Fire risk assessments are a critical aspect of any integral fire safety plan for commercial, industrial, and residential properties.
Fire safety is a legal and moral responsibility for every property owner, business operator, and landlord. Whether you’re managing a small office or a large industrial facility, conducting a fire risk assessment is not just a box ticking exercise, it’s essential for safeguarding people and assets.
In the UK, fire risk assessments are legally required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
In this blog, we will explore the different types of fire risk assessments so you can match one up to your organisation.
We will specifically cover:
- Basic Fire Risk Assessments
- Intermediate Fire Risk Assessment
- Detailed Fire Risk Assessment
- Complex or Specialist Fire Risk Assessment
- How to Choose the Right Type of Fire Risk Assessment
Need a fire risk assessment to maximise fire safety and ensure compliance?
Simply call us today on 0113 418 2911 or use the contact form to request your without-charge quotation.
Type 1: Basic Fire Risk Assessment
Who it’s for: Recommended for small, low-risk premises such as independent retail shops, small offices, cafés, and other single-use buildings with simple layouts and limited occupancy.
What it covers: This assessment is the most basic and commonly used form of fire risk evaluation. It involves a top-level visual inspection of fire safety measures and general precautions, including:
- Identification of obvious fire hazards, such as overloaded sockets or flammable materials.
- Assessment of fire detection systems, including smoke alarms.
- Review of firefighting equipment and signage for adequacy and functionality.
- Verification that evacuation routes are clear and accessible.
- Evaluation of general staff or occupant awareness of fire procedures
Why it matters: Though simple, basic fire risk assessments provide essential insights into potential fire hazards. When combined with a proactive approach, they can significantly reduce fire risks. These assessments are typically quick to complete and cost-effective, especially suited for straightforward premises.
We’ll provide a more detailed estimate and guidance on the next steps once we receive your enquiry.
Type 2: Intermediate Fire Risk Assessment
Who it’s for: Ideal for medium-risk premises such as larger office blocks, primary and secondary schools, care homes, and small manufacturing facilities. If your building type isn’t listed here, don’t worry, just get in touch, and we’ll help guide you.
What it covers: Building on the basic assessment, the intermediate fire risk assessment offers a more detailed examination of fire safety arrangements. While it still emphasises visual inspections, it may include limited testing of additional fire protection features, such as opening service risers or false ceilings. Key areas reviewed include:
- Performance of fire detection and alarm systems.
- Emergency lighting installations.
- Fire-resistant construction elements (walls, floors, doors).
- Staff fire safety training and fire drill records.
- Housekeeping standards related to fire risks.
Why it matters: This assessment is especially useful for buildings with higher fire risks due to factors like larger occupancy, increased combustible materials, or more complex layouts. It provides a comprehensive overview of safety systems, helping to identify issues that might be missed during a basic check.
Type 3: Advanced Fire Risk Assessment
Who it’s for: Suitable for premises with higher risks, such as buildings storing hazardous materials or large public venues with high footfall. Larger, more complex buildings generally require this detailed assessment to ensure all aspects of fire safety are thoroughly covered and analysed.
What it covers: This comprehensive inspection evaluates the building’s fire compartmentation and protection systems, including:
- Structural fire protection analysis of fire doors, compartments, and related elements.
- Evaluation of active fire systems such as sprinklers and smoke ventilation.
- In-depth review of fire evacuation strategies, including provisions for vulnerable occupants.
- Coordination and integration with emergency services and planned response procedures.
- Maintenance checks of firefighting equipment.
- Review of fire safety documentation, logbooks, and policies.
Why it matters: In buildings where fire risks are greater due to complexity, higher occupancy, or hazardous materials, a more detailed risk assessment is essential. This level of assessment helps identify and mitigate risks that simpler checks might miss, ensuring comprehensive safety planning.
Type 4: Specialist Fire Risk Assessment
Who it’s for: Designed for large-scale corporations and complex or specialist-use buildings such as chemical processing plants, heritage sites, high-risk industrial facilities, research laboratories, and corporate headquarters.
What it covers: Specialist fire risk assessments are the most detailed and tailored evaluations we provide, addressing the unique challenges of complex premises.
These assessments often involve advanced testing and analytical techniques, including:
- Fire modelling and computer simulations.
- Review of bespoke fire suppression and protection systems.
- Evaluation of hazards specific to chemicals or materials on site.
- Considerations for preserving historic or heritage structures during fire safety improvements.
- Collaboration with fire engineers and safety consultants to develop comprehensive long-term mitigation strategies.
Why it matters: The complexity and scale of these premises mean that fire risks are often greater and more varied. The potential consequences of fire incidents can be catastrophic, making thorough and specialist assessments essential. This detailed approach ensures all risks are identified and managed effectively, helping protect lives, assets, and heritage.
How to Choose the Right Type of Fire Risk Assessment
Selecting the appropriate fire risk assessment depends on several key factors related to your building and its use.
Consider the following to help identify the best fit:
- Size and layout: Larger or more complex buildings typically require more detailed assessments.
- Activities on-site: Some operations involve higher fire risks and need thorough evaluation.
- Occupancy levels: The average daily number of people in the building influences the assessment type.
- Occupant profile: Special consideration is needed for vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, or children.
- Hazardous materials: Presence of dangerous substances or industry regulations may require specialist assessments.
For most standard business premises, a basic or intermediate fire risk assessment will be sufficient. However, residential blocks, healthcare facilities, or buildings with unique or higher risks often require advanced or specialist assessments.
If you’re uncertain about which type is right for your premises, feel free to contact our team at Absolute Health Fire Safety.
We’re here to provide clear, tailored advice to ensure your fire safety needs are fully met.
Contact Absolute Health Fire Safety
We hope you’ve found this information helpful in choosing the right fire risk assessment for your building.
It can sometimes feel confusing when looking to proceed with a fire risk assessment, which is why our team is always here to support you. With over two decades of experience conducting fire risk assessments across a wide range of building types, you can trust that you’re in safe hands with Absolute Health Fire Safety.
Call us today on 0113 418 2911 or fill out the contact form to arrange your fire risk assessment in Yorkshire.