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If you run a business or own premises in which people work, you have a responsibility to carry out a thorough and detailed fire risk assessment. You can undergo fire safety training to help you conduct the assessment yourself, or you can use the services of a fire risk assessment consultant to do it for you either.

There are five stages to the fire risk assessment. Let’s take a look at the first few (the remainder will be covered in part 2 of this guide):

1. Fire hazards. You need to think about how fire could start, identifying potential hazards like electrical equipment, heaters and naked flames. It is also important to keep these sources of ignition apart from anything that burns, such as packaging, waste and chemicals.
2. Who is at risk? Whilst everyone is at risk if a fire breaks out, some people may face greater risk. This may be because of where they work, because they are unfamiliar with the layout of the building, or because they are elderly, disabled or children.
3. Evaluate risks and take action. Look at everything you’ve found so far, and find ways to remove or reduce risks. Take specific action to prevent accidental fire and protect people on the premises.