what-happens-if-i-dont-have-a-fire-risk-assessment
--- title: What Happens If I Don't Have a PAS 79, an assessment should be reviewed at least annually, and immediately if there has been a significant change to your premises.
Changes that trigger a new review include:
- Alterations to the building layout or structure
- Changes to the use of the premises
- A significant increase in the number of people present
- The introduction or storage of new hazardous materials
- Following a near-miss or actual fire incident
How HawkSwift Can Help
Navigating the exact requirements of the RRO and PAS 79 can be complex, especially for multi-use or large commercial buildings. At HawkSwift Ltd, our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide clear, practical guidance to help you achieve compliance without the jargon. We deliver comprehensive fire risk assessments from £199 + VAT, complete with detailed 48-hour reports so you can act on any findings quickly.
Don't leave your compliance, your business, or your people's safety to chance. Book a fire risk assessment with HawkSwift today.
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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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What a competent fire risk assessment covers
A suitable and sufficient FRA follows the PAS 79-1 methodology:
- Stage 1 — Preliminary: gather premises info, identify responsible person and previous assessments.
- Stage 2 — Identify hazards: sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen across all areas.
- Stage 3 — People at risk: occupants, visitors, contractors and anyone needing assistance.
- Stage 4 — Evaluate & protect: whether risks are eliminated or reduced, and whether fire precautions are adequate.
- Stage 5 — Record & plan: write it down, set an action plan with owners and dates, and set the review date.
HawkSwift delivers this as a written, court-defensible report — general guidance, not formal legal advice.