out
- Fire safety equipment in place
This allows the assessor to identify areas where fire risks may exist.
Step 2 – Identifying Fire Hazards
The assessor will look for potential fire hazards such as:
- Electrical equipment
- Overloaded sockets
- Storage of combustible materials
- Cooking equipment
- Heating equipment
- Poor housekeeping
Reducing fire hazards is one of the most effective ways to improve fire safety.
Step 3 – Checking Fire Safety Measures
Fire safety equipment and protection measures will be inspected, including:
- Fire alarm systems
- Emergency lighting
- Fire extinguishers
- Fire doors
- Escape routes
- Fire signage
These systems must be in place and working correctly to protect occupants in the event of a fire.
Step 4 – Escape Routes
Escape routes are carefully checked to make sure occupants can leave the building safely. This includes checking:
- Clear corridors and exits
- Fire exit doors
- Emergency lighting coverage
- Fire exit signage
- Final exit doors
Blocked escape routes are one of the most common fire safety problems found in businesses.
Step 5 – Fire Safety Management
The assessor will also review fire safety management such as:
- Fire safety training
- Fire drills
- Testing records
- Fire logbooks
- Maintenance records
Proper management is just as important as physical fire safety equipment.
Step 6 – The Fire Risk Assessment Report
After the inspection, you will receive a written fire risk assessment report.
This report will include:
- Fire hazards identified
- Risk levels
- Recommended improvements
- Legal compliance guidance
At Approved Fire Risk Assessments Ltd, we provide clear and practical fire risk assessments for businesses across Kent and the South East.
If you need a fire risk assessment or your current assessment is out of date, we are happy to help.