You never need to do a Fire Risk Assessment just once. There are several situations where a further assessment is required or implied by law. It is useful to know what they are so you can ensure that you are acting in compliance with the requirements of the Fire Safety Regulations.
Moving Into New Premises
Moving Into New Premises – As soon as you move into new premises your first Fire Risk Assessment must be completed and implemented before anyone occupies the building whether that be staff or visitors. This can be yourself taking over from a previous occupier whether you are buying or leasing the property.
After Building Work or Layout Changes
Knocking a hole in a wall, adding a mezzanine, or relocating a fire door or other feature that affects the way fire and smoke will travel through a building after a fire, could require a re-assessment of fire risk after the work has been completed. Any change to the layout of a building that affects means of escape will require a revised assessment.
When Occupancy Changes
There is also a change in the type of people using the premises that can affect the risk. For example if you used to just have office staff but are now a shop open to the public or have workers with mobility problems then the risk from fires will have increased. Fire Risk Assessment Northamptonshire premises need particular attention in this area as it is one of the most frequently overlooked situations. Fire Risk Assessment Northamptonshire is covered in more detail at //isefireproducts.co.uk/fire-risk-assessments/northamptonshire/.
After a Fire or Near-Miss
Even a small fire or near miss can highlight a weakness in the assessment and should be reviewed.
After Significant Time Has Passed
There is no time frame set out in legislation for the frequency of review of a fire risk assessment. It is suggested that for most small businesses an annual review would be adequate; however, a review must be carried out if the assessor believes the assessment is no longer accurate. More information about workplace fire safety can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Getting It Arranged
We hope the above has been of use to you in identifying when you require a Fire Risk Assessment and how you can go about arranging one for your premises.