When should you review your workplace fire risk assessment?

Keep the assessment aligned with your premises

In England, the responsible person must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is in place. It should be reviewed regularly to keep it up to date, and when there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid or following a significant change.

There is no single review interval that suits every premises. A date in a diary is useful, but it should not replace a review when the building or the risks change.

Look beyond changes to the floor plan

A refurbishment is an obvious prompt to review the assessment. Changes to occupancy, working hours, storage or the needs of people using the building can also affect escape arrangements and precautions.

• Consider changes to layout, use and the number of occupants.
• Check whether escape routes or fire doors have been affected by works.
• Review new equipment, materials and potential ignition sources.
• Consider anyone who may need assistance to evacuate.
• Revisit the assessment following incidents or concerns that suggest it is no longer valid.

Keep records and act on the findings

Keep a written record of the assessment and the fire safety arrangements. Record actions clearly, with an owner and a way to confirm completion. A filed assessment is not a substitute for addressing the risks it identifies.

Use the findings to inform precautions, emergency planning and staff information and training. Make sure people know what to do, and keep those arrangements aligned with the current building.

Maintenance supports the wider fire safety plan

Fire alarms, emergency lighting and other protective measures need appropriate inspection and maintenance. Coordinate that work with the assessment and retain reports and follow-up evidence.

Routine servicing does not replace a fire risk assessment. Where you do not have the expertise to assess the premises, seek competent specialist advice.