Fire safety isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting people, property, and operations. In the UK, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires business owners, landlords, and employers to take responsibility for fire prevention and safety across their premises. Whether you manage a small office, warehouse, school, or retail unit, it’s essential to stay compliant and proactive.
Here’s a detailed checklist to help you meet your legal obligations and create a safer environment for staff and visitors.
Every commercial premises must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment carried out. This assessment identifies fire hazards, those at risk, and the steps needed to reduce or remove those risks.
This doesn’t have to be done by a third party, but it must be completed by someone competent. For more complex premises, bringing in a professional is usually best practice. The assessment should be reviewed regularly—especially after changes to layout, operations, staffing, or equipment.
Why it matters: A robust risk assessment is the foundation of your entire fire safety strategy. Without it, you may be overlooking serious hazards or missing key legal duties.
Escape routes must be clearly marked, kept clear at all times, and lead to a safe place. Emergency lighting and illuminated signage should be present along all escape paths—particularly in larger or multi-storey buildings.
You should also consider the needs of people with limited mobility. Door widths, ramps, and evacuation chairs may be needed depending on your workforce or public access.
Why it matters: In a fire, every second counts. Blocked exits or poor signage can cost lives and open you up to liability.
Fire alarms and detection systems must be appropriate to the size and nature of your business. In most cases, this will mean having smoke detectors, manual call points (break glass units), and an audible alarm system installed throughout the building.
You’ll need to test these systems weekly, service them at least twice a year, and maintain a logbook of all inspections, faults, and maintenance carried out.
Why it matters: Early detection is crucial to preventing injury, damage, and disruption. A reliable alarm system ensures swift evacuation and faster emergency response.
You must provide appropriate fire extinguishers based on the types of risk present on-site (e.g. foam, CO₂, powder, or wet chemical). Extinguishers must be clearly labelled, wall-mounted or on stands, and checked monthly by a responsible person.
A professional service should inspect all extinguishers annually. Don’t forget additional equipment like fire blankets in kitchens or fire hose reels in large industrial units.
Why it matters: In some cases, a small fire can be safely contained before it spreads. But without the right equipment—and staff trained to use it—you’re taking a huge risk.
Fire signage is a legal requirement in almost all commercial spaces. This includes:
Fire action notices
Extinguisher ID signs
Directional signs showing escape routes
All signs must be compliant with BS EN ISO 7010, visible in poor lighting, and understandable to all (including non-English speakers or neurodivergent staff).
Why it matters: Clear signs provide reassurance and direction in a high-stress moment. They also reinforce your overall fire safety culture.
Staff need to know what to do in an emergency—and that means regular, documented fire safety training.
Training should cover:
How to raise the alarm
Using extinguishers safely (if appropriate)
Evacuation routes and assembly points
Fire drills should be carried out at least once a year, ideally more in large or high-risk premises.
Why it matters: Fire safety training can reduce panic and improve evacuation times. It also ensures compliance and protects your business from potential fines.
All fire safety activity should be logged and stored securely. This includes:
Fire risk assessments
Alarm testing records
Fire extinguisher servicing reports
Staff training logs
These records are essential for proving compliance in the event of a fire or a spot-check by the local fire and rescue authority.
Why it matters: In the event of an incident, your records are your legal defence. They show you took your responsibilities seriously and acted proactively.
Businesses evolve- and your fire safety strategy must evolve with it. Update your risk assessments and systems following:
Refurbishments or layout changes
Changes in occupancy or staffing
The introduction of new equipment or hazardous materials
Feedback from fire drills or near-misses
You should also stay updated with any changes to UK fire safety regulations, such as the Fire Safety Act 2021 and Building Safety Act 2022, which place additional responsibilities on responsible persons.
Why it matters: Outdated procedures can put lives and livelihoods at risk. A regular review keeps your premises safe, compliant, and responsive to real-world conditions.
Fire safety isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s an investment in the wellbeing of everyone who walks through your doors. Following this checklist will help you stay compliant, reduce risks, and create a culture of safety across your business.
Need support managing your fire safety requirements? From risk assessments to ongoing maintenance, our team is here to help.
Reach out to sales@thefmcompany.co.uk to find out more.
