Fire Risk Assessment Plan Template for England and Wales

A Fire Risk Assessment Plan is a comprehensive document that evaluates fire hazards and establishes safety protocols for your premises. Under England and Wales law, this assessment is not optional—it's a legal requirement that helps protect lives and property while ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.

When do you need this document?

You need a Fire Risk Assessment Plan if you're responsible for any non-domestic premises in England and Wales. This includes offices, shops, factories, schools, hospitals, care homes, and places of worship. As the responsible person—typically the employer, building owner, or occupier—you must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed. The assessment is also required when there are significant changes to the premises, occupancy, or fire safety arrangements.

Key legal considerations

Your fire risk assessment must be systematic and thorough, covering five key steps: identifying fire hazards, identifying people at risk, evaluating and removing or reducing risks, recording findings and preparing an emergency plan, and regularly reviewing the assessment. The plan must identify vulnerable individuals such as disabled persons, children, or those unfamiliar with the premises. You're legally required to implement appropriate fire safety measures based on the assessment findings, including fire detection systems, emergency lighting, fire exits, and staff training. The assessment must be recorded if you employ five or more people or if the premises require a license. Failure to comply can result in prohibition notices, enforcement action, or criminal prosecution with unlimited fines.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the primary legislation governing fire safety requirements in England and Wales. This order places duties on the responsible person to carry out fire risk assessments and implement necessary safety measures. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 provides the overarching framework, while the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 mandate risk assessment procedures. Building Regulations 2010, particularly Approved Document B, set construction standards for fire safety. Your assessment must comply with British Standards and industry guidance, with competent persons conducting the evaluation. The responsible person must ensure staff receive adequate fire safety training and that emergency procedures are clearly established and practiced. Regular reviews are mandatory, typically annually or when significant changes occur to the premises or its use.