By October 2006 most businesses need to have completed a fire risk assessment by law. If you haven't complied, your business may not be insured and you could be liable to fines and/or prosecution.

Aside from your legal obligations, a fire risk assessment can genuinely save you money by identifying what is actually needed and not what other people would like to sell you.

The new Fire Safety Order, effective from 1st of October 2006, applies to all workplace premises in England and Wales and requires that:

• The Responsible person at any premise must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment carried out by a competent person*
• Appropriate risk based fire training must also be carried out on a regular basis, again by a competent person*

* The definition of competent is where a person has had sufficient training and or knowledge and other qualities to carry out that role

What is a fire risk assessment?

A fire risk assessment evaluates your premises in terms of fire safety hazards (to people and property). It also provides clear guidance including a prioritized action plan on how to minimize the risks.

How long does an assessment take?
The site visit is usually completed within a day. Once completed, you will be provided with an easy to understand report and a full briefing as part of our service.

Who does the assessment?
Our fire risk assessors are mainly fully qualified fire officers or health and safety consultants with a minimum of 10 years in the Fire Brigade or profession.

Why can’t I do the assessment myself?
You can, if you have the time and expertise to do it. But beware that for an untrained person a fire risk assessment can be a very time consuming and might not meet the legal requirements. You may want to consider leaving it to the professionals.

Why use the Beyond Group Ltd?
Because our staff are highly experienced professionals backed up by full indemnity cover. We also pride ourselves in providing you with a complete service, after this is done you will know exactly where you are, what needs to be done (if anything) and confidence.

What Fire Safety Training will we need?
Your assessment will determine the level of fire safety training needed for your staff. This may range from issuing booklets or using videos to undergoing a tailored fire safety course. Whatever is recommended we will ensure that your company complies with the training requirements under fire safety legislation

A fire risk assessment will crtitically evaluate:

• Fire Safety Policy
• Fire Procedures
• Sources of Ignition
• Combustible Materials
• Persons at Risk
• Fire Safety Training
• Fire Detection & Warning
• Fire Drills
• Means of Escape
• Fire Fighting Equipment
• Testing and Maintenance
• Evacuation aids
• Appliance Testing
• Signs and Notices
• Emergency Lighting
• Fire Extinguishers
• Fire Doors