Fire Risk Assessment Template for England and Wales

A Fire Risk Assessment is a legal requirement for most premises in England and Wales, mandated by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This comprehensive document helps you systematically evaluate fire hazards, assess risks to people, and implement appropriate safety measures. The assessment must identify potential ignition sources, fuel sources, and people at risk, while documenting your fire safety arrangements and emergency procedures.

When do you need this document?

You need a Fire Risk Assessment if you are the responsible person for any non-domestic premises in England and Wales. This includes offices, shops, factories, warehouses, hotels, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and residential buildings with common areas. The assessment is required before opening new premises, when making significant changes to existing buildings, or when occupancy patterns change. You must also conduct regular reviews, typically annually or whenever circumstances change that could affect fire safety. Multi-occupied buildings require particularly detailed assessments covering all areas and escape routes.

Key legal considerations

The assessment must be suitable and sufficient, meaning it should be proportionate to the fire risk and complexity of your premises. You must clearly identify the responsible person who has legal duty for fire safety compliance. The document should comprehensively cover fire hazards including electrical equipment, heating systems, cooking facilities, and storage of flammable materials. Your assessment must evaluate people at special risk, such as those with disabilities, young children, or people unfamiliar with the premises. Emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and staff training requirements, must be documented. The assessment should specify fire safety measures including detection systems, alarms, emergency lighting, and firefighting equipment. You must maintain records of fire safety training, drills, and equipment maintenance.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person must ensure a Fire Risk Assessment is completed by a competent person and kept under regular review. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 reinforces your duty to protect employees and visitors from fire risks. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require you to assess risks and implement control measures systematically. Building Regulations 2010 Approved Document B sets standards for fire safety in building design and construction that may affect your assessment. The assessment must be recorded if you employ five or more people or hold a license for the premises. Fire authorities have powers to inspect your premises and review your assessment, with enforcement action possible for non-compliance. Regular updates are mandatory when you make material changes to premises, processes, or occupancy levels.