Fire Risk Assessments

A fire risk assessment (also known as a fire safety assessment) determines what you need to do to prevent fire, as well as what you need to do in the event of a fire.

A fire risk assessment helps you to identify fire hazards, identify those at risk and determine what you need to do to reduce or remove any risks. It covers things like emergency routes and exits, fire detection systems, emergency evacuation plans, firefighting equipment and training.

If you do not have the time to carry out a fire risk assessment, a fire risk assessment provider can help. Hawkesworth can carry out an extensive fire risk assessment on your behalf, providing a written report with recommendations.

Why choose Hawkesworth for your fire risk assessment requirements?

There are several fire risk assessment companies out there, but here are some of the reasons Hawkesworth should be your assessor of choice.

  • We are fully experienced and accredited: All of our assessors are experienced in fire risk assessment, many with decades of experience in the industry
  • We provide the same exceptional service, no matter the size of your business: We have experience of supplying fire risk assessments to multi-site companies, through to small organisations and landlords
  • We offer a free reminder service: Don’t worry about forgetting to get your fire risk assessment reviewed as we provide a courtesy reminder service
  • We’re a one-stop-shop for your businesses safety requirements: As well as fire risk assessments; we provide a range of electrical compliance services
  • We provide expert advice, any time you need it: We keep all our customers up to date with the latest industry developments, so you are fully informed at all times

Contact us today to find out about our fire risk assessment and review services

Frequently asked questions about fire risk assessments

How often should fire risk assessments be carried out/reviewed?

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed once a year.

You should also carry out a new fire assessment if the nature of your business changes, for example, the layout of your building changes or employee numbers increase or decrease. 

Do I have to record the results of a fire risk assessment?

It is a legal requirement to have a written fire risk assessment if your business consists of more than five people, or if you rent out properties.

Even if your business doesn't need one, it still can be good practice to have a written fire risk assessment, to reassure staff, customers and suppliers.

Can I complete my own fire risk assessment?

Yes, as long as a fire safety risk assessment is completed by a 'competent' person with knowledge of the building.

However, if you are not sure what to do, or do not have the time to complete an assessment yourself, a fire risk assessment provider like Hawkesworth can carry the assessment out for you.

What needs to be reviewed in a fire risk assessment?

This depends on the type, size and structure of a building. Some things that may be included in the assessment include:

  • Fire alarms and fire detection systems
  • Fire safety training
  • Fire evacuation plan/fire escape routes and the identification of people at risk (for example, those with disabilities or limited mobility)
  • Fire extinguishers and fire blankets
  • Emergency lighting and emergency exits
  • The location of signage
  • Storage of flammable materials
  • Smoking areas
  • The condition of electrical equipment and installations
  • The condition and layout of the building

What happens after a fire risk assessment has been created?

When a fire risk assessment has been created, you will need to identify where action is required, who is responsible and a target completion date.