fire-safety-in-schools-termly-drills-and-risk-assessments

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Assessments should be reviewed regularly and updated when circumstances change — for example, building works, new temporary classrooms, or altered layouts.

Termly Fire Drills

Government guidance and sector best practice expect schools to conduct fire drills at least once per term. This helps familiarise staff and pupils with evacuation procedures and tests the alarm system under realistic conditions.

Drills should:

• Involve all occupants
• Be held at varying times to reflect different scenarios
• Be timed and recorded
• Identify any issues with escape routes or communication

Records of drills provide valuable evidence of compliance during inspections.

Record-Keeping and Documentation

Maintaining clear records demonstrates due diligence. Essential documents include:

• The current fire risk assessment
• Fire action plan
• Records of alarm tests, emergency lighting tests, and fire extinguisher servicing
• PEEPs for individuals requiring assistance
• Logs of termly drills including date, time, evacuation time, and observations

Good documentation supports a culture of safety and simplifies audits.

Common Shortfalls in school fire safety

Typical issues include:

• fire doors wedged open — a frequent and dangerous practice
• Escape routes obstructed by equipment or storage
• Alarm tests missed or poorly recorded
• PEEPs outdated or absent for new pupils
• Risk assessments not reviewed after building changes

Regular walkthroughs and staff training help address these problems promptly.

How HawkSwift Can Help

If you are unsure whether your current arrangements meet the standard, HawkSwift Ltd provides fire risk assessments from £199 + VAT. Our NEBOSH-qualified assessors deliver clear, practical reports within 48 hours, helping you close gaps and demonstrate compliance. Book a [fire risk assessment](/book) today.

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• Care Home Fire Safety Cqc Alignment
• Fire Risk Assessment Sheffield Mixed Use Buildings
• Care Home Fire Safety And Cqc Alignment

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Your duties under the RRO 2005 for schools and colleges

• Schools are non-domestic premises; the employer or governing body is the responsible person.
• Termly fire drills and staff training are expected (Art. 21, RRO 2005).
• A suitable and sufficient assessment must cover pupils, including those with mobility or sensory needs.

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.*