Sam Crudgington

There are so many things to consider when carrying out a Fire Risk Assessment and so many questions you should be asking yet so many go unmissed. It is a huge responsibility to carry one out as the safety of both the public and your premises rely heavily on it; which is why it can be quite a daunting task.

Here are just SOME of the questions you should be asking…

1.       Fire Hazards/Risks: Is there anything in and around your premises that could start a fire? Is there anything that could burn?

2.       People at Risk: Who could be at risk? Who is at greater risk? Are there individuals who require more assistance than others in an emergency?

3.       Evaluate and Act: Have you assessed the risks of fire in your workplace? Have you kept any sources of fuel and heat/sparks apart? Have you protected your premises from accidental fire or arson? How can you make sure EVERYONE is safe in case of fire? Will you know there is a fire? Do you have a plan to warn others? Who will make sure everyone gets out? Who will call the fire service? Have you planned your escape routes? Does all your safety equipment work?

4.       Record, Plan & Train;

–          Record: Have you made a record of what you have found and the actions you have taken?

–          Plan: Have you planned what everyone will do if there is a fire? Have you discussed this plan with all staff?

–          Train: Have you informed and trained people? Have you practised your fire drill? Have you nominated staff to put in place your fire prevention measures and trained them how to do so? Are temporary staff informed? Have you consulted those you share a building with and included them in your plan?

5.       Review: Have you made any changes to your premises inside or out? An extension or new office perhaps? Have you had a fire or any near misses? Do you now store chemicals or other dangerous substances? Have you planned your next fire drill? Will it be the same as before? Or have things changed? Risk management Total Safe UK Essex fire safety services

FRA for your business

So much can change as time passes and your business grows, and it is important that your FRA grows and is updated to coincide with any changes. If you are struggling to deal with the responsibility of carrying out an FRA yourself of are worried that you might not be able to answer all these questions, (or even think of them in the first place!) then you should contact a professional who can elevate the stresses and responsibilities and replace them with peace of mind.