Fire safety resources

A fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly and whenever significant changes occur that could affect fire safety. The appropriate review period depends upon the premises and the level of risk.

No. Ashworth Fire Consultancy provides independent fire safety advice. Where specialist remedial works are required, we can recommend competent third-party contractors if requested.

The time required depends on the size, complexity and use of the premises. Smaller premises may take a few hours, whereas larger or more complex buildings may require considerably longer.

Reports are normally completed after the assessment has been reviewed and quality checked. Timescales vary depending on the size and complexity of the premises.

No. Ashworth Fire Consultancy provides independent fire door surveys and does not carry out remedial or replacement works. This helps keep our surveys impartial, as we do not financially benefit from recommending unnecessary repairs or replacements. Where requested, we can introduce clients to trusted third-party contractors who specialise in fire door remedial works.

No. A fire door survey is a visual, non-intrusive inspection and should not be confused with manufacturer certification or product testing. A door that passes the inspection means that, based on its visible condition at the time of survey, no remedial works have been identified. Some older timber fire doors may be recorded as notional where no formal certification is available.

No. Fire doors are designed to remain closed so they can perform during a fire. An open fire door can allow fire and smoke to spread into protected escape routes. Where a fire door needs to remain open during normal use, it should be held open using a suitable automatic hold-open device that releases the door if the fire alarm operates or if power is lost.

Inspection frequency depends on the building, its use and the level of risk. Commercial premises should maintain fire doors in efficient working order and good repair. In many residential buildings in England over 11 metres in height, responsible persons are required to use their best endeavours to check communal fire doors every three months and flat entrance doors at least every 12 months. These statutory checks are usually simple visual checks and should not always be confused with a full specialist fire door survey.

No. The Regulations apply to certain residential buildings in England. Height, number of storeys, number of domestic premises and evacuation strategy are all relevant factors.

It is an assessment that considers how a resident's impairment may affect their ability to respond to a fire or evacuate, and what reasonable measures may reduce risk.

Not necessarily. Depending upon the circumstances, the Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessment may be completed by another competent professional. Ashworth Fire Consultancy can support Responsible Persons by explaining the legal requirements, assisting with the wider compliance process, reviewing documentation and helping implement suitable arrangements.

No. The focus should be on how an impairment affects fire safety and evacuation, not collecting medical records or unnecessary personal information.

Residents remain in control of their personal information. If a resident does not wish to participate, the Responsible Person should record the position and consider what reasonable steps can still be taken.

The Responsible Person needs to consider the circumstances, the level of risk, the resident's needs and the practicality of available measures. Professional advice may be helpful where the decision is complex.

Where consent is provided and the Regulations require it, prescribed information should be shared with the Fire and Rescue Service. Personal information should be handled carefully and proportionately.

Arrangements should be reviewed regularly and whenever circumstances change, such as a change in the resident's needs, building arrangements or evacuation strategy.

No. Our courses are designed to develop knowledge, practical understanding and professional skills. Unless specifically stated otherwise, they should not be considered formal qualifications.

No. Competence cannot be achieved simply by attending a training course. Training forms one element of competence alongside appropriate knowledge, practical experience, skills and professional judgement. Individuals should understand the competency expectations described within relevant legislation and recognised guidance, including BS 8674.

Yes. Training can normally be delivered at your premises or another agreed venue, subject to suitability.

Yes. Training can be adapted to reflect your premises, fire procedures, industry sector or specific learning objectives.