How to Avoid Common Mistakes in Fire Risk Assessment

 A fire risk assessment is a vital component in ensuring the safety of any premises, whether commercial or residential. Unfortunately, many businesses still fall into common traps that compromise the effectiveness of their fire safety plans. These mistakes can not only endanger lives but also result in hefty fines and reputational damage. In this blog, we will explore how to avoid these frequent pitfalls and how working with a qualified safety advisor can make all the difference—particularly in industries like catering, where food safety and fire safety often go hand-in-hand.

1. Not Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment at All

This may seem obvious, but a surprising number of businesses have never carried out a fire risk assessment. It’s a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in the UK. If you have five or more employees, your fire risk assessment must be documented. Failure to comply can lead to prosecution.

Avoid it: Conduct an initial assessment as soon as your business begins operations and review it regularly—at least annually, or sooner if any significant changes occur in your premises.

2. Using Unqualified Individuals

Another mistake is assigning fire safety responsibilities to someone who is not adequately trained. Fire risk assessments should not be guesswork. A trained safety advisor understands the science behind fire behaviour, evacuation procedures, and fire protection systems.

Avoid it: Always appoint someone with appropriate training or hire an external, qualified safety advisor to complete the fire risk assessment thoroughly and competently.

3. Failing to Identify All Fire Hazards

It’s not enough to install a fire extinguisher and tick a box. Many assessments overlook key hazards, such as overloaded electrical sockets, blocked fire exits, or improperly stored flammable materials. In kitchens and food establishments, cooking appliances and grease build-up also pose significant risks.

Avoid it: Inspect every area of the premises, especially high-risk zones like kitchens. A good safety advisor will be thorough, paying attention to overlooked hazards and ensuring your documentation reflects all possible risks.

4. Neglecting Food Safety in Kitchens

While food safety is typically viewed through the lens of hygiene and contamination, it also intersects with fire safety. Greasy surfaces, unattended cooking equipment, and improperly stored chemicals can all lead to fires.

Avoid it: Train staff on both fire risk assessment and food safety procedures. Regularly clean kitchen extraction systems and ensure clear guidance is in place for safe food preparation and storage.

5. Inadequate Emergency Planning

One of the core elements of a fire risk assessment is ensuring a well-structured emergency plan. Many businesses fail to develop or regularly test fire evacuation strategies, leading to confusion during an actual emergency.

Avoid it: Clearly mark fire exits, conduct regular fire drills, and display evacuation routes prominently. Make sure your safety plan includes details of who is responsible for leading evacuations and calling emergency services.

6. Not Reviewing the Assessment Regularly

Fire risk assessments are not a one-off task. Changes to the building layout, staffing levels, or the introduction of new equipment can all alter the level of risk.

Avoid it: Schedule periodic reviews of your fire risk assessment. A qualified safety advisor will help you keep your safety plan up-to-date and legally compliant.

7. Ignoring the Human Factor

Too often, risk assessments are completed and filed away, never to be seen again. Fire safety must be part of your organisation’s culture, with all staff taking responsibility.

Avoid it: Provide regular fire safety training. Engage staff by showing them how their roles directly impact fire safety, from closing fire doors to reporting faulty equipment. In environments where food safety is also critical, cross-train staff to handle both responsibilities seamlessly.

8. Overlooking Fire Safety Equipment Maintenance

Having equipment like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems is only helpful if they work correctly. Failing to maintain them is one of the most common mistakes seen in fire risk audits.

Avoid it: Set a routine schedule for checking and servicing fire safety equipment. Keep detailed records of all inspections and ensure this forms part of your official fire risk assessment.

9. Lack of Clear Signage and Lighting

During an emergency, people rely heavily on visual cues to find exits. Without clear signage and appropriate emergency lighting, panic can quickly escalate.

Avoid it: Ensure all escape routes are clearly marked and illuminated. A safety advisor can audit your premises to identify areas where signage is insufficient or non-compliant with fire safety regulations.

Final Thoughts

A well-conducted fire risk assessment is more than just a tick-box exercise—it’s a cornerstone of workplace safety. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your employees, customers, and assets while staying compliant with UK fire safety laws. Whether you’re running an office, warehouse, or food business where food safety is also paramount, the best approach is proactive. Partnering with a qualified safety advisor can save you time, money, and most importantly—lives.