2026-01-01 · HawkSwift Ltd

fire-risk-assessment-in-leeds-what-businesses-need-to-know

--- title: fire risk assessment in Leeds: What Businesses Need to Know reading_time: 4 canonical: "https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-in-leeds-what-businesses-need-to-know" description: "If you operate a business in Leeds, you have specific duties under UK PAS 79** require employers to make suitable assessments of risks to the health and safety of their employees. While general health and safety risk assessments cover a wide range of workplace hazards, fire risks are specifically addressed under the RRO 2005.

Under Article 9 of the RRO, if you employ five or more people, or if your premises are licensed, you must record the significant findings of your fire risk assessment. However, even if you have fewer than five employees, keeping a written record is strongly recommended to demonstrate compliance to West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Maintaining fire safety Standards

Completing an assessment is only part of the process. Article 9 of the RRO requires the responsible person to keep the assessment under regular review. You must revise it whenever changes occur that could affect fire safety.

Common triggers for a review include:

Changes to the layout of the premises or the use of rooms.
An increase in the number of people on-site.
The introduction of new equipment, machinery, or hazardous materials.
Following a near-miss or an actual fire incident.

Additionally, your physical fire safety measures must meet relevant British Standards. For example, emergency lighting should align with BS 5266, and fire alarm systems should be designed and maintained in accordance with BS 5839. These standards ensure that the equipment you rely on will function correctly in an emergency.

How HawkSwift Supports Leeds Businesses

Navigating the requirements of the RRO 2005 can be complex, particularly for businesses operating in older or multi-use buildings common in Leeds. HawkSwift provides professional fire risk assessments to help you meet your statutory duties.

Our NEBOSH-qualified assessors conduct thorough, on-site evaluations of your premises. We follow the structured approach outlined in PAS 79 to ensure your assessment is suitable and sufficient. Following the site visit, we deliver detailed 48-hour reports that clearly outline any necessary actions. Our fire risk assessments start from £199 + VAT, providing a straightforward way to secure compliance for your business.

To arrange an assessment for your premises, book a fire risk assessment with our team today.

*This article provides general guidance and is not formal legal advice.*

Your duties under the RRO 2005

Carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and keep it current (Art. 9, RRO 2005).
Identify people at risk, including those who need assistance to evacuate.
Put general fire precautions in place — detection, warning, escape routes, fighting equipment (Art. 11).
Maintain those measures in efficient working order (Art. 17).
Provide staff with fire-safety instruction and training (Art. 21).

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a written fire risk assessment? Yes, if you employ 5+ people, are a licensable or higher-risk premises, or the building is not a private home (Art. 9). How often should I review it? At least annually and immediately after any significant change. Can I do my own? Only if you are competent; many use a qualified NEBOSH-assessed assessor for a court-defensible report. Where do I start? Book a HawkSwift assessment — general guidance, not formal legal advice.

*General guidance, not formal legal advice — book a HawkSwift assessment for your premises.*

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