The first step in conducting a fire risk assessment is to identify potential fire hazards within your site. This involves a comprehensive assessment of the premises, considering various factors such as building materials, electrical systems, heating equipment, flammable substances, and sources of ignition. By identifying these hazards, fire safety professionals can determine potential vulnerabilities and prioritise their management efforts accordingly.
Once the fire hazards have been recorded it is essential to understand the use and occupancy of the site. The site may have a range of occupants with staff members, visitors, contractors and/or persons that may have sensory or physical impairments. The arrangements to protect people in your site must be suitable and sufficient and be in line with the relevant standards.
The combination of the identified Fire Hazards & People at Risk then must be evaluated. Where there are issues identified, these are recorded as a significant findings the next step is to eliminate the issue entirely or reduce it with effective control measures. This may include introducing new equipment or mean new systems have to be installed.
A Fire Safety professional will record your fire risk assessment and associated actions into a format which is easy to access and understand.
This plan will allow you to create, or potentially supplement your existing emergency plan should it be required. Fire Safety training for staff can range from fire response teams to fire wardens and general fire awareness training.
A Fire Risk Assessment should be treated as a live document. The significant findings that are created should be noted & subsequent actions detailed with the assessment. If the site has a material change, a new process is introduced, there is a change of use or an incident occurs the fire risk assessment should be reviewed or reviewed as is appropriate (you fire safety professional will advise you on this). The fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly with an annual review being the industry accepted standard.
Fire risk assessments also play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations and standards. Local jurisdictions often require businesses and organisations to conduct regular fire risk assessments to meet legal obligations. By adhering to these regulations, businesses not only protect themselves from potential fines and legal consequences but also demonstrate their commitment to the safety and well-being of their employees, customers, and the community.
Ocelot Fire Consultancy are experts in Fire Risk Assessments and will be happy to assist you, contact the team today.
We are dedicated to providing comprehensive fire safety solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. Our team of highly trained professionals is ready to assist you in safeguarding your premises against the threat of fire.
