The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a review of the fire risk assessment if there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid or following a significant change. PAS 79-1:2020 supports this by recommending regular reviews to ensure ongoing compliance. You must document these findings to maintain safety standards under UK law.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a legal duty on the responsible person to ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out for their premises. A critical question that arises from this obligation is how frequently this assessment must be reviewed to remain compliant and genuinely protective of life safety.
The legislation is clear on timing. Article 9 of the Order requires that fire risk assessments be reviewed regularly, and specifically whenever there is reason to suspect that it is no longer valid. In practice, this translates to a minimum annual review for virtually all premises. However, the review frequency must also respond to triggers beyond the calendar. Significant changes to building layout, the introduction of new equipment or processes, alterations to occupancy numbers or types, and any fire incident or near-miss should prompt an immediate re-assessment. Similarly, structural modifications, changes in the use of premises, or updates to relevant legislation all invalidate an existing assessment until it is refreshed.
The responsible person must also consider whether their own competence permits them to conduct this review internally. The Order does not mandate third-party involvement, but it does require that whoever carries out the assessment is competent to do so. Competence here means sufficient training, experience and knowledge of fire safety principles to identify hazards, evaluate risks and determine appropriate precautions. Many responsible persons, particularly those managing complex or higher-risk premises, choose to engage a qualified assessor to ensure the resulting report would withstand scrutiny in court or during enforcement action. Assessors holding NEBOSH fire safety qualifications are widely recognised as meeting this standard.
The consequences of infrequent or inadequate reviews can be severe. Enforcement officers from local fire and rescue services routinely request to see the current fire risk assessment during inspections. An outdated document, or one that fails to reflect the present condition and use of the premises, may result in enforcement notices, prohibition notices, or prosecution. More fundamentally, it leaves occupants exposed to risks that have evolved since the original assessment was conducted.
What constitutes a suitable and sufficient assessment is defined by recognised methodology. The PAS 79-1 framework provides a structured approach: gathering preliminary information about the premises and previous assessments; identifying fire hazards including sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen; recognising all persons at risk, with particular attention to those needing assistance; evaluating existing protection and determining whether additional measures are required; and recording findings in a formal action plan with assigned responsibilities and review dates.
For responsible persons uncertain where to begin, professional assessment services provide clarity. HawkSwift delivers NEBOSH-qualified fire risk assessments following PAS 79-1 methodology, producing written, court-defensible reports with actionable recommendations. This guidance is offered to support understanding of general fire safety obligations; it does not constitute formal legal advice, and premises-specific decisions should be informed by qualified assessment.
Quick answers
Q: How often do I need to review my fire risk assessment?
A: Article 9 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a review regularly and whenever there is reason to suspect the assessment is no longer valid. In practice, this means a minimum annual review for virtually all premises. You must also conduct an immediate review following significant changes such as building alterations, new processes, or a fire incident.**
Q: What methodology should be used for a fire risk assessment?
A: The PAS 79-1 framework provides a structured approach to conducting a suitable and sufficient assessment. This involves gathering preliminary information, identifying fire hazards, and recognising persons at risk. The process also requires evaluating existing protection and recording findings in a formal action plan.**
Q: Can I do a fire risk assessment myself or do I need a professional?
A: The law does not mandate third-party involvement, but the person carrying out the assessment must be competent to do so. Competence requires sufficient training, experience, and knowledge to identify hazards and evaluate risks. Many responsible persons engage qualified assessors, such as those with NEBOSH fire safety qualifications, to ensure compliance.**
