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What is a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA)?
A Fire Risk Assessment is a systematic evaluation of a building’s fire hazards, people at risk, and existing control measures. Its purpose is to determine whether fire precautions are sufficient and proportionate. Every FRA should identify actions needed to reduce risk to life, property, and business operations.
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Who is responsible for completing a Fire Risk Assessment?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Responsible Person—typically the building owner, employer, or person with control of the premises—must ensure a suitable and sufficient FRA is completed and maintained. They may appoint a competent fire risk assessor, such as a BAFE SP205 certified organisation, to carry out the assessment on their behalf.
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How often should a Fire Risk Assessment be reviewed?
The legislation does not specify a fixed interval, but best practice recommends annual reviews or sooner if:
• There are changes to the building layout, use, or occupancy levels.
• Fire incidents or near misses occur.
• New legislation or standards are introduced (e.g., Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022).
• Maintenance records indicate system failures or deficiencies.
Highlight: Regular reviews demonstrate due diligence and strengthen your compliance record during audits or inspections.
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What are the key components of a professional Fire Risk Assessment?
A comprehensive FRA should assess both physical fire protection and management systems, including:
• Fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems.
• Compartmentation and passive fire protection (walls, doors, ceilings, risers).
• Means of escape and evacuation strategies.
• Fire-fighting equipment and maintenance regimes.
• Staff training, drills, and record-keeping.
• Management policies for hot works, contractors, and hazardous materials.
Our assessors reference standards such as PAS 79, BS 9792:2025, and BS 9999, ensuring your assessment meets recognised professional benchmarks.
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What makes a Fire Risk Assessment “suitable and sufficient”?
An FRA is considered suitable and sufficient when it:
• Covers all areas under the Responsible Person’s control.
• Identifies all relevant hazards, occupants, and control measures.
• Evaluates residual risks and prioritises actions proportionately.
• Is completed by a competent, qualified, and impartial assessor.
• Provides clear, actionable recommendations supported by evidence.
At Assured, our FRAs are independently audited under BAFE SP205 to verify competence, consistency, and impartiality.
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How does a Fire Risk Assessment differ for high-risk or complex buildings?
Complex buildings—such as hospitals, high-rise residential blocks, or industrial sites—require a Tier 3 or advanced-level assessment, often involving:
• Detailed compartmentation analysis.
• Review of fire-engineered solutions (BS 7974).
• Smoke control or pressurisation system evaluation.
• Consultation with building control or enforcing authorities.
Our NAFRAF Tier 3 assessors are qualified to conduct these assessments with the depth of technical knowledge required for high-risk environments.
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What happens after the Fire Risk Assessment?
You’ll receive a digital, photographic report containing:
• Executive summary with compliance status.
• Prioritised action plan (high / medium / low risk).
• Recommendations linked to relevant standards or guidance.
• Supporting evidence and traceable audit trail.
Our team can assist with remedial planning, fire door inspections, and re-inspections—ensuring every recommendation is implemented effectively.
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Can I use the same Fire Risk Assessment for insurance or compliance audits?
Yes — our reports are designed to be audit-ready and include traceable references to legal requirements, British Standards, and guidance notes. They provide the defensible evidence base needed for insurance renewals, CQC inspections, and Building Safety Case submissions.
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What distinguishes Assured Fire Safety Consultancy from other providers?
• Third-party certification (BAFE SP205) for verified competence.
• ISO 9001 quality management and continuous improvement.
• Impartial advice—we do not sell fire safety products.
• Cross-discipline expertise—linking FRA findings with fire door, compartmentation, and strategy solutions.
• Supportive aftercare—helping clients implement actions, not just identify them.
Highlight: Our strength lies in bridging technical compliance with practical delivery—giving clients confidence, clarity, and measurable assurance.