If you have never had a fire risk assessment carried out, it helps to know what the visit involves. The short version: a competent person walks your premises, looks at how fire could start and spread, checks how people would get out, and then gives you a written report with clear priorities. This guide explains the visit step by step so there are no surprises.
Why a fire risk assessment matters in Ireland
Under section 18(2) of the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003, the person having control of most premises (other than a dwelling house occupied as a single private dwelling) must take all reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire, provide reasonable fire safety measures and procedures, and ensure as far as reasonably practicable the safety of people on the premises. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage publishes a Fire Safety Guide for Building Owners and Operators that explains these duties. A written fire risk assessment is the practical way to identify what is in place, what is missing and what to do next.
Before the visit
A little preparation makes the visit quicker and the report more useful. It helps to have to hand:
- Your fire safety register or any records of alarm, emergency lighting and extinguisher servicing
- Any previous fire risk assessment or fire safety certificate
- Floor plans, if you have them
- Details of how many staff, visitors or residents are normally on site, and when
- Someone who can give access to plant rooms, stores, roof spaces and locked areas
What the assessor looks at on the day
1. How a fire could start
Sources of ignition (cooking equipment, electrical equipment, heaters, smoking areas), fuel (storage, waste, packaging, furnishings) and how well they are controlled.
2. Who is at risk
Staff, customers, contractors, residents or guests, and anyone who may need extra help to leave, such as people with reduced mobility or people who are asleep on the premises.
3. Escape routes and exits
Whether routes are clear, doors open easily from the inside, signage is visible and travel distances are sensible. Locked, blocked or obstructed exits are among the most common findings.
4. Detection and warning
Whether there is a suitable fire alarm system, whether it is being tested and serviced, and whether the warning can be heard throughout the building. See our guide to fire alarm testing and records.
5. Emergency lighting and signage
Whether escape routes would be lit if the mains power failed and whether testing is being recorded. See what to check and record for emergency lighting.
6. Fire doors and compartmentation
Whether fire doors close properly, are not wedged open and whether gaps in walls or ceilings (for example around cables and pipes) could let fire and smoke spread.
7. Firefighting equipment
Whether extinguishers and fire blankets are suitable for the risks, correctly placed and serviced by a competent person.
8. Management, training and procedures
Whether staff know what to do, whether there is an emergency plan and assembly point, whether drills happen and whether records are kept up to date.
How long does it take?
It depends on the size, layout and use of the building. A small office or shop is a much shorter visit than a multi-storey hotel, nursing home or apartment building. This is also why we assess before quoting: the amount of work varies, so we agree the scope with you first and then provide a clear written quote.
What you receive afterwards
You receive a written report that records the premises and what was assessed, the hazards and risks identified, what is already working well and a prioritised action list, so you can see what to deal with first. You can then work through the actions and update your fire safety register as each one is completed.
How often should it be reviewed?
An assessment should be kept under review and updated when something significant changes, such as a refurbishment, a change of use, a new layout or a fire incident. Read more in how often to review a fire risk assessment.
Fire risk assessments across Ireland
We carry out fire risk assessments for offices, shops, hotels, nursing homes, schools, food premises and apartment buildings. See our city pages for Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway, or read more on our fire risk assessments page.
Book your assessment
Want a free written quote? Contact Safer Solutions and tell us about your premises. We will let you know exactly what is involved and the next step.
This article is general guidance and is not legal advice. Your duties depend on the use and layout of your premises.