Fire Risk Assessment
In October 2006 the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into force. The Fire Precautions Act 1971 and other relevant legislation has been repealed and Fire Certificates are no longer required, although the Fire Precautions imposed by a Fire Certificate cannot be removed.

What this means in layman's terms is that instead of relying on the Fire Service to come to your premises and tell you what you need to keep your staff and visitors safe from fire you have to do it yourself.

I'm a great believer in the ethos of self-assessment because by carrying out your own assessment you will have more understanding of why the different precautions are there and are therefore more likely to comply with them - no more wedging the fire door open with the extinguisher!!! I honestly feel that it is better to carry out your own risk assessment, because you know your own premises as you are there more than an external assessor. The government has even provided guidance documents which can be downloaded free of charge from the Communities and Local Government web site
That said, I recognise that it may seem easy to me with all my experience, but it can be daunting for the layman and getting it wrong could be disastrous. There's also the time it takes and I know only too well the other pressures on businesses today, so getting an experienced professional to take care of this aspect can be very attractive.

What I offer is a very personal service - I don't just turn up, have a quick chat, do an inspection and then leave to write up the report and then post it to you, because the chances are that you won't understand and it is vital that you do understand the contents and recommendations that are contained in the report because it is you ultimately that is responsible.

This is what you will receive from me:

  • A site visit where I'll talk to you to find out how you operate your premises
  • A full and thorough inspection of your premises
  • A discussion following the inspection to discuss my preliminary findings
  • A brief but comprehensive report written in easy to read language will be sent to you initially, for you to consider
  • A second visit to explain the report in detail and discuss any available options and priorities
  • A personalised fire record file with details of testing and maintenance routines that apply to your premises with space to record all necessary data
  • Ongoing telephone support (within reason)

The burning question at this stage (forgive the pun) is 'How much does it cost?'

The cost will depend on the size, location and complexity of your premises, but as a guide an average size residential care home, small public house or primary school will cost in the region of £195. Smaller premises will be less.