Fire Risk Assessments

All companies with five employees or more must produce a documented fire risk assessment to establish that all the correct measures have been taken regarding fire prevention and detection. The requirement for businesses to have fire certificates was abolished.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, emphasises the importance of preventing fires and reducing risk.  It is the responsibility of businesses to ensure the safety of employees and visitors alike.

The designated responsible person must conduct, or employ a suitably qualified person to conduct, a fire risk assessment and implement and maintain a fire safety plan. 

A set of guides have been produced by the Communities and Local Government department.  These advise you of how to conduct a fire risk assessment and put in to place any fire precaution or prevention measures.

Guides Introduction & Checklist
Fire Safety Guidance Booklet - Scotland

Fire and other authorities may wish to have sight of the risk assessment.

Competency

As part of the fire risk assessment, the inspecting authorities require evidence that a system is 'fit for purpose' and is installed and maintained by 'competent persons'.

The BAFE SP203 scheme through NSI, provides the accepted certification that can be used in conjunction with the fire risk assessment as evidence for the relevant authorities.