Understanding Fire Safety Risks for London’s Creative Offices: Essential Measures for Protection in 2025

Why creative offices present unique fire risks

Creative offices mix people, materials and activities in ways that amplify fire risk. They often have open-plan layouts, exposed services, flexible fit-outs and high fuel loads such as fabric, foam, art materials and set pieces. In addition, staff bring multiple battery-powered devices, charging stations and temporary exhibition equipment. These features increase both the likelihood of ignition and the speed at which fire can spread.

Older London buildings add another layer of complexity. Many creative occupiers prefer period or converted industrial spaces where compartmentation and escape routes vary between units. Therefore, a standard approach will not always be sufficient. Assessments must consider the building fabric and how the space is used day to day. HSE general fire guidance

Key fire safety risks for London creative offices

Portable electricals and charging points are a leading cause of workplace fires in creative settings. Designers, producers and staff commonly use lighting rigs, extension leads and improvised power setups for shoots or events. These increase overload and overheating risks. Similarly, unattended portable heaters, catering equipment and cigarettes or e-cigarettes can act as ignition sources.

Housekeeping and storage are frequent problems. Materials stored in circulation spaces, props left near escape routes, or temporary partitions can block escape and act as fuel. Clutter also delays firefighting interventions and obstructs detection devices.

Finally, alterations and ad-hoc events change risk profiles quickly. Temporary exhibitions, late-night shoots and contractor works (hot works, electrical changes) demand dynamic risk control, not a “set and forget” approach. Each change requires a reappraisal of detection, alarm and means of escape. GOV.UK fire risk assessment guidance for offices and shops

Legal duties and standards you must follow in 2025

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person must carry out and keep up to date a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and implement necessary precautions. This duty applies across England and covers staff, visitors and anyone lawfully on site. The GOV.UK guidance for offices sets out a five‑step process to identify hazards, evaluate risks, record actions and review arrangements. Complying with these duties remains the foundation of lawful fire safety management. GOV.UK Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order guidance notes

In 2025 the British Standards Institute updated BS 5839‑1, which gives best practice for fire detection and alarm systems in non‑domestic premises. The revision tightens recommendations on system design and places greater emphasis on automatic detection in places where people might sleep or where early warning is critical. These changes can affect what is considered an acceptable variation from standard alarm provision in creative spaces. If you upgrade or modify systems, designers and installers must refer to the new BSI announcement of updated BS 5839‑1:2025

Essential protective measures for 2025

Start with a tailored fire risk assessment that accounts for creative activities and variable use patterns. This assessment should identify ignition sources, fuel loads and vulnerable people, and produce a clear action plan with timescales and responsibilities. If you need expert help, consider bringing in a qualified assessor. Total Safe can provide specialist assessments and ongoing support to manage complex sites. Total Safe fire safety services.

Use detection and alarm systems designed to current best practice. Where early detection is important—such as sleeping pods, mezzanines or exhibition areas—automatic detection should be prioritised over heat-only solutions. Ensure systems are installed, commissioned and maintained in line with BS 5839‑1:2025. Regular testing and certification help prove competence and support enforcement defence if needed. BSI announcement of updated BS 5839‑1:2025

Protect compartments and escape routes. Fire doors, appropriate compartmentation and clear signage materially improve the ability of people to evacuate safely. Any alterations to ceilings, service risers or partitions must preserve fire separation and be recorded. About Total Safe offers fire door inspection and remediation as part of a managed maintenance programme.

Install suitable means of firefighting and emergency lighting. Portable extinguishers should match the likely fire types and be positioned where staff can access them without exposing themselves to danger. Emergency lighting must ensure escape routes are visible during a power failure. Both items require routine maintenance and clear records.

Consider automatic suppression for high‑risk zones. Sprinklers, water mist or local suppression can significantly reduce damage and risk to life in high fuel‑load spaces, for example in set storage areas or workshops. Early engagement with insurers and the building owner can clarify whether a sprinkler scheme is feasible or required.

Managing electrical and contractor risk

Electrical faults are common in creative environments. Make sure fixed wiring has a valid periodic inspection and that portable appliances are PAT tested regularly. Avoid daisy‑chaining extension leads and deploy safe, certified distribution boxes for events.

Implement a robust permit‑to‑work system for hot works and contractor access. Control hot works with fire watches, suitable fire extinguishers and written authorisation. Communicate any live events to building management and floor occupants to prevent accidental interference with detection or suppression systems. HSE general fire guidance

Human factors, training and emergency planning

People are both the highest asset and the greatest variable in creative workplaces. Provide focused training for fire marshals and staff who manage temporary events. Training should include use of fire extinguishers, evacuation procedures for non‑standard spaces and how to manage visitors during an incident.

Develop evacuation plans that reflect irregular occupancy patterns. For example, after‑hours shoots or late‑night events may require a different assembly routine and additional stewarding. Run regular drills that test routes, communications and any temporary alterations to escape routes.

Record keeping is essential. Keep logs of training, drills, maintenance and changes to the premises. Records demonstrate that the responsible person actively managed risk and can be critical during enforcement or insurance investigations. GOV.UK fire risk assessment guidance for offices and shops

Practical checklist for managers of creative offices

Use the steps below to convert guidance into actions. They form a practical starting point for managers and facilities teams.

Commission a bespoke fire risk assessment and review it after any significant change. GOV.UK fire risk assessment guidance for offices and shops

Check alarm design, installation and maintenance align with BS 5839‑1:2025. BSI announcement of updated BS 5839‑1:2025

Maintain means of escape and remove stored items from corridors and stairs.

Inspect and service fire doors and compartmentation regularly. Total Safe — fire door inspection and remediation

Ensure electrical fixed wiring tests and PAT testing are current.

Use permit‑to‑work for hot works, and log contractors’ activity. HSE general fire guidance

Provide fire marshal and evacuation training tailored to unusual spaces.

Consider automatic suppression where fuel loads or rapid fire growth are anticipated.

Keep clear, dated records of assessments, maintenance and training.

This checklist helps you meet legal obligations and reduces the chance of a damaging or fatal incident.

When to bring in specialist support

Call in specialists when your risk assessment identifies complex or unusual hazards. Examples include high fuel load workshops, fixed sleeping accommodation, historic buildings with compromised compartmentation, or where a temporary event changes occupancy significantly. A competent fire engineer or accredited assessor can provide a fire strategy, performance‑based solutions and evidence‑based mitigation measures. For ongoing estate support, consider a managed service that combines assessments, maintenance and training. Total Safe fire safety services

Insurance, enforcement and record keeping

Good fire safety practice reduces insurance premiums and the risk of enforcement action. Inspecting and maintaining safety systems, and keeping comprehensive records, demonstrates a proactive approach. If inspectors or enforcing authorities visit, clear documentation and evidence of corrective action are the best defence. The Government and fire authorities expect the responsible person to show they have assessed and controlled risks reasonably and proportionately. Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order enforcement guidance

Conclusion and recommended next steps

Creative offices in London are vibrant but present distinctive fire safety challenges. Start with a tailored fire risk assessment, implement detection and compartmentation measures in line with BS 5839‑1:2025, and manage electrical, storage and contractor hazards proactively. Train staff, test evacuation plans and keep accurate records. If your premises are unusual or you anticipate frequent changes, engage specialist support to produce a robust fire strategy.

For a practical next step, book a site survey to review your fire risk profile and produce an actionable plan. If you want professional support with assessments, maintenance or training, learn more about our services and how we work by visiting the About Total Safe page or discuss a bespoke package via our Total Safe fire safety services.

FAQ

Q: What is the first legal step for managers of creative offices?

A: The first legal step is to appoint the responsible person and carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment specific to your office and activities. The GOV.UK five‑step guidance for offices explains what to include.

Q: Do creative offices need automatic fire detection everywhere?

A: Not necessarily everywhere, but BS 5839‑1:2025 places greater emphasis on automatic detection where early warning is critical, such as sleeping areas, workshops or spaces with high fuel loads. A qualified designer should assess coverage needs. BSI announcement of updated BS 5839‑1:2025

Q: How often should fire doors and alarms be inspected in an active creative workspace?

A: Fire doors should be inspected at least six‑monthly or more frequently where heavy use or damage is likely. Alarms require routine weekly tests and regular maintenance by a competent contractor; follow BS guidance and manufacturer instructions. BSI announcement of updated BS 5839‑1:2025

Q: When should I consider sprinklers or other suppression systems?

A: Consider suppression where fuel loads are high, where rapid fire spread would trap occupants, or where insurance or building regulations specify them. An engineer can advise on the most appropriate type and coverage. HSE general fire guidance

Q: Who enforces fire safety in non‑domestic premises?

A: Fire and rescue authorities enforce the Fire Safety Order for most non‑domestic premises; local authorities may enforce in some cases. They will assess whether the responsible person has met required duties and may issue notices where improvements are needed. Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order enforcement guidance