Offices may seem low risk, but they come with their own challenges: shared stairs, lots of electrical equipment, hot-desking and a steady flow of visitors. In a co-working or multi-tenant building, it can be hard to know who is responsible for what.
Common office fire risks
- Overloaded sockets and extension leads
- Chargers and laptops left on soft surfaces
- Paper, cardboard and storage near equipment
- Kitchenettes with toasters, kettles and microwaves
- Blocked or cluttered corridors
- Fire doors wedged open
- Visitors and new starters who do not know the exits
What the assessment looks at
- Escape routes from every floor and workspace, and the way they connect to shared areas.
- Fire doors, closers and seals on stairwells and corridors.
- Detection, alarm and emergency lighting, including how they link to neighbouring tenants.
- Electrical safety and housekeeping.
- Storage and server rooms.
- Fire wardens and procedures, including cover for holidays and part-time staff. See our guide on fire wardens.
- Visitor arrangements: sign-in, briefings and who takes responsibility for guests.
- Records and how often the plan is reviewed.
Shared buildings: who does what?
In multi-tenant offices, the landlord or managing agent often looks after shared systems like the alarm, while each tenant is responsible for their own space and people. It helps to agree in writing who tests the alarm, who runs drills and how information is shared between tenants.
Practical steps
- Run a drill that includes all tenants if possible.
- Keep stairs and corridors free of storage.
- Choose and brief fire wardens for every floor.
- Review the assessment when you move, expand or change the layout.
Your duties
Under the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003 and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, those in control of premises and employers must manage fire risk.
Talk to us
We carry out fire risk assessments in Cork for offices of every size. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie for a friendly chat.