When we carry out a fire risk assessment we produce a written report of our findings. It is not just a verbal assessment. Knowing what we are looking for when we carry out a fire risk assessment will help you prepare your building for the inspection.
Occupancy and Use Profile
Assessors need to establish an Occupancy and Use Profile of the building. This includes the numbers of people using the building and their shift times. Also the number of people with mobility problems and people with sensory defects. For example, a building used by lone night workers will have different risks than a building used by 100 people by day.
Structural Fire Separation
Structural Fire Separation. It is essential that the assessor notes which walls, floors and doors are intended to contain a fire, and whether they are adequate to achieve this. So, any deficiencies, such as gaps in pipework around walls and around ceilings, and the absence of intumescent strips on fire doors are all noted. Also, partitions that do not extend to the full height of the structural ceiling of a building are recorded as being inadequate.
Means of Escape Observations
Each route out of a building is measured in metres to check against accepted limits for buildings of similar use. The state of each door is recorded including whether self-closing gear is functional. Are final exit doors left open? Are all routes out of a building clear of obstruction? This is the type of information required to be examined by a fire safety risk assessment as set out in the government’s fire safety risk assessment guidance in accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. See also ISE Fire.
Fire Detection and Alarm Provision
Record of fire detection and alarm systems. Type of system installed. Types of detectors fitted and coverage of the system against current use of the building. Whether or not the system has a current service record. Whether or not call points are accessible from all parts of escape routes.
Firefighting Equipment and Signage
Details of firefighting equipment are recorded in respect of the type of extinguisher in each area and the hazard that they are intended to combat. For example, a CO2 extinguisher will be recorded in respect of areas containing electrical equipment as opposed to water. Also details of fire safety signs will be recorded in respect of the condition of the sign, the mounting height of the sign, and the degree to which the signs are visible from all directions.
A well-prepared building owner will complete each category before the Fire Risk Assessor arrives, highlighting potential problem areas and completing remedial works where required.
