Fire Risk Assessment, Made Simple

Every business and building must have a fire risk assessment (FRA). It is the foundation of fire safety compliance and helps you identify hazards, evaluate risks, and decide what needs to be done to keep people safe.

This guide explains what a compliant assessment looks like, how to appoint a competent fire risk assessor, and how to make sure the results lead to meaningful action.

What a suitable and sufficient FRA includes

A fire risk assessment is a structured review of your building, identifying what could cause a fire and how to reduce the likelihood and impact.

A suitable and sufficient assessment will:

  • Identify potential ignition sources, fuels, and people at risk
  • Evaluate existing fire precautions and highlight any weaknesses
  • Recommend actions to remove or reduce risks
  • Include a clear prioritised action plan
  • Record who carried out the assessment and when it will be reviewed

For most non-domestic premises, your FRA should be written down and reviewed regularly, especially if anything changes in your building or business operations.

 

Choosing a competent fire risk assessor

The Responsible Person can carry out the assessment themselves only if they are competent and understand fire safety law, building use, and the risks involved. For most premises, it is safer and more effective to appoint a professional assessor.

When selecting an assessor:

  • Look for third-party certification under recognised schemes such as BAFE SP205 or equivalent
  • Ask for evidence of training, qualifications, and recent experience with similar premises
  • Request professional references or case studies
  • Check for insurance covering professional indemnity and public liability
  • Confirm they work to national standards such as PAS 79

Certified assessors undergo regular auditing to confirm their competence. This gives you confidence that your assessment will stand up to regulatory scrutiny and genuinely improve safety.

Also in this section

Fire Detection and Alarm Basics
Prevent and Manage False Alarms
Evacuation Plan and Response
Competence and Third-Party Certification for Buyers

Understanding and acting on the findings

A fire risk assessment is not complete until its recommendations are implemented. Once you receive your report:

  • Review the action plan carefully and assign responsibilities for each task
  • Prioritise high-risk issues and set realistic completion dates
  • Keep written records of progress and maintenance checks
  • Inform staff of any new safety measures or changes to evacuation plans
  • Schedule a review date and stick to it

Treat your FRA as a living document that evolves with your business. Regular reviews will ensure continued compliance and a safer workplace.

 

Verifying your assessor’s competence

Before work begins, confirm that your chosen assessor is recognised by a reputable body. You can do this by checking the FIA, BAFE, or IFE online registers.

Make sure your contract specifies:

  • The scope of work to be completed
  • The expected deliverables (for example, a written report and action plan)
  • That the assessor will use recognised methodologies such as PAS 79
  • Clear review and sign-off procedures

Competence verification protects you, your staff, and your organisation by ensuring your FRA meets both legal and practical standards.