Council and democracy

Fire Protection Risk Assessment Templates and Examples for Small Businesses

These forms are intended to assist small businesses in carrying out their fire risk assessment. They are suitable for use in small buildings, with a simple internal layout, e.g. small offices, shops or industrial units.

In buildings with complicated escape arrangements, large numbers of people or high fire risk processes a more comprehensive fire risk assessment may be necessary.

Note: It is recommended that the risk assessment form is completed in conjunction with the relevant Communities and Local Government guidance publication for the premises use. These can be found through the following link:
www.communities.gov.uk/fire/firesafety/firesafetylaw/

The enclosed information follows a simple 5 step guide to completing a suitable assessment. The fire risk assessment does not need to be complicated, it should be a common sense review to identify the hazards (what could start a fire and what could burn), followed by consideration of the possible effects of a fire on people using the building. The important thing is that the fire risk assessment is systematic to ensure that every part of the premises is assessed. Every room, space or area, especially those not often used, should be included.

If you identify any significant risks you should consider if they can be reduced: first by removing the hazards and secondly by providing fire protection measures (e.g. automatic fire detection). These points should be addressed within the ‘What needs to be done to make each situation safe?’ section.

If your business is located within a larger building and if a fire in your business could affect your neighbours, you should share the findings of your fire risk assessment with your neighbours.

Your fire risk assessment must be kept up to date. It is important to update the assessment if anything is changed that might affect the risk (e.g. new ignition sources or use of flammable liquids etc.). If you identify that either the likelihood of a fire or the risk to people is not LOW you may want to consider seeking professional assistance.

District Council Area Contact

North Herts, Stevenage, East Herts & Welwyn & Hatfield
North District Fire Protection Office
Tel: 01438 847352
District Manager Greg Rataj
Tel: 01438 847351
07836736060
e-mail. patricia.duncan@hertscc.gov.uk
greg.rataj@hertscc.gov.uk


Broxbourne & Hertsmere
Central District Fire Protection Office
Tel: 01707 346150
District Manager Dave Gould
Tel: 01707 346156
07879435299
e-mail. annielle.appadoo@hertscc.gov.uk
dave.gould@hertscc.gov.uk


St Albans, Dacorum, Watford & Three River
South District Fire Protection Office
Tel: 01422 867111
District Manager Jon Horastead
Tel: 01442 867106
07796997382
e-mail. nicole.beever@hertscc.gov.uk
jon.horastead@hertscc.gov.uk