How often should fire risk assessments be reviewed hse ?

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and fire safety legislation in the UK, fire risk assessments should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain up to date and effective. While the law does not specify an exact timeframe, the general guidance is:

Fire Risk Assessments Should Be Reviewed:

1. Regularly as a routine practice
   Most fire safety professionals recommend reviewing the assessment at least once a year.

2. When there are significant changes, such as:

   • A change in the layout, structure, or use of the building

   • Changes to the number or type of people using the premises (e.g. more vulnerable individuals)

   • Alterations to fire safety systems, alarms, or evacuation routes

   • Introduction of new equipment or processes that could increase fire risk

   • After a fire, near-miss, or false alarm

3. If you suspect it is no longer valid
   If there’s reason to believe the existing fire risk assessment is outdated or inaccurate, it should be reviewed immediately, regardless of when the last one was completed.

Who Should Review It?

The “responsible person” (typically the employer, landlord, or building manager) must ensure the assessment is kept up to date. While they may carry out the review themselves if competent, many choose to use professional fire risk assessors, especially for complex buildings.

Written Reviews

If your organisation employs five or more people, or if the premises is subject to licensing or registration, you must document the review and keep records of any changes made.

Practical Tip

Even if no major changes have occurred, reviewing the assessment annually is good practice. This regular check ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and helps maintain safety standards.

Summary

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed at least annually or whenever significant changes occur that could impact fire safety. Regular reviews help ensure the assessment remains valid, complies with HSE and legal requirements, and continues to protect everyone on the premises.

https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-risk-assessments