If you have a business, then it’s essential that you have a full fire risk assessment carried out in order to provide a safe environment for your employees and members of the public.
The type of risk assessment you need will depend on the type of premises you have. Below is a guide to some of the main types of premises, who can carry out an inspection and the common problems that they tend to have.
1. Factories and warehouses
Types of factories and warehouses
Any type of building that’s used primarily as a factory or warehouse
Common problems
Common problems found in factories and warehouses include poor maintenance and compartmentation i.e. doors and walls separating different parts of the factory. Lack of emergency lighting and signage can also be an issue in some factories and warehouses.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment in a factory or warehouse can either be carried out by a responsible person within the business i.e somebody with authority and who has the necessary knowledge to carry out an inspection; or alternatively a qualified outside inspector.
2. Open air venues
Types of open air premises
- Theme parks
- Zoos
- Car boot sales
- Sporting events
- Street festivals
- Music festivals
Common problems
Some problems found in open air premises including poor maintenance of equipment (and rides in the case of theme parks), lack of clear signage and alternate exit routes.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
A fire risk assessment can be carried out by a responsible person within the business or by a qualified assessor.
3. Residential care homes
Types of residential care home premises
Premises that are permanently staffed and provide residential care as their main use.
Common problems
A common problem with residential care premises are holes in doors, ceilings and walls which can increase the spread of smoke in the event of a fire. Large mobility equipment being kept in escape routes is another common issue.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
An inspection in a residential care home can be carried out by a responsible person or a qualified assessor, depending on your preference.
4. Shops and offices
Types of shops and office premises
- Buildings that are used as a shop or office primarily
- Converted office blocks
- Shops and offices that are part of a shopping centre or other larger complex
Common problems
Common problems found in shops and offices include inadequate emergency lighting to show escape routes and emergency equipment.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
A responsible person within the business or qualified assessor can carry out a fire risk assessment for shops and offices premises.
5. Theatres and cinemas
Types of theatre and cinema premises
Any building, whether purpose-built or converted, whose main purpose is a theatre or cinema.
Common problems
A common problem in theatres and cinemas is escape routes being used for storage, particularly in smaller premises where space is limited.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
A fire assessment can be carried out by a responsible person or qualified assessor.
