Enhancing workplace safety

Fire Risk Assessments: Regulatory Requirements

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO), all “responsible persons” for non-domestic premises must:

• Conduct a thorough fire risk assessment identifying fire hazards and people at risk
• Implement appropriate fire safety measures
• Establish emergency plans and provide staff training
• Review assessments regularly and when significant changes occur

The legal duty applies regardless of company size or number of employees. If you employ five or more people, you must document your assessment in writing. The “responsible person” (typically the employer, building owner, or occupier) retains legal accountability even when using third-party assessors.

The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced additional requirements, particularly for higher-risk buildings:

• Created the Building Safety Regulator with expanded enforcement powers
• Established new duty-holder roles with specific responsibilities
• Implemented a more stringent regulatory framework for “higher-risk buildings” (residential buildings over 18m or 7+ stories)
• Required enhanced documentation through the “golden thread” of building information

While Chubb can provide valuable expertise in conducting assessments and implementing safety measures, they cannot assume the legal responsibility that remains with the designated “responsible person” under the regulations.