Can I do a Fire Risk Assessment myself?

Can you complete your own Fire Risk Assessment?

Technically, yes – you could perform your own fire risk assessment. However, the law (The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005) states the assessment must be ‘suitable and sufficient’. This means it must be carried out by a fire risk assessor – a competent person with sufficient training, qualifications, experience, and attitude, also known as ‘SKEB’ (Skills, Knowledge, Experience & Behaviour).

We often hear this question: “I know the risks in my building, can’t I just download a template and complete the Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) myself?”

You’re right, nobody knows your building or business better than you do. However, fire safety is a complex topic. There are countless things to consider and factor in when completing your FRA.

As the Responsible Person, you are legally required to complete a Fire Risk Assessment – but that doesn’t mean you’re the right person to do it.

When characterising a fire risk assessor, they must be able to understand the building design, its use, and the associated risks. All significant findings must be documented in a structured format, usually comprising details of the following:

• Building size and construction
• Building use
• Occupancy type and people at risk
• Fire incidents
• Arrangements with the emergency services
• Potential causes of fire
• Overall risk matrix including likelihood and consequence
• Means of detecting fire and giving warning
• Means of escape
• Fire protection provisions
• Emergency procedures
• A detailed and prioritised action plan
• A stated review period

The enforcing authority is the Fire & Rescue Service, and your local fire officer can enter and inspect your premises at any time. If they find your fire risk assessment is not up to date, or suitable/sufficient, you could be subject to enforcement action, including fines and even prison time.

Do you still feel like completing your own? Consider employing the assistance of an external fire risk assessor for your next assessment.

The advantages of using external fire safety consultants:

• Knowledge of the latest fire regulations and legislation
• Access to a competent person
• Saving time and money
• Offset liability – reduce the risk of prosecution if something is missed by doing it yourself
• Guaranteed provision of a suitable and sufficient assessment
• Responsibility for the provision of a compliant assessment lies with the external consultancy
• A customer service line to ask questions and receive ongoing support

Pyro Fire Services are third-party accredited by BAFE under the SP205 competency scheme – each fire risk assessment we provide is issued with a Certificate of Conformity to give you peace of mind.

Obtain a quote for your next fire risk assessment here.