Fire risk management

Pre-occupation fire safety surveys

A pre-occupation fire safety survey is the process of identifying fire precautions in a newly constructed building, taking into account the approved fire strategy, and deciding whether or not the new or refurbished premises is likely to be fit for occupation. This can ensure a smooth transition from the design and construction phase to the operational phase of new premises, and assist / inform the completion of a fire safety assessment, once the premises are occupied.

Fire Risk Assessments

Typical construction contracts terminate at the end of RIBA Stage 6 and a Fire Risk Assessment, as required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 should be undertaken once the building is occupied. Fire Risk Assessment is the process of identifying fire hazards and evaluating the risk to people, property, assets, and the environment arising from them, taking into account the adequacy of existing fire precautions, and deciding whether or not the fire risk is acceptable without additional fire precautions and/or control measures.

Fire Policy, Strategy and Procedures

A Fire Policy is the intentions and direction of an organisation, in respect of fire safety. A Fire Risk Management Strategy is a document that defines an organisation’s fire risk management system, and method of implementing the overarching policy. As the bespoke building fire strategy evolves, we are well placed to ensure the evolution into a fire risk management strategy.

As the principal authors of PAS 7: 2013 which has now transitioned to BS 9997:2019 – Fire Risk Management System Requirements, we are best placed to support you with your requirements.

Retrospective fire strategies

It is prudent to have a documented fire strategy in order to aid the responsible person or their duty holder in meeting their legal obligations. We employ forensic fire engineering to determine the original design intent and develop an up-to-date strategy.

Fire Risk Assessment Programmes

We help organisations manage risk in a strategic way, before embarking on the procurement of third-party fire risk assessors to deliver large fire safety assessments across a multi-site portfolio. We can provide an independent third-party audit of your fire risk assessment program or plan, project manage, and execute a large fire risk assessment programme.

Implementing Fire Risk Management Systems

By implementing a comprehensive fire risk management system, organisations can minimise the likelihood and impact of fires, protect people and property, and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. It is crucial to involve relevant stakeholders, seek expert advice when needed, and regularly review and update fire risk management practices to maintain effectiveness over time.

We have demonstrable experience in auditing fire risk management systems within multiple sectors.