Fire safety is a legal obligation for every business operating from non domestic premises in the UK. It is not optional and it is not something that can be overlooked.
A suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessment is central to protecting life, safeguarding property and ensuring business continuity. For organisations across Oxford, London and the South of England, professional fire risk assessments provide clarity, compliance and reassurance.
At Iris VBS, we support commercial clients with fully compliant fire risk assessments and ongoing fire safety services, helping businesses meet their statutory responsibilities under UK fire safety legislation.
What Is a Fire Risk Assessment
A Fire Risk Assessment is a structured evaluation of fire hazards within a building and the measures in place to reduce the risk to life and property.
It is required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 which applies to all non domestic premises in England and Wales.
This includes:
- Offices and commercial buildings
- Retail units and shopping centres
- Warehouses and industrial sites
- Schools and colleges
- Hotels and hospitality venues
- HMOs and communal residential areas
If you are an employer, landlord, managing agent or business owner, you are considered the Responsible Person. The law places the duty of fire safety compliance on you.
What the Law Requires from Businesses
Under the Fire Safety Order, businesses must:
- Carry out a suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessment
- Identify fire hazards and people at risk
- Implement appropriate fire safety measures
- Maintain fire detection and alarm systems
- Ensure safe means of escape
- Review the assessment regularly and when significant changes occur
- Keep written records where five or more people are employed
Enforcement action for non compliance can include substantial fines, prosecution and in serious cases, prohibition notices that restrict building use.
The London Fire Brigade and local fire authorities have the power to inspect premises and request evidence of compliance. Professional documentation and a clear action plan are therefore essential.
What Does a Professional Fire Risk Assessment Involve
At Iris VBS, our competent fire risk assessors follow the recognised five step methodology recommended by the UK Government fire safety guidance.
1. Identify Fire Hazards
We assess potential sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen. This includes electrical systems, heating equipment, storage arrangements, flammable materials and cooking areas where relevant.
2. Identify People at Risk
We evaluate who may be at risk in the event of a fire, including employees, visitors, contractors and vulnerable individuals such as elderly occupants or those with limited mobility.
3. Evaluate and Reduce Risk
Existing fire protection measures are reviewed, including:
- Fire alarm systems
- Emergency lighting
- Fire extinguishers
- Fire doors and compartmentation
- Escape routes and signage
We identify gaps in compliance and recommend proportionate improvements.
4. Record Findings and Prepare an Action Plan
A comprehensive written report is produced outlining risks, current control measures and a prioritised action plan to achieve compliance with UK fire safety regulations.
5. Review and Update
Fire Risk Assessments must be reviewed at least annually, or sooner if there are structural changes, refurbishment works, new processes or increased occupancy levels.
Why Regular Fire Risk Assessments Are Essential
A professionally conducted commercial fire safety assessment provides:
- Legal compliance with UK fire safety legislation
- Early identification of fire hazards
- Reduced likelihood of enforcement action
- Improved staff awareness and training
- Protection of assets and operational continuity
- Greater confidence for insurers and stakeholders
- For businesses operating across multiple sites in Oxfordshire, London and the wider South of England, consistent fire safety auditing supports strong governance and risk management.
How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Reviewed
Although the law does not specify a fixed review period, best practice is to review your Fire Risk Assessment every twelve months.
You should also arrange a review:
- Following structural alterations or refurbishment
- When introducing new equipment or processes
- After a fire incident or significant near miss
- If staffing levels or building occupancy changes significantly
- Detailed on site inspections
- Clear, structured compliance reports
- Practical and prioritised action plans
- Support with remedial works
- Integration with fire alarm, emergency lighting and extinguisher maintenance
- Fire Risk Assessment Services
- Fire Alarm Installation and Maintenance
- Emergency Lighting Systems
- Fire Extinguisher Servicing
- Fire Suppression Systems
- Contact Iris VBS
Iris VBS offers ongoing annual review services and integrated fire safety maintenance to ensure your compliance remains current and documented.
Who Is Competent to Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment
The Fire Safety Order requires that assessments are carried out by a competent person. This means someone with sufficient training, knowledge and experience in fire safety principles.
While business owners can undertake their own assessment, many choose a professional fire risk assessor to ensure the report is suitable and sufficient and aligned with current guidance.
Iris VBS provides qualified and experienced assessors, delivering clear, practical and legally compliant documentation.
Why Choose Iris VBS for Fire Risk Assessments
Operating across Oxford, London and the South of England, Iris VBS delivers comprehensive fire and security services tailored to commercial and public sector clients.
Our fire risk assessment services include:
By combining fire risk assessments with our wider fire protection and security installation services, clients benefit from a single, accountable provider.
Internal linking opportunities:
For official fire safety guidance, businesses can also refer to government resources available via the UK Government website.
Book a Fire Risk Assessment in Oxford, London or the South
If your organisation requires a compliant Fire Risk Assessment, or if your current assessment is due for review, Iris VBS can provide professional support across Oxfordshire, Greater London and surrounding counties.
Contact our team to arrange a site visit and ensure your business meets its fire safety responsibilities.
