Organisations (whether building owners or occupiers) must carry out a fire safety risk assessment and keep it up to date. Based on the findings of the assessment, employers need to ensure that adequate and appropriate fire safety measures are in place to minimise the risk of injury or loss of life in the event of a fire.

To help prevent fire in the workplace, your risk assessment should identify what could cause a fire to start—sources of ignition and substances that burn—and the people who may be at risk, such as staff, volunteers, and visitors. It should also identify risks to young persons and address the use of dangerous substances that can result in fires or explosions.

Once you identify the risks, you can take appropriate action to control them. Consider whether you can avoid them altogether or, if not possible, how you can reduce risks and manage them. Consider how you will protect others if there is a fire.

▶ Carry out a fire safety risk assessment and record findings in full.
▶ Develop and document fire safety arrangements, which can include fire safety policy, procedures, evacuation plans, and testing and maintenance of fire protection equipment and systems.
▶ Share information with building users about the fire safety arrangements and evacuation measures. Provide up-to-date contact information with a UK-based address.
▶ Keep sources of ignition and flammable substances apart.
▶ Avoid accidental fires. For instance, make sure heaters aren’t knocked over.
▶ Ensure good housekeeping at all times, such as avoiding the build-up of rubbish that could burn.
▶ Determine how you can detect fires and warn people quickly if they start, such as by installing smoke alarms and fire alarms or bells.
▶ Have the correct equipment for putting a fire out quickly. For example, foam extinguishers for flammable liquids and CO2 extinguishers for electrical equipment.
▶ Always keep fire exits, escape routes and assembly points clearly signposted and unobstructed.
▶ Ensure your workers receive appropriate training on procedures they need to follow, including fire drills.
▶ Coordinate and cooperate with other responsible people/organisations, for example, in leased office buildings.
▶ For multi-occupancy buildings, follow the additional responsibilities and guidance for Responsible/Accountable Persons.
▶ Review and update your risk assessment regularly. Record the identity of individuals or organisations engaged to undertake or review the fire risk assessment and share this information. Moreover, share details with any incoming Responsible Persons in case of changes in ownership or responsibility.

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