Fire Risk Assessments
Competence You Can Trust
A fire risk assessment is a structured review of your building, its people, and its activities to identify fire hazards, evaluate the level of risk, and put in place measures to keep everyone safe. It’s not just a legal requirement under UK fire safety law — it’s a vital step in protecting lives, property, and business continuity.
BS 8674:2025 sets the benchmark for how competent fire risk assessors should be. Developed in response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, this British Standard introduces a nationally recognised competency framework so you can be confident your assessment is carried out to the highest professional standard.
WHAT IT INVOLVES
When carried out in line with BS 8674, a fire risk assessment will typically include:
- Identifying Fire Hazards – Sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen that could start or feed a fire.
- Assessing People at Risk – Considering occupants, visitors, and those with reduced mobility or other vulnerabilities.
- Evaluating Existing Measures – Reviewing compartmentation, alarms, detection systems, escape routes, signage, lighting, and suppression systems.
- Recommending Improvements – Practical steps to reduce risk and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
- Recording & Reviewing – Documenting findings, assigning responsibilities and setting review dates to keep safety up to date.
WHY BS 8674 MATTERS
BS 8674 doesn’t change the process of a fire risk assessment — that’s covered in standards like PAS 79 — but it ensures the person doing it is competent for the type and complexity of your building. It defines three levels of assessor competence:
- Foundation – For simple, low‑risk premises.
- Intermediate – For medium‑complexity buildings.
- Advanced – For complex or high‑risk sites such as hospitals, high‑rise residential buildings, commercial or large public venues.
By choosing Exit Fire Safety to undertake your Fire Risk Assessment you will be choosing an assessor who meets BS 8674 standards, you’re ensuring your fire risk assessment is not only compliant but also carried out by someone with the right skills, knowledge and experience for your building. We are BAFE third party accredited for our Fire Risk Assessors and Validators and registered on the fire risk assessment register.
Don’t Forget: The most critical concept about BS 8674 is about the competence of the assessor, not just the checklist they follow. Even the most thorough process can fail if the person carrying it out isn’t qualified for the complexity of the building.
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Attention to detail was truly impressive
Exit Fire Safety carried out comprehensive fire safety surveys across our entire complex. Their ability to custom-manufacture fire doors to meet modern safety standards while authentically replicating Tudor-era designs was exceptional. Their attention to detail and respect for heritage was truly impressive.
Stephen Primrose, Charterhouse, London
Professional, efficient and committed to safety
Exit Fire Safety carried out comprehensive fire door and compartmentation surveys across all our high-rise residential blocks in Salford. Their detailed assessments identified a clear program of remedial works, which our housing association was able to implement swiftly thanks to their thorough reporting and guidance.
Salix Homes, Salford, Manchester
Knowledge, Practical and Common-sense approach
The professional fire safety advice and assistance provided by the team was truly impressive. Their professional fire safety advice and assistance proved to be invaluable in the creation of these documents. We are extremely grateful for their expertise and dedication and exceptional support.
St. Leger Homes of Doncaster
